<PAGE>
[LOGO]
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK SHARES-SM- -SM-
WEBS INDEX FUND, INC.
WEBS Index Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") is an index fund consisting of separate
series (each, a "WEBS Index Series"), each of which invests primarily in common
stocks in an effort to track the performance of a specified foreign equity
market index. The initial seventeen WEBS Index Series offered by this Prospectus
are the Australia WEBS Index Series, the Austria WEBS Index Series, the Belgium
WEBS Index Series, the Canada WEBS Index Series, the France WEBS Index Series,
the Germany WEBS Index Series, the Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, the Italy WEBS
Index Series, the Japan WEBS Index Series, the Malaysia WEBS Index Series, the
Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series, the Netherlands WEBS Index Series, the
Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, the Spain WEBS Index Series, the Sweden WEBS
Index Series, the Switzerland WEBS Index Series and the United Kingdom WEBS
Index Series.
The investment objective of each WEBS Index Series of the initial seventeen
WEBS Index Series is to seek to provide investment results that correspond
generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded securities in
the aggregate in particular markets, as represented by a particular foreign
equity securities index compiled by Morgan Stanley Capital International
("MSCI"). THE MSCI INDICES (AS DEFINED HEREIN) UTILIZED BY THE FUND REFLECT THE
REINVESTMENT OF NET DIVIDENDS (EXCEPT FOR THE MSCI MEXICO (FREE) INDEX UTILIZED
BY THE MEXICO (FREE) WEBS INDEX SERIES, WHICH REFLECTS THE REINVESTMENT OF GROSS
DIVIDENDS).
The shares of common stock of each WEBS Index Series are sometimes referred
to as "World Equity Benchmark Shares-SM-" or "WEBS-SM-." The WEBS are listed for
trading on the American Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "AMEX"). The non-redeemable
WEBS trade on the AMEX during the day at prices that differ to some degree from
their net asset value. There can be no assurance that an active trading market
will develop or be maintained for the WEBS. See "Investment Considerations and
Risks" for a discussion of certain investment considerations and risks that
should be considered by potential investors.
The Fund issues and redeems WEBS of each WEBS Index Series only in
aggregations of a specified number of shares (each, a "Creation Unit") at net
asset value. EXCEPT WHEN AGGREGATED IN CREATION UNITS, WEBS ARE NOT REDEEMABLE
SECURITIES OF THE FUND.
The Fund is managed and advised by Barclays Global Fund Advisors (the
"Adviser"). PFPC Inc. (the "Administrator") provides certain administrative
services to each WEBS Index Series of the Fund. Funds Distributor, Inc. (the
"Distributor") serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund's
shares. The Distributor does not maintain a secondary market in WEBS.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION
PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY
REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
SHARES IN THE FUND ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED
BY, ANY BANK, AND THE SHARES ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER
AGENCY.
This Prospectus sets forth the information about the Fund that an investor
should know before investing. It should be read and retained for future
reference. A Statement of Additional Information dated January 15, 1997 provides
further discussion of certain topics referred to in this Prospectus and other
matters which may be of interest to investors. The Statement of Additional
Information has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"SEC") and is incorporated herein by reference. The Statement of Additional
Information may be obtained without charge by writing to the Fund or the
Distributor. The Fund's and each WEBS Index Series' address is WEBS Index Fund,
Inc., c/o PFPC Inc., 400 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809.
DISTRIBUTOR:
FUNDS DISTRIBUTOR, INC.
INVESTOR INFORMATION: 1-800-810-WEBS(9327)
PROSPECTUS DATED JANUARY 15, 1997
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NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS IN CONNECTION WITH
THE OFFER OF THE FUND'S SHARES MADE BY THIS PROSPECTUS, AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE,
SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN
AUTHORIZED BY THE FUND. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL, OR
A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, ANY SHARES IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH
OFFER TO SELL OR SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY MAY NOT LAWFULLY BE MADE.
NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY SALE MADE HEREUNDER SHALL UNDER
ANY CIRCUMSTANCE IMPLY THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF
ANY DATE SUBSEQUENT TO THE DATE HEREOF.
------------------------
DEALERS EFFECTING TRANSACTIONS IN THE SHARES, WHETHER OR NOT PARTICIPATING
IN THIS DISTRIBUTION, ARE GENERALLY REQUIRED TO DELIVER A PROSPECTUS. THIS IS IN
ADDITION TO ANY OBLIGATION OF DEALERS TO DELIVER A PROSPECTUS WHEN ACTING AS
UNDERWRITERS.
------------------------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
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<S> <C>
Prospectus Summary......................................................................................... 3
Summary of Fund Expenses................................................................................... 6
Financial Highlights....................................................................................... 13
The Fund and its WEBS Index Series......................................................................... 15
WEBS Index Fund, Inc. and its Investment Objective....................................................... 15
World Equity Benchmark Shares: "WEBS".................................................................... 16
Who Should Invest?....................................................................................... 16
Investment Policies...................................................................................... 16
Implementation of Policies............................................................................... 18
Investment Limitations................................................................................... 20
The Benchmark MSCI Indices Utilized by the WEBS Index Series............................................. 21
Management of the Fund................................................................................... 30
Exchange Listing and Trading of WEBS..................................................................... 33
Investment Considerations and Risks...................................................................... 34
Determination of Net Asset Value......................................................................... 36
Creation Units........................................................................................... 37
Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units.......................................................... 38
Redemption of WEBS in Creation Units..................................................................... 38
Dividends and Capital Gains Distributions................................................................ 39
Tax Matters.............................................................................................. 39
Book-Entry Only System................................................................................... 41
Performance.............................................................................................. 42
General Information...................................................................................... 42
Available Information.................................................................................... 43
</TABLE>
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"World Equity Benchmark Shares" and "WEBS" are service marks of Morgan
Stanley Group Inc. used under license by the Fund. "MSCI" and "MSCI Indices" are
service marks of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated used under license by the
Fund.
2
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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
The Fund and its WEBS Index
Series........................... WEBS Index Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") is an index fund con-
sisting of separate series (each, a "WEBS Index
Series"), the Australia WEBS Index Series, the Austria
WEBS Index Series, the Belgium WEBS Index Series, the
Canada WEBS Index Series, the France WEBS Index Series,
the Germany WEBS Index Series, the Hong Kong WEBS Index
Series, the Italy WEBS Index Series, the Japan WEBS
Index Series, the Malaysia WEBS Index Series, the Mexico
(Free) WEBS Index Series, the Netherlands WEBS Index
Series, the Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, the
Spain WEBS Index Series, the Sweden WEBS Index Series,
the Switzerland WEBS Index Series and the United Kingdom
WEBS Index Series.
Investment Objective of the WEBS
Index Series..................... The investment objective of each WEBS Index Series of
the initial seventeen WEBS Index Series is to seek to
provide investment results that correspond generally to
the price and yield performance of publicly traded
securities in the aggregate in particular markets, as
represented by a particular foreign equity securities
index compiled by Morgan Stanley Capital International
("MSCI"). Such indices are referred to herein as "MSCI
Indices." THE MSCI INDICES UTILIZED BY THE FUND REFLECT
THE REINVESTMENT OF NET DIVIDENDS (EXCEPT FOR THE MSCI
MEXICO (FREE) INDEX UTILIZED BY THE MEXICO (FREE) WEBS
INDEX SERIES, WHICH REFLECTS THE REINVESTMENT OF GROSS
DIVIDENDS).
WEBS.............................. The shares issued in respect of each WEBS Index Series
are referred to as "World Equity Benchmark Shares" or
"WEBS." WEBS of a WEBS Index Series are issued by the
Fund only in large aggregations of WEBS called "Creation
Units" on a continuous basis through the Distributor at
their net asset value next determined after receipt of
an order. WEBS are not offered by the Fund in less than
Creation Unit aggregations, but shares of WEBS may be
bought or sold in the secondary market. EXCEPT WHEN
AGGREGATED IN CREATION UNITS, WEBS ARE NOT REDEEMABLE
SECURITIES OF THE FUND.
Exchange Listing and Trading of
WEBS............................. The WEBS have been listed for secondary market trading
on the American Stock Exchange, Inc. A "round lot" of
WEBS is 100 shares. At December 31, 1996, the closing
price per share of the WEBS of each WEBS Index Series
was between $10 1/2 (Austria WEBS Index Series) and
$19 9/16 (Netherlands WEBS
</TABLE>
3
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<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Index Series) although there can be no assurance of this
price range or that an active trading market will
develop or be maintained for WEBS of a particular WEBS
Index Series.
Who Should Invest?................ WEBS are designed for investors who seek a relatively
low-cost "passive" approach for investing in a portfolio
of equity securities of companies located in the country
of the subject MSCI Index. Unlike equity mutual funds
that seek to "beat" market averages with unpredictable
results, the WEBS Index Series seek to provide
investment results that correspond generally to the
price and yield performance of their respective
benchmark indices. See "Investment Considerations and
Risks" for a discussion of certain investment
considerations and risks that should be considered by
potential investors.
Fund Management................... ADVISER. Barclays Global Fund Advisors is the Adviser
to the Fund and, subject to the supervision of the Board
of Directors of the Fund, is responsible for the
investment management of each WEBS Index Series.
ADMINISTRATOR. PFPC Inc. is the Administrator of the
Fund, and performs certain clerical, fund accounting,
recordkeeping and bookkeeping services in such capacity.
DISTRIBUTOR. Funds Distributor, Inc. is the Distributor
of WEBS in Creation Unit aggregations.
CUSTODIAN AND LENDING AGENT. Morgan Stanley Trust Com-
pany serves as the Custodian for the cash and portfolio
securities of each WEBS Index Series, as well as Lending
Agent of the portfolio securities of each WEBS Index
Series.
</TABLE>
4
<PAGE>
THE MSCI INDICES ARE THE PROPERTY OF MORGAN STANLEY & CO. INCORPORATED
("MORGAN STANLEY"). MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL IS A SERVICE MARK OF
MORGAN STANLEY AND HAS BEEN LICENSED FOR USE BY WEBS INDEX FUND, INC.
("LICENSEE"). THE MSCI INDICES ARE DETERMINED, COMPOSED AND CALCULATED BY
CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE S.A. ("CIPSA"), A SUBSIDIARY OF CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL S.A.
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK SHARES ARE NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED, OR PROMOTED BY
MORGAN STANLEY. MORGAN STANLEY MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, TO THE OWNERS OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES OR ANY MEMBER OF THE
PUBLIC REGARDING THE ADVISABILITY OF INVESTING IN SECURITIES GENERALLY, OR IN
THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES PARTICULARLY, OR THE ABILITY OF THE INDICES
IDENTIFIED HEREIN TO TRACK GENERAL STOCK MARKET PERFORMANCE. MORGAN STANLEY IS
THE LICENSOR OF CERTAIN TRADEMARKS, SERVICE MARKS AND TRADE NAMES OF MORGAN
STANLEY, INCLUDING THE MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL SERVICE MARK
("MSCI") WHICH MARK IS ASCRIBED TO THE INDICES CREATED BY CIPSA AND LICENSED TO
MORGAN STANLEY. THE MSCI INDICES IDENTIFIED HEREIN ARE DETERMINED, COMPOSED AND
CALCULATED WITHOUT REGARD TO THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES OR THE ISSUER
THEREOF. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA HAS ANY OBLIGATION TO TAKE THE NEEDS
OF THE ISSUER OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES OR THE OWNERS OF THE WEBS OF
ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES INTO CONSIDERATION IN DETERMINING, COMPOSING OR
CALCULATING, IN THE CASE OF CIPSA, OR DISSEMINATING, IN THE CASE OF MORGAN
STANLEY, THE RESPECTIVE MSCI INDICES. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA IS
RESPONSIBLE FOR, NOR HAVE THEY PARTICIPATED IN, THE DETERMINATION OF THE TIMING
OF, PRICES OF, OR QUANTITIES OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES TO BE ISSUED
OR IN THE DETERMINATION OR CALCULATION OF THE EQUATION BY WHICH THE WEBS OF ANY
WEBS INDEX SERIES ARE REDEEMABLE. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA HAS ANY
OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY TO OWNERS OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES IN
CONNECTION WITH THE ADMINISTRATION, MARKETING OR TRADING OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS
INDEX SERIES.
ALTHOUGH CIPSA SHALL OBTAIN INFORMATION FOR INCLUSION IN OR FOR USE IN THE
CALCULATION OF THE MSCI INDICES FROM SOURCES WHICH IT CONSIDERS RELIABLE,
NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA GUARANTEES THE ACCURACY AND/OR THE COMPLETENESS
OF THE COMPONENT DATA OF ANY MSCI INDEX OBTAINED FROM INDEPENDENT SOURCES.
NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA MAKES ANY WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO
RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED BY LICENSEE, OWNERS OF THE PRODUCTS, OR ANY OTHER PERSON
OR ENTITY FROM THE USE OF THE MSCI INDICES OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN IN
CONNECTION WITH THE RIGHTS LICENSED UNDER ANY LICENSE AGREEMENT OR FOR ANY OTHER
USE. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA MAKES ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
AND EACH HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH RESPECT TO THE MSCI INDICES OR ANY DATA INCLUDED
THEREIN. WITHOUT LIMITING ANY OF THE FOREGOING, IN NO EVENT SHALL MORGAN STANLEY
OR CIPSA HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES (INCLUDING LOST PROFITS) EVEN IF NOTIFIED OF
THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
--------------------------
The information contained herein regarding MSCI, the MSCI Indices, local
securities markets and Depository Trust Company ("DTC") was obtained from
publicly available sources.
5
<PAGE>
SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES
The purpose of the following tables is to assist investors in understanding
the various costs and expenses an investor will bear directly and indirectly
with respect to each WEBS Index Series of the Fund. The tables show all expenses
and fees the Fund is expected to incur. "Other Expenses" are based on estimated
amounts for the current fiscal year expressed as a percent of average net
assets. The examples set forth below are presented for an investment of $1,000
(see next paragraph) as required by rules of the SEC. THE EXAMPLES IN THE TABLES
SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED A REPRESENTATION OF PAST OR FUTURE EXPENSES OR
PERFORMANCE. ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN THOSE SHOWN. The notes
to the tables and the information under "Explanation of Tables" should be
carefully reviewed when reading the tables.
As of December 9, 1996, the values of the portfolio of index securities
comprising a deposit of a designated portfolio of equity securities constituting
an optimized representation of the subject MSCI Index ("Deposit Securities") for
an in-kind purchase or redemption of a Creation Unit of WEBS of each WEBS Index
Series were as follows: the Australia WEBS Index Series, $2,050,718.33; the
Austria WEBS Index Series, $1,001,520.67; the Belgium WEBS Index Series,
$601,708.85; the Canada WEBS Index Series, $1,231,102.35; the France WEBS Index
Series, $2,758,571.94; the Germany WEBS Index Series, $4,167,938.77; the Hong
Kong WEBS Index Series, $1,141,766.67; the Italy WEBS Index Series,
$2,164,542.74; the Japan WEBS Index Series, $8,311,542.47; the Malaysia WEBS
Index Series, $1,086,457.74; the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series, $1,055,811.92;
the Netherlands WEBS Index Series, $905,929.91; the Singapore (Free) WEBS Index
Series, $1,137,574.01; the Spain WEBS Index Series, $1,175,533.41; the Sweden
WEBS Index Series, $1,239,880.87; the Switzerland WEBS Index Series,
$1,474,639.98; and the United Kingdom WEBS Index Series, $2,786,215.81. The
foregoing values are based on information available on December 9, 1996. The
actual dollar values on any particular day will fluctuate and may be greater or
less than such values. For additional information, please refer to "Creation
Units" on page 37 of this Prospectus.
6
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUSTRALIA
WEBS INDEX AUSTRIA WEBS BELGIUM WEBS CANADA WEBS FRANCE WEBS
SERIES INDEX SERIES INDEX SERIES INDEX SERIES INDEX SERIES
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
A. Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
Purchases of Creation Units of
WEBS (as a percentage of amount
of investment).................. None None None None None
Maximum Transaction Fee (a) for
Purchase of one Creation Unit of
WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Purchases
(b)........................... $2,400 $2,200 $1,800 $4,400 $4,000
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Purchases (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash purchases.)(b).... .60% .67% .30% .30% .25%
Deferred Sales Load.............. None None None None None
Maximum Redemption Transaction
Fee (a) for Redemption of one
Creation Unit of WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Redemptions
(c)........................... $2,400 $2,200 $1,800 $4,400 $4,000
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Redemptions (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash
redemptions.)(c).............. .60% .67% .30% .30% .25%
B. Annual Series Operating Expenses
(as a percentage of average net
assets)
Management Fees.................. .27% .27% .27% .27% .27%
12b-1 Fees (d)................... .25% .25% .25% .25% .25%
Other Expenses, after fee
deferrals*...................... .66% .81% .77% .61% .66%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total Operating Expenses, after
fee deferrals................... 1.18% 1.33% 1.29% 1.13% 1.18%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<CAPTION>
HONG KONG
GERMANY WEBS WEBS INDEX ITALY WEBS JAPAN WEBS
INDEX SERIES SERIES INDEX SERIES INDEX SERIES
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
A. Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
Purchases of Creation Units of
WEBS (as a percentage of amount
of investment).................. None None None None
Maximum Transaction Fee (a) for
Purchase of one Creation Unit of
WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Purchases
(b)........................... $2,900 $3,400 $2,300 $ 8,900
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Purchases (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash purchases.)(b).... .25% .60% .30% .15%
Deferred Sales Load.............. None None None None
Maximum Redemption Transaction
Fee (a) for Redemption of one
Creation Unit of WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Redemptions
(c)........................... $2,900 $3,400 $2,300 $ 8,900
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Redemptions (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash
redemptions.)(c).............. .25% .60% .30% .40%
B. Annual Series Operating Expenses
(as a percentage of average net
assets)
Management Fees.................. .27% .27% .27% .27%
12b-1 Fees (d)................... .25% .25% .25% .25%
Other Expenses, after fee
deferrals*...................... .65% .68% .63% .59%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total Operating Expenses, after
fee deferrals................... 1.17% 1.20% 1.15% 1.11%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
* Other Expenses are estimates only.
NOTE: ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN THE AMOUNTS SHOWN.
7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MEXICO SINGAPORE
MALAYSIA (FREE) NETHERLANDS (FREE)
WEBS INDEX WEBS INDEX WEBS INDEX WEBS INDEX
SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
A. Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
Purchases of Creation Units of
WEBS (as a percentage of amount
of investment).................. None None None None
Maximum Transaction Fee (a) for
Purchase of one Creation Unit of
WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Purchases
(b)........................... $8,500 $2,700 $2,000 $2,200
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Purchases (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash purchases.) (b)... 1.07% .50% .25% 1.30%
Deferred Sales Load.............. None None None None
Maximum Redemption Transaction
Fee (a) for Redemption of one
Creation Unit of WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Redemptions
(c)........................... $5,500 $2,700 $2,000 $2,200
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Redemptions (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash redemptions.)
(c)........................... 1.07% .50% .25% 1.30%
B. Annual Series Operating Expenses
(as a percentage of average net
assets)
Management Fees.................. .27% .27% .27% .27%
12b-1 Fees (d)................... .25% .25% .25% .25%
Other Expenses, after fee
deferrals*...................... .67% .82% .67% .66%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total Operating Expenses, after
fee deferrals................... 1.19% 1.34% 1.19% 1.18%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<CAPTION>
SWITZERLAND UNITED
SPAIN WEBS SWEDEN WEBS WEBS INDEX KINGDOM WEBS
INDEX SERIES INDEX SERIES SERIES INDEX SERIES
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
A. Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on
Purchases of Creation Units of
WEBS (as a percentage of amount
of investment).................. None None None None
Maximum Transaction Fee (a) for
Purchase of one Creation Unit of
WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Purchases
(b)........................... $2,300 $2,900 $2,100 $5,900
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Purchases (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash purchases.) (b)... .25% .30% .40% .25%
Deferred Sales Load.............. None None None None
Maximum Redemption Transaction
Fee (a) for Redemption of one
Creation Unit of WEBS:
In-kind and Cash Redemptions
(c)........................... $2,300 $2,900 $2,100 $5,900
Additional Variable Charge for
Cash Redemptions (NOTE - The
Fund will not ordinarily
permit cash redemptions.)
(c)........................... .45% .30% .40% .75%
B. Annual Series Operating Expenses
(as a percentage of average net
assets)
Management Fees.................. .27% .27% .27% .27%
12b-1 Fees (d)................... .25% .25% .25% .25%
Other Expenses, after fee
deferrals*...................... .73% .71% .71% .63%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total Operating Expenses, after
fee deferrals................... 1.25% 1.23% 1.23% 1.15%
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
* Other Expenses are estimates only.
NOTE: ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN THE AMOUNTS SHOWN.
8
<PAGE>
- ------------------------
(a) In addition to Transaction Fees shown, an investor purchasing a Creation
Unit of WEBS will bear the costs of transferring the securities in the
Portfolio Deposit (defined herein) to the Fund and an investor redeeming
Creation Units will bear the costs of transferring securities in the
Portfolio Deposit from the Fund to the investor. In each case, such costs
will include settlement and custody charges, registration costs, transfer
taxes and similar charges. As some of such costs are fixed, the cost of
transferring Deposit Securities relating to multiple Creation Units of WEBS
of the same WEBS Index Series may be proportionally less than the cost of
transferring Deposit Securities relating to one Creation Unit. See "Purchase
and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units" and "Redemption of WEBS in Creation
Units."
(b) Paid to the Fund to offset transaction costs incurred by each WEBS Index
Series in connection with the issuance of a Creation Unit. The purchase
transaction fee is not a sales charge. The purchase transaction fees listed
are the fees expected to be imposed in connection with the purchase of
Creation Units of a given WEBS Index Series. The basic purchase transaction
fees for in-kind and cash purchases are the same no matter how many Creation
Units of a given WEBS Index Series are being purchased pursuant to any one
purchase order except in the case of the Malaysia WEBS Index Series where
the amount shown reflects inclusion of a variable charge based on the total
market value of one Creation Unit of the relevant WEBS Index Series. The
variable charge represents stamp duty or "put through" fees imposed when
securities are delivered in the local market. The charge for Malaysia is
.30% of market value. The Fund may adjust such fees from time to time based
upon actual experience. Cash purchases of Creation Units, when available,
are also subject to an Additional Variable Charge, expressed as a percentage
of the value of the Portfolio Deposit. The Fund will not ordinarily permit
cash purchases. See "Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units."
(c) Paid to the Fund to offset transaction costs incurred by each WEBS Index
Series in connection with the redemption of a Creation Unit. The redemption
transaction fees listed are the fees expected to be imposed in connection
with the redemption of Creation Units of a given WEBS Index Series. The
basic redemption transaction fees are the same no matter how many Creation
Units of a given WEBS Index Series are being redeemed pursuant to any one
redemption request. The Fund may adjust such fees from time to time based
upon actual experience. Cash redemptions of Creation Units, when available,
are also subject to an Additional Variable Charge, expressed as a percentage
of the value of the Creation Unit(s) being redeemed. The Fund does not
ordinarily permit cash redemptions. See "Redemption of WEBS in Creation
Units."
(d) All payments by the Fund to the Distributor to compensate the Distributor
will be made pursuant to the Fund's 12b-1 Plan. All amounts payable under
the 12b-1 Plan will not exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the Fund's
average daily net assets. See "Management of the Fund -- Distributor." A
long-term shareholder of a WEBS Index Series may pay more in total sales
charges than the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charges
otherwise permitted by the rules of the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. In addition, the Distributor has entered into agreements
whereby certain broker-dealers and/or their salespersons may receive a
portion of the 12b-1 fee to compensate them for their distribution of WEBS
and/or for services provided to their shareholders or to the Fund. For
additional information on these compensation arrangements, see "Investment
Advisory, Management, Administrative and Distribution Services -- The
Distributor" in the Statement of Additional Information.
9
<PAGE>
EXPLANATION OF TABLES
A. Shareholder Transaction Expenses are charges that investors pay to buy or
sell Creation Units of the Fund. The figures in the table are estimates and
actual shareholder transaction expenses may vary from such estimates. See
"Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units" and "Redemption of WEBS in
Creation Units" in this Prospectus and in the Statement of Additional
Information for an explanation of how these charges apply.
B. Annual Series Operating Expenses are based on estimated "Other Expenses."
The estimates of "Other Expenses" and "Total Operating Expenses" have been
updated from those included in the Fund's initial prospectus to reflect the
assumed level of average daily net assets of the Fund and the administration
fee deferral arrangements referred to below. Actual expenses may vary from
these estimates and will be affected by, among other things, the levels of
average net assets of a WEBS Index Series and the Fund. Management fees are
paid to the Adviser to provide each WEBS Index Series with investment
advisory, management and certain administrative services. Fees paid to the
Administrator to provide the Fund with administrative and fund accounting
services are included in "Other Expenses," and are estimated based on
assumed average daily net assets of all WEBS Index Series of $500 million in
fiscal 1997 and individual asset levels of: Australia WEBS Index Series
$20,534,200; Austria WEBS Index Series $4,008,276; Belgium WEBS Index Series
$4,806,122; Canada WEBS Index Series $48,015,036; France WEBS Index Series
$21,783,716; Germany WEBS Index Series $24,819,241; Hong Kong WEBS Index
Series $20,185,041; Italy WEBS Index Series $55,353,579; Japan WEBS Index
Series $162,954,141; Malaysia WEBS Index Series $33,997,398; Mexico (Free)
WEBS Index Series $15,530,980; Netherlands WEBS Index Series $14,555,320;
Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series $20,430,000; Spain WEBS Index Series
$7,013,979; Sweden WEBS Index Series $9,773,238; Switzerland WEBS Index
Series $8,695,119; and United Kingdom WEBS Index Series $27,544,614. From
time to time, the Administrator may waive the administration fees otherwise
payable to it or may reimburse the Fund for its operating expenses. The
Administrator has agreed to defer a portion of its fees. In the absence of
this fee deferral, it is estimated that "Other Expenses" and "Total
Operating Expenses," respectively, for each WEBS Index Series would equal
approximately as follows: Australia WEBS Index Series .70% and 1.22%;
Austria WEBS Index Series .85% and 1.37%; Belgium WEBS Index Series .81% and
1.33%; Canada WEBS Index Series .65% and 1.17%; France WEBS Index Series
.71% and 1.23%; Germany WEBS Index Series .70% and 1.22%; Hong Kong WEBS
Index Series .73% and 1.25%; Italy WEBS Index Series .67% and 1.19%; Japan
WEBS Index Series .63% and 1.15%; Malaysia WEBS Index Series .72% and 1.24%;
Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series .87% and 1.39%; Netherlands WEBS Index
Series .71% and 1.23%; Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series .70% and 1.22%;
Spain WEBS Index Series .77% and 1.29%; Sweden WEBS Index Series .75% and
1.27%; Switzerland WEBS Index Series .75% and 1.27%; and United Kingdom WEBS
Index Series .67% and 1.19%. The Fund is unable to accurately predict future
net asset levels. As of the date of this prospectus, management believes
that repayment of the deferred amount is not considered to be probable based
on the net assets of the Fund. Distribution fees are paid to the
Distributor, to compensate the Distributor and/or reimburse it for certain
expenses and for payments made to dealers and other persons providing
distribution, marketing and shareholder services to the Fund. See
"Management of the Fund" for additional information.
10
<PAGE>
EXAMPLES OF EXPENSES
(a) WEBS in less than Creation Units are not redeemable. The Fund redeems
Creation Units principally on an in-kind basis for Deposit Securities. See
"Redemption of WEBS in Creation Units" herein and in the Statement of
Additional Information. If an investor were permitted to purchase and redeem
less than a Creation Unit of WEBS on an in-kind basis, such investor would
pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment (payment with a deposit of
Deposit Securities), assuming (1) a 5% annual return and (2) redemption
(delivery of Deposit Securities), at the end of each indicated time period:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1 YEAR 3 YEARS
($) ($)
--------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Australia WEBS Index Series............................................................... 14.28 39.67
Austria WEBS Index Series................................................................. 17.78 46.28
Belgium WEBS Index Series................................................................. 18.92 46.56
Canada WEBS Index Series.................................................................. 18.60 42.88
France WEBS Index Series.................................................................. 14.86 40.24
Germany WEBS Index Series................................................................. 13.28 38.47
Hong Kong WEBS Index Series............................................................... 18.09 43.85
Italy WEBS Index Series................................................................... 13.81 38.57
Japan WEBS Index Series................................................................... 13.42 37.34
Malaysia WEBS Index Series................................................................ 24.83 50.26
Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series........................................................... 18.34 47.04
Netherlands WEBS Index Series............................................................. 16.38 41.95
Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series........................................................ 15.77 41.14
Spain WEBS Index Series................................................................... 16.53 43.37
Sweden WEBS Index Series.................................................................. 17.11 43.52
Switzerland WEBS Index Series............................................................. 15.33 41.76
United Kingdom WEBS Index Series.......................................................... 15.86 40.59
</TABLE>
(b) Such an investor would pay the following expenses on the same investment,
assuming no redemptions:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1 YEAR 3 YEARS
($) ($)
--------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Australia WEBS Index Series............................................................... 13.14 38.53
Austria WEBS Index Series................................................................. 15.64 44.14
Belgium WEBS Index Series................................................................. 16.01 43.65
Canada WEBS Index Series.................................................................. 15.04 39.31
France WEBS Index Series.................................................................. 13.43 38.81
Germany WEBS Index Series................................................................. 12.59 37.78
Hong Kong WEBS Index Series............................................................... 15.14 40.90
Italy WEBS Index Series................................................................... 12.76 37.52
Japan WEBS Index Series................................................................... 12.36 36.28
Malaysia WEBS Index Series................................................................ 19.80 45.23
Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series........................................................... 15.97 44.67
Netherlands WEBS Index Series............................................................. 14.24 39.81
Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series........................................................ 13.88 39.25
Spain WEBS Index Series................................................................... 14.62 41.45
Sweden WEBS Index Series.................................................................. 14.81 41.21
Switzerland WEBS Index Series............................................................. 13.92 40.35
United Kingdom WEBS Index Series.......................................................... 13.78 38.51
</TABLE>
11
<PAGE>
The examples above illustrate the estimated expenses associated with a
$1,000 investment in a Creation Unit of WEBS on an in-kind basis over periods of
1 and 3 years, based on the expenses in the table and an assumed annual rate of
return of 5%. The presentation of a $1,000 investment in a Creation Unit is for
illustration purposes only, as WEBS may only be purchased from the Fund or
redeemed by the Fund in Creation Units. Further, the return of 5% and estimated
expenses are for illustration purposes only and should not be considered
indications of expected WEBS Index Series expenses or performance, both of which
may vary. The expenses associated with a $1,000 investment in WEBS include a pro
rata portion of shareholder transaction expenses associated with the purchase or
sale of a Creation Unit, which would have been valued as of December 9, 1996 at
between $601,708.85 and $8,311,542.47, depending on the WEBS Index Series,
assuming for this purpose that the net asset value of a Creation Unit was the
same as the value of the Deposit Securities as of such date. See the second
paragraph under Summary of Fund Expenses.
12
<PAGE>
FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 12, 1996* THROUGH AUGUST 31, 1996
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
The following financial highlights for each WEBS Index Series have been
derived from the financial statements of the Fund for the fiscal period ended
August 31, 1996. The financial highlights for the fiscal period ended August 31,
1996 have been audited by Ernst & Young, LLP, independent auditors, whose report
on the financial statements and financial highlights of the Fund is incorporated
by reference in the Statement of Additional Information. The tables should be
read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes incorporated
by reference in the Statement of Additional Information. Further information
about the performance of the Fund is available in the annual report to
shareholders, which may be obtained free of charge by calling the Distributor at
1-800-810-WEBS (9327).
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AUSTRALIA AUSTRIA BELGIUM CANADA FRANCE GERMANY HONG KONG ITALY JAPAN
WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS
INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX
SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Operating
Performance
Net asset value,
beginning of period
(1)................... $ 9.95 $ 10.91 $ 14.92 $ 10.17 $ 12.42 $ 13.23 $ 12.83 $ 13.62 $ 14.79
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net Investment
Income/(loss) (+)..... 0.10 0.04 0.40 0.04 0.17 0.06 0.15 0.25 (0.07)
Net realized and
unrealized gain/(loss)
on investments,
foreign currency
related transactions,
and translation of
other assets and
liabilities
denominated in foreign
currencies............ 0.29 (0.41) 0.36 0.43 0.45 0.47 0.27 0.31 (0.39)
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net
increase/(decrease)
in net assets
resulting from
operations.......... 0.39 (0.37) 0.76 0.47 0.62 0.53 0.42 0.56 (0.46)
Less distributions
Dividends from net
investment income..... (0.08) (0.02) (0.54) (0.03) (0.09) (0.03) (0.13) (0.14) --
Dividends from excess
of net investment
income................ (0.05) (0.01) (0.09) (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) (0.02) (0.03) --
Distributions from net
realized capital
gains................. (0.02) (0.03) (0.06) -- 0.00** -- (0.01) (0.14) --
Distributions from
excess of net realized
gains................. -- -- -- 0.00** -- (0.01) -- -- --
Return of capital...... (0.04) (0.08) -- 0.00** (0.21) (0.07) (0.04) (0.08) --
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total dividends and
distributions....... (0.19) (0.14) (0.69) (0.04) (0.31) (0.12) (0.20) (0.39) --
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net asset value, end of
period................ $ 10.15 $ 10.40 $ 14.99 $ 10.60 $ 12.73 $ 13.64 $ 13.05 $ 13.79 $ 14.33
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total Investment Return
(2)(4).................. 3.88% (3.39)% 5.01% 4.63% 4.95% 4.00% 3.22% 4.11% (3.11)%
Ratios/Supplemental Data
Net assets, end of
period (in 000's)..... $12,177 $13,520 $ 1,800 $13,776 $22,930 $28,664 $ 7,845 $35,170 $103,164
Ratios of expenses to
average net assets
(3)(5)................ 1.59% 1.56% 2.29% 1.44% 1.84% 1.68% 1.52% 1.43% 1.37%
Ratios of net
investment
income/(loss) to
average net assets
(3)(5)................ 2.18% 0.87% 5.67% 0.79% 2.72% 1.00% 2.37% 3.69% (1.01)%
Portfolio turnover
(4)(6)................ 8.84% 9.60% 6.25% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 19.80% 21.54%
Average commission rate
paid.................. $0.0085 $0.2986 $0.4327 -- $0.3956 -- $0.0007 $0.0046 $0.0152
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
* Commencement of operations.
** Less than one cent per share.
+ Based on average shares outstanding throughout the period.
(1) Net asset value per share on March 12, 1996 (commencement of operations).
(2) Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of capital stock at net asset value per share on
the first day and a sale at the net asset value per share on the last day of the period reported. Dividends
and distributions, if any, are assumed, for purposes of this calculation, to be reinvested at the net asset
value per share on the ex-dividend date.
(3) Annualized
(4) Not Annualized
(5) Includes voluntary waivers by the AMEX. If such waivers had not been made the ratios of expenses to average
net assets and ratios of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets would have been as follows:
Ratios of expenses
to average net
assets before
waivers (3)......... 1.60% 1.57% 2.30% 1.45% 1.85% 1.69% 1.53% 1.44% 1.38%
Ratios of net
investment
income/(loss) to
average net assets
before waivers
(3)................. 2.17% 0.86% 5.66% 0.78% 2.71% 0.99% 2.36% 3.68% (1.02)%
(6) Excludes portfolio securities received or delivered as a result of processing capital share transactions in
Creation Unit(s).
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MEXICO SINGAPORE UNITED
MALAYSIA (FREE) NETHERLANDS (FREE) SPAIN SWEDEN SWITZERLAND KINGDOM
WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS WEBS
INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX INDEX
SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Operating
Performance
Net asset value, beginning
of period (1).............. $ 13.24 $ 9.95 $ 15.91 $ 12.24 $ 13.28 $ 13.22 $ 12.07 $ 12.14
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net Investment Income/(loss)
(+)........................ (0.02) 0.00** 0.24 0.04 0.14 0.20 0.08 0.21
Net realized and unrealized
gain/(loss) on investments,
foreign currency related
transactions, and
translation of other assets
and liabilities denominated
in foreign currencies...... 0.59 1.59 1.54 (0.86) 0.98 1.67 0.24 1.06
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net increase/(decrease) in
net assets resulting from
operations............... 0.57 1.59 1.78 (0.82) 1.12 1.87 0.32 1.27
Less distributions
Dividends from net
investment income.......... -- -- (0.14) (0.03) (0.18) (0.23) (0.10) (0.20)
Dividends from excess of net
investment income.......... -- (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) -- (0.07) -- (0.03)
Distributions from net
realized capital gains..... -- -- (0.08) -- (0.13) (0.12) -- 0.00**
Distributions from excess of
net realized gains......... -- -- (0.01) -- -- -- -- --
Return of capital........... (0.01) (0.01) (0.09) -- -- -- -- (0.03)
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total dividends and
distributions............ (0.01) (0.02) (0.33) (0.04) (0.31) (0.42) (0.10) (0.26)
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net asset value, end of
period..................... $ 13.80 $ 11.52 $ 17.36 $ 11.38 $ 14.09 $ 14.67 $ 12.29 $ 13.15
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total Investment Return
(2)(4)....................... 4.28% 15.93% 11.19% (6.73)% 8.45% 14.13% 2.60% 10.41%
Ratios/Supplemental Data
Net assets, end of period
(in 000's)................. $ 9,318 $ 5,759 $ 6,962 $ 9,107 $ 4,227 $ 4,400 $ 6,158 $15,790
Ratios of expenses to
average net assets
(3)(5)..................... 1.58% 1.75% 1.63% 1.56% 1.76% 1.75% 1.82% 1.61%
Ratios of net investment
income/(loss) to average
net assets (3)(5).......... (0.35%) 0.01% 2.93% 0.69% 2.04% 3.05% 1.39% 3.62%
Portfolio turnover (4)(6)... 0.00% 0.00% 4.32% 26.29% 4.73% 5.87% 17.06% 0.00%
Average commission rate
paid....................... -- -- $0.0651 $0.0118 $0.0723 $0.0561 $0.7852 --
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
* Commencement of operations.
** Less than one cent per share.
+ Based on average shares outstanding throughout the period.
(1) Net asset value per share on March 12, 1996 (commencement of operations).
Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of capital stock at net asset value per share
(2) on the first day and a sale at the net asset value per share on the last day of the period reported.
Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed, for purposes of this calculation, to be reinvested at
the net asset value per share on the ex-dividend date.
(3) Annualized
(4) Not Annualized
(5) Includes voluntary waivers by the AMEX. If such waivers had not been made the ratios of expenses to
average net assets and ratios of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets would have been as
follows:
Ratios of expenses
to average net
assets before
waivers (3)......... 1.59% 1.76% 1.64% 1.57% 1.77% 1.76% 1.83% 1.62%
Ratios of net
investment
income/(loss) to
average net assets
before waivers
(3)................. (0.36)% 0.00% 2.92% 0.68% 2.03% 3.04% 1.38% 3.61%
(6) Excludes portfolio securities received or delivered as a result of processing capital share transactions
in Creation Unit(s).
</TABLE>
14
<PAGE>
THE FUND AND
ITS WEBS INDEX SERIES
WEBS INDEX FUND, INC. AND ITS INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the "1940 Act"), organized as a
series fund. Seventeen WEBS Index Series of the Fund currently issue shares: the
Australia WEBS Index Series, the Austria WEBS Index Series, the Belgium WEBS
Index Series, the Canada WEBS Index Series, the France WEBS Index Series, the
Germany WEBS Index Series, the Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, the Italy WEBS Index
Series, the Japan WEBS Index Series, the Malaysia WEBS Index Series, the Mexico
(Free) WEBS Index Series, the Netherlands WEBS Index Series, the Singapore
(Free) WEBS Index Series, the Spain WEBS Index Series, the Sweden WEBS Index
Series, the Switzerland WEBS Index Series and the United Kingdom WEBS Index
Series. Each of the Canada WEBS Index Series, the France WEBS Index Series, the
Japan WEBS Index Series and the United Kingdom WEBS Index Series is classified
as a "diversified" investment company under the 1940 Act. Each of the other WEBS
Index Series offered hereby is classified as a "non-diversified" investment
company under the 1940 Act. The Board of Directors of the Fund may authorize
additional WEBS Index Series in the future.
The investment objective of each of the initial seventeen WEBS Index Series
is to seek to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price
and yield performance of publicly traded securities in the aggregate in
particular markets, as represented by a particular foreign equity securities
index. Each of the WEBS Index Series utilizes an MSCI Index that reflects the
reinvestment of net dividends as its benchmark index (except for the MSCI Mexico
(Free) Index utilized by the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series, which reflects the
reinvestment of gross dividends). See "The Benchmark MSCI Indices Utilized by
the WEBS Index Series" below. Each MSCI Index is a market capital weighted index
of equity securities traded on the principal securities exchange(s) and, in some
cases, the over-the-counter market, of the respective country. The investment
objective of each WEBS Index Series is a fundamental policy and cannot be
changed without the approval of the holders of a majority of the respective WEBS
Index Series' voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act).
There can be no assurance that the investment objective of any WEBS Index
Series will be achieved. In this regard, it should be noted that the benchmark
indices are unmanaged and bear no management, administration, distribution,
transaction or other expenses or taxes, while each WEBS Index Series must bear
these expenses and is also subject to a number of limitations on its investment
flexibility. The WEBS Index Series utilize a portfolio sampling technique and do
not invest in all of the securities in their respective MSCI Indices. As a
result, a WEBS Index Series' performance will differ from that of the benchmark
MSCI Index to a greater extent than if it invested in all of the securities in
the benchmark. In addition, the MSCI Indices assume that dividends are received
throughout a year ("dividend smoothing") while the WEBS Index Series record them
on the ex date and this can cause the performance of a WEBS Index Series to
diverge from that of the benchmark, particularly over periods of less than a
year. See "Implementation of Policies." In addition, certain WEBS Index Series
are subject to foreign tax withholding at rates different than those assumed by
the relevant benchmark index. See "The Benchmark MSCI Indices Utilized by the
WEBS Index Series." Investing in WEBS of a WEBS Index Series involves special
risks of investing in securities of the relevant foreign country. For a
discussion of certain special considerations and risk factors relevant to an
investment in WEBS, see "Investment Considerations and Risks."
15
<PAGE>
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK SHARES: "WEBS"
The shares of common stock, par value $.001 per share, of each WEBS Index
Series are referred to herein as "World Equity Benchmark Shares" or "WEBS."
EXCEPT WHEN AGGREGATED IN CREATION UNITS, WEBS ARE NOT REDEEMABLE SECURITIES OF
THE FUND. The WEBS are listed for trading on the American Stock Exchange, Inc.
(the "AMEX"). The non-redeemable WEBS trade on the AMEX during the day at prices
that differ to some degree from their net asset value. See "Determination of Net
Asset Value," "Exchange Listing and Trading of WEBS," "Investment Considerations
and Risks" and "Redemption of WEBS in Creation Units."
WHO SHOULD INVEST?
The WEBS of each WEBS Index Series of the Fund are designed for investors
who seek a relatively low-cost "passive" approach for investing in a portfolio
of equity securities of companies located in the country of the subject MSCI
Index. Unlike equity mutual funds that seek to "beat" market averages with
unpredictable results, the WEBS Index Series seek to provide investment results
that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of their respective
benchmark indices.
It is generally recognized that international diversification of an
investment portfolio reduces risk. Many of the foreign equity securities held by
the WEBS Index Series are difficult to purchase or hold, or are, as a practical
matter, not available to retail investors. The Fund offers investors a
convenient way to obtain indexed exposure to the equity markets of specific
foreign countries. It should be noted, however, that the prices of WEBS of a
particular WEBS Index Series may be volatile, and investors should be able to
tolerate sudden, sometimes substantial fluctuations in the value of their
investment. No assurance can be given that any WEBS Index Series will achieve
its stated objective and shareholders should understand that they will be
exposed to the risks inherent in international equity investing. Because of the
risks associated with international equity investments, a WEBS Index Series is
intended to be a long-term investment vehicle and is not designed to provide
investors with a means of speculating on short-term market movements. See
"Investment Considerations and Risks."
INVESTMENT POLICIES
The Fund is not managed according to traditional methods of "active"
investment management, which involve the buying and selling of securities based
upon economic, financial and market analysis and investment judgment. Instead,
each WEBS Index Series of the Fund, utilizing a "passive" or indexing investment
approach, attempts to approximate the investment performance of its benchmark
index by investing in a portfolio of stocks selected through the use of
quantitative analytical procedures. Stocks are selected for inclusion in a WEBS
Index Series in order to have aggregate investment characteristics (based on
market capitalization and industry weightings), fundamental characteristics
(such as return variability, earnings valuation and yield) and liquidity
measures similar to those of the subject MSCI Index taken in its entirety. WEBS
Index Series generally will not hold all of the stocks in their respective
benchmark indices but will typically hold a representative subset of such stocks
selected through the Adviser's application of portfolio sampling techniques.
However, each WEBS Index Series reserves the right to invest in all of the
stocks in its benchmark index and where a WEBS Index Series benchmark index is
comprised of relatively few securities it may do so on a regular basis. In
addition, a WEBS Index Series may hold stocks that are not in the relevant MSCI
Index if the Adviser determines this to be appropriate in light of the WEBS
Index Series' investment objective and relevant investment constraints.
16
<PAGE>
Each WEBS Index Series has the policy to remain as fully invested as
practicable in a pool of equity securities the performance of which will
approximate the performance of the subject MSCI Index taken in its entirety. A
WEBS Index Series will normally invest at least 95% of its total assets in
stocks that are represented in the relevant MSCI Index, and will at all times
invest at least 90% of its total assets in such stocks, except that in order to
permit the Adviser additional flexibility to comply with the requirements of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"), and
other regulatory requirements and to manage future corporate actions and index
changes in the smaller markets, each of the Austria, Belgium, Hong Kong, Mexico
(Free), Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland WEBS Index Series will at all
times invest at least 80% of its total assets in such stocks and at least 10% of
the remaining 20% of its total assets in such stocks or in stocks included in
the relevant market, but not in the relevant MSCI Index. A WEBS Index Series may
invest its remaining assets in Short-Term Investments (defined below), in stocks
that are in the relevant market but not the relevant MSCI Index, and/or in
combinations of certain stock index futures contracts, options on such futures
contracts, stock index options, stock index swaps, cash, local currency and
forward currency exchange contracts that are intended to provide the WEBS Index
Series with exposure to such stocks (the WEBS Index Series will not use such
instruments to leverage their investment portfolios). "Short-Term Investments"
are short-term high quality debt securities that include: obligations of the
United States Government and its agencies or instrumentalities; commercial paper
(rated Prime-1 by Moody's Investors Services, Inc. or A-1 by Standard & Poor's
Ratings Group), bank certificates of deposit and bankers' acceptances;
repurchase agreements collateralized by the foregoing securities; participation
interests in such securities; and shares of money market funds (subject to
applicable limits under the 1940 Act).
A WEBS Index Series will not invest in cash reserves or Short-Term
Investments or utilize futures contracts, options or swap agreements as part of
a temporary defensive strategy to protect against potential stock market
declines. A WEBS Index Series may enter into forward currency exchange contracts
in order to facilitate settlements in local markets, in connection with
positions in stock index futures and to protect against currency exposure in
connection with its distributions to shareholders, but not as part of a
defensive strategy to protect against fluctuations in exchange rates. See
"Implementation of Policies" for a description of these and other investment
practices of the Fund.
Each WEBS Index Series has a policy to concentrate its investments in an
industry or industries if, and to the extent that, its benchmark index
concentrates in such industry or industries, except where the concentration of
the relevant index is the result of a single stock. As a result of this policy,
a WEBS Index Series will maintain at least 25% of the value of its assets in
securities of issuers in each industry for which its benchmark index has a
concentration of more than 25% (except where the concentration of the index is
the result of a single stock). No WEBS Index Series will concentrate its
investments otherwise. If the benchmark index for a WEBS Index Series has a
concentration of more than 25% because of a single stock (i.e., if one stock in
the benchmark index accounts for more than 25% of the index and it is the only
stock in the index in its industry), the WEBS Index Series will invest less than
25% of its assets in such stock and will reallocate the excess to stocks in
other industries. Changes in a WEBS Index Series' concentration (if any) and
non-concentration would be made "passively" -- that is, any such changes would
be made solely as a result of changes in the concentrations of the benchmark
index's constituents. As of December 17, 1996, as a result of this policy, the
Austria WEBS Index Series concentrates in the Banking industry, the Hong Kong
WEBS Index Series concentrates in the Real Estate industry, the Netherlands WEBS
Index Series concentrates in the
17
<PAGE>
Energy Sources industry, the Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series concentrates in
the Banking industry, the Spain WEBS Index Series concentrates in the Utilities
(Electrical & Gas) and Banking industries, the Sweden WEBS Index Series
concentrates in the Electrical & Electronics industry, and the Switzerland WEBS
Index Series concentrates in the Health & Personal Care industry. Since the
concentration of each WEBS Index Series is based on that of its benchmark index,
changes in the market values of the WEBS Index Series' portfolio securities will
not necessarily trigger changes in the portfolio of such WEBS Index Series.
The concentration policy of each WEBS Index Series is a fundamental policy
that may be changed only with shareholder approval. Each of the other investment
policies of each WEBS Index Series is a nonfundamental policy that may be
changed by the Board of Directors without shareholder approval. However,
shareholders would be notified prior to any material change in these policies.
See "Investment Limitations" herein and "Investment Policies and Restrictions"
in the Statement of Additional Information for a listing of limitations on
investment practices that may only be changed with shareholder approval.
IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICIES
A WEBS Index Series generally will not hold all of the issues that comprise
the subject MSCI Index, due in part to the costs involved and, in certain
instances, the potential illiquidity of certain securities. Instead, each WEBS
Index Series will attempt to hold a representative sample of the securities in
the MSCI Index, which will be selected by the Adviser utilizing quantitative
analytical models in a technique known as "portfolio sampling." Under this
technique, each stock is considered for inclusion in the WEBS Index Series based
on its contribution to certain capitalization, industry and fundamental
investment characteristics. The Adviser will seek to construct the portfolio of
each WEBS Index Series so that, in the aggregate, its capitalization, industry
and fundamental investment characteristics perform like those of the subject
MSCI Index. Over time, the portfolio composition of a WEBS Index Series may be
altered (or "rebalanced") to reflect changes in the characteristics of the
subject MSCI Index or with a view to bringing the performance and
characteristics of the WEBS Index Series more in line with that of the relevant
MSCI Index. Such rebalancings will require the WEBS Index Series to incur
transaction costs and other expenses. As noted above, each WEBS Index Series
reserves the right to invest in all of the securities in the benchmark index,
and WEBS Index Series with benchmark indices comprised of relatively few stocks
may do so on a regular basis.
Due to the use of this portfolio sampling technique and the other factors
discussed herein, a WEBS Index Series is not expected to track its benchmark
index with the same degree of accuracy as would an investment vehicle that
invested in every component security of the subject index. The Adviser expects
that, over time, the "expected tracking error" of a WEBS Index Series relative
to the performance of its benchmark index will be less than 5% and that the
tracking error will generally be greater for WEBS Index Series that have
benchmark indices with fewer rather than greater numbers of component stocks. An
expected tracking error of 5% means that there is a 68% probability that the net
asset value of the WEBS Index Series will be between 95% and 105% of the subject
MSCI Index level after one year, without rebalancing the portfolio composition.
A tracking error of 0% would indicate perfect tracking, which would be achieved
when the net asset value of the WEBS Index Series increases or decreases in
exact proportion to changes in its benchmark index. Factors such as expenses of
the Fund, taxes, the need to comply with the diversification and other
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code, the fact that the MSCI Indices
"smooth" dividend payments evenly over a year while the Fund records dividends
on the ex date, and the fact that the MSCI Indicies utilized by certain
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WEBS Index Series assume a different foreign tax withholding rate than that
applicable to such WEBS Index Series, may adversely impact the tracking of the
performance of a WEBS Index Series to that of its benchmark index. The Adviser
will monitor the tracking error of each WEBS Index Series on an ongoing basis
and will seek to minimize tracking error to the maximum extent possible. See
also the discussion of portfolio sampling in the preceding paragraph. There can
be no assurance that any WEBS Index Series will achieve any particular level of
tracking error relative to the performance of the relevant benchmark index.
Semiannual and annual reports of the Fund disclose tracking error over the
previous six month periods, and in the event that tracking error exceeds 5%, the
Board will consider what action might be appropriate.
Although the policy of each WEBS Index Series of the Fund is to remain
substantially fully invested in equity securities, a WEBS Index Series may also
invest in combinations of certain stock index futures contracts, options on such
futures contracts, stock index options, stock index swaps and cash and
Short-Term Investments that are intended to provide the WEBS Index Series with
exposure to such equity securities, and in cash, local currency, forward
currency exchange contracts and certain Short-Term Investments that are not
associated with related positions in stock index futures contracts, options on
such futures contracts, stock index options or stock index swaps. Such
investments may be made to invest uncommitted cash balances or, in limited
circumstances, to assist in meeting shareholder redemptions of Creation Units of
WEBS.
A WEBS Index Series may purchase stock index futures contracts, options on
such futures contracts and stock index options and may enter into stock index
swaps to simulate full investment in the underlying index to a limited extent.
This may be done to facilitate trading (e.g., to rapidly gain exposure to a
market in anticipation of purchasing the underlying equities over time), to
reduce transaction costs or because the Adviser has determined that the use of
such instruments permits the WEBS Index Series to gain exposure to the
underlying equities at a lower cost than by making direct investments in the
cash market. While each of these instruments can be used to leverage an
investment portfolio, no WEBS Index Series may use them to leverage its net
assets.
A WEBS Index Series may enter into foreign currency forward and foreign
currency futures contracts to facilitate settlements in local markets, in
connection with stock index futures positions, and to protect against currency
exposure in connection with its distributions to shareholders, but may not enter
into such contracts for speculative purposes or as a way of protecting against
anticipated adverse changes in exchange rates between foreign currencies and the
U.S. dollar. A foreign currency forward contract is an obligation to purchase or
sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days
from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the
time of the contract.
The Fund may lend securities from the portfolio of a WEBS Index Series to
brokers, dealers and other financial institutions desiring to borrow securities
to complete transactions and for other purposes. Because the government
securities or other assets that are pledged as collateral to the Fund in
connection with these loans generate income, securities lending enables a WEBS
Index Series to earn income that may partially offset the expenses of the WEBS
Index Series, and thereby reduce the effect that expenses have on a WEBS Index
Series' ability to provide investment results that correspond generally to the
price and yield performance of its benchmark index. These loans may not exceed
33% of a WEBS Index Series' total assets. The documentation for these loans will
provide that the WEBS Index Series will receive collateral equal to at least
100% of the current market value of the loaned securities, as marked to market
each day that the net asset value of the WEBS Index Series is
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determined, consisting of government securities or other assets permitted by
applicable regulations and interpretations. A WEBS Index Series will pay
reasonable administrative and custodial fees in connection with the loan of
securities. The WEBS Index Series will invest collateral in Short-Term
Investments, and the WEBS Index Series will bear the risk of loss of the
invested collateral. In addition, a WEBS Index Series will be exposed to the
risk of loss should a borrower default on its obligation to return the borrowed
securities. Morgan Stanley Trust Company ("MSTC") serves as Lending Agent of the
Fund and, in such capacity, shares equally with the respective WEBS Index Series
any net income earned on invested collateral. A WEBS Index Series' share of
income from the loan collateral will be included in the WEBS Index Series' gross
investment income. The Fund will comply with the conditions for securities
lending established by the SEC staff.
Although each WEBS Index Series generally seeks to invest for the long term,
the WEBS Index Series retain the right to sell securities irrespective of how
long they have been held. However, because of the "passive" investment
management approach of the Fund, the portfolio turnover rate for each WEBS Index
Series is expected to be under 50%, a generally lower turnover rate than for
many other investment companies. A portfolio turnover rate of 50% would occur if
one half of a WEBS Index Series' securities were sold within one year.
Ordinarily, securities are sold by a WEBS Index Series only to reflect certain
administrative changes in an Index (including mergers or changes in the
composition of the Index) or to accommodate cash flows out of the WEBS Index
Series while seeking to keep the performance of the WEBS Index Series in line
with that of its benchmark index. In addition, securities may be sold from a
WEBS Index Series in certain circumstances to ensure the WEBS Index Series'
compliance with the diversification and other requirements of the Internal
Revenue Code and with other requirements, which would tend to raise the
portfolio turnover rate of such WEBS Index Series. Purchases and sales of
securities in connection with such compliance will involve transaction costs
which will be borne by the respective WEBS Index Series.
A WEBS Index Series may borrow money from a bank up to a limit of 33% of the
market value of its assets, but only for temporary or emergency purposes (e.g.,
to facilitate distributions to shareholders or to meet redemption requests (in
connection with Creation Units of WEBS that the Fund agrees to redeem for cash)
prior to the settlement of securities already sold or in the process of being
sold by the WEBS Index Series). To the extent that a WEBS Index Series borrows
money prior to receiving distributions on its portfolio securities or prior to
selling securities in connection with a redemption, it may be leveraged; at such
times, the WEBS Index Series may appreciate or depreciate in value more rapidly
than its benchmark index. A WEBS Index Series will not make cash purchases of
securities when the amount of money borrowed exceeds 5% of the market value of
its total assets.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
Each WEBS Index Series of the Fund intends to observe certain limitations on
its investment practices. Specifically, a WEBS Index Series may not:
(i) lend any funds or other assets except through the purchase of all or
a portion of an issue of securities or obligations of the type in which it
is permitted to invest (including participation interests in such securities
or obligations) and except that a WEBS Index Series may lend its portfolio
securities in an amount not to exceed 33% of the value of its total assets;
(ii) issue senior securities or borrow money, except borrowings from
banks for temporary or emergency purposes in an amount up to 33% of the
value of the WEBS Index Series' total assets (including the amount
borrowed), valued at the lesser of cost or market, less liabilities (not
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including the amount borrowed) valued at the time the borrowing is made, and
the WEBS Index Series will not purchase securities while borrowings in
excess of 5% of the WEBS Index Series' total assets are outstanding,
provided, that for purposes of this restriction, short-term credits
necessary for the clearance of transactions are not considered borrowings;
(iii) pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or otherwise encumber its assets,
except to secure permitted borrowings; or
(iv) purchase a security (other than obligations of the United States
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities) if as a result 25% or more of
its total assets would be invested in a single issuer.
Except with regard to a WEBS Index Series' borrowing policy and illiquid
securities policy, all percentage limitations apply immediately after a purchase
or initial investment, and any subsequent change in any applicable percentage
resulting from market fluctuations or other changes in total or net assets does
not require elimination of any security from the WEBS Index Series' portfolio.
The investment limitations described in (i) through (iv) above and the preceding
paragraph, and certain additional limitations described in the Statement of
Additional Information, may be changed with respect to a WEBS Index Series only
with the approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of such WEBS Index Series.
THE BENCHMARK MSCI INDICES UTILIZED BY THE WEBS INDEX SERIES
Each WEBS Index Series uses the corresponding MSCI Index listed below as its
benchmark (the Australia WEBS Index Series uses the MSCI Australia Index, etc.).
The Malaysia WEBS Index Series may utilize the MSCI Malaysia (Free) Index Series
as its benchmark and change its name accordingly should MSCI commence
publication of such index. MSCI publishes several versions of each stock index
that it compiles. With the exception of the MSCI Mexico (Free) Index, the MSCI
Indices used by WEBS Index Series as benchmarks reflect the reinvestment of net
dividends. "Net dividends" means dividends after reduction for taxes withheld at
source at the rate applicable to holders of the underlying stocks that are
resident in Luxembourg. Such withholding rate currently differs from that
applicable to the Australia, Austria and Germany WEBS Index Series. So-called
"un-franked" dividends from Australian companies are withheld at a 30% rate to
Luxembourg residents and a 15% rate to the Australia WEBS Index Series (there is
no difference in the treatment of "franked" dividends). Austrian companies
impose a 15% dividend withholding on Luxembourg residents and an 11% rate on the
Austria WEBS Index Series. German companies impose a 15% dividend withholding on
Luxembourg residents and a 10% rate on the Germany WEBS Index Series. The Mexico
(Free) WEBS Index Series' benchmark index, the MSCI Mexico (Free) Index,
reflects the reinvestment of gross dividends. "Gross dividends" means dividends
before reduction for taxes withheld at source. Mexican companies do not withhold
tax to U.S. investors.
The stocks included in an MSCI Index are chosen by Morgan Stanley Capital
International on a statistical basis. Each stock in an MSCI Index is weighted
according to its market value as a percentage of the total market value of all
stocks in the Index. (A stock's market value equals the number of shares
outstanding times the most recent price of the security.) The inclusion of a
stock in an MSCI Index in no way implies that MSCI believes the stock to be an
attractive investment.
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IN GENERAL
The Indices were founded in 1969 by Capital International S.A. as the first
international performance benchmarks constructed to facilitate accurate
comparison of world markets. Morgan Stanley acquired rights to the Indices in
1986. The MSCI Indices have covered the world's developed markets since 1969,
and in 1988, MSCI commenced coverage of the emerging markets.
Although local stock exchanges have traditionally calculated their own
indices, these are generally not comparable with one another, due to differences
in the representation of the local market, mathematical formulas, base dates and
methods of adjusting for capital changes. MSCI applies the same criteria and
calculation methodology across all markets for all indices, developed and
emerging.
MSCI Indices are notable for the depth and breadth of their coverage. MSCI
generally seeks to have 60% of the capitalization of a country's stock market
reflected in the MSCI Index for such country. Thus, the MSCI Indices balance the
inclusiveness of an "all share" index against the replicability of a "blue chip"
index.
WEIGHTING
All single-country MSCI Indices are market capitalization weighted, i.e.,
companies are included in the indices at their full market value (total number
of shares issued and paid up, multiplied by price). MSCI believes full market
capitalization weighting is preferable to other weighting schemes for both
theoretical and practical reasons.
MSCI calculates two indices in some countries in order to address the issue
of restrictions on foreign ownership in such countries. The additional indices
are called "Free" indices, and they exclude companies and share classes not
purchasable by foreigners. Free indices are currently calculated for Singapore,
Mexico, the Philippines and Venezuela, and for those regional and international
indices which include such markets.
Market capitalization weighting, combined with a consistent target of 60% of
market capitalization, helps ensure that each country's weight in regional and
international indices approximates its weight in the total universe of
developing and emerging markets. Maintaining consistent policy among MSCI
developed and emerging market indices is also critical to the calculation of
certain combined developed and emerging market indices published by MSCI.
THE MSCI AUSTRALIA INDEX ("MSCI AUSTRALIA"). The MSCI Australia consists
primarily of stocks that are traded on the Australian Stock Exchange. On October
31, 1996, the MSCI Australia consisted of 56 stocks. The three largest
constituents of the MSCI Australia and the respective approximate percentages of
the MSCI Australia represented thereby were Broken Hill Proprietary Company Ltd.
(15.98%), National Australia Bank (9.89%) and News Corp. (6.97%) for a total of
approximately 32.84% of the MSCI Australia. As of October 31, 1996, the ten
largest constituents comprised approximately 59.15% of the market capitalization
of the MSCI Australia. As of October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented
industry sectors in the MSCI Australia, and the approximate percentages of the
MSCI Australia represented thereby, were Energy Sources (17.84%), Banking
(16.19%) and Metals -- Non-Ferrous (10.63%), for a total of approximately 44.66%
of the MSCI Australia. The MSCI Australia represented approximately 57.4% of the
aggregate capitalization of the Australian equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI AUSTRIA INDEX ("MSCI AUSTRIA"). The MSCI Austria consists
primarily of stocks that are traded on the Vienna Stock Exchange. On October 31,
1996, the MSCI Austria consisted of 24
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stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI Austria and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Austria represented thereby were Bank of
Austria (18.05%), OMV AG, (11.55%) and Verbund Oesterr Elek A (9.38%) for a
total of approximately 38.98% of the MSCI Austria. As of October 31, 1996, the
ten largest constituents comprised approximately 82.83% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Austria. As of October 31, 1996, the three most
highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Austria, and the approximate
percentages of the MSCI Austria represented thereby, were Banking (32.24%),
Energy Sources (11.55%) and Machinery/Engineering (10.60%), for a total of
approximately 54.39% of the MSCI Austria. The MSCI Austria represented
approximately 61.9% of the aggregate capitalization of the Austrian equity
markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI BELGIUM INDEX ("MSCI BELGIUM"). The MSCI Belgium consists
primarily of stocks that are traded on the Brussels Stock Exchange. On October
31, 1996, the MSCI Belgium consisted of 17 stocks. As of October 31, 1996, the
three largest constituents of the MSCI Belgium and the respective approximate
percentages of the MSCI Belgium represented thereby were Electrabel (19.07%),
Petrofina (10.80%) and Tractebel (10.01%), for a total of approximately 39.88%
of the MSCI Belgium. As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents
comprised approximately 84.30% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Belgium.
As of October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented industry sectors in
the MSCI Belgium, and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Belgium
represented thereby, were Utilities -- Electrical & Gas (19.07%), Multi-Industry
(17.05%) and Banking (15.88%), for a total of approximately 52.0% of the MSCI
Belgium. The MSCI Belgium represented approximately 66.2% of the aggregate
capitalization of the Belgian equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI CANADA INDEX ("MSCI CANADA"). The MSCI Canada consists primarily
of stocks that are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996,
the MSCI Canada consisted of 83 stocks. The three largest constituents of the
MSCI Canada and the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Canada
represented thereby were Northern Telecom (6.71%), BCE Inc. (5.80%) and Seagram
(5.56%) for a total of approximately 18.07% of the MSCI Canada. As of October
31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised approximately 43.90% of the
market capitalization of the MSCI Canada. As of October 31, 1996, the three most
highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Canada, and the approximate
percentages of the MSCI Canada represented thereby, were Banking (14.28%),
Energy Sources (12.57%) and Metals -- Non-Ferrous (10.94%), for a total of
approximately 37.79% of the MSCI Canada. The MSCI Canada represented
approximately 58.8% of the aggregate capitalization of the Canadian equity
markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI FRANCE INDEX ("MSCI FRANCE"). The MSCI France consists primarily
of stocks that are traded on the Paris Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996, the
MSCI France consisted of 71 stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI
France and the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI France represented
thereby were L'Oreal (6.16%), Elf Aquitaine (5.87%) and Carrefour (5.74%) for a
total of approximately 17.77% of the MSCI France. As of October 31, 1996, the
ten largest constituents comprised approximately 45.29% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI France. As of October 31, 1996, the three most highly
represented industry sectors in the MSCI France, and the approximate percentages
of the MSCI France represented thereby, were Merchandising (10.97%), Energy
Sources (10.95%) and Health/Personal (9.36%), for a total of approximately
31.28% of the MSCI France. The MSCI France represented approximately 65.2% of
the aggregate capitalization of the French equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI GERMANY INDEX ("MSCI GERMANY"). The MSCI Germany consists
primarily of stocks that are traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. On October
31, 1996, the MSCI Germany consisted
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of 67 stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI Germany and the
respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Germany represented thereby were
Allianz Holding (10.12%), Daimler-Benz (7.51%) and Siemens (7.21%) for a total
of approximately 24.84% of the MSCI Germany. As of October 31, 1996, the ten
largest constituents comprised approximately 60.36% of the market capitalization
of the MSCI Germany. As of October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented
industry sectors in the MSCI Germany, and the approximate percentages of the
MSCI Germany represented thereby, were Insurance (16.65%), Utilities --
Electrical & Gas (14.21%) and Banking (13.08%), for a total of approximately
43.94% of the MSCI Germany. The MSCI Germany represented approximately 64.1% of
the aggregate capitalization of the German equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI HONG KONG INDEX ("MSCI HONG KONG"). The MSCI Hong Kong consists
primarily of stocks that are traded on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited
(SEHK). On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Hong Kong consisted of 39 stocks. The
three largest constituents of the MSCI Hong Kong and the respective approximate
percentages of the MSCI Hong Kong represented thereby were Sun Hung Kai
Properties (13.56%), Hutchison Whampoa (12.59%) and Hang Seng Bank (11.43%), for
a total of approximately 37.58% of the MSCI Hong Kong. As of October 31, 1996,
the ten largest constituents comprised approximately 80.91% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Hong Kong. As of October 31, 1996, the three most
highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Hong Kong, and the approximate
percentages of the MSCI Hong Kong represented thereby, were Real Estate
(38.90%), Multi-Industry (19.67%) and Banking (14.16%), for a total of
approximately 72.73% of the MSCI Hong Kong. The MSCI Hong Kong represented
approximately 58.0% of the aggregate capitalization of the Hong Kong equity
markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI ITALY INDEX ("MSCI ITALY"). The MSCI Italy consists primarily of
stocks that are traded on the Milan Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996, the
MSCI Italy consisted of 55 stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI
Italy and the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Italy represented
thereby were ENI (15.62%), Assicurazioni Generali (11.58%) and Telecom Italia
Ordinary (10.10%), for a total of approximately 37.30% of the MSCI Italy. As of
October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised approximately 69.11% of
the market capitalization of the MSCI Italy. As of October 31, 1996, the three
most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Italy, and the approximate
percentages of the MSCI Italy represented thereby, were Telecommunications
(22.66%), Insurance (18.86%) and Energy Sources (15.62%), for a total of
approximately 57.14% of the MSCI Italy. The MSCI Italy represented approximately
63.5% of the aggregate capitalization of the Italian equity markets at August
30, 1996.
THE MSCI JAPAN INDEX ("MSCI JAPAN"). The MSCI Japan consists primarily of
stocks that are traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996, the
MSCI Japan consisted of 309 stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI
Japan and the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Japan represented
thereby were Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi (4.89%), Toyota Motor Corp. (4.59%) and
Sumitomo Bank (2.84%) for a total of approximately 12.32% of the MSCI Japan. As
of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised approximately 25.83%
of the market capitalization of the MSCI Japan. As of October 31, 1996, the
three most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Japan, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI Japan represented thereby, were Banking
(21.60%), Automobiles (6.77%) and Machinery/Engineering (4.96%), for a total of
approximately 33.33% of the MSCI Japan. The MSCI Japan represented approximately
60.1% of the aggregate capitalization of the Japanese equity markets at August
30, 1996.
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THE MSCI MALAYSIA INDEX ("MSCI MALAYSIA"). The MSCI Malaysia consists
primarily of stocks that are traded on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. On
October 31, 1996, the MSCI Malaysia consisted of 76 stocks. As of October 31,
1996, the three largest constituents of the MSCI Malaysia and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Malaysia represented thereby were Telekom
Malaysia (12.50%), Tenaga Nasional (8.73%) and Malayan Banking (8.02%), for a
total of approximately 29.25% of the MSCI Malaysia. As of October 31, 1996, the
ten largest constituents comprised approximately 52.53% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Malaysia. As of October 31, 1996, the three most
highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Malaysia, and the approximate
percentages of the MSCI Malaysia represented thereby, were Multi-Industry
(13.79%), Telecommunications (13.78%) and Banking (12.68%), for a total of
approximately 40.25% of the MSCI Malaysia. The MSCI Malaysia represented
approximately 53.4% of the aggregate capitalization of the Malaysian equity
markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI MEXICO (FREE) INDEX ("MSCI MEXICO (FREE)"). The MSCI Mexico (Free)
consists primarily of stocks that are traded on the Mexican Stock Exchange. On
October 31, 1996, the MSCI Mexico (Free) consisted of 42 stocks. As of October
31, 1996, the three largest constituents of the MSCI Mexico (Free) and the
respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Mexico (Free) represented thereby
were Telmex Telefonos Mex (16.45%), Kimberly Clark-Mexico (7.87%) and Grupo
Modelo (6.29%), for a total of approximately 30.61% of the MSCI Mexico (Free).
As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised approximately
62.61% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Mexico (Free). As of October
31, 1996, the three most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Mexico
(Free), and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Mexico (Free) represented
thereby, were Telecommunications (22.01%), Beverages & Tobacco (12.61%) and
Multi-Industry (12.13%), for a total of approximately 46.75% of the MSCI Mexico
(Free). The MSCI Mexico (Free) represented approximately 59.4% of the aggregate
capitalization of the Mexican equity markets at January 31, 1996.
THE MSCI NETHERLANDS INDEX ("MSCI NETHERLANDS"). The MSCI Netherlands
consists primarily of stocks that are traded on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange. On
October 31, 1996, the MSCI Netherlands consisted of 22 stocks. The three largest
constituents of the MSCI Netherlands and the respective approximate percentages
of the MSCI Netherlands represented thereby were Royal Dutch Petroleum (35.70%),
Unilever NV (9.81%) and ING GROEP (9.76%) for a total of approximately 55.27% of
the MSCI Netherlands. As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents
comprised approximately 90.26% of the market capitalization of the MSCI
Netherlands. As of October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented industry
sectors in the MSCI Netherlands, and the approximate percentages of the MSCI
Netherlands represented thereby, were Energy Sources (35.70%), Food & Household
Products (9.81%) and Financial Services (9.76%), for a total of approximately
55.27% of the MSCI Netherlands. The MSCI Netherlands represented approximately
72.4% of the aggregate capitalization of the Dutch equity markets at August 30,
1996.
THE MSCI SINGAPORE (FREE) INDEX ("MSCI SINGAPORE (FREE)"). The MSCI
Singapore (Free) consists primarily of stocks that are traded on the Singapore
Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Singapore (Free) consisted of 38
stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI Singapore (Free) and the
respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Singapore (Free) represented
thereby were Singapore Telecom (15.42%), Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. (12.45%)
and Singapore Airlines (12.25%) for a total of approximately 40.12% of the MSCI
Singapore (Free). As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised
approximately 82.18% of the market capitalization of the
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MSCI Singapore (Free). As of October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented
industry sectors in the MSCI Singapore (Free), and the approximate percentages
of the MSCI Singapore (Free) represented thereby, were Banking (31.09%),
Telecommunications (15.42%) and Real Estate (13.94%), for a total of
approximately 60.45% of the MSCI Singapore (Free). The MSCI Singapore (Free)
represented approximately 67.1% of the aggregate capitalization of the
Singaporean equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI SPAIN INDEX ("MSCI SPAIN"). The MSCI Spain consists primarily of
stocks that are traded on the Madrid Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996, the
MSCI Spain consisted of 31 stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI
Spain and the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Spain represented
thereby were Telefonica de Espana (17.40%), Endesa (14.69%) and Banco Bilbao
Vizcaya (10.08%), for a total of approximately 42.17% of the MSCI Spain. As of
October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised approximately 84.31% of
the market capitalization of the MSCI Spain. As of October 31, 1996, the three
most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Spain, and the approximate
percentages of the MSCI Spain represented thereby, were Utilities -- Electrical
& Gas (31.55%), Banking (25.72%) and Telecommunications (17.40%), for a total of
approximately 74.67% of the MSCI Spain. The MSCI Spain represented approximately
63.0% of the aggregate capitalization of the Spanish equity markets at August
30, 1996.
THE MSCI SWEDEN INDEX ("MSCI SWEDEN"). The MSCI Sweden consists primarily
of stocks that are traded on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996,
the MSCI Sweden consisted of 31 stocks. As of October 31, 1996, the three
largest constituents of the MSCI Sweden and the respective approximate
percentages of the MSCI Sweden represented thereby were Ericsson (LM) (19.38%),
Astra (17.22%), and ABB AB (5.66%), for a total of approximately 42.26% of the
MSCI Sweden. As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised
approximately 69.49% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Sweden. As of
October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI
Sweden, and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Sweden represented thereby,
were Electrical & Electronics (27.29%), Health & Personal Care (21.14%) and
Banking (7.49%), for a total of approximately 55.92% of the MSCI Sweden. The
MSCI Sweden represented approximately 59.4% of the aggregate capitalization of
the Swedish equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI SWITZERLAND INDEX ("MSCI SWITZERLAND"). The MSCI Switzerland
consists primarily of stocks that are traded on the Zurich Stock Exchange. On
October 31, 1996, the MSCI Switzerland consisted of 41 stocks. The three largest
constituents of the MSCI Switzerland and the respective approximate percentages
of the MSCI Switzerland represented thereby were Roche Holding (16.40%), Nestle
(13.22%) and Sandoz Ltd. (12.50%), for a total of approximately 42.12% of the
MSCI Switzerland. As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised
approximately 83.03% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Switzerland. As of
October 31, 1996, the three most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI
Switzerland, and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Switzerland represented
thereby, were Health & Personal Care (35.97%), Banking (17.89%) and Food &
Household Products (13.22%), for a total of approximately 67.08% of the MSCI
Switzerland. The MSCI Switzerland represented approximately 79.5% of the
aggregate capitalization of the Swiss equity markets at August 30, 1996.
THE MSCI UNITED KINGDOM INDEX ("MSCI UK"). The MSCI UK consists primarily
of stocks that are traded on the London Stock Exchange. On October 31, 1996, the
MSCI UK consisted of 137 stocks. The three largest constituents of the MSCI UK
and the respective approximate percentages of
26
<PAGE>
the MSCI UK represented thereby were British Petroleum (6.04%), Glaxo Wellcome
(5.49%) and HSBC Holdings (3.66%), for a total of approximately 15.19% of the
MSCI UK. As of October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents comprised
approximately 34.97% of the market capitalization of the MSCI UK. As of October
31, 1996, the three most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI UK, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI UK represented thereby, were Banking
(11.81%), Health & Personal Care (11.45%) and Merchandising (8.79%), for a total
of approximately 32.05% of the MSCI UK. The MSCI UK represented approximately
64.5% of the aggregate capitalization of the United Kingdom equity markets at
August 30, 1996.
The graphs below present certain historical performance information, as
calculated by MSCI, for the MSCI Indices that are the benchmark indices for each
of the seventeen WEBS Index Series of the Fund. The MSCI Indices are unmanaged
securities indices and do not bear transactional or operating costs and
expenses, whereas the WEBS Index Series bear fees and expenses as described
herein. See "Summary of Fund Expenses." Such fees and expenses reduce the return
of each WEBS Index Series in comparison with its benchmark index. In addition,
because each WEBS Index Series does not invest in all the securities in its
benchmark index, the investment results do not necessarily correspond to those
of its benchmark index. Moreover, the WEBS Index Series are subject to various
limitations on their investment flexibility and these limits adversely affect
their ability to meet their investment objective. See "Investment Policies" and
"Implementation of Policies." The graphs measure total return based on the
period's change in price, dividends paid on stocks in the index, and the effect
of reinvesting dividends with adjustments for dividend withholding by foreign
governments (except for the graph relating to the MSCI Mexico (Free), which
reflects the reinvestment of dividends without adjustments for dividend
withholding). The withholding tax rates applicable to the Australia, Austria and
Germany WEBS Index Series vary from the rates utilized by MSCI in computing the
benchmark indices for such WEBS Index Series. See the first paragraph of this
section. The figures provided below for 1996 are for the period from December
29, 1995 to October 31, 1996.
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI AUSTRALIA INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 (13.69%)
1985 19.56%
1986 42.28%
1987 9.25%
1988 (36.40%)
1989 9.30%
1990 (17.54%)
1991 33.64%
1992 (10.82%)
1993 35.17%
1994 5.40%
1995 11.19%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 12.24%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI AUSTRIA INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 (4.91%)
1985 176.26%
1986 34.74%
1987 2.23%
1988 0.57%
1989 103.91%
1990 6.33%
1991 (12.23%)
1992 (10.65%)
1993 28.09%
1994 (6.28%)
1995 4.72%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 0.56%
</TABLE>
27
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS
USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
MSCI BELGIUM INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 11.36%
1985 76.61%
1986 78.37%
1987 7.88%
1988 53.63%
1989 17.29%
1990 (10.98%)
1991 13.77%
1992 (1.47%)
1993 23.51%
1994 8.24%
1995 25.88%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 8.35%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI CANADA INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 (8.43%)
1985 15.05%
1986 9.94%
1987 13.91%
1988 17.07%
1989 24.30%
1990 (13.00%)
1991 11.08%
1992 (12.15%)
1993 17.58%
1994 3.04%
1995 18.31%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 24.11%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI FRANCE INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 4.33%
1985 82.01%
1986 78.35%
1987 (13.81%)
1988 37.87%
1989 36.15%
1990 (13.83%)
1991 17.83%
1992 2.81%
1993 20.91%
1994 (5.18%)
1995 14.12%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 13.97%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI GERMANY INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 (5.71%)
1985 135.19%
1986 35.29%
1987 (24.75%)
1988 20.60%
1989 46.26%
1990 (9.36%)
1991 8.16%
1992 (10.27%)
1993 35.64%
1994 4.66%
1995 16.41%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 8.91%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI HONG KONG INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 46.99%
1985 51.69%
1986 56.11%
1987 (4.11%)
1988 28.12%
1989 8.39%
1990 9.17%
1991 49.52%
1992 32.29%
1993 116.70%
1994 (28.90%)
1995 22.57%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 23.64%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI ITALY INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 8.12%
1985 131.74%
1986 108.28%
1987 (21.30%)
1988 11.46%
1989 19.42%
1990 (19.19%)
1991 (1.82%)
1992 (22.22%)
1993 28.53%
1994 11.56%
1995 1.05%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 4.14%
</TABLE>
28
<PAGE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI JAPAN INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 16.85%
1985 43.07%
1986 99.41%
1987 43.03%
1988 35.39%
1989 1.71%
1990 (36.10%)
1991 8.92%
1992 (21.45%)
1993 25.48%
1994 21.44%
1995 0.69%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 10.93%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI MALAYSIA INDEX
<S> <C>
1988 26.54%
1989 55.76%
1990 (7.91%)
1991 4.95%
1992 17.76%
1993 110.00%
1994 (19.94%)
1995 5.16%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 19.60%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI MEXICO (FREE) INDEX
<S> <C>
1988 71.98%
1989 89.20%
1990 62.65%
1991 126.04%
1992 24.98%
1993 49.35%
1994 (40.55%)
1995 (20.37%)
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 10.98%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI NETHERLANDS INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 10.23%
1985 59.62%
1986 40.74%
1987 7.07%
1988 14.19%
1989 35.79%
1990 (3.19%)
1991 17.80%
1992 2.30%
1993 35.28%
1994 11.70%
1995 27.71%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 17.25%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI SINGAPORE (FREE) INDEX
<S> <C>
1988 34.18%
1989 44.88%
1990 (14.59%)
1991 43.61%
1992 4.49%
1993 73.41%
1994 5.81%
1995 12.19%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 (8.13%)
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI SPAIN INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 39.05%
1985 54.75%
1986 121.24%
1987 36.91%
1988 13.53%
1989 9.76%
1990 (13.85%)
1991 15.63%
1992 (21.87%)
1993 29.78%
1994 (4.80%)
1995 29.83%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 17.27
</TABLE>
29
<PAGE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI SWEDEN INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 (21.71%)
1985 56.96%
1986 65.59%
1987 1.99%
1988 48.33%
1989 31.79%
1990 (20.99%)
1991 14.42%
1992 (14.41%)
1993 36.99%
1994 18.34%
1995 33.36%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 27.53%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI SWITZERLAND INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 (11.95%)
1985 105.72%
1986 33.37%
1987 (9.45%)
1988 6.18%
1989 26.21%
1990 (6.23%)
1991 15.77%
1992 17.23%
1993 45.79%
1994 3.54%
1995 44.12%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 3.48%
</TABLE>
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MSCI UNITED KINGDOM INDEX
<S> <C>
1984 5.31%
1985 53.02%
1986 26.95%
1987 35.09%
1988 5.95%
1989 21.87%
1990 10.29%
1991 16.02%
1992 (3.65%)
1993 24.44%
1994 (1.63%)
1995 21.27%
December 29, 1995 to October 31,
1996 16.51%
</TABLE>
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
BOARD OF DIRECTORS. The Board has responsibility for the overall management
of the Fund, including general supervision of the duties performed by the
Adviser and other service providers. Additional information about the Board and
the officers of the Fund appears in the Statement of Additional Information
under the heading "Management of the Fund."
ADVISER. Barclays Global Fund Advisors, formerly BZW Barclays Global Fund
Advisors, is the Adviser to the Fund and, subject to the supervision of the
Board of the Fund, is responsible for the investment management of each WEBS
Index Series, which includes application of portfolio optimization techniques.
The Adviser is located at 45 Fremont Street, San Francisco, California 94105.
The Adviser is a California Corporation indirectly owned by Barclays Bank PLC
and is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of
1940. The Adviser and its parent, Barclays Global Investors, N.A., are
responsible for managing or providing investment advice for assets aggregating
in excess of $335 billion as of October 31, 1996. For its investment management
services to each WEBS Index Series, the Adviser is paid management fees equal to
each WEBS Index Series' allocable portion of: .27% per annum of the aggregate
net assets of the Fund less than or equal to $1.7 billion, plus .15% per annum
of the aggregate net assets of the Fund between $1.7 billion and $7 billion,
plus .12% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund between $7 billion
and $10 billion, plus .08% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund in
excess of $10 billion. The management fees are accrued daily and paid by the
Fund as soon as practical after the last day of each calendar quarter. From time
to time, a WEBS Index Series, to the extent consistent with its investment
objective, policies and restrictions, may invest in the securities of companies
with which the Adviser has a lending relationship.
30
<PAGE>
ADMINISTRATOR. PFPC Inc. (the "Administrator"), an indirect wholly owned
subsidiary of PNC Bank Corp., is the Administrator of the Fund, and is
responsible for certain clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services, except
those performed by the Adviser, by MSTC in its capacity as Custodian, or by PNC
Bank, N.A. in its capacity as Transfer Agent. The Administrator has no role in
determining the investment policies of the Fund or which securities are to be
purchased or sold by the Fund. For the administrative and fund accounting
services the Administrator provides to the Fund, the Administrator is paid
aggregate fees equal to each WEBS Index Series' allocable portion of: .10% per
annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund less than $3 billion, plus .09%
per annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund between $3 billion and $5
billion, plus .08% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund between $5
billion and $7.5 billion, plus .065% per annum of the aggregate net assets of
the Fund between $7.5 billion and $10 billion, plus .05% per annum of the
aggregate net assets of the Fund in excess of $10 billion (the "Standard Fee
Schedule"). From time to time the Administrator may waive all or a portion of
its fees. The Administrator will charge an annual minimum fee of $850,000 for
year one, $1,275,000 for year two, and $1,700,000 for year three and thereafter
(based on an annual minimum of $50,000, $75,000 and $100,000 per portfolio,
respectively). Pursuant to a fee deferral arrangement entered into on May 30,
1996, the Administrator's minimum fees are subject to a maximum annual rate of
.17% of average daily net assets. Any resulting shortfall between the above
required minimums and the asset based fee of .17% will be recouped as the WEBS
Index Series' asset levels reach thresholds to permit such recovery of fees.
Once the aggregate minimum fees are recouped, the Standard Fee Schedule will
apply, subject to the maximum charge of .17% of average daily net assets and
future recoupment of any future deferred minimum fees. The deferred amount
resulting from time to time from the arrangements described above ($367,076 as
of December 31, 1996) is a contingent liability of the Fund, and all or a
portion thereof will be accrued as an expense of the Fund at such time (if ever)
when net assets reach such a level that repayment of the deferred amount or a
portion thereof is both probable and reasonably estimable. The Administrator has
also agreed to waive a portion of its fees in the first year of the Fund's
operations in certain limited circumstances. See "Investment Advisory,
Management, Administrative and Distribution Services -- The Administrator" in
the Statement of Additional Information.
If the Administrator is terminated within the first three years of the
Fund's operations, except if removed (i) for failing to substantially perform to
the satisfaction of the Board its material obligations under the Agreement or
(ii) in order to comply with federal or state law, the Fund shall pay any
reasonable costs of time and material associated with the deconversion and the
Administrator will recoup 100% of any fees waived in the first year of
operations. The Fund understands that PFPC would seek repayment of any deferred
fees upon its termination (other than for the reasons specified in (i) or (ii)
above).
DISTRIBUTOR. Funds Distributor, Inc. (the "Distributor") is the distributor
of WEBS. Its address is 60 State Street, Suite 1300, Boston, MA 02109. Investor
information can be obtained by calling 1-800-810-WEBS(9327). WEBS are sold by
the Fund and distributed only in Creation Units, as described below under
"Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units." WEBS in less than Creation
Units will not be distributed by the Distributor. The Distributor is a
registered broker-dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the
"Exchange Act") and a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers,
Inc. (the "NASD"). The Fund has a distribution plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under
the 1940 Act ("Rule 12b-1 Plan"). Each WEBS Index Series operates the Rule 12b-1
Plan in accordance with its terms and the NASD Rules concerning maximum sales
charges. Under the Rule 12b-1 Plan, the Distributor is paid an annual fee as
compensation in connection with the offering
31
<PAGE>
and sale of shares of each WEBS Index Series. The fees to be paid to the
Distributor under the Rule 12b-1 Plan are calculated and paid monthly with
respect to each WEBS Index Series at an annual rate of up to .25% of the average
daily net assets of such WEBS Index Series. From time to time the Distributor
may waive all or a portion of the fees. These fees may be used to cover the
expenses of the Distributor primarily intended to result in the sale of shares
of each WEBS Index Series including payments for any activities or expenses
primarily intended to result in or required for the sale of the WEBS Index
Series' shares, including promotional and marketing activities related to the
sale of shares of the WEBS Index Series, expenses related to the preparation,
printing and distribution of prospectuses and sales literature, certain
communications to and with shareholders, advertisements, and payments made to
representatives or others for selling shares of the WEBS Index Series or for
providing ongoing distribution assistance, shareholder services and/or
maintenance of shareholder accounts. The Distributor has entered into sales and
investor services agreements with broker-dealers or other persons that are DTC
Participants (as defined under "Book-Entry Only System" below) to provide
distribution assistance, including broker-dealer and shareholder support and
educational and promotional services. Under the terms of most sales and investor
services agreements, the Distributor will pay such broker-dealers or other
persons, out of 12b-1 fees received from the WEBS Index Series, at the annual
rate of .05 of 1% of the average daily net asset value of WEBS held through DTC
for the account of such DTC Participant. In addition, the Distributor has
entered into sales and investor services agreements with certain other
broker-dealers which provide for payment to such broker-dealers out of 12b-1
fees at higher rates, in consideration of their commitment to provide
significantly greater levels of educational and promotional services. See
"Investment Advisory, Management, Administrative and Distribution Services --
The Distributor" in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information. The
Distributor may retain any amount of its fee that is not expended for the
foregoing purposes. The amount of such fee is not dependent upon the
distribution expenses actually incurred by the Distributor. The Distributor has
no role in determining the investment policies of the Fund or which securities
are to be purchased or sold by the Fund. See "Investment Advisory, Management,
Administrative and Distribution Services" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
CUSTODIAN AND LENDING AGENT. Morgan Stanley Trust Company ("MSTC") serves
as the Custodian for the cash and portfolio securities of each WEBS Index Series
of the Fund. MSTC also serves as Lending Agent of the portfolio securities of
each WEBS Index Series. As Lending Agent, MSTC causes the delivery of loaned
securities from the Fund to borrowers, arranges for the return of loaned
securities to the Fund at the termination of the loans, requests deposit of
collateral, monitors daily the value of the loaned securities and collateral,
requests that borrowers add to the collateral when required by the loan
agreements, and provides recordkeeping and accounting services necessary for the
operation of the program. For its services as Lending Agent, the Fund will pay
MSTC, in respect of each WEBS Index Series, 50% of the net investment income
earned on the collateral for securities loaned. MSTC, as Custodian and Lending
Agent, has no role in determining the investment policies of the Fund or which
securities are to be purchased or sold by the Fund. The principal business
address of MSTC is One Pierrepont Plaza, Brooklyn, New York 11201.
TRANSFER AGENT. PNC Bank, N.A. ("PNC"), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary
of PNC Bank Corp., provides transfer agency services to the Fund. PNC, as
transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent"), has no role in determining the investment
policies of the Fund or which securities are to be purchased or sold by the
Fund. The principal business address of PNC is Broad and Chestnut Streets,
Philadelphia, PA 19110.
32
<PAGE>
The Glass-Steagall Act and other applicable laws may limit the ability of a
bank or other depositary institution to become an underwriter or distributor of
securities. However, in the opinion of the Fund, these laws do not prohibit such
depository institutions from providing services for investment companies such as
the administrative, accounting and other services. In the event that a change in
these laws prevented a bank from providing such services, it is expected that
other services arrangements would be made and that shareholders would not be
adversely affected.
In addition to the fees described above, the Fund is responsible for the
payment of expenses that include, among other things, organizational expenses,
compensation of the Directors of the Fund, reimbursement of out-of-pocket
expenses incurred by the Administrator, exchange listing fees, brokerage and
other costs (including costs incurred by a WEBS Index Series in connection with
any rebalancing of its portfolio), legal and audit fees, and litigation and
extraordinary expenses.
EXCHANGE LISTING AND TRADING OF WEBS
The WEBS of each WEBS Index Series have been listed for trading on the AMEX.
WEBS trade on the AMEX at prices that differ to some degree from their net asset
value. See "Investment Considerations and Risks" and "Determination of Net Asset
Value." However, given that WEBS can be created or redeemed in Creation Unit
aggregations, the Fund believes that large discounts or premiums to the net
asset value of WEBS should not be sustainable. There can be no assurance that
the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will
continue to be met or will remain unchanged or that an active trading market
will develop or be maintained for the WEBS of any particular WEBS Index Series.
The AMEX may remove the WEBS of a WEBS Index Series from listing if (1)
following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the commencement of
trading of a WEBS Index Series, there are fewer than 50 beneficial holders of
the WEBS of such WEBS Index Series for 30 or more consecutive trading days, (2)
the value of the underlying index or portfolio of securities on which such WEBS
Index Series is based is no longer calculated or available or (3) such other
event occurs or condition exists that, in the opinion of the AMEX, makes further
dealings on the AMEX inadvisable. In addition, the AMEX will remove the WEBS
from listing and trading upon termination of the Fund.
The AMEX disseminates during its trading day an indicative optimized
portfolio value ("IOPV") for each WEBS Index Series. The IOPV on a per WEBS
basis should not be viewed as a real time update of the net asset value per WEBS
share of the Fund, which is calculated only once a day. See "Exchange Listing
and Trading" in the Statement of Additional Information for additional details.
33
<PAGE>
INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS AND RISKS
An investment in the WEBS of a WEBS Index Series involves risks similar to
those of investing in a broadly-based portfolio of equity securities traded on
exchanges in the relevant foreign securities market, such as market fluctuations
caused by such factors as economic and political developments, changes in
interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Investing in WEBS generally
involves certain risks and considerations not typically associated with
investing in a fund that invests in the securities of U.S. issuers. These risks
could include generally less liquid and less efficient securities markets;
generally greater price volatility; exchange rate fluctuations and exchange
controls; less publicly available information about issuers; the imposition of
withholding or other taxes; restrictions on the expatriation of funds or other
assets of a WEBS Index Series; higher transaction and custody costs; delays
attendant in settlement procedures; difficulties in enforcing contractual
obligations; lesser liquidity and the significantly smaller market
capitalization of most non-U.S. securities markets; lesser levels of regulation
of the securities markets; different accounting, disclosure and reporting
requirements; more substantial government involvement in the economy; higher
rates of inflation; greater social, economic, and political uncertainty and the
risk of nationalization or expropriation of assets and risk of war. Certain WEBS
Index Series' specific considerations are set forth in the Statement of
Additional Information.
VOLATILITY OF FOREIGN EQUITY MARKETS
The U.S. dollar performance of foreign equity markets, particularly emerging
markets, has generally been substantially more volatile than that of U.S.
markets. For example, from October 1992-1996, the average price volatility of
the Standard and Poor's 500 Index, a broad measure of the U.S. equity market,
was 9.2%. In contrast, during the same period, the average price volatility of
the respective MSCI Indices was as follows: the MSCI Australia (16.6%), the MSCI
Austria (15.2%), the MSCI Belgium (11.1%), the MSCI Canada (12.7%), the MSCI
France (14.6%), the MSCI Germany (13.2%), the MSCI Hong Kong (25.7%), the MSCI
Italy (25.8%), the MSCI Japan (22.8%), the MSCI Malaysia (23.4%), the MSCI
Mexico (Free) (37.3%), the MSCI Netherlands (11.9%), the MSCI Singapore (Free)
(20.9%), the MSCI Spain (19.8%), the MSCI Sweden (21.3%), the MSCI Switzerland
(14.1%), and the MSCI United Kingdom (14.0%). Short-term volatility in these
markets can be significantly greater.
FOREIGN CURRENCY FLUCTUATIONS
Because each WEBS Index Series' assets are generally invested in non-U.S.
securities, and because a substantial portion of the revenues and income of each
WEBS Index Series are received in a foreign currency, while WEBS Index Series
dividends and other distributions are paid in U.S. dollars, the dollar value of
a WEBS Index Series' net assets are adversely affected by reductions in the
value of subject foreign currency relative to the dollar and are positively
affected by increases in the value of such currency relative to the dollar.
Also, government or monetary authorities have imposed and may in the future
impose exchange controls that could adversely affect exchange rates. Any such
currency fluctuations will affect the net asset value of a WEBS Index Series
irrespective of the performance of its underlying portfolio. Other than to
facilitate settlements in local markets or to protect against currency exposure
in connection with its distributions to shareholders or borrowings, the Fund
does not expect to engage in currency transactions for the purpose of hedging
against the decline in value of any foreign currencies.
34
<PAGE>
CONCENTRATION AND LACK OF DIVERSIFICATION OF CERTAIN WEBS INDEX SERIES
Each WEBS Index Series of the Fund (except for the Canada WEBS Index Series,
the France WEBS Index Series, the Japan WEBS Index Series and the United Kingdom
WEBS Index Series) is classified as "non-diversified" for purposes of the 1940
Act, which means each of those WEBS Index Series is not limited by the 1940 Act
with regard to the portion of its assets that may be invested in the securities
of a single issuer. In addition, a number of WEBS Index Series concentrate their
investments in particular industries. See "Investment Policies" herein. However,
each WEBS Index Series, regardless of whether classified as non-diversified,
intends to maintain the required level of diversification and otherwise conduct
its operations so as to qualify as a "regulated investment company" for purposes
of the Internal Revenue Code, in order to relieve the WEBS Index Series of any
liability for Federal income tax to the extent that its earnings are distributed
to shareholders. See "Dividends and Capital Gains Distributions" and "Tax
Matters" in this Prospectus. Compliance with the diversification requirements of
the Internal Revenue Code severely limits the investment flexibility of certain
WEBS Index Series and makes it less likely that such WEBS Index Series will meet
their investment objectives.
The stocks of particular issuers, or of issuers in particular industries,
may dominate the benchmark indices of certain WEBS Index Series and,
consequently, the investment portfolios of such WEBS Index Series, which may
adversely affect the performance of such WEBS Index Series or subject such WEBS
Index Series to greater price volatility than that experienced by more
diversified investment companies. The WEBS of a WEBS Index Series may be more
susceptible to any single economic, political or regulatory occurrence than the
portfolio securities of an investment company that is more broadly invested than
the subject WEBS Index Series in the equity securities of the relevant market.
Information concerning the companies and industry sectors that represent the
largest components of the various benchmark indices is set forth above under
"The Benchmark MSCI Indices Utilized by the WEBS Index Series."
As indicated above, the WEBS have been listed for trading on the AMEX. There
can be no assurance that active trading markets for the WEBS will develop or be
maintained. The Distributor does not maintain a secondary market in WEBS.
Trading in WEBS on the AMEX may be halted due to market conditions or for
reasons that, in the view of the AMEX, make trading in WEBS inadvisable. In
addition, trading in WEBS on the AMEX is subject to trading halts caused by
extraordinary market volatility pursuant to AMEX "circuit breaker" rules that
require trading in securities on the AMEX to be halted in the event of specified
market moves. There can be no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX
necessary to maintain the listing of any WEBS Index Series will continue to be
met or will remain unchanged. See "Exchange Listing and Trading of WEBS."
The net asset value of the WEBS of a WEBS Index Series fluctuate with
changes in the market value of the portfolio securities of the WEBS Index Series
and changes in the market rate of exchange between the U.S. dollar and the
subject foreign currency. The market prices of WEBS fluctuate in accordance with
changes in net asset value and supply and demand on the AMEX. The Fund cannot
predict whether WEBS will trade below, at or above their net asset value. Price
differences may be due, in large part, to the fact that supply and demand forces
at work in the secondary trading market for WEBS will be closely related to, but
not identical to, the same forces influencing the prices of the stocks of the
subject MSCI Index trading individually or in the aggregate at any point in
time. However, given that WEBS can be created and redeemed in Creation Unit
aggregations (unlike shares
35
<PAGE>
of many closed-end funds, which frequently trade at appreciable discounts from,
and sometimes at premiums to, their net asset value), the Fund believes that
large discounts or premiums to the net asset value of WEBS should not be
sustainable.
LENDING OF SECURITIES
Although each WEBS Index Series receives collateral in connection with all
loans of portfolio securities, and such collateral is marked to market, the WEBS
Index Series would be exposed to the risk of loss should a borrower default on
its obligation to return the borrowed securities (E.G., the loaned securities
may have appreciated beyond the value of the collateral held by the Fund). In
addition, each WEBS Index Series bears the risk of loss of any collateral that
it invests in Short-Term Investments.
USE OF CERTAIN INSTRUMENTS
The risk of loss associated with futures contracts is potentially unlimited
due both to the low margin deposits required and the extremely high degree of
leverage involved in futures pricing. As a result, a relatively small price
movement in a futures contract may result in an immediate and substantial loss
or gain. However, no WEBS Index Series will use futures contracts, options or
swap agreements for speculative purposes or to leverage its net assets and each
WEBS Index Series will comply with applicable SEC requirements regarding the
segregation of assets in connection with futures positions. Accordingly, the
primary risks associated with the use of futures contracts, options and swap
agreements by a WEBS Index Series are: (i) imperfect correlation between the
change in market value of the stocks in the benchmark index or held by the WEBS
Index Series and the prices of futures contracts, options and swap agreements;
(ii) possible lack of a liquid secondary market for a futures contract or listed
option and the resulting inability to close futures or listed option positions
prior to their maturity date; and (iii) the risk of the counterparty or
guaranteeing agent defaulting. Over-the-counter options and swap agreements are
generally less liquid than exchange traded securities and the SEC staff
considers most over-the-counter options to be illiquid. The Fund will treat such
options as illiquid to the extent required by applicable SEC staff positions.
Illiquid assets may not represent more than 15% of the net assets of a WEBS
Index Series.
Since there are generally no futures traded on the MSCI Indices, it may be
necessary for a WEBS Index Series to utilize other futures contracts or
combinations thereof to simulate the performance of the relevant MSCI Index.
This process may magnify the "tracking error" of the WEBS Index Series'
performance compared to that of the MSCI Index, due to the lower correlation of
the selected futures with the MSCI Index. The Adviser will attempt to reduce
this tracking error by investing in futures contracts whose behavior is expected
to represent the market performance of the WEBS Index Series' underlying
securities, although there can be no assurance that these selected futures will
in fact correlate with the performance of the relevant MSCI Index. Certain
foreign stock index futures contracts and options thereon are not currently
available to U.S. persons such as the Fund under applicable law.
See also "Special Considerations and Risks" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
Net asset value per share for each WEBS Index Series of the Fund is computed
by dividing the value of the net assets of such WEBS Index Series (i.e., the
value of its total assets less total liabilities) by the total number of WEBS
outstanding, rounded to the nearest cent. Expenses and fees, including the
management, administration and distribution fees, are accrued daily and taken
into account for
36
<PAGE>
purposes of determining net asset value. The net asset value of each WEBS Index
Series is determined as of the close of the regular trading session on the New
York Stock Exchange, Inc. (ordinarily 4:00 p.m., New York City time) on each day
that such exchange is open.
In computing a WEBS Index Series' net asset value, the WEBS Index Series'
portfolio securities are valued based on their last quoted current price. Price
information on listed securities is taken from the exchange where the security
is primarily traded. Securities regularly traded in the over-the-counter market
are valued at the latest quoted bid price. Other portfolio securities and assets
for which market quotations are not readily available are valued based on fair
value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in accordance with procedures
adopted by the Board of Directors of the Fund. Foreign currency values are
converted into U.S. dollars using the same exchange rates utilized by MSCI in
the calculation of the relevant MSCI Indices (currently, exchange rates as of
4:00 p.m. London time, except that the exchange rate for the MSCI Mexico (Free)
Index is that as of 3:00 p.m. New York City time).
CREATION UNITS
The Fund issues and redeems WEBS of each WEBS Index Series only in
aggregations of WEBS specified for each WEBS Index Series. The following table
sets forth the number of WEBS of a WEBS Index Series that constitute a Creation
Unit for such WEBS Index Series and the value of such Creation Unit at December
9, 1996:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VALUE PER
WEBS INDEX SERIES WEBS PER CREATION UNIT CREATION UNIT
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------- ----------------
(IN DOLLARS)
<S> <C> <C>
Australia WEBS Index Series............................................ 200,000 $ 2,113,300.03
Austria WEBS Index Series.............................................. 100,000 $ 1,031,152.88
Belgium WEBS Index Series.............................................. 40,000 $ 618,188.37
Canada WEBS Index Series............................................... 100,000 $ 1,235,400.64
France WEBS Index Series............................................... 200,000 $ 2,799,244.98
Germany WEBS Index Series.............................................. 300,000 $ 4,252,748.85
Hong Kong WEBS Index Series............................................ 75,000 $ 1,152,635.37
Italy WEBS Index Series................................................ 150,000 $ 2,191,097.55
Japan WEBS Index Series................................................ 600,000 $ 8,384,052.49
Malaysia WEBS Index Series............................................. 75,000 $ 1,093,406.49
Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series........................................ 100,000 $ 1,141,697.64
Netherlands WEBS Index Series.......................................... 50,000 $ 934,268.83
Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series..................................... 100,000 $ 1,168,088.62
Spain WEBS Index Series................................................ 75,000 $ 1,202,977.29
Sweden WEBS Index Series............................................... 75,000 $ 1,257,208.62
Switzerland WEBS Index Series.......................................... 125,000 $ 1,487,092.95
United Kingdom WEBS Index Series....................................... 200,000 $ 2,832,378.03
</TABLE>
See "Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units" and "Redemption of
WEBS in Creation Units." The Board of Directors of the Fund reserves the right
to declare a split in the number of WEBS outstanding of any WEBS Index Series of
the Fund, and to make a corresponding change in the number of WEBS constituting
a Creation Unit, in the event that the per WEBS price in the secondary market
rises to an amount that exceeds the range deemed desirable by the Board.
37
<PAGE>
PURCHASE AND ISSUANCE OF WEBS IN CREATION UNITS
THE FUND ISSUES AND SELLS WEBS OF A WEBS INDEX SERIES ONLY IN CREATION UNITS
ON A CONTINUOUS BASIS THROUGH THE DISTRIBUTOR AT THEIR NET ASSET VALUE NEXT
DETERMINED AFTER RECEIPT OF AN ORDER IN PROPER FORM, WITHOUT AN INITIAL SALES
LOAD. The consideration for purchase of a Creation Unit of WEBS of a WEBS Index
Series is the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of equity securities
constituting an optimized representation of the corresponding MSCI Index (the
"Deposit Securities") and an amount of cash computed as described below (the
"Cash Component"). The Cash Component is a balancing amount to cover accrued
dividends and to equalize any difference between the value of the Deposit
Securities and the net asset value of a Creation Unit of WEBS as determined on
the date on which WEBS are to be purchased and issued. Together, the Deposit
Securities and the Cash Component constitute the "Portfolio Deposit" which
represents the minimum initial and subsequent investment amount for shares of
any WEBS Index Series from the Fund. Tendered securities in the Portfolio
Deposit are valued in the same manner as the relevant WEBS Index Series values
its portfolio securities. WEBS may also be issued and sold in Creation Units for
cash in certain circumstances; however, the Fund does not ordinarily permit cash
purchases of Creation Units and any WEBS Index Series that permits cash sales
reserves the right to suspend such sales at any time.
The Deposit Securities for each WEBS Index Series generally change with
changes in the corresponding MSCI Index. In addition, the Adviser reserves the
right to permit or require the substitution of an amount of cash to be added to
the Cash Component to replace any security in the portfolio constituting the
Deposit Securities which may not be available in sufficient quantity for
delivery or for other similar reasons. The Deposit Securities must be delivered
for receipt in an account of the Fund maintained at the applicable local
subcustodian.
A purchase transaction fee payable to the Fund is imposed to compensate the
Fund for the transaction costs of each WEBS Index Series associated with
issuance of Creation Units of WEBS. The purchase transaction fees for in-kind
purchases and cash purchases (when available) are listed in the Shareholder
Transaction Expenses table in "Summary of Fund Expenses." The Shareholder
Transaction Expenses table is subject to revision from time to time. Investors
are also responsible for payment of the costs of transferring the Deposit
Securities to the Fund.
The foregoing description of the issuance of Creation Units of WEBS is only
a summary. Investors interested in purchasing Creations Units of WEBS from the
Fund will need to refer to "Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units" in
the Statement of Additional Information for additional details.
REDEMPTION OF WEBS IN CREATION UNITS
WEBS OF A WEBS INDEX SERIES ARE REDEEMED BY THE FUND ONLY IN CREATION UNITS
AT THEIR NET ASSET VALUE NEXT DETERMINED AFTER RECEIPT OF A REDEMPTION REQUEST
IN PROPER FORM BY THE DISTRIBUTOR. WEBS IN AMOUNTS LESS THAN CREATION UNITS ARE
NOT REDEEMABLE. The Fund generally redeems a Creation Unit of WEBS principally
on an in-kind basis for Deposit Securities as announced by the Distributor, plus
cash in an amount equal to the difference between the net asset value of the
WEBS being redeemed, as next determined after receipt of a request in proper
form, and the value of the Deposit Securities, less the redemption transaction
fee described below. A WEBS Index Series may also redeem Creation Units for cash
in certain circumstances; however, the Fund does not ordinarily permit cash
redemptions and any WEBS Index Series that permits cash redemptions reserves the
right to suspend such redemptions at any time.
38
<PAGE>
Investors may purchase WEBS in the secondary market and aggregate such
purchases into a Creation Unit for redemption. There can be no assurance,
however, that there always will be sufficient liquidity in the public trading
market to permit assembly of a Creation Unit of WEBS. Investors should expect to
incur brokerage and other costs in connection with assembling a sufficient
number of WEBS to constitute a redeemable Creation Unit. The approximate cost of
a Creation Unit of each WEBS Index Series is indicated under the heading
"Creation Units."
A redemption transaction fee payable to the Fund is imposed to offset
transaction costs that may be incurred by a WEBS Index Series in connection with
redemption of Creation Units of WEBS. The redemption transaction fee for
redemptions in kind and for cash (when available) are listed in the Shareholder
Transaction Expenses table in "Summary of Fund Expenses." The Shareholder
Transaction Expenses table may be subject to revision from time to time.
Investors also bear the costs of transferring the Portfolio Deposit from the
Fund to their account or on their order.
Because the portfolio securities of a WEBS Index Series may trade on the
relevant exchange(s) on days that the AMEX is closed, shareholders may not be
able to redeem their Creation Units of such WEBS Index Series, or to purchase or
sell WEBS on the AMEX, on days when the net asset value of such WEBS Index
Series could be significantly affected by events in the relevant foreign
markets.
The foregoing description of the redemption of Creation Units of WEBS is
only a summary. Investors interested in redeeming Creation Units of WEBS need to
refer to "Redemption of WEBS in Creation Units" in the Statement of Additional
Information for additional details.
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS
Dividends from net investment income, including net foreign currency gains,
if any, are declared and paid at least annually and net realized securities
gains, if any, are distributed at least annually. Dividends may be declared and
paid more frequently than annually for certain WEBS Index Series to improve
tracking error or to comply with the distribution requirements of the Internal
Revenue Code. In addition, the Fund intends to distribute at least annually
amounts representing the full dividend yield on the underlying portfolio
securities of each WEBS Index Series net of expenses of such WEBS Index Series,
as if such WEBS Index Series owned such underlying portfolio securities for the
entire dividend period. As a result, some portion of each distribution may
result in a return of capital. See "Tax Matters." Dividends and securities gains
distributions are distributed in U.S. dollars and cannot be automatically
reinvested in additional WEBS. The Fund will inform shareholders within 60 days
after the close of the WEBS Index Series' taxable year of the amount and nature
of all distributions made to them.
TAX MATTERS
A person other than a tax-exempt entity who exchanges securities for
Creation Units of WEBS generally will recognize gain and generally should
recognize loss equal to the difference between the market value of the Creation
Units and the sum of his aggregate basis in the securities surrendered and the
Cash Component paid. It is possible, however, that the Internal Revenue Service
may assert that a loss realized upon an exchange of securities for Creation
Units cannot be deducted currently under the rules governing "wash sales," and
persons exchanging securities should consult their own tax advisors with respect
to when such a loss might be deductible.
Each WEBS Index Series of the Fund intends to qualify for and to elect
treatment as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal
Revenue Code. As a regulated investment
39
<PAGE>
company, a WEBS Index Series is not subject to U.S. federal income tax on its
income and gains that it distributes to shareholders, provided that it
distributes annually at least 90% of its investment company taxable income.
Investment company taxable income generally includes income from dividends and
interest and gains and losses from currency transactions net of operating
expenses plus the WEBS Index Series' net short-term capital gains in excess of
its net long-term capital losses. Each WEBS Index Series distributes to its
shareholders at least annually all of its investment company taxable income and
any realized net long-term capital gains.
Dividends paid out of a WEBS Index Series' investment company taxable income
are taxable to a U.S. investor as ordinary income. Distributions of net
long-term capital gains, if any, in excess of net short-term capital losses are
taxable to a U.S. investor as long-term capital gains, regardless of how long
the investor has held the WEBS. Dividends paid by a WEBS Index Series generally
will not qualify for the deduction for dividends received by corporations.
Distributions in excess of a WEBS Index Series' current and accumulated earnings
and profits are treated as a tax-free return of capital to each of the WEBS
Index Series' investors to the extent of the investor's basis in its WEBS, and
as capital gain thereafter. Any dividend declared by a WEBS Index Series in
October, November or December of any calendar year and payable to investors of
record on a specified date in such a month shall be deemed to have been received
by each investor on December 31 of such calendar year and to have been paid by
the WEBS Index Series not later than such December 31 so long as the dividend is
actually paid by the WEBS Index Series during January of the following calendar
year. A distribution by a WEBS Index Series will reduce its net asset value per
share and may be taxable to the investor as ordinary income or net capital gain
as described above even though, from an investment standpoint, it may constitute
a return of capital and this phenomenon may be more pronounced given the WEBS
Index Series' policy of making distributions in excess of the sum of its
investment company taxable income and its net long-term capital gains.
Any gain or loss realized upon a sale or redemption of WEBS by a shareholder
that is not a dealer in securities is generally treated as a long-term capital
gain or loss if the WEBS have been held for more than one year, and otherwise as
a short-term capital gain or loss. However, if WEBS on which a long-term capital
gain distribution has been received are subsequently sold or redeemed and such
WEBS have been held for six months or less, any loss realized will be treated as
a long-term capital loss to the extent that it offsets the long-term capital
gain distribution. Moreover, any loss realized on a sale or exchange of WEBS
will be deferred to the extent that the shares disposed of are replaced within a
61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition
of the shares, in which case the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted
upward to reflect the deferred loss.
Each WEBS Index Series may be subject to foreign income taxes withheld at
source. As more than 50% of the value of the total assets of each WEBS Index
Series at the close of its taxable year will consist of stock or securities of
foreign corporations, a WEBS Index Series will be eligible (and intends) to file
an election with the Internal Revenue Service to "pass through" to its investors
the amount of foreign income taxes (including withholding taxes) paid by the
WEBS Index Series. Subject to certain limitations, the foreign income taxes
passed through may qualify as a deduction in calculating U.S. taxable income or
as a credit in calculating U.S. federal income tax. Each investor will be
notified of the investor's portion of the foreign income taxes paid to each
country and the portion of dividends that represents income derived from sources
within each country.
The Fund may be required to withhold for U.S. federal income tax purposes
31% of the dividends and distributions payable to investors who fail to provide
the Fund with their correct taxpayer
40
<PAGE>
identification number or to make required certifications, or who have been
notified by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service that they are subject to backup
withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax; amounts withheld may
be credited against the investor's U.S. federal income tax liability.
An investor in a WEBS Index Series that is a foreign corporation or an
individual who is a nonresident alien for U.S. tax purposes will be subject to
significant adverse U.S. tax consequences. For example, dividends paid out of a
WEBS Index Series' investment company taxable income will generally be subject
to U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or lower treaty rate if the
foreign investor is eligible for the benefits of an income tax treaty). Foreign
investors are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the U.S. tax
treatment, in their particular circumstances, of ownership of shares in a WEBS
Index Series.
For further information on taxes see "Taxes" in the Statement of Additional
Information.
BOOK-ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM
DTC acts as securities depositary for the WEBS. WEBS are represented by
global securities, which are registered in the name of DTC or its nominee and
deposited with, or on behalf of, DTC.
DTC has advised the Fund as follows: DTC was created to hold securities of
its participants (the "DTC Participants") and to facilitate the clearance and
settlement of securities transactions among the DTC Participants in such
securities through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of the DTC
Participants. DTC Participants include securities brokers and dealers, banks,
trust companies, clearing corporations, and certain other organizations, some of
whom (and/or their representatives) own DTC. More specifically, DTC is owned by
a number of its DTC Participants and by the New York Stock Exchange, Inc., the
American Stock Exchange, Inc., and the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. Access to the DTC system is also available to others such as
banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or maintain a
custodial relationship with a DTC Participant, either directly or indirectly
(the "Indirect Participants").
Beneficial ownership of WEBS is limited to DTC Participants, Indirect
Participants and persons holding interests through DTC Participants and Indirect
Participants. Ownership of beneficial interests in WEBS (owners of such
beneficial interests are referred to herein as "Beneficial Owners") is shown on,
and the transfer of ownership is effected only through, records maintained by
DTC (with respect to DTC Participants) and on the records of DTC Participants
(with respect to Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners that are not DTC
Participants). Beneficial Owners receive from or through the DTC Participant a
written confirmation relating to their purchase of WEBS. The laws of some
jurisdictions may require that certain purchasers of securities take physical
delivery of such securities in definitive form. Such laws may impair the ability
of certain investors to acquire beneficial interests in WEBS. Beneficial Owners
of WEBS are not entitled to have WEBS registered in their names, will not
receive or are not entitled to receive physical delivery of certificates in
definitive form and are not considered the registered holders thereof.
Accordingly, each Beneficial Owner must rely on the procedures of DTC, the DTC
Participant and any Indirect Participant through which such Beneficial Owner
holds its interests, to exercise any rights of a holder of WEBS.
WEBS distributions are made to DTC or its nominee, Cede & Co., as the
registered holder of all WEBS. DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any such
distributions, will immediately credit DTC
41
<PAGE>
Participants' accounts with payments in amounts proportionate to their
respective beneficial interests in WEBS as shown on the records of DTC or its
nominee. Payments by DTC Participants to Indirect Participants and Beneficial
Owners of WEBS held through such DTC Participants are governed by standing
instructions and customary practices, as is the case with securities held for
the accounts of customers in bearer form or registered in a "street name," and
are the responsibility of such DTC Participants.
See "Book-Entry Only System" in the Statement of Additional Information for
additional details.
PERFORMANCE
The performance of the WEBS Index Series may be quoted in advertisements,
sales literature or reports to shareholders in terms of average annual total
return, cumulative total return and yield.
Quotations of average annual total return will be expressed in terms of
average annual rate of return of a hypothetical investment in a WEBS Index
Series over periods of 1, 5 and 10 years (or the life of the WEBS Index Series,
if shorter). Such total return figures reflect the deduction of a proportional
share of such WEBS Index Series' expenses on an annual basis, and assume that
all dividends and distributions are reinvested when paid.
Quotations of a cumulative total return are calculated for any specified
period by assuming a hypothetical investment in a WEBS Index Series on the date
of the commencement of the period and assume that all dividends and
distributions are reinvested on ex date. However, currently there is no dividend
reinvestment option available to shareholders of WEBS and such calculation is
provided for informational purposes only. The net increase or decrease in the
value of the investment over the period is divided by its beginning value to
arrive at cumulative total return. Total return calculated in this manner will
differ from the calculation of average annual total return in that it is not
expressed in terms of an average rate of return.
The yield of a WEBS Index Series refers to income generated by an investment
in such WEBS Index Series over a specified 30-day (one month) period. Yields for
the WEBS Index Series are expressed as annualized percentages.
Quotations of average annual total return, cumulative total return or yield
reflect only the performance of a hypothetical investment in a WEBS Index Series
during the particular time period on which the calculations are based. Such
quotations for a WEBS Index Series will vary based on changes in market
conditions and the level of such WEBS Index Series' expenses, and no reported
performance figure should be considered an indication of performance which may
be expected in the future.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Fund is organized as a Maryland corporation. The Articles of
Incorporation, as amended, currently permit the Fund to issue 6 billion shares
of common stock with a par value of $.001 per share. Fractional shares will not
be issued. In addition to the seventeen WEBS Index Series described herein, the
Board of Directors of the Fund may designate additional series of common stock
and classify shares of a particular series into one or more classes of that
series. Any such additional series may seek to track the investment results
represented by an equity securities index compiled by MSCI or by another index
compiler. The shares of each series are fully paid and non-assessable; have no
preference as to conversion, exchange, dividends, retirement or other features;
and have no pre-emptive rights. Each share has one vote with respect to matters
upon which a shareholder vote is
42
<PAGE>
required; shareholders have no cumulative voting rights with respect to their
shares. Shares of all series vote together as a single class except that if the
matter being voted on affects only a particular WEBS Index Series it will be
voted on only by that WEBS Index Series and if a matter affects a particular
WEBS Index Series differently from other WEBS Index Series, that WEBS Index
Series will vote separately on such matter. Annual meetings of shareholders will
not be held except as required by the 1940 Act and other applicable law.
Absent an applicable exemption, beneficial owners of 10% of the WEBS of a
WEBS Index Series are subject to the insider reporting, short-swing profit and
short sale provisions under the Exchange Act. The Exchange Act provides that,
with certain exceptions, any gain realized by any such beneficial owner from any
purchase and sale or sale and purchase of WEBS within any period of less than
six months is recoverable by the WEBS Index Series. Additionally, every such
beneficial owner must file with the SEC a statement showing ownership and change
in ownership of WEBS within ten days after the end of any calendar month in
which there has been a change in such beneficial owner's ownership of WEBS.
The acquisition of WEBS of each WEBS Index Series by investment companies is
subject to the restrictions of Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act and applicable
state regulations.
Ernst & Young, LLP serves as independent auditors for the Fund and audits
its financial statements annually.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
This Prospectus does not contain all the information included in the
Registration Statement filed with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933 with
respect to the securities offered hereby, certain portions of which have been
omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. The Registration
Statement, including the exhibits filed therewith and the Statement of
Additional Information, may be examined at the offices of the SEC, Room 1024,
Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20549. Such documents
and other information concerning the Fund may also be inspected at the offices
of the American Stock Exchange, Inc., 86 Trinity Place, New York, New York
10006.
Statements contained in this Prospectus as to the contents of any agreement
or other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and, in each
instance, reference is made to the copy of such agreement or other document
filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms
a part, each such statement being qualified in all respects by such reference.
Shareholder inquiries may be directed to the Fund in writing, to c/o PFPC
Inc., 400 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809.
43
<PAGE>
[LOGO]
-SM-
FFCPROSP97
<PAGE>
WEBS INDEX FUND, INC.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
JANUARY 15, 1997
This Statement of Additional Information is not a Prospectus, and should be
read in conjunction with the Prospectus dated January 15, 1997 (the
"Prospectus") for WEBS Index Fund, Inc. (the "Fund"), as it may be revised from
time to time. A copy of the Prospectus for the Fund may be obtained without
charge by writing to the Fund or the Distributor. The Fund's address is WEBS
Index Fund, Inc., c/o PFPC Inc., 400 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19809.
Capitalized terms used herein but not defined have the same meaning as in the
Prospectus, unless otherwise noted.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
-----
<S> <C>
General Description of the Fund............................................................................ 1
Investment Policies and Restrictions....................................................................... 1
Special Considerations and Risks........................................................................... 15
The MSCI Indices........................................................................................... 27
Exchange Listing and Trading............................................................................... 45
Management of the Fund..................................................................................... 47
Investment Advisory, Management, Administrative and Distribution Services.................................. 50
Brokerage Transactions..................................................................................... 54
Book Entry Only System..................................................................................... 55
Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units............................................................ 56
Redemption of WEBS in Creation Units....................................................................... 60
Determining Net Asset Value................................................................................ 63
Dividends and Distributions................................................................................ 63
Taxes...................................................................................................... 63
Capital Stock and Shareholder Reports...................................................................... 65
Performance Information.................................................................................... 67
Counsel and Independent Auditors........................................................................... 68
Financial Statements....................................................................................... 68
</TABLE>
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: MSCI Indices as of October 31, 1996
APPENDIX B: Holidays Applicable to Each WEBS Index Series
APPENDIX C: Supplemental Educational Information on WEBS
-- The Case For International Index Investing
-- Individual Country Fact Sheets
Japan
Germany
France
Hong Kong
Australia
Mexico
Sweden
-- Frequently Asked Questions (Q & A)
-- WEBS Investment Highlights
-- MSCI Index Performance Charts
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THE MSCI INDICES ARE THE PROPERTY OF MORGAN STANLEY & CO. INCORPORATED
("MORGAN STANLEY"). MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL IS A SERVICE MARK OF
MORGAN STANLEY AND HAS BEEN LICENSED FOR USE BY WEBS INDEX FUND, INC.
("LICENSEE"). THE MSCI INDICES ARE DETERMINED, COMPOSED AND CALCULATED BY
CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE S.A. ("CIPSA"), A SUBSIDIARY OF CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL S.A.
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK SHARES ARE NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED, OR PROMOTED BY
MORGAN STANLEY. MORGAN STANLEY MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, TO THE OWNERS OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES OR ANY MEMBER OF THE
PUBLIC REGARDING THE ADVISABILITY OF INVESTING IN SECURITIES GENERALLY, OR IN
THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES PARTICULARLY, OR THE ABILITY OF THE INDICES
IDENTIFIED HEREIN TO TRACK GENERAL STOCK MARKET PERFORMANCE. MORGAN STANLEY IS
THE LICENSOR OF CERTAIN TRADEMARKS, SERVICE MARKS AND TRADE NAMES OF MORGAN
STANLEY, INCLUDING
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THE MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL SERVICE MARK ("MSCI") WHICH MARK IS
ASCRIBED TO THE INDICES CREATED BY CIPSA AND LICENSED TO MORGAN STANLEY. THE
MSCI INDICES IDENTIFIED HEREIN ARE DETERMINED, COMPOSED AND CALCULATED WITHOUT
REGARD TO THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES OR THE ISSUER THEREOF. NEITHER
MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA HAS ANY OBLIGATION TO TAKE THE NEEDS OF THE ISSUER OF
THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES OR THE OWNERS OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX
SERIES INTO CONSIDERATION IN DETERMINING, COMPOSING OR CALCULATING, IN THE CASE
OF CIPSA, OR DISSEMINATING, IN THE CASE OF MORGAN STANLEY, THE RESPECTIVE MSCI
INDICES. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA IS RESPONSIBLE FOR, NOR HAVE THEY
PARTICIPATED IN THE DETERMINATION OF THE TIMING OF, PRICES OF, OR QUANTITIES OF
THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES TO BE ISSUED OR IN THE DETERMINATION OR
CALCULATION OF THE EQUATION BY WHICH THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES ARE
REDEEMABLE. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA HAS ANY OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY TO
OWNERS OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE
ADMINISTRATION, MARKETING OR TRADING OF THE WEBS OF ANY WEBS INDEX SERIES.
ALTHOUGH CIPSA SHALL OBTAIN INFORMATION FOR INCLUSION IN OR FOR USE IN THE
CALCULATION OF THE MSCI INDICES FROM SOURCES WHICH IT CONSIDERS RELIABLE,
NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA GUARANTEES THE ACCURACY AND/OR THE COMPLETENESS
OF THE COMPONENT DATA OF ANY MSCI INDEX OBTAINED FROM INDEPENDENT SOURCES.
NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA MAKES ANY WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO
RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED BY LICENSEE, OWNERS OF THE PRODUCTS, OR ANY OTHER PERSON
OR ENTITY FROM THE USE OF THE MSCI INDICES OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN IN
CONNECTION WITH THE RIGHTS LICENSED UNDER ANY LICENSE AGREEMENT OR FOR ANY OTHER
USE. NEITHER MORGAN STANLEY NOR CIPSA MAKES ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
AND EACH HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH RESPECT TO THE MSCI INDICES OR ANY DATA INCLUDED
THEREIN. WITHOUT LIMITING ANY OF THE FOREGOING, IN NO EVENT SHALL MORGAN STANLEY
OR CIPSA HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES (INCLUDING LOST PROFITS) EVEN IF NOTIFIED OF
THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
The information contained herein regarding MSCI, the MSCI Indices, local
securities markets and Depository Trust Company ("DTC") was obtained from
publicly available sources.
Unless otherwise specified, all references in this Statement of Additional
Information to "dollars," "USD," "US$" or "$" are to United States Dollars, all
references to "AUD," or "A$" are to Australian Dollars, all references to "ATS"
are to Austrian Schillings, all references to "BEF" are to Belgian Francs, all
references to "CAD" or "CA$" are to Canadian Dollars, all references to "FRF" or
"FF" are to French Francs, all references to "DEM" or "DM" are to the German
Deutsche Mark, all references to "HKD" or "HK$" are to Hong Kong Dollars, all
references to "ITL" or "LL" are to Italian Lira, all references to "JPY" or "Y"
are to Japanese Yen, all references to "MYR" are to Malaysian Ringgits, all
references to "MXN" are to Mexican Pesos, all references to "NLG" are to
Netherlands Guilders, all references to "SGD" are to Singapore Dollars, all
references to "ESP" are to Spanish Pesetas, all references to "SEK" are to
Swedish Krona, all references to "CHF" are to Swiss Francs, and all references
to "GBP," "L" or "L" are to British Pounds Sterling. On December 9, 1996, the
noon buying rates in New York City for cable transfers payable in the applicable
currency, as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New
York, were as follows for each US $1.00: AUD 0.7984, ATS 10.94, BEF 32.05, CAD
1.36, FRF 5.25, DEM 1.55, HKD 7.73, ITL 1533.10, JPY 112.54, MYR 2.52, MXN 7.89,
NLG 1.74, SGD 1.40, ESP 130.72, SEK 6.81, CHF 1.32 and GBP .6144. Some numbers
in this Statement of Additional Information have been rounded. All US Dollar
equivalents provided in this Statement of Additional Information are calculated
at the exchange rate prevailing on the date to which the corresponding foreign
currency amount refers.
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GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE FUND
WEBS Index Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") is a management investment company
organized as a series fund. The Fund currently consists of seventeen series
(each, a "WEBS Index Series"), each of which invests in a portfolio of common
stocks (the "Portfolio Securities") consisting of some or all of the component
securities of a specified foreign securities index, selected to reflect the
performance thereof. The Fund was incorporated under the laws of the State of
Maryland on September 1, 1994. The shares of each WEBS Index Series are referred
to herein as "World Equity Benchmark Shares-SM-" or "WEBS-SM-". The seventeen
WEBS Index Series offered by the Fund are the Australia WEBS Index Series, the
Austria WEBS Index Series, the Belgium WEBS Index Series, the Canada WEBS Index
Series, the France WEBS Index Series, the Germany WEBS Index Series, the Hong
Kong WEBS Index Series, the Italy WEBS Index Series, the Japan WEBS Index
Series, the Malaysia WEBS Index Series, the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series, the
Netherlands WEBS Index Series, the Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, the Spain
WEBS Index Series, the Sweden WEBS Index Series, the Switzerland WEBS Index
Series and the United Kingdom WEBS Index Series.
Each WEBS Index Series offers and issues WEBS at their net asset value only
in aggregations of a specified number of shares (each, a "Creation Unit"),
usually in exchange for a basket of Portfolio Securities (together with the
deposit of a specified cash payment). Such Creation Units of WEBS are separable
upon issue into identical shares which are listed and traded on the American
Stock Exchange (the "AMEX"). WEBS are also redeemable only in Creation Units,
also usually in exchange for Portfolio Securities and a specified cash payment.
The Fund reserves the right to offer a "cash" option for sales and redemptions
of WEBS (subject to applicable legal requirements), as well as the option to
offer WEBS on a "cash only" basis. In each instance of such cash sales or
redemptions, the Fund will impose transaction fees based on transaction expenses
in the particular country that will be higher than the transaction fees
associated with in-kind purchases or redemptions. In all cases, such fees will
be limited in accordance with the requirements of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "SEC") applicable to management investment companies offering
redeemable securities.
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND RESTRICTIONS
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with
the sections entitled "Investment Policies" and "Investment Limitations" in the
Prospectus.
Each of the seventeen WEBS Index Series has the policy to remain as fully
invested as practicable in a pool of equity securities the performance of which
will approximate the performance of the subject MSCI Index taken in its
entirety. A WEBS Index Series will normally invest at least 95% of its total
assets in stocks that are represented in the relevant MSCI Index, and will at
all times invest at least 90% of its total assets in such stocks except, that in
order to permit the Adviser additional flexibility to comply with the
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Internal
Revenue Code"), and other regulatory requirements and to manage future corporate
actions and index changes in the smaller markets, each of the Austria, Belgium,
Hong Kong, Mexico (Free), Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland WEBS Index
Series will at all times invest at least 80% of its total assets in such stocks
and at least 10% of the remaining 20% of its total assets in such stocks or in
stocks included in the revelant market, but not in the relevant MSCI Index. A
WEBS Index Series may invest its remaining assets in Short-Term Investments
(defined below), in stocks that are in the relevant market but not the relevant
MSCI Index, and/or in combinations of certain stock index futures contracts,
options on such futures contracts, stock index options, stock index swaps, cash,
local currency and forward currency exchange contracts that are intended to
provide the WEBS Index Series with exposure to such stocks (the WEBS Index
Series will not use such instruments to leverage their investment portfolios).
"Short-Term Investments" are short-term high quality debt securities that
include: obligations of the United States Government and its agencies or
instrumentalities; commercial paper (rated Prime-1 by Moody's Investors
Services, Inc. or A-1 by Standard & Poor's
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Ratings Group), bank certificates of deposit and bankers' acceptances;
repurchase agreements collateralized by the foregoing securities; participation
interests in such securities; and shares of money market funds (subject to
applicable limits under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the
"1940 Act")).
A WEBS Index Series will not invest in cash reserves or Short-Term
Investments, or utilize futures contracts, options on futures contracts, options
or swap agreements as part of a temporary defensive strategy to protect against
potential stock market declines. A WEBS Index Series may enter into forward
currency exchange contracts and foreign currency futures contracts in order to
facilitate settlements in local markets in connection with stock index futures,
and to protect against currency exposure in connection with its distributions to
shareholders, but not as part of a defensive strategy to protect against
fluctuations in exchange rates.
INVESTMENTS IN SUBJECT EQUITY MARKETS
Brief descriptions of the equity markets in which the respective WEBS Index
Series are invested are provided below.
THE AUSTRALIAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. Trading shares has taken place in Australia since 1828,
but did not become significant until the latter half of the nineteenth century
when there was strong demand for equity capital to support the growth of mining
activities. A stock market was first formed in Melbourne in 1865. In 1885, the
Melbourne market became the stock exchange of Melbourne, in which form it has
remained until recently. Other stock exchanges were also established in Sydney
(1871), Brisbane (1884), Adelaide (1887), Hobart (1891) and Perth (1891). In
1937, the six capital city stock exchanges established the Australian Associated
Stock Exchanges (AASE) to represent them at a national level. In 1987, the
regional exchanges merged to create the single entity -- The Australian Stock
Exchange (ASX). Trading is done via a computer link-up called "SEATS." SEATS
enables all exchanges to quote uniform prices. All the exchanges are members of
the ASX and are subject to the Securities Industry Act, which regulates the
major aspects of stock exchange operations. Although there are stock exchanges
in all six states, the Melbourne and Sydney Stock Exchanges are the major
centers, covering 90% of all trades.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Australian reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general
Australian corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S.
law and accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less
frequent than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Australian equity markets was approximately AUD 374.2
billion or US $274.7 billion.
THE AUSTRIAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. Relative to international standards, the Vienna stock
market is small in terms of total capitalization and yearly turnover. The Vienna
Stock Exchange (VSE) is one of the oldest in the world and was founded in 1771
as a state institution to provide a market for state-issued bonds, as well as
for exchange transactions. The Stock Exchange Act of 1875 (the "Act")
established the VSE as an autonomous institution. The Act is still in force,
placing control and administration of the exchange in the hands of the
Borsekammer (Board of Governors), chosen from among the members of the exchange.
The Borsekammer consists of 25 individuals with the title of Borserat (stock
exchange councillor). Some are elected by members and some are designated by
organizations of the securities industry for a period of five years. The
councillors must be members of the exchange and they elect from amongst
themselves a President and three Vice Presidents. Shares account for about 80%
and investment fund certificates for about 20% of total listed securities on the
VSE. Business of the exchange can be transacted only by members. Almost all the
credit institutions in Vienna, some in the Austrian provinces and the joint
stock banks are represented on the stock exchange, as well as the private banks,
savings banks and other credit institutions. Certain securities
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which do not have an official listing may be dealt in on the floor of the stock
exchange with permission of the management. This unlisted trading is the main
activity of the free brokers (Frei Makeler), of whom there are three.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Austrian reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ from U.S. standards. In general, Austrian corporations
do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and accounting
practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent than that
required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Austrian equity markets was approximately ATS 403.5
billion or US$38.8 billion.
THE BELGIAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The Brussels Stock Exchange (BSE) was founded by
Napoleanic decree in 1801. Since January 1, 1991 the BSE has been officially
organized as the "Societe de la Bourse de Valeurs Mobileres de Bruxelles" (SBVM)
the shareholders of which are Belgian securities houses. The law of December 4,
1990 on financial operations and markets terminated the monopoly of the
individual brokers. Now only securities houses are allowed to carry out stock
exchange orders. Brokers, banks, brokerage firms and insurance companies can
participate in the capital of a securities house. Its management is composed of
a majority of qualified people bearing the title of stockbroker. The Banking and
Finance Commission was granted the power to approve securities houses by this
law. The Board of Directors of the SBVM, the Stock Exchange Committee organizes
and supervises the different markets and ensures market transparency. The Stock
Exchange Committee also admits or dismisses brokerage firms and ensures
compliance with all regulations. The Stock Exchange Committee is also in charge
of the admission to listing and suspension of listing. On the Brussels Stock
Exchange equities are traded on three different markets: the Official Market,
which includes a Cash and a Forward Market, the Second Market and an "Over the
Counter Market."
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Belgian reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general Belgian
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Belgian equity markets was approximately BEF 3,307.7
billion or US$108.7 billion.
THE CANADIAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The first Canadian stock exchange appeared in the
1870's. Today, Canada is the world's fourth largest public equity market by
trading volume and the fifth largest by market capitalization. There are five
stock exchanges across Canada, located in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary
and Winnipeg. Of these, the Toronto Stock Exchange is the largest, accounting
for almost 80% of Canadian trading volumes. Measured by the value of shares
traded, the Toronto Stock Exchange is the second largest in North America and
among the ten largest in the world.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. As recognized by the Securities and
Exchange Commission in one of the proposing releases relating to the
Multijurisdictional Disclosure System, Canadian reporting, accounting and
auditing practices are closer to U.S. standards than those of any other foreign
jurisdiction. Every issuer that qualifies an offering of securities for
distribution in Canada becomes subject to periodic disclosure requirements.
Authoritative accounting and auditing standards, which are uniform across
Canada, are developed by a national body, the Canadian Institute of Chartered
Accountants ("CICA"). Although promulgated auditing standards in Canada differ
from U.S. standards in some respects, generally accepted practices in Canada
routinely encompass all significant auditing procedures required by U.S.
standards. Further, CICA periodically evaluates new auditing standards adopted
by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, CICA's U.S.
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counterpart, to determine whether similar guidelines may be appropriate for
Canadian auditors. Canadian GAAP are similar to their U.S. counterparts,
although there are some differences in measurement and disclosure.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Canadian markets was approximately CAD 543.6 billion or
US$ 397.3 billion.
THE FRENCH EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. Trading of securities in France is subject to the
monopoly of the Societe de Bourse, which replaced the individual agents de
change in 1991 in order to increase the cohesion of the French equity market.
All purchases or sales of equity securities in listed companies on any one of
the French exchanges must be executed through the Societe de Bourse. There are
three different markets on which French securities may be listed: (1) the
official list (La Cote Officielle), comprised of equity securities of large
French and foreign companies and most bond issues; (2) the second market (Le
Second Marche), designed for the trading of equity securities of smaller
companies; and (3) the "Hors-Cote" Market. Securities may only be traded on the
official list and the second market after they have been admitted for the
listing by the Conseil des Bourses de Valeurs (the "CBV"). By contrast, the
Hors-Cote Market has no prerequisites to listing, and shares of otherwise
unlisted companies may be freely traded there, once they have been introduced on
the market by the Societe de Bourse. Although the Hors-Cote Market is frequently
referred to as an over-the-counter market, this term is inaccurate in that, like
the official list and the second market, it is supervised by Societes des
Bourses Francaises and regulated by the CBV.
Although there are seven stock exchanges in France (located in Paris,
Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nancy and Nantes), the Paris Stock Exchange
handles more than 95% of transactions in the country. All bonds and shares,
whether listed or unlisted, must be traded on one of the seven exchanges.
Trading in most of the Paris exchange-listed stocks takes place through the
computer order-driven trading system CAC, launched in 1988. French market
capitalization constitutes approximately 30% of the French Gross Domestic
Product. Securities are denominated in the official unit of currency, the French
Franc. Unless otherwise provided by a double tax treaty, dividends on French
shares are subject to a withholding tax of 25%.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Although French reporting, accounting
and auditing standards are considered rather rigorous by European standards,
they differ from U.S. standards in certain material respects. In general, French
corporations are not required to provide all of the disclosure required by U.S.
law and accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less
frequent than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the French equity markets was approximately FRF 2,828.9
billion or US$559.5 billion.
THE GERMAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The history of Frankfurt as a financial center can be
traced back to the early Middle Ages. Frankfurt had the right to issue coins as
early as 1180; the first exchange office was opened in 1402. Germany has been
without a central stock exchange, the position formerly held by the Berlin
exchange, since 1945. Today there are eight independent stock exchanges, of
which Dusseldorf and Frankfurt account for over three-quarters of the total
volume. Frankfurt is the main exchange in Germany. Exchange securities are
denominated in German Marks, the official currency of Germany. Equities may be
traded in Germany in one of three markets: (i) the official market, comprised of
trading in shares which have been formally admitted to official listing by the
admissions committee of the relevant stock exchange, based on disclosure in the
listing application; (ii) the "semi-official" unlisted market, comprised of
trading in shares not in the official listing; and (iii) the unofficial, over-
the-counter market, which is governed by the provisions of the Civil Code and
the Merchant Code and not by the provisions of any stock exchange. There is no
stamp duty in Germany, but a nonresident capital gains tax may apply in certain
circumstances.
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REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. German reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general, German
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Germany equity markets was approximately DEM 473.04
billion or US$320.1 billion.
THE HONG KONG EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. Trading in equity securities in Hong Kong began in 1891
with the formation of the Association of Stockbrokers, which was changed in 1914
to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. In 1921, a second stock exchange, The Hong Kong
Stockbrokers' Association, was established. In 1947, these two exchanges were
merged under the name The Hong Kong Stock Exchange Limited. Three additional
exchanges, the Far East Exchange Limited (1969), The Kam Ngan Stock Exchange
Limited (1971) and The Kowloon Stock Exchange (1972) also commenced trading
activities. These four exchanges were unified in 1986 to form The Stock Exchange
of Hong Kong Limited (the "SEHK"). The value of the SEHK constitutes more than
100% of Hong Kong's Gross Domestic Product. Trading on the SEHK is conducted in
the post trading method, matching buyers and sellers through public outcry.
Securities are denominated in the official unit of currency, the Hong Kong
Dollar. Foreign investment in Hong Kong is generally unrestricted. All investors
are subject to a small stamp duty and a stock exchange levy, but capital gains
are tax-exempt.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Hong Kong has significantly upgraded
the required presentation of financial information in the past decade.
Nevertheless, reporting, accounting and auditing practices remain significantly
less rigorous than U.S. standards. In general, Hong Kong corporations are not
required to provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and accounting
practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent than that
required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Hong Kong equity markets was approximately HKD 2,569.6
billion or US$332.3 billion.
THE ITALIAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The first formal exchange was created in Italy in 1808
with the establishment of the Milan Stock Exchange. Since then nine other
exchanges have been founded. Milan is the most important exchange, accounting
for 90% of total equity volume and about 80% of turnover in fixed income
securities. After the Milan Stock Exchange the other exchanges, in order of
importance are: Rome, Turin, Genoa, Bologna, Florence, Naples, Palermo, Trieste
and Venice. By law the only persons allowed to trade in the official posts of
the stock exchange are the stockbrokers, who must act as brokers and not trade
for their own account. Banks and intermediaries are allowed to enter the trading
post as observers. In 1991, the Parliament passed legislation creating Societa
di intermediazone mobiliare (SIMs). SIMs were created to regulate brokerage
activities in the securities market and are allowed to trade on their own and
for customers' accounts. In 1986, the Centro Elaboraizione Dati (C.E.D. Borsa),
a subsidiary of the Milan Stock Exchange, developed a supporting service called
Borsamat. The Borsamat records all trading floor orders, links all Italian
exchanges, checks transaction details and issues confirmations. Italy has the
world's largest government securities market after the United States and Japan.
At the end of 1993, issues of treasury bills, notes and bonds outstanding
totaled US$1,133 billion.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Italian reporting, accounting and
auditing practices are regulated by Italy's National Control Commission. These
practices bear some similarities to United States standards, but differ
significantly in many important respects. In general, Italian corporations do
not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and accounting practice,
and such disclosure may be less timely, less frequent and less consistent than
that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Italian markets was approximately ITL 370,000.7 billion or
US$245.2 billion.
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THE JAPANESE EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The Japanese stock market has a history of over 100
years beginning with the establishment of the Tokyo Stock Exchange Company Ltd.
in 1878. Stock exchanges are located in eight cities in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka,
Nagoya, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Niigata and Sapporo). There is also an
over-the-counter market. There are three distinct sections on the main Japanese
stock exchanges. The First Section trades in over 1,100 of the largest and most
active stocks, which account for over 95% of total market capitalization. The
Second Section consists of over 400 issues with lower turnover than the First
Section, which are newly quoted on the exchange or which are not listed and
would otherwise be traded over-the-counter. The Third Section consists of
foreign stocks which are traded over-the-counter. The main activity of the
regular exchange members is the buying and selling of securities on the floor of
an exchange, both for their customers and for their own account. Japan is second
only to the United States in aggregate stock market capitalization. Securities
are denominated in the official unit of currency, the Japanese Yen. Takeover
activity is negligible in Tokyo, and although foreign investors play a
significant role, the trend of the market is set by the domestic investor. The
statutory at-source withholding is 20% on dividends. There also is a transaction
tax on share trades and a small stamp duty.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Although some Japanese reporting,
accounting and auditing practices are based substantially on U.S. principles,
they are not identical to U.S. standards in some important respects,
particularly with regard to unconsolidated subsidiaries and related structures.
In general, Japanese corporations are not required to provide all of the
disclosure required by U.S. law and accounting practice, and such disclosure may
be less timely and less frequent than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Japanese equity markets was approximately JPY 376,755.1
billion or US$3,469.2 billion.
THE MALAYSIAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The securities industry in Malaysia dates back to the
early 1930's. Kuala Lumpur and Singapore were a single exchange until 1973 when
they separated and the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (KLSE) was formed. The KLSE
operated under a provisional set of rules until 1983 when a new Securities
Industry Act came into force. As of April 30, 1993, 320 companies were listed on
the KLSE main board. A Second Board, established in 1988, allows smaller
companies to tap additional capital. Fifty-seven companies were listed on the
Second Board as of April 30, 1993. Over the years, the KLSE's close links with
the Stock Exchange of Singapore (SES) has rendered it very vulnerable to
developments in Singapore. Consequently, the Government decided, as a matter of
national policy, on a delisting of Malaysian incorporated companies from the
SES. This was effected on January 1, 1990. A similar move was made by Singapore,
resulting in the delisting of all Singapore companies on the KLSE on January 1,
1990. There are two main stock indices in Malaysia. The wider ranging KLSE
Composite represents 80 counters. The New Straits Times Industrial Index is an
average of 30 industrial stocks.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Malaysian reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general,
Malaysian corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law
and accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less
frequent than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Malaysian equity markets was approximately MYR 644.4
billion or US$258.4 billion.
THE MEXICAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. There is only one stock exchange in Mexico, the Bolsa
Mexicana de Valores (BMV), which was established in 1894 and is located in
Mexico City. The stock exchange is a private corporation whose shares are owned
solely by its authorized members and operates under the stock market laws passed
by the government. The National Banking and Securities Commission
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(CNV) supervises the stock exchange. The Mexican exchange operates primarily via
the open outcry method. However, firm orders in writing can supersede this
system, provided there is a perfect match of the details of a buy and sell
order. Executions on the exchange can be done by members only. Membership of the
stock exchange is restricted to "Casas de Bolsa" ("brokerage houses") and
"Especialistas Bursatiles" (stock exchange specialists).
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Mexican reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general, Mexican
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of July 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Mexican equity markets was approximately MXN 847.44
billion or US$107 billion.
THE NETHERLANDS EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. Trading securities on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange
(ASE) started at the beginning of the seventeenth century. The United East India
Company was the first company in the world financed by an issue of shares, and
such issue was effected through the exchange. The Netherlands claims the honor
of having the oldest established stock exchange in existence. In 1611 a stock
market began trading in the coffee houses along the Dam Square. A more formal
establishment, the Amsterdam Stock Exchange Association, began trading
industrial stocks in 1876 and until World War II, Amsterdam ranked after New
York and London as the third most important stock market in the world. After the
war, the Amsterdam Stock Exchange only gradually began to resume its activities,
as members felt threatened by what they saw as an impending socialist order
which would leave little of the stock market intact. Since the end of the war,
the Dutch market has remained relatively neglected, as local companies have
found it more favorable to use bank financing to meet their capital
requirements. Trading in shares on the ASE may take place on the official market
or on the parallel market, which is available to medium-sized and smaller
companies that cannot yet meet the requirements demanded for the official
market.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Dutch reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general, Dutch
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Dutch equity markets was approximately NLG 552.0 billion
or US$333.2 billion.
THE SINGAPOREAN EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The Stock Exchange of Singapore (SES) was formed in
1973 with the separation of the joint stock exchange with Malaysia, which had
been in existence since 1938. The linkage between the SES and the Kuala Lumpur
Stock Exchange (KLSE) remained strong as many companies in Singapore and
Malaysia jointly listed on both exchanges, until January 1, 1990 when the dual
listing was terminated. SES has a tiered market, with the formation of the
second securities market, SESDAQ (Stock Exchange of Singapore Dealing and
Automated Quotation System) in 1987. SESDAQ was designed to provide an avenue
for small and medium-sized companies to raise funds for expansion. In 1990, SES
introduced an over-the-counter (OTC) market known as CLOB International, to
allow investors access to international securities listed on foreign exchanges.
SES also has a direct link with the National Association of Securities Dealers
Automated Quotation (NASDAQ) system, which was set up in March 1988 to allow
traders in the Asian time zone access to selected securities on the U.S. OTC
markets. This is made possible through a daily exchange of trading prices and
volumes of the stocks quoted on NASDAQ. The Singapore Stock Exchange is one of
the most developed in Asia and has a strong international orientation.
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REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Singaporean reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general,
Singaporean corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S.
law and accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less
frequent than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Singaporean markets was approximately SGD 202.6 billion or
US$144 billion.
THE SPANISH EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The trading of shares in Spain dates back to 1831 when
the Madrid Stock Exchange was founded. Since that time other exchanges have been
established in Barcelona, Bilbao and Valencia, although the latter remains
purely a local market. Madrid is by far the most active and the most
international market exchange, accounting for nearly 50% of total market
capitalization of both bonds and stocks. The next largest exchange is Barcelona,
founded in 1915. Membership at each stock exchange in Spain is restricted to
stockbrokers nominated by the Ministry of Finance. In order to practice their
profession, a broker must belong to the Association of Brokers. In November
1986, the Madrid Stock Exchange opened the new second market, or unlisted
securities market, as part of an effort to expand the range of Spanish companies
whose shares are publicly quoted. The second market provides small and
medium-sized companies with access to the trading market of the Madrid Stock
Exchange.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Spanish reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general, Spanish
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Spanish equity markets was approximately ESP 20,932.5
billion or US$167.4 billion.
THE SWEDISH EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. Organized trading of securities in Sweden can be traced
back to 1776. Although the Stockholm Stock Exchange was founded in 1864, the
real formation of a stock exchange in an international sense took place in 1901.
The statutes of the stock exchange were modified in 1906 and, from the beginning
of 1907, commercial banks were admitted as members. During the 1970's the
Stockholm market was characterized by limited turnover and dull trading
conditions. In 1980 the market started to climb and for several years Stockholm
was one of the best performing stock markets in both price and volume growth.
This regeneration of a market for risk capital was reflected in the large number
of companies introduced in the early 1980's. The Stockholm Stock Exchange is
structured on a membership basis, with the Bank Inspection Board being the
supervising authority. The board consists of 11 directors and one chief
executive. The directors of the board are elected by the Swedish government, and
the Association of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Swedish
Industries and the member companies of the Stock Exchange. There are three
different markets for trading shares in Sweden. The dominant market is the A1
list, for the largest and most heavily traded companies. The second distinct
market is the Over-the-Counter Market, which is more loosely regulated than the
official market and caters to small and medium sized companies. The other market
is the unofficial parallel market which deals in unlisted shares, both on and
off the exchange floor. The shares most frequently traded on this market are
those which have been delisted from the other markets and those which are only
occasionally available for trading.
There are also two independent markets for options -- the Swedish Options
Market (OM) and the Swedish Options and Futures Exchange (SOFE). They offer
calls, puts and forwards on Swedish stocks and stock market index.
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REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Swedish reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general, Swedish
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Swedish equity markets was approximately SEK 1,437.5
billion or US$217.3 billion.
THE SWISS EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. There are three principal stock exchanges in
Switzerland, the largest of which is Zurich, followed by Geneva and Basle. The
Geneva exchange is the oldest and was formally organized in 1850. The Basle and
the Zurich exchanges were founded in 1876 and 1877, respectively. The Geneva
Exchange is a corporation under public law and in Zurich and Basle the exchanges
are institutions under public law. There are three different market segments for
the trading of equities in Switzerland. The first is the official market, the
second is the semi-official market, and the third is the unofficial market. On
the official market, trading takes place among members of the exchange on the
official trading floors. Trading in the semi-official market also takes place on
the floors of the exchanges, but this market has traditionally been reserved for
smaller companies not yet officially accepted on the exchange. Unofficial market
trading is conducted by members and non-members alike. Typical trading on this
market involves shares with small turnover. Both listed and unlisted securities
can, however, be traded on this market.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Swiss reporting, accounting and
auditing standards differ substantially from U.S. standards. In general, Swiss
corporations do not provide all of the disclosure required by U.S. law and
accounting practice, and such disclosure may be less timely and less frequent
than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the Swiss equity markets was approximately CHF 492.1 billion
or US$410.9 billion.
THE UNITED KINGDOM EQUITY MARKETS
GENERAL BACKGROUND. The United Kingdom is Europe's largest equity market in
terms of aggregate market capitalization. Trading is fully computerized under
the Stock Exchange Automated Quotation System. There are 14 stock exchanges in
the United Kingdom and Ireland which comprise the Associated Stock Exchange. The
most important exchange and the one that has the major share of the business is
the London Stock Exchange. The London Stock Exchange has the largest volume of
trading in international equities in the world.
REPORTING, ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING. Although UK reporting, accounting and
auditing standards are among the most stringent outside the United States, such
standards are not identical to U.S. standards in important respects. Some UK
corporations are not required to provide all of the disclosure required by U.S.
law and accounting practice, and such disclosure may, in certain cases, be less
timely and less frequent than that required of U.S. corporations.
SIZE OF EQUITY MARKETS. As of August 30, 1996, the total market
capitalization of the United Kingdom equity markets was approximately GBP 956.6
billion or US$1,495.1 billion.
OTHER FUND INVESTMENTS
Although the policy of each WEBS Index Series of the Fund is to remain
substantially fully invested in equity securities, a WEBS Index Series may also
invest in combinations of certain stock index futures contracts, options on such
futures contracts, stock index options, stock index swaps, cash, local currency
and forward currency exchange contracts that are intended to provide the WEBS
Index Series with exposure to such equity securities. A WEBS Index Series may
invest temporarily in cash, local currency, forward currency contracts and
certain Short-Term Investments. Such investments may be used to invest
uncommitted cash balances or, in limited circumstances, to assist in meeting
shareholder redemptions of Creation Units of WEBS.
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Although each WEBS Index Series generally seeks to invest for the long term,
the WEBS Index Series retain the right to sell securities irrespective of how
long they have been held. However, because of the "passive" investment
management approach of the Fund, the portfolio turnover rate for each WEBS Index
Series is expected to be under 50%, a generally lower turnover rate than for
many other investment companies. A portfolio turnover rate of 50% would occur if
one half of a WEBS Index Series' securities were sold within one year. (For
purposes of calculating portfolio turnover rate, the Fund does not take into
account "sales" of securities by means of in-kind redemptions, since such
transactions do not impact a WEBS Index Series' portfolio composition or
weighting.) Ordinarily, securities will be sold from a WEBS Index Series only to
reflect certain administrative changes in an MSCI Index (including mergers or
changes in the composition of the Index) or to accommodate cash flows out of the
WEBS Index Series while seeking to keep the performance of the WEBS Index Series
in line with that of its benchmark index. In addition, securities may be sold
from a WEBS Index Series in certain circumstances to ensure the WEBS Index
Series' compliance with the diversification and other requirements of the
Internal Revenue Code and with other requirements, which would tend to raise the
portfolio turnover rate of such WEBS Index Series. Purchases and sales of
securities involve transaction costs borne by the respective WEBS Index Series.
A WEBS Index Series may borrow money from a bank up to a limit of 33% of the
market value of its assets, but only for temporary or emergency purposes. A WEBS
Index Series may borrow money only to facilitate distributions to shareholders
or meet redemption requests (in connection with Creation Units of WEBS that the
Fund agrees to redeem for cash) prior to the settlement of securities already
sold or in the process of being sold by such WEBS Index Series. To the extent
that a WEBS Index Series borrows money prior to receiving distributions on its
portfolio securities or prior to selling securities in connection with a
redemption, it may be leveraged; at such times, the WEBS Index Series may
appreciate or depreciate in value more rapidly than its benchmark index. A WEBS
Index Series will not make cash purchases of securities when the amount of money
borrowed exceeds 5% of the market value of its total assets.
LENDING PORTFOLIO SECURITIES
The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other
financial institutions needing to borrow securities to complete transactions and
for other purposes. Because the government securities or other assets that are
pledged as collateral to the Fund in connection with these loans generate
income, securities lending enables a WEBS Index Series to earn additional income
that may partially offset the expenses of such WEBS Index Series, and thereby
reduce the effect that expenses have on such WEBS Index Series' ability to
provide investment results that substantially correspond to the price and yield
performance of its respective MSCI Index. These loans may not exceed 33% of a
WEBS Index Series' total assets. The documentation for these loans provide that
the WEBS Index Series will receive collateral equal to at least 100% of the
current market value of the loaned securities, as marked to market each day that
the net asset value of the WEBS Index Series is determined, consisting of
government securities or other assets permitted by applicable regulations and
interpretations. A WEBS Index Series pays reasonable administrative and
custodial fees in connection with the loan of securities. The WEBS Index Series
invests collateral in Short-Term Investments. Morgan Stanley Trust Company
("MSTC") serves as Lending Agent of the Fund and, in such capacity, shares
equally with the respective WEBS Index Series any net income earned on invested
collateral. A WEBS Index Series' share of income from the loan collateral is
included in the WEBS Index Series' gross investment income.
The Fund will comply with the conditions for lending established by the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The SEC currently requires that
the following conditions be met whenever portfolio securities are loaned: (1)
the WEBS Index Series must receive at least 100% collateral from the borrower;
(2) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the
securities lent rises above the level of the collateral; (3) the WEBS Index
Series must be able to terminate the loan at any time; (4) the WEBS Index Series
must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest
or other distributions on the loaned securities, and any increase
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in market value; (5) the WEBS Index Series may pay only reasonable custodian
fees in connection with the loan and will pay no finder's fees; and (6) while
voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, the Fund's
Board of Directors (the "Board" or the "Directors") must terminate the loan and
regain the right to vote the securities if a material event adversely affecting
the investment occurs. Although each WEBS Index Series will receive collateral
in connection with all loans of portfolio securities, and such collateral will
be marked to market, the WEBS Index Series will be exposed to the risk of loss
should a borrower default on its obligation to return the borrowed securities
(e.g., the loaned securities may have appreciated beyond the value of the
collateral held by the Fund). In addition, each WEBS Index Series bears the risk
of loss of any cash collateral that it invests in Short-Term Investments.
CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS
The investment policy of each WEBS Index Series is to remain as fully
invested as practicable in the equity securities of the relevant market. Hence,
no WEBS Index Series of the Fund expects to engage in currency transactions for
the purpose of hedging against declines in the value of the WEBS Index Series'
currency. A WEBS Index Series may enter into foreign currency forward and
foreign currency futures contracts to facilitate local securities settlement or
to protect against currency exposure in connection with its distributions to
shareholders, but may not enter into such contracts for speculative purposes or
as a way of protecting against anticipated adverse changes in exchange rates
between foreign currencies and the U.S. dollar.
A forward currency contract is an obligation to purchase or sell a specific
currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date
of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the
contract. A currency futures contract is a contract involving an obligation to
deliver or acquire the specified amount of currency at a specified price at a
specified future time. Futures contracts may be settled on a net cash payment
basis rather than by the sale and delivery of the underlying currency.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
Each WEBS Index Series may invest in repurchase agreements with commercial
banks, brokers or dealers to generate income from its excess cash balances and
to invest securities lending cash collateral. A repurchase agreement is an
agreement under which a WEBS Index Series acquires a money market instrument
(generally a security issued by the U.S. Government or an agency thereof, a
banker's acceptance or a certificate of deposit) from a seller, subject to
resale to the seller at an agreed upon price and date (normally, the next
business day). A repurchase agreement may be considered a loan collateralized by
securities. The resale price reflects an agreed upon interest rate effective for
the period the instrument is held by a WEBS Index Series and is unrelated to the
interest rate on the underlying instrument. In these transactions, the
securities acquired by a WEBS Index Series (including accrued interest earned
thereon) must have a total value in excess of the value of the repurchase
agreement and are held by the Fund's custodian bank until repurchased. In
addition, the Fund's Board of Directors monitors the Fund's repurchase agreement
transactions generally and has established guidelines and standards for review
of the creditworthiness of any bank, broker or dealer counterparty to a
repurchase agreement with a WEBS Index Series. No more than an aggregate of 15%
of the WEBS Index Series' net assets will be invested in repurchase agreements
having maturities longer than seven days and securities subject to legal or
contractual restrictions on resale, or for which there are no readily available
market quotations. A WEBS Index Series will enter into repurchase agreements
only with Federal Reserve member banks with minimum assets of at least $2
billion or registered securities dealers.
The use of repurchase agreements involves certain risks. For example, if the
other party to the agreement defaults on its obligation to repurchase the
underlying security at a time when the value of the security has declined, the
Fund may incur a loss upon disposition of the security. If the other party to
the agreement becomes insolvent and subject to liquidation or reorganization
under the Bankruptcy Code or other laws, a court may determine that the
underlying security is collateral for a loan
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by a WEBS Index Series not within the control of the WEBS Index Series and
therefore the WEBS Index Series may not be able to substantiate its interest in
the underlying security and may be deemed an unsecured creditor of the other
party to the agreement. While the Fund's management acknowledges these risks, it
is expected that they can be controlled through careful monitoring procedures.
FUTURES CONTRACTS, OPTIONS AND SWAP AGREEMENTS
Each WEBS Index Series may utilize futures contracts, options and swap
agreements to the extent described in the Prospectus. Futures contracts
generally provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party
of a specified commodity at a specified future time and at a specified price.
Stock index futures contracts are settled by the payment by one party to the
other of a cash amount based on the difference between the level of the stock
index specified in the contract and at maturity of the contract. Futures
contracts are standardized as to maturity date and underlying commodity and are
traded on futures exchanges. At the present time, there are no liquid futures
contracts traded on most of the benchmark indices of the WEBS Index Series. In
such circumstances a WEBS Index Series may use futures contracts, and options on
futures contracts, based on other local market indices or may utilize futures
contracts, and options on such contracts, on other indices or combinations of
indices that the Adviser believes to be representative of the relevant benchmark
index.
Although futures contracts (other than cash settled futures contracts
including most stock index futures contracts) by their terms call for actual
delivery or acceptance of the underlying commodity, in most cases the contracts
are closed out before the settlement date without the making or taking of
delivery. Closing out an open futures position is done by taking an opposite
position ("buying" a contract which has previously been "sold," or "selling" a
contract previously "purchased") in an identical contract to terminate the
position. Brokerage commissions are incurred when a futures contract position is
opened or closed.
Futures traders are required to make a good faith margin deposit in cash or
government securities with a broker or custodian to initiate and maintain open
positions in futures contracts. A margin deposit is intended to assure
completion of the contract (delivery or acceptance of the underlying commodity
or payment of the cash settlement amount) if it is not terminated prior to the
specified delivery date. Relatively low initial margin requirements are
established by the futures exchanges and may be changed. Brokers may establish
deposit requirements which are higher than the exchange minimums. Futures
contracts are customarily purchased and sold on margin deposits which may range
upward from less than 5% of the value of the contract being traded.
After a futures contract position is opened, the value of the contract is
marked to market daily. If the futures contract price changes to the extent that
the margin on deposit does not satisfy margin requirements, payment of
additional "variation" margin will be required. Conversely, change in the
contract value may reduce the required margin, resulting in a repayment of
excess margin to the contract holder. Variation margin payments are made to and
from the futures broker for as long as the contract remains open. The Fund
expects to earn interest income on its margin deposits.
Each WEBS Index Series may use futures contracts and options thereon,
together with positions in cash and Short-Term Investments, to simulate full
investment in the underlying index. As noted above, liquid futures contracts are
not currently available for the benchmark indices of many WEBS Index Series. In
addition, the Fund is not permitted to utilize certain stock index futures under
applicable law. Under such circumstances, the Adviser may seek to utilize other
instruments that it believes to be correlated to the underlying index.
RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS
A WEBS Index Series will not enter into futures contract transactions for
purposes other than hedging to the extent that, immediately thereafter, the sum
of its initial margin deposits on open contracts exceeds 5% of the market value
of a WEBS Index Series' total assets. Assets committed to initial margin
deposits for futures and options on futures are held in a segregated account at
the
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Fund's custodian bank. Each WEBS Index Series will take steps to prevent its
futures positions from "leveraging" its portfolio. When it has a long futures
position, it will maintain in a segregated account with its custodian bank, cash
or high quality debt securities having a value equal to the purchase price of
the contract (less any margin deposited in connection with the position). When
it has a short futures position, it will maintain in a segregated account with
its custodian bank assets substantially identical to those underlying the
contract or cash and high quality debt securities (or a combination of the
foregoing) having a value equal to its obligations under the contract (less the
value of any margin deposits in connection with the position).
SWAP AGREEMENTS
Swap agreements are contracts between parties in which one party agrees to
make payments to the other party based on the change in market value or level of
a specified index or asset. In return, the other party agrees to make payments
to the first party based on the return of a different specified index or asset.
Although swap agreements entail the risk that a party will default on its
payment obligations thereunder, each WEBS Index Series seeks to reduce this risk
by entering into agreements that involve payments no less frequently than
quarterly. The net amount of the excess, if any, of a WEBS Index Series'
obligations over its entitlements with respect to each swap is accrued on a
daily basis and an amount of cash or high quality debt securities having an
aggregate value at least equal to the accrued excess is maintained in a
segregated account at the Fund's custodian bank.
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
Each WEBS Index Series may take advantage of opportunities in the area of
options, and futures contracts, options on futures contracts, warrants, swaps
and any other investments which are not presently contemplated for use by such
WEBS Index Series or which are not currently available but which may be
developed, to the extent such opportunities are both consistent with a WEBS
Index Series' investment objective and legally permissible for the WEBS Index
Series. Before entering into such transactions or making any such investment,
the WEBS Index Series will provide appropriate disclosure.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The Fund has adopted the following investment restrictions as fundamental
policies with respect to each WEBS Index Series. These restrictions cannot be
changed with respect to a WEBS Index Series without the approval of the holders
of a majority of such WEBS Index Series' outstanding voting securities. For
purposes of the 1940 Act, a majority of the outstanding voting securities of a
WEBS Index Series means the vote, at an annual or a special meeting of the
security holders of the Fund, of the lesser of (1) 67% or more of the voting
securities of the WEBS Index Series present at such meeting, if the holders of
more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of such WEBS Index Series are
present or represented by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting
securities of the WEBS Index Series. A WEBS Index Series may not:
1. Change its investment objective;
2. Lend any funds or other assets except through the purchase of all or
a portion of an issue of securities or obligations of the type in which it
is permitted to invest (including participation interests in such securities
or obligations) and except that a WEBS Index Series may lend its portfolio
securities in an amount not to exceed 33% of the value of its total assets;
3. Issue senior securities or borrow money, except borrowings from
banks for temporary or emergency purposes in an amount up to 33% of the
value of the WEBS Index Series' total assets (including the amount
borrowed), valued at the lesser of cost or market, less liabilities (not
including the amount borrowed) valued at the time the borrowing is made, and
the WEBS Index Series will not purchase securities while borrowings in
excess of 5% of the WEBS Index Series' total assets are outstanding,
provided, that for purposes of this restriction, short-term credits
necessary for the clearance of transactions are not considered borrowings;
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4. Pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or otherwise encumber its assets,
except to secure permitted borrowings. (The deposit of underlying securities
and other assets in escrow and collateral arrangements with respect to
initial or variation margin for currency transactions and futures contracts
will not be deemed to be pledges of the WEBS Index Series' assets);
5. Purchase a security (other than obligations of the United States
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities) if as a result 25% or more of
its total assets would be invested in a single issuer;
6. Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, or oil, gas or mineral
interests or leases, but a WEBS Index Series may purchase and sell
securities that are issued by companies that invest or deal in such assets;
7. Act as an underwriter of securities of other issuers, except to the
extent the WEBS Index Series may be deemed an underwriter in connection with
the sale of securities in its portfolio;
8. Purchase securities on margin, except for such short-term credits as
are necessary for the clearance of transactions, except that a WEBS Index
Series may make margin deposits in connection with transactions in
currencies, options, futures and options on futures;
9. Sell securities short; or
10. Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that a WEBS
Index Series may buy and sell currencies and forward contracts with respect
thereto, and may transact in futures contracts on securities, stock indices
and currencies and options on such futures contracts and make margin
deposits in connection with such contracts.
In addition to the investment restrictions adopted as fundamental policies
as set forth above, each WEBS Index Series observes the following restrictions,
which may be changed by the Board without a shareholder vote. A WEBS Index
Series will not:
1. Invest in the securities of a company for the purpose of exercising
management or control, or in any event purchase and hold more than 10% of
the securities of a single issuer, provided that the Fund may vote the
investment securities owned by each WEBS Index Series in accordance with its
views; or
2. Hold illiquid assets in excess of 15% of its net assets. An illiquid
asset is any asset which may not be sold or disposed of in the ordinary
course of business within seven days at approximately the value at which the
WEBS Index Series has valued the investment.
For purposes of the percentage limitation on each WEBS Index Series'
investments in illiquid securities, with respect to each WEBS Index Series,
foreign equity securities, though not registered under the Securities Act of
1933 (the "Securities Act"), are not deemed illiquid if they are otherwise
readily marketable. Such securities ordinarily are considered to be "readily
marketable" if they are traded on an exchange or other organized market and are
not legally restricted from sale by the WEBS Index Series. The Adviser monitors
the liquidity of restricted securities in each WEBS Index Series' portfolio
under the supervision of the Fund's Board. In reaching liquidity decisions, the
Adviser considers, inter alia, the following factors:
(1) the frequency of trades and quotes for the security;
(2) the number of dealers wishing to purchase or sell the security and
the number of other potential purchasers;
(3) dealer undertakings to make a market in the security; and
(4) the nature of the security and the nature of the marketplace in
which it trades (e.g., the time needed to dispose of the security, the
method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of transfer).
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If a percentage limitation is adhered to at the time of investment or
contract, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from any change
in value or total or net assets will not result in a violation of such
restriction, except that the percentage limitations with respect to the
borrowing of money and illiquid securities will be observed continuously.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS AND RISKS
A discussion of the risks associated with an investment in the Fund is
contained in the Prospectus under the heading "Investment Considerations and
Risks." The discussion below supplements, and should be read in conjunction
with, such section of the Prospectus.
NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIOS
An investment in WEBS involves risks similar to those of investing in a
broadly-based portfolio of equity securities traded on exchanges in the
respective countries covered by the individual WEBS Index Series. These risks
include market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic and political
developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices.
Investing in securities issued by companies domiciled in countries other than
the domicile of the investor and denominated in currencies other than an
investor's local currency entails certain considerations and risks not typically
encountered by the investor in making investments in its home country and in
that country's currency. These considerations include favorable or unfavorable
changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates, exchange control regulations
and the costs that may be incurred in connection with conversions between
various currencies. Investing in a WEBS Index Series whose portfolio contains
non-U.S. issuers involves certain risks and considerations not typically
associated with investing in the securities of U.S. issuers. These risks include
generally less liquid and less efficient securities markets; generally greater
price volatility; less publicly available information about issuers; the
imposition of withholding or other taxes; restrictions on the expatriation of
funds or other assets of a WEBS Index Series; higher transaction and custody
costs; delays attendant in settlement procedures; difficulties in enforcing
contractual obligations; lesser liquidity and significantly smaller market
capitalization of most non-U.S. securities markets; lesser levels of regulation
of the securities markets; more substantial government involvement in the
economy; higher rates of inflation; greater social, economic, and political
uncertainty; and the risk of nationalization or expropriation of assets and risk
of war.
CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS
Foreign exchange transactions involve a significant degree of risk and the
markets in which foreign exchange transactions are effected are highly volatile,
highly specialized and highly technical. Significant changes, including changes
in liquidity and prices, can occur in such markets within very short periods of
time, often within minutes. Foreign exchange trading risks include, but are not
limited to, exchange rate risk, maturity gaps, interest rate risk and potential
interference by foreign governments through regulation of local exchange
markets, foreign investment, or particular transactions in foreign currency. If
the Adviser utilizes foreign exchange transactions at an inappropriate time or
judges market conditions, trends or correlations incorrectly, foreign exchange
transactions may not serve their intended purpose of improving the correlation
of a WEBS Index Series' return with the performance of the corresponding MSCI
Index and may lower the WEBS Index Series' return. The WEBS Index Series could
experience losses if the values of its currency forwards, options and futures
positions were poorly correlated with its other investments or if it could not
close out its positions because of an illiquid market. In addition, each WEBS
Index Series will incur transaction costs, including trading commissions, in
connection with certain of its foreign currency transactions.
FUTURES TRANSACTIONS
Positions in futures contracts and options thereon may be closed out only on
an exchange which provides a secondary market for such futures. However, there
can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular
futures contract or option at any specific time. Thus, it may not be possible to
close a futures or options position. In the event of adverse price movements, a
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WEBS Index Series would continue to be required to make daily cash payments to
maintain its required margin. In such situations, if a WEBS Index Series has
insufficient cash, it may have to sell portfolio securities to meet daily margin
requirements at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so. In addition, a
WEBS Index Series may be required to make delivery of the instruments underlying
futures contracts it holds.
A WEBS Index Series will minimize the risk that it will be unable to close
out a futures or options contract by only entering into futures and options for
which there appears to be a liquid secondary market.
The risk of loss in trading futures contracts in some strategies is
potentially unlimited, due both to the low margin deposits required, and the
extremely high degree of leverage involved in futures pricing. As a result, a
relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in immediate
and substantial loss (or gain) to the investor. For example, if at the time of
purchase, 10% of the value of a futures contract is deposited as margin, a
subsequent 10% decrease in the value of the futures contract would result in a
total loss of the margin deposit, before any deduction for the transaction
costs, if the account were then closed out. A 15% decrease would result in a
loss equal to 150% of the original margin deposit if the contract were closed
out. Thus, entering into long or short futures positions may result in losses
well in excess of the amount initially paid. However, given the limited purposes
for which futures contracts are used, and the fact that steps will be taken to
eliminate the leverage of any futures positions, a WEBS Index Series would
presumably have sustained comparable losses if, instead of the futures
contracts, it had invested in the underlying financial instrument and sold it
after the decline.
Utilization of futures transactions by a WEBS Index Series involves the risk
of imperfect or no correlation to the benchmark index where the index underlying
the futures contracts being used differs from the benchmark index. There is also
the risk of loss by the Fund of margin deposits in the event of bankruptcy of a
broker with whom a WEBS Index Series has an open position in the futures
contract or related option.
Most futures exchanges limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in futures
contract prices during a single trading day. The daily limit establishes the
maximum amount that the price of a futures contract may vary either up or down
from the previous day's settlement price at the end of a trading session. Once
the daily limit has been reached in a particular type of contract, no trades may
be made on that day at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only
price movement during a particular trading day and therefore does not limit
potential losses, because the limit may prevent the liquidation of unfavorable
positions. Futures contract prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit
for several consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby
preventing prompt liquidation of future positions and subjecting some futures
traders to substantial losses.
FEDERAL TAX TREATMENT OF FUTURES CONTRACTS
Each WEBS Index Series is required for federal income tax purposes to
recognize as income for each taxable year its net unrealized gains and losses on
certain futures contracts as of the end of the year as well as those actually
realized during the year. In most cases, any gain or loss recognized with
respect to the futures contract is considered to be 60% long-term capital gain
or loss and 40% short-term capital gain or loss, without regard to the holding
period of the contract. Furthermore, sales of futures contracts which hedge
against a change in the value of securities held by a WEBS Index Series may
affect the holding period of such securities and, consequently, the nature of
the gain or loss on such securities upon disposition. A WEBS Index Series may be
required to defer the recognition of losses on futures contracts to the extent
of any unrecognized gains on related positions held by the WEBS Index Series.
In order for a WEBS Index Series to continue to qualify for federal income
tax treatment as a regulated investment company, at least 90% of its gross
income for a taxable year must be derived from qualifying income; i.e.,
dividends, interest, income derived from loans of securities, gains from the
sale of securities or of foreign currencies or other income derived with respect
to the WEBS Index
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Series' business of investing in securities. In addition, gains realized on the
sale or other disposition of securities held for less than three months must be
limited to less than 30% of the WEBS Index Series' annual gross income. It is
anticipated that any net gain realized from the closing out of futures contracts
will be considered gain from the sale of securities and therefore will be
qualifying income for purposes of the 90% requirement. In order to avoid
realizing excessive gains on securities held less than three months, a WEBS
Index Series may be required to defer the closing out of futures contracts
beyond the time when it would otherwise be advantageous to do so. It is
anticipated that unrealized gains on futures contracts, which have been open for
less than three months as of the end of the WEBS Index Series' fiscal year and
which are recognized for tax purposes, will not be considered gains on sales of
securities held less than three months for the purpose of the 30% test.
Each WEBS Index Series distributes to shareholders annually any net capital
gains which have been recognized for federal income tax purposes (including
unrealized gains at the end of the WEBS Index Series' fiscal year) on futures
transactions. Such distributions are combined with distributions of capital
gains realized on the WEBS Index Series' other investments and shareholders are
advised on the nature of the distributions.
CONTINUOUS OFFERING
The method by which Creation Units of WEBS are created and traded may raise
certain issues under applicable securities laws. Because new Creation Units of
WEBS are issued and sold by the Fund on an ongoing basis, at any point a
"distribution," as such term is used in the Securities Act, may occur.
Broker-dealers and other persons are cautioned that some activities on their
part may, depending on the circumstances, result in their being deemed
participants in a distribution in a manner which could render them statutory
underwriters and subject them to the prospectus delivery and liability
provisions of the Securities Act. For example, a broker-dealer firm or its
client may be deemed a statutory underwriter if it takes Creation Units after
placing an order with the Distributor, breaks them down into constituent WEBS,
and sells such WEBS directly to customers, or if it chooses to couple the
creation of a supply of new WEBS with an active selling effort involving
solicitation of secondary market demand for WEBS. A determination of whether one
is an underwriter for the purposes of the Securities Act must take into account
all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the activities of the
broker-dealer or its client in the particular case, and the examples mentioned
above should not be considered a complete description of all the activities that
could lead to a categorization as an underwriter. In any event, broker-dealer
firms should also note that dealers who are not "underwriters" but are effecting
transactions in WEBS, whether or not participating in the distribution of WEBS,
are generally required to deliver a prospectus. This is because the prospectus
delivery exemption in Section 4(3) of the Securities Act is not available in
respect of such transactions as a result of Section 24(d) of the 1940 Act. Firms
that incur a prospectus-delivery obligation with respect to WEBS are reminded
that under Securities Act Rule 153 a prospectus-delivery obligation under
Section 5(b)(2) of the Securities Act owed to an exchange member in connection
with a sale on the exchange is satisfied by the fact that the WEBS Index Series'
prospectus is available at the exchange (i.e., the AMEX) upon request. The
prospectus delivery mechanism provided in Rule 153 is only available with
respect to transactions on an exchange and not with respect to "upstairs"
transactions.
REGIONAL AND COUNTRY-SPECIFIC ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS
EUROPE
In 1986, the member states of the European Community (the "Member States")
signed the "Single European Act," an agreement to establish a free market. Since
September 1992, however, Europe's monetary policy has been affected by
fluctuating currencies. In addition, although developing a unified common
European market has promoted the free flow of goods and services, in 1993 tight
monetary policies and high inflation caused Europe's economies to ebb into
recession.
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The 1995 General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT) has attempted to
resist protectionism and Europe's economies improved, fueled by increased
exports. This recovery was aided by the U.S. dollar's recovery in the spring of
1995. While interest rates have continued to decline, some countries' tight
monetary conditions remain an obstacle to stronger growth and a threat to
exchange market stability.
The Maastricht Treaty on economic and monetary union (the "EMU") is intended
to provide its members with a stable monetary framework. The EMU is likely to
take place in 1999 with only a limited number of countries; however, the
community will be challenged in the future to allow more countries in the
monetary union while maintaining its stability.
AUSTRIA. Austria's small population and limited domestic market are
insufficient to support single large industrial sectors. Also, raw materials are
limited and the terrain supports only a small agricultural sector. With its
skilled labor force, however, Austria has focused on special niche industries
for export, with high value added through technological applications. In
addition, a vibrant services sector, based initially on tourism, has emerged and
accounts for 64% of Gross Domestic Product ("GDP").
As a result of the second world war, much of the Austrian industrial sector
was converted to public ownership. Austria had established the Austrian
Industrial Administration Company ("OIAG") to function as a holding company for
these nationalized industries. With the global recession and the troublesome
state of public finance in Austria, the government, attempting to reduce the
drain of the OIAG on the country's budget, reduced the OIAG's labor force and
reorganized the OIAG into seven separate holding companies. The reorganization
of the OIAG, along with public asset sales, helped to reduce the budget deficit
from 5.1% of GDP in 1986 to 3.3% of GDP in 1992. Losses in 1993, however, caused
the government to begin selling the group to the private sector. Along with the
steady trend toward privatizations, the importance of foreign capital has
increased.
BELGIUM. Rising new industries in Belgium include light engineering,
chemicals and food processing and services, with the service industry sector
accounting for approximately 70% of GDP. Although the agricultural sector is
small, accounting for only 2% of GDP, its importance is reflected in Belgium's
thriving food processing business. Some of Belgium's traditional industries have
experienced a steep decline over the past two decades, such as coal, steel,
textiles and heavy engineering, but this decline has, in part, been offset by
the rising new industries. Company ownership is held by a few large private
sector groups through a web of holding and operating companies.
Belgium's open trade policy together with a successful strategy of
competitive disinflation and lower domestic demand growth has led to substantial
current account surpluses. Exports are running at approximately 77% of GDP and
imports at 74%.
High unemployment and a large government deficit continue to occupy the
government's attention. Through a series of expenditure reductions and tax
increases, the government was able to reduce the deficit to 5.9% of GDP in 1990,
but this trend reversed itself in 1991. The rise in the deficit was fueled by
economic slowdown followed by a recession in 1993, while social security and
interest payments continued to rise. By 1993, the recessive economy coupled with
rising social security and interest payments caused the deficit to increase to
7.2% of GDP. With the debt to GDP ratio standing at 134.3% in 1995 and the
Maastricht criteria to be fulfilled, Belgium has implemented a series of tough
fiscal restrictions during the last four years. As a result, the budget deficit
has fallen from 7.2% of GDP in 1993 to around 3% in 1996 and the debt to GDP
ratio has also started to decline.
FRANCE. France is a leading industrial and agricultural country. Its large
service sector, accounting for approximately two-thirds of GDP, includes
tourism, transportation and computer consultancy. The once dominant iron and
steel and textiles and clothing industries have given way to the fast growing
aerospace, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, plastics and telecommunications
industries. The automobile industry, however, is still the most important
industry in France, accounting for one-twelfth of the labor force and one-sixth
of exports.
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The two economic concerns that have plagued France for the past decade are a
large budget deficit and high unemployment (currently approximately 12%). In May
1993, the government, in an effort to correct these problems, imposed excise
duties and implemented government expenditure cuts. Soon thereafter, the
government imposed additional measures to foster employment creation and
conducted the largest government bond issue to date. In addition, in 1993, the
government restarted privatizing state-owned enterprises.
In 1995, the government attempted to strike a balance between reducing the
budget deficit and stimulating growth. In May 1995, the government imposed tax
increases to reduce the budget deficit consisting of a 2% increase in
value-added tax and a 10% surcharge on corporate income tax. These measures,
while termed temporary, will remain in effect until at least 1997.
In 1996, the government started to implement a far reaching reform of the
social security system, despite a strong popular opposition which resulted in a
protracted strike. The reform aims to curb healthcare spending through tighter
control from the Parliament and supervisory bodies.
The economic challenges facing the government for the next few years include
reducing the budget deficit to a level acceptable under the EMU, downsizing and
restructuring the public sector, curbing high unemployment and going further in
controlling social security spending.
GERMANY. Germany, the third largest economy in the world, has faced
substantial economic challenges from the reunification of East and West Germany.
The former East Germany, which had been insulated from any real competition, was
under-invested in housing and infrastructure and, generally, was not geared to
handle full economic and political union with West Germany. In addition, while
the West German government intended to finance the costs of reunification with
increased taxes, the costs proved to be much greater than anticipated due to the
high cost of social security transfers, extensive environmental damage and a
generally worse economic condition than expected. As a result, in 1993, the
public sector deficit rose from 0% to 7.5% and the Bundesbank (central bank)
sharply raised interest rates, which, in turn, caused the economy to recess.
In 1994, Germany began to recover from recession, but rising interest rates
restricted market advances. Eastern Germany has also experienced an upturn in
its economy with GDP rates running in excess of 7%, which has enhanced cost
competitiveness. Much of Germany's fiscal health and prosperity over the next
few years will depend on the continued growth of capitalism in eastern Germany.
In addition, to comply with the Maastricht Treaty, Germany must cut government
debt from a projected 62% of GDP next year to less than 60%. The failure, either
political or economic, of Germany's ability to cut spending while also funding
the restoration of the East to fiscal health could negatively impact the German
stock market.
ITALY. Italy is a net importer of agricultural products and imports most of
its energy products. Aside from tourism and design, Italy is not very
competitive in the service sector. Through networks of small and medium-sized
companies, Italy's strengths lie in its manufacturing sector, particularly
machine tools and consumer goods. In the early 1990s, industry began to struggle
to compete as a result of wage increases and an exchange rate policy designed to
limit the effect of government borrowing on the inflation rate. Since the
collapse of the lira in September 1992, however, exports have recovered.
The Bank of Italy, operating autonomously, has historically followed a tough
monetary policy in an effort to prevent government borrowing from causing
inflation.
Beginning in 1992, the government implemented a fiscal policy that reduced
government borrowings through tax measures and spending cuts. After a 1995
budget that included some temporary revenue raising measures and cuts to the
pension system, health service, local government and defense, the government
delivered to parliament an ambitious draft budget law in 1996. Indeed, this
legislation sought to bring forward the 3%-of-GDP deficit target from 1998 to
1997 through a combination of higher taxes and one-off measures.
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In 1992, Italy also began a privatization program by transferring major
state holdings to joint-stock companies as an intermediate step to total or, at
least partial, floatation on the stock exchange. Although the privatization
program was somewhat curbed in 1994, privatization has partly resumed in
1995-1996.
THE NETHERLANDS. The Netherlands boasts one of the highest levels of GDP
per capita in the world. Although its most important sector is industrial, the
Netherlands also benefits from agricultural and natural gas resources.
Foreign trade is vital to the Netherlands, accounting for approximately 50%
of GDP. The recovery of exports by the end of the 1980s was fueled by government
policies on wage moderation, although such policies resulted in increased
unemployment. In addition, the reunification of Germany resulted in a surge in
demand for exports.
Public spending has exceeded 50% of GDP, including transfer payments. The
public-sector deficit has been a political and economic problem and has received
heightened government attention. While the deficit has been reduced recently,
further reduction remains a key government objective.
SPAIN. Spain's entry into the European Community in 1986 was followed by a
period of rapid economic growth. Economic growth did not continue, however, and
the government's restrictive monetary policy and the overvalued peseta
contributed to a downturn in investment and a rise in unemployment in the early
1990s. Currently, the government faces the challenges of addressing the domestic
concerns of controlling inflation, reducing a large government deficit and
effecting labor reform against the competing interests of maintaining a monetary
policy suitable for Spain's participation in the EMU.
In June 1989, Spain joined the Exchange Rate Mechanism of the European
Monetary System with the aim of maintaining a stable currency. The resulting
huge inflows of foreign capital caused the Spanish economy to lose some of its
competitiveness. Despite the devaluation of the peseta and the easing of
monetary policy in 1993, Spain slipped into its worst recession in 30 years.
Since then, economic growth has begun to recover, reaching 2.1% in 1994 and 3.0%
in 1995. Although the government has in the past displayed an inability to
control spending, it may be making some progress in this area. The budget law
that is currently undergoing parliamentary ratification would freeze
public-sector wages, cut public works spending and reduce government purchases
of goods and services.
In June of 1994, Spain experienced a general strike by the trade unions. The
strike, while unsuccessful, has led to reforms in the labor market to ease rigid
regulations that govern permanent job contracts.
SWEDEN. Sweden has a highly developed and successful industrial sector. The
chief industries, most of which are under private ownership, include textiles,
furniture, electronics, dairy, metals, ship building, clothing, engineering,
chemicals, food processing, fishing, paper, oil and gas, automobiles and
shipping. Productivity, as measured by GDP per capita, is well above the
European average, although two-thirds of GDP passes through the public sector.
Sweden recently suffered a severe recession with a total fall in GDP of 5%
from 1990 to 1993. However, economic recovery in 1994 resulted in a 2% increase
in GDP. The result of the recession and the slow growth of GDP thereafter has
led to a drop in the standard of living in Sweden.
The government has traditionally afforded its citizens generous benefits for
unemployment, sick leave, child care, elder care and general public welfare,
along with state-provided medical care. This extensive social welfare system,
however, has proved to be extremely costly during recent decades, resulting in
growing government deficits. In addition, Sweden has a history of supporting an
inefficient agricultural sector with subsidies ranging up to 75% (the recent
average for Europe has been approximately 35%-45%). Also, unemployment has
remained fairly high and, because the income scale
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tends to be flat, little income advantage results from career advancement.
Almost half of personal disposable income received by Swedes was the result of
transfer payments, a system for redistributing wealth.
Sweden, which joined the European Community on January 1, 1995, has been
under strong pressure to bring its public finance under control. Fiscal
consolidation, which will entail a tightening of policy over a period of four
years, began in 1995. The implementation of these measures is on track and it is
probable that Sweden will achieve a balanced budget in 1998. The resulting
improvement in investor and business confidence has boosted Swedish economic
prospects and, despite the continued fiscal tightening, such economic prospects
are some of the best in Europe for the remainder of the decade.
SWITZERLAND. Switzerland's lack of raw materials has caused it to base
economic growth on its highly skilled labor market and its technological
expertise in manufacturing. Switzerland's strengths lie in chemicals and
pharmaceuticals, watches and precision instruments, engineering, food, financial
services and tourism. In addition, its small domestic market has caused
substantial reliance on exports, which accounted for 36% of GDP in 1994.
With a heavy dependence on foreign labor to supplement its labor force,
Switzerland has historically experienced low unemployment levels. From 1990
through the first half of 1995, however, unemployment rose substantially,
peaking at 5% in 1994. In addition, high labor costs tend to reduce price
competitiveness, although this has been partially offset by low inflation and
moves to higher value-added products and services.
UNITED KINGDOM. Following a long recession that ended in 1992, the United
Kingdom saw 2% growth in GDP in 1993 amidst the global recession. The reduced
demand from foreign markets stemming from the global recession of 1993-94 hurt
the United Kingdom's economy. In addition, foreign investment is crucial to the
continued economic recovery, but the United Kingdom faces heavy competition for
foreign investment from its European neighbors.
The Conservative Party has lost a great deal of its power and a strong
possibility exists that it will lose control of the government to the Labor
Party in the next election. Accordingly, a shift may occur in current government
policies, particularly concerning certain social employment policies of the
European Community that had been rejected by the Conservative Party.
Anti-union sentiment exists in the United Kingdom and the failed attempt to
tie the pound to the European Currency Unit has resulted in higher inflation.
Accordingly, the United Kingdom has not been as active a participant in
formulating European Community policies as it might have been.
REAL GDP ANNUAL RATE OF GROWTH (ANNUAL % CHANGE)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1995 1994 1993 1992 1991
----- ----- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Austria................................................. 1.8 3.0 0.4 2.0 2.8
Belgium................................................. 3.0 2.6 -1.6 1.8 2.2
France.................................................. 2.2 2.8 -1.3 1.2 0.8
Germany................................................. 1.9 2.9 -1.1 2.2 5.0
Italy................................................... 3.0 2.2 -1.2 0.7 1.2
Netherlands............................................. 2.4 2.7 0.2 2.0 2.3
Spain................................................... 3.0 2.1 -1.2 0.7 2.3
Sweden.................................................. 3.0 2.6 -2.2 -1.4 -1.1
Switzerland............................................. 0.7 1.2 -0.8 -0.3 --
United Kingdom.......................................... 2.5 3.9 2.1 -0.5 -2.0
</TABLE>
Source: World Economic Outlook, October 1996 (International Monetary Fund)
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JAPAN, THE PACIFIC BASIN, AND SOUTHEAST ASIA
Many Asian countries may be subject to a greater degree of social, political
and economic instability than is the case in the United States and Western
European countries. Such instability may result from (i) authoritarian
governments or military involvement in political and economic decision-making;
(ii) popular unrest associated with demands for improved political, economic,
and social conditions; (iii) internal insurgencies; (iv) hostile relations with
neighboring countries; and (v) ethnic, religious, and racial disaffection.
The economies of most of the Asian countries continue to depend heavily upon
international trade and are accordingly affected by protective trade barriers
and the economic conditions of their trading partners, principally the United
States, Japan, China and the European Community. The enactment by the United
States or other principal trading partners of protectionist trade legislation,
reduction of foreign investment in the local economies and general declines in
the international securities markets could have a significant adverse effect
upon the economies and securities markets of the Asian countries.
The success of market reforms and a surge in infrastructure spending have
fueled rapid growth in many developing countries in Asia. Rapidly rising
household incomes have fostered large middle classes and new waves of consumer
spending. Increases in infrastructure spending and consumer spending have made
domestic demand the growth engine for these countries. Thus, their growth now
depends less upon exports. While exports may no longer be the sole source of
growth for developing economies, improved competitiveness in export markets has
contributed to growth in many of these nations. The increased productivity of
many Asian countries has enabled them to achieve, or continue, their status as
top exporters while improving their national living standards.
AUSTRALIA. Australia has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy,
with a per capita GDP comparable to levels in industrialized Western European
countries. Economic growth accelerated markedly in 1994 as robust domestic
spending boosted activity. Australia is rich in natural resources and is the
world's largest exporter of beef and wool, the second-largest exporter of
mutton, and among the top wheat exporters. Australia is also a major exporter of
minerals, metals and fossil fuels. Due to the nature of Australia's exports, a
downturn in world commodity prices may have a big impact on its economy. The
government is in the process of developing policies to promote foreign
investment, expand research and development, increase funding for national
landcare and reform public housing policy. Also, the government is supportive of
continuing privatization of state-owned enterprises.
While economic data suggests an easing from the unsustainable rates of
growth reached during 1994, the outlook is for continued, but moderate economic
growth. While GDP grew by 3.2% in 1995, debt is expected to continue to rise.
Notwithstanding the intensification of the severe drought in eastern
Australia, economic growth was strong in 1994-95 with improvements made in
reducing unemployment. The drought also contributed to inflation by causing food
prices to rise in 1995. In addition, the government's increased taxes on tobacco
and motor vehicles contributed to an inflation rate that reached 5.1% in 1995.
HONG KONG. Hong Kong's impending return to Chinese dominion in 1997 has not
initially had a positive effect on its economic growth, which was vigorous in
the 1980s. Although China has committed by treaty to preserve Hong Kong's
economic and social freedoms, the continuation of the current form of the
economic system in Hong Kong will depend on the actions of the Chinese
government. Business confidence in Hong Kong, therefore, can be significantly
affected by such developments, which in turn can affect markets and business
performance. In preparation for 1997, Hong Kong has continued to develop trade
with China, where it is the largest foreign investor, while also maintaining its
long-standing export relationship with the United States. Spending on
infrastructure improvements is a significant priority of the colonial government
while the private sector continues to
22
<PAGE>
diversify abroad based on its position as an established international trade
center in the Far East. It is important to note that a substantial portion of
the companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are involved in real estate
related business.
Much speculation centers around what China will do when it comes back into
possession of Hong Kong. The answer will depend in large part on who will be in
power in China at that time, which is unknown. There can be no assurance that
the transition to Chinese rule will not have serious adverse effects on the
value of Hong Kong stocks, and thus on the value of WEBS of the Hong Kong WEBS
Index Series. However, tensions that have arisen between the current governor,
Chris Patten, and the Chinese government have led to speculation that China may
try to punish Hong Kong by sabotaging it economically, an option which is
considered a real possibility even though it would not necessarily be to China's
economic advantage to do so. The Hong Kong market's growth over the past decade
has not come without much volatility, and there is no doubt that volatility will
continue to characterize the market, not only because of political uncertainties
but because the market has traditionally been dominated by the actions of a few
large trading blocks.
JAPAN. Japan's economy, the second-largest in the world, has grown
substantially over the last three decades. However, in 1995, the Japanese
economy expanded by just 0.9% and its budget showed a deficit of 5.9% of GDP.
The boom in Japan's equity and property markets during the expansion of the late
1980's supported high rates of investment and consumer spending on durable
goods, but both of these components of demand have now retreated sharply
following the decline in asset prices. Profits have fallen sharply, unemployment
has reached a historical high and consumer confidence is low. The banking sector
continues to suffer from non-performing loans. Numerous discount-rate cuts since
its 6% peak in 1991, a succession of fiscal stimulus packages, support plans for
the debt-burdened financial system and spending for reconstruction following the
Kobe earthquake may help to contain the recessionary forces, but substantial
uncertainties remain.
In addition to a cyclical downturn, Japan is suffering through structural
adjustments. Like the Europeans, the Japanese have seen a deterioration of their
competitiveness due to high wages, a strong currency and structural rigidities.
Finally, Japan is reforming its political process and deregulating its economy.
This has brought about turmoil, uncertainty and a crisis of confidence.
While the Japanese governmental system itself seems stable, the dynamics of
the country's politics have been unpredictable in recent years. The economic
crisis of 1990-92 brought the downfall of the conservative Liberal Democratic
Party, which had ruled since 1955. Since then, the country has seen a series of
unstable multi-party coalitions and several prime ministers come and go, because
of politics as well as personal scandals. While there appears to be no reason
for anticipating civic unrest, it is impossible to know when the political
instability will end and what trade and fiscal policies might be pursued by the
government that emerges.
Japan's heavy dependence on international trade has been adversely affected
by trade tariffs and other protectionist measures as well as the economic
condition of its trading partners. While Japan subsidizes its agricultural
industry, only 19% of its land is suitable for cultivation and it is only 50%
self-sufficient in food production. Accordingly, it is highly dependent on large
imports of wheat, sorghum and soybeans. In addition, industry, its most
important economic sector, depends on imported raw materials and fuels,
including iron ore, copper, oil and many forest products. Japan's high volume of
exports, such as automobiles, machine tools and semiconductors, have caused
trade tensions, particularly with the United States. Some trade agreements,
however, have been implemented to reduce these tensions. The relaxing of
official and de facto barriers to imports, or hardships created by any pressures
brought by trading partners, could adversely affect Japan's economy. A
substantial rise in world oil or commodity prices could also have a negative
affect. The strength of the yen itself may prove an impediment to strong
continued exports and economic recovery, because it makes Japanese goods sold in
other countries more expensive and reduces the value of foreign earnings
repatriated to Japan. Because the Japanese economy is so dependent on exports,
any fall-off in exports may be seen as a sign of economic weakness, which may
adversely affect the market.
23
<PAGE>
Geologically, Japan is located in a volatile area of the world, and has
historically been vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes and other natural
disasters. As demonstrated by the Kobe earthquake in January of 1995, in which
5,000 people were killed and billions of dollars of damage was sustained, these
natural disasters can be significant enough to affect the country's economy.
MALAYSIA. Over the last two decades, Malaysia has experienced rapid
industrialization, transforming a once commodity driven economy to one dominated
by the manufacturing sector. Although commodities remain important to the
Malaysian economy, where tin, rubber, palm oil, timber, oil and gas have played
a leading role, the electronics sector is now, by far, the fastest growing and
most important sector. In fact, Malaysia has become the world's third-largest
producer of semiconductor devices (after the U.S. and Japan) and the world's
largest exporter of semiconductor devices.
The high rates of investment that have been required to sustain Malaysia's
rapid growth have been met with high rates of domestic savings and significant
inflows of foreign direct investment. This combination has been instrumental in
maintaining fast growth while simultaneously limiting inflationary pressures.
Although free repatriation of profits is allowed, Malaysia has experienced a
high rate of reinvestment of profits on foreign direct investment.
The Bank Negara Malaysia (the central bank) manages the exchange value of
the currency against a basket of currencies. The ringgit has been relatively
stable, which has translated into low and stable inflation. In 1993 speculative
capital inflows became difficult to manage and the central bank imposed capital
controls including segregation of non-resident funds and strict limits on banks'
activities across frontiers. As a result, share prices on the national exchange
fell and the value of the ringgit dropped. Although these monetary policies were
subsequently rescinded, the threat of such future action may deter capital
inflows.
While inflation has been kept in check, in part through government
intervention to control prices, inflationary pressures still exist. Rapid
economic growth has led to shortages, some inefficiencies and rising imports.
The government, however, has been reluctant to take certain deflationary steps
because of the fear of endangering the private investment needed for economic
growth.
The future direction of Malaysian manufacturing, and the economy as a whole,
depends on the performance of manufactured exports. Foreign direct investment is
the source of Malaysia's export dynamism. Malaysia is developing its human
capital base and its infrastructure in order to continue to attract foreign
investment. But this strategy has led to an increased import-intensity of
growth. It also makes Malaysia vulnerable to potentially volatile foreign
capital flows and downturns in demand in its export markets. Malaysia's
continued success depends on reducing the import content of exports through
increased technology transfer to develop linkages between exporters and domestic
input supplies.
SINGAPORE. Singapore has become a high-income, highly industrialized
country though rapid growth in its manufacturing sector due in large part to
significant foreign investment. Of particular importance is the electronics
industry where Singapore is the leading producer of disk drives. The financial
and business services sector has also experienced recent growth, while mining
and agriculture are of minimal importance. The oil refining and chemicals
industry has long been important and a significant pharmaceuticals sector has
emerged. Since 1987, annual growth has been high, ultimately reaching 10% in
1993 and 1994 and 9% in 1995. This sustained annual growth can be attributed to
high investment and exports. Personal consumption growth has been low, making
Singapore the highest saving country in the world.
The government has followed an interventionist economic policy with respect
to its individual industries. To instill faith in its interventionist policies,
the government has sought to maintain economic stability. The taxes are
relatively high, but rates are stable. Monetary policy has aimed at keeping
inflation low by using the exchange rate as the main instrument. Labor market
pressure has
24
<PAGE>
been controlled by setting limits on the percentage of foreign labor employed
and applying levies on employers of foreign labor. In addition, the government,
recognizing that land use is a constraint on growth, has sought to make existing
land use more efficient.
The government directly holds stakes in individual companies across the
board from high-tech defense contractors to low-tech service businesses. The
government also holds indirect stakes in firms through a number of agencies.
Such government ownership interests may discourage the development of private
firms due to fears that the government entities may be given certain advantages
not available to private entities. Some privatization of state-owned businesses
is ongoing, however, such as the telephone business and certain other utilities.
Singapore is heavily dependent on foreign trade with the total value of
trade goods and services reaching 278% of GDP in 1994. The country has also seen
a large volume of re-export trade. The industrial base is dominated by foreign
multinationals, with only a few large domestic firms. While foreign investment
is a key to the continued prosperity of Singapore, the main concern about future
prospects is that productivity growth has not been consistent over the years.
But with one of the highest investment rates in the world, sustaining rapid
output growth increasingly will depend on boosting productivity growth.
REAL GDP ANNUAL RATE OF GROWTH (ANNUAL % CHANGE)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1995 1994 1993 1992 1991
--------- --------- --------- ----- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Australia................................................. 3.2 5.4 3.5 2.3 -1.1
Hong Kong................................................. n.a. 5.4 6.4 6.3 5.1
Japan..................................................... 0.9 0.5 0.1 1.1 4.0
Malaysia.................................................. n.a. 9.2 8.3 7.8 8.6
Singapore................................................. 9.0 10.1 10.1 6.0 6.7
</TABLE>
Source: World Economic Outlook, October 1996 (International Monetary Fund)
CANADA
Due to its vast geographic area, ranking second in the world only to Russia,
Canada has successfully developed into a modern industrial country supplemented
by significant agricultural activities and natural resource exploitation, such
as oil, gas and timber. With exports amounting to approximately 25% of Canadian
production, Canada is highly dependent on the U.S. market as a source of demand
for manufacturing, agricultural, energy and other raw material products. Nearly
80% of Canada's external trade is with the U.S. and close ties exist between
U.S. and Canadian manufacturers (indeed, two-thirds of foreign direct investment
into Canada is from the U.S.). Both the Free Trade Agreement with the U.S. and
the North American Free Trade Agreement increased the ties between the two
nations, guaranteeing Canada's access to its largest export market.
In early 1990, due to reduced domestic demand and the beginnings of a
downturn in the U.S., the economy ebbed into recession. The recession hit the
manufacturing sector the hardest, but continued investment in machinery and
equipment indicated that important restructuring steps were underway with a view
toward improving productivity. As a result of the recession, tax receipts
dwindled and government deficits mushroomed, arriving at approximately 5% of GDP
per annum. In addition, Canada's poor export performance during the recession
hinted at reduced competitiveness internationally. Since that time, Canada has
made some progress in restructuring its industries. At the same time, it has
grappled with its fiscal deficits and has crafted a plan to bring its federal
budget into balance by the end of the century. Moreover, the provinces have also
reined in their fiscal excesses: seven of the ten had balanced budgets in 1996.
The fiscal restructuring across all levels of government led to significant
public sector job losses; although these were offset for the most part by
private sector job gains, overall employment growth remained subpar. As a
result, Canada's unemployment rate has remained above 9% since 1990.
25
<PAGE>
With the fiscal drag on the economy having reached its maximum in 1996, the
continued strength in investment in machinery and equipment, along with a
competitively-valued Canadian dollar, suggest that Canada may have brighter
prospects in the short run. Risks remain however. Continued economic
sluggishness may diminish Canada's fiscal resolve and bring about a call for tax
cuts. Given Canada's high level of public sector debt outstanding, this would
make it difficult for Canada to maintain over the long run, advances made in its
competitiveness. Another significant problem faced by the Canadian economy is
the ongoing uncertainty caused by the separatist movement in Quebec, Canada's
second largest and second most populous province. After a very narrow defeat in
the October, 1995 referendum campaign, Quebec's separatist government vowed to
hold another referendum within a year of its reelection. The next provincial
election in Quebec must take place by summer, 1999.
CANADIAN REAL GDP ANNUAL RATE OF GROWTH (ANNUAL % CHANGE)
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1995 2.3
1994 4.1
1993 2.2
1992 0.8
1991 -1.8
</TABLE>
Source: World Economic Outlook, October 1996 (International Monetary Fund)
MEXICO
During the period from 1982 through 1994, Mexico pursued far-reaching and
comprehensive adjustment policies designed to reform its economy and achieve a
return to sustained economic growth. These policies included fiscal discipline,
tax reform, trade liberalization, opening the economy to foreign investment,
reform of certain public sector prices to conform to market conditions,
deregulation, privatization of certain non-strategic public sector enterprises
and an exchange rate and monetary policy aimed at slowing the rate of inflation
in Mexico to levels approximating those of its major trading partners.
While successful in reducing inflation from 159.2% in 1987 to 7.1% in 1994
and achieving real GDP growth averaging 3.0% over the 1990-1994 period, the
Mexican economy had certain weaknesses by 1994 that made it unable to withstand
the severe internal and external political and economic shocks that occurred in
1994, which resulted in the destabilization of the Mexican economy at the end of
1994, a crisis of confidence on the part of foreign portfolio investors and the
economic and financial crisis facing the Mexican government since the beginning
of 1995. Weaknesses of the economy that became apparent in 1994 included a
reduced level of domestic savings and a government exchange rate policy that
over time resulted in the progressive overvaluation of the peso.
During 1994, internal and external events combined to complicate the
management of the Mexican economy. Progressive increases in interest rates in
the United States, and prospects of further increases, made Mexican investments
relatively less attractive to foreign portfolio investors. In addition, a series
of internal disruptions and political events, including the insurgents' attack
in the southern state of Chiapas, the assassinations of certain political
leaders and the resulting uncertainty regarding the fairness of elections and
the kidnaping of several prominent businessmen, caused some investors to believe
that the Mexican political system was less stable than had been believed.
In December 1994, a sharp and rapid devaluation of the peso ensued. The
devaluation contributed to a rise in inflation, which totaled 55.2% in 1995. The
devaluation also raised concerns about Mexico's ability to repay its short-term
obligations and the stability of the Mexican banking system. These concerns led
to sharply higher interest rates and reduced opportunities for refinancing or
refunding debt issues in 1995. In 1995, the government amortized US$ 29 billion
of short-term dollar-linked debt, of which two thirds was actually paid in
dollars.
26
<PAGE>
In 1995, the government, through various initiatives and programs,
endeavored to restore stability to Mexico's financial and foreign exchange
markets, lower inflation rates, enhance international competitiveness, protect
the solvency of the banking system and stimulate economic recovery and job
creation. The government was successful in reducing inflation and the volatility
of the exchange rate and reducing nominal interest rates. Furthermore, Mexico's
GDP, which declined 6.2% according to official government estimates, is
officially projected to grow by 3.7% in 1996 and inflation is expected to total
26.2%, according to estimates from Mexico's Ministry of Finance. Mexico's
balance of payments deficit, which equaled US$29.4 billion in 1994, fell to
US$654 million in 1995 and is expected to equal US$1,014 million in 1996, all
according to official government estimates. However, it is unclear whether these
initiatives will continue to be successful in dealing with Mexico's severe
economic problems.
MEXICO REAL GDP ANNUAL RATE OF GROWTH (ANNUAL % CHANGE)
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1995 n.a.
1994 3.5
1993 0.6
1992 2.8
1991 3.6
</TABLE>
Source: World Economic Outlook, October 1996 (International Monetary Fund)
THE MSCI INDICES
IN GENERAL
The Indices were founded in 1969 by Capital International S.A. as the first
international performance benchmarks constructed to facilitate accurate
comparison of world markets. Morgan Stanley acquired rights to the Indices in
1986. The MSCI Indices have covered the world's developed markets since 1969,
and in 1988, MSCI commenced coverage of the emerging markets.
Although local stock exchanges have traditionally calculated their own
indices, these are generally not comparable with one another, due to differences
in the representation of the local market, mathematical formulas, base dates and
methods of adjusting for capital changes. MSCI applies the same criteria and
calculation methodology across all markets for all indices, developed and
emerging.
MSCI Indices are notable for the depth and breadth of their coverage. MSCI
generally seeks to have 60% of the capitalization of a country's stock market
reflected in the MSCI Index for such country. Thus, the MSCI Indices balance the
inclusiveness of an "all share" index against the replicability of a "blue chip"
index.
WEIGHTING
All single-country MSCI Indices are market capitalization weighted, i.e.,
companies are included in the indices at their full market value (total number
of shares issued and paid up, multiplied by price). MSCI believes full market
capitalization weighting is preferable to other weighting schemes for both
theoretical and practical reasons.
MSCI calculates two indices in some countries in order to address the issue
of restrictions on foreign ownership in such countries. The additional indices
are called "free" indices, and they exclude companies and share classes not
purchasable by foreigners. Free indices are currently calculated for Singapore,
Mexico, the Philippines and Venezuela, and for those regional and international
indices which include such markets.
REGIONAL WEIGHTS. Market capitalization weighting, combined with a
consistent target of 60% of market capitalization, helps ensure that each
country's weight in regional and international indices
27
<PAGE>
approximates its weight in the total universe of developing and emerging
markets. Maintaining consistent policy among MSCI developed and emerging market
indices is also critical to the calculation of certain combined developed and
emerging market indices published by MSCI.
SELECTION CRITERIA
THE UNIVERSE OF SECURITIES. The constituents of a country index are
selected from the full range of securities available in the market, excluding
issues which are either small or highly illiquid. Non-domiciled companies and
investment trusts are also excluded from consideration. After the index
constituents are chosen, they are reclassified using MSCI's schema of 38
industries and 8 economic sectors in order to facilitate cross-country
comparisons.
THE OPTIMIZATION PROCESS. The process of choosing index constituents from
the universe of available securities is consistent among indices. Determining
the constituents of an index is an optimization process which involves
maximizing float and liquidity, reflecting accurately the market's size and
industry profiles and minimizing cross-ownership. The optimization variables and
their targets are:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Market Coverage TARGET 60% OF MARKET
Industry Representation MIRROR THE LOCAL MARKET
Liquidity MAXIMIZE
Float MAXIMIZE
Cross-Ownership AVOID/MINIMIZE
Size SAMPLE WITH SIZE CHARACTERISTICS OF
UNIVERSE
</TABLE>
COVERAGE. To reflect accurately country-wide performance as well as the
performance of industry groups, MSCI aims to capture 60% of total market
capitalization at both the country and industry level. To reflect local market
performance, an index should contain a percentage of the market's overall
capitalization sufficient to achieve a high level of tracking. The greater the
coverage, however, the greater the risk of including securities which are
illiquid or have restricted float. MSCI's 60% coverage target reflects a balance
of these considerations.
INDUSTRY REPRESENTATION. Within the overall target of 60% market coverage,
MSCI aims to capture 60% of the capitalization of each industry group, as
defined by local practice. MSCI believes this target assures that the index
reflects the industry characteristics of the overall market and permits the
construction of accurate industry indices.
MSCI may exceed the 60% of market capitalization target in the index for a
particular country because, e.g., one or two large companies dominate an
industry. Similarly, MSCI may underweight an industry in an index if, e.g., the
companies in such industry lack good liquidity and float, or because of
extensive cross-ownership.
LIQUIDITY. Liquidity is measured by trading value, as reported by the local
exchanges. Trading value is monitored over time in order to determine "normal"
levels exclusive of short-term peaks and troughs. A stock's liquidity is
significant not only in absolute terms (i.e., a determination of the market's
most actively traded stocks), but also relative to its market capitalization and
to average liquidity for the country as a whole.
FLOAT. Float, or the percentage of shares freely tradeable, is one measure
of potential short-term supply. Low float raises the risk of insufficient
liquidity. MSCI monitors float for every security in its coverage, and low float
may exclude a stock from consideration. However, float can be difficult to
determine. In some markets good sources are generally not available. In other
markets, information on smaller and less prominent issues can be subject to
error and time lags. Government ownership and cross-ownership positions can
change over time, and are not always made public. Float also tends to be defined
differently depending on the source. MSCI seeks to maximize float. As with
liquidity, float is an important determinant, but not a hard-and-fast screen for
inclusion of a stock in, or exclusion of a stock from, a particular index.
28
<PAGE>
CROSS-OWNERSHIP. Cross-ownership occurs when one company has an ownership
position in another. In situations where cross-ownership is substantial,
including both companies in an index may skew industry weights, distort
country-level valuations and over-represent buyable opportunities. An integral
part of MSCI's country research is identifying cross-ownerships in order to
avoid or minimize them. Cross-ownership cannot always be avoided, especially in
markets where it is prevalent. When MSCI makes exceptions, it strives to select
situations where the constituents operate in different economic sectors, or
where the subsidiary company makes only a minor contribution to the parent
company's results.
SIZE. MSCI attempts to meet its 60% coverage target by including a
representative sample of large, medium and small capitalization stocks, in order
to capture the sometimes disparate performance of these sectors. In the emerging
markets, the liquidity of smaller issues can be a constraint. At the same time,
properly representing the lower capitalization end of the market risks
overwhelming the index with names. Within these constraints, MSCI strives to
include smaller capitalization stocks, provided they exhibit sufficient
liquidity.
CALCULATION METHODOLOGY
All MSCI Indices are calculated daily using Laspeyres' concept of a weighted
arithmetic average together with the concept of "chain-linking," a classical
method of calculating stock market indices. The Laspeyres method weights stocks
in an index by their beginning-of-period market capitalization. Share prices are
"swept clean" daily and adjusted for any rights issues, stock dividends or
splits. Most MSCI Indices are currently calculated in local currency and in U.S.
dollars, without dividends, with gross dividends reinvested and with net
dividends reinvested. With the exception of the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series,
the Fund's WEBS Index Series utilize MSCI Indices calculated with net dividends
reinvested. "Net dividends" means dividends after reduction for taxes withheld
at source at the rate applicable to holders of the underlying stock that are
resident in Luxembourg. With respect to the Australia, Austria and Germany WEBS
Index Series, such withholding rate currently differs from that applicable to
United States residents. So-called "un-franked" dividends from Australian
companies are withheld at a 30% rate to Luxembourg residents and a 15% rate to
the Australia WEBS Index Series (there is no difference in the treatment of
"franked" dividends). Austrian companies impose a 15% dividend withholding on
Luxembourg residents and an 11% rate on the Austria WEBS Index Series. German
companies impose a 15% dividend withholding on Luxembourg residents and a 10%
rate on the German WEBS Index Series. The Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series'
benchmark Index, the MSCI Mexico (Free) Index, reflects the reinvestment of
gross dividends. "Gross dividends" means dividends before reduction for taxes
withheld at source.
DIVIDEND TREATMENT
In respect of developed markets, MSCI Indices with dividends reinvested
constitute an estimate of total return arrived at by reinvesting one twelfth of
the year end yield at every month end.
In respect of emerging markets, MSCI has constructed its indices with
dividends reinvested as follows:
- In the period between the ex date and the date of dividend reinvestment, a
dividend receivable is a component of the index return.
- Dividends are deemed received on the payment date.
- To determine the payment date, a fixed time lag is assumed to exist
between the ex date and the payment date. This time lag varies by country,
and is determined in accordance with general practice within that market.
- Reinvestment of dividends occurs at the end of the month in which the
payment date falls.
29
<PAGE>
PRICE AND EXCHANGE RATES
PRICES. Prices used to calculate the MSCI Indices are the official exchange
closing prices. All prices are taken from the dominant exchange in each market.
In countries where there are foreign ownership limits, MSCI uses the price
quoted on the official exchange, regardless of whether the limit has been
reached.
EXCHANGE RATES. MSCI uses WM/Reuters Closing Spot Rates for all developed
and emerging markets except those in Latin America. The WM/Reuters Closing Spot
Rates were established by a committee of investment managers and data providers,
including MSCI, whose object was to standardize exchange rates used by the
investment community. Exchange rates are taken daily at 4 PM London time by the
WM Company and are sourced whenever possible from multi-contributor quotes on
Reuters. Representative rates are selected for each currency based on a number
of "snapshots" of the latest contributed quotations taken from the Reuters
service at short intervals around 4 PM. WM/ Reuters provides closing bid and
offer rates. MSCI uses these to calculate the mid-point to 5 decimal places.
MSCI continues to monitor exchange rates independently and may, under
exceptional circumstances, elect to use an alternative exchange rate if the
WM/Reuters rate is believed not to be representative for a given currency on a
particular day. Because of the high volatility of currencies in some Latin
American countries, MSCI continues to use its own timing and sources for these
markets. The exchange rate for the MSCI Mexico (Free) Index is that prevailing
as of 3:00 p.m. New York City time.
CHANGES TO THE INDICES
In changing the constituents of the indices, MSCI attempts to balance
representativeness versus undue turnover. An index must represent the current
state of an evolving marketplace, yet at the same time minimize turnover, which
is costly as well as inconvenient for managers.
There are two broad categories of changes to the MSCI Indices. The first
consists of market-driven changes such as mergers, acquisitions, bankruptcies,
etc. These are announced and implemented as they occur. The second category
consists of structural changes to reflect the evolution of a market, for example
due to changes in industry composition or regulations. In the emerging markets,
index restructurings generally take place every one year to eighteen months.
Structural changes may occur only on four dates throughout the year: the first
business day of March, June, September and December. They are preannounced at
least two weeks in advance.
ADDITIONS. Restructuring an index involves a balancing of additions and
deletions. To maintain continuity and minimize turnover, MSCI is reluctant to
delete index constituents, and its approach to additions is correspondingly
stringent. As markets grow because of privatizations, investor interest, or the
relaxation of regulations, index additions (with or without corresponding
deletions) may be needed to bring industry representations up to the 60% target.
Companies are considered not only based on their broad industry, but also based
on their sub-sector, in order to achieve, if possible, a broader range of
economic activity. Beyond industry representativeness, new constituents are
selected based on the criteria discussed above, i.e. float, liquidity,
cross-ownership, etc.
NEW ISSUES. In general, new issues are not eligible for immediate inclusion
in the MSCI Indices because their liquidity remains unproven. Usually, new
issues undergo a "seasoning" period of one year to eighteen months between index
restructurings until a trading pattern and volume are established. After that
time, they are eligible for inclusion, subject to the criteria discussed above
(industry representation, float, cross-ownership, etc.).
In the emerging markets, however, it is not uncommon that a large new issue,
usually a privatization, comes to market and substantially changes the country's
industry profile. In exceptional circumstances, where the issue's size,
visibility and investor interest assure high liquidity, and where excluding it
would distort the characteristics of the market, MSCI may decide to include it
immediately in the indices.
30
<PAGE>
In other cases, MSCI may decide not to include a large new issue even in the
normal process of restructuring, and in spite of its substantial size and
liquidity.
DELETIONS. MSCI's primary concern when considering deletions is the
continuity of the indices. Of secondary concern are the turnover costs
associated with deletions. The indices must represent the full investment cycle,
including bear as well as bull markets. Out-of-favor stocks may exhibit
declining price, market capitalization or liquidity, and yet continue to be good
representatives of their industry.
Companies may be deleted because they have diversified away from their
industry classification, because the industry has evolved in a different
direction from the company's thrust, or because a better industry representative
exists (either a new issue or an existing company). In addition, in order not to
exceed the 60% target coverage of industries and countries, adding new index
companies may entail corresponding deletions. Usually such deletions take place
within the same industry, but there are occasional exceptions.
Each of the MSCI Indices utilized as the benchmark for a WEBS Index Series
of the Fund is calculated reflecting dividends reinvested. With the exception of
the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series, the Fund's WEBS Index Series utilize MSCI
Indices calculated with net dividends reinvested. MSCI refers to each of its
Indices calculated reflecting net dividends reinvested as the "MSCI [relevant
country] Index (with net dividends reinvested)."
THE MSCI AUSTRALIA INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Australia Index (with net dividends
reinvested) (the "MSCI Australia") consisted of 56 stocks with an aggregate
market capitalization of approximately AUD206.3 billion or US$163.6 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Australia represented approximately 57.4% of the
total market capitalization of Australia on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Australia and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Australia represented by such constituents
as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Broken Hill Prop Co....................................... 15.98%
2. National Bank Australia................................... 9.89%
3. News Corp................................................. 6.97%
4. Westpac Banking........................................... 6.31%
5. Coca-Cola Amatil.......................................... 4.57%
6. WMC....................................................... 4.28%
7. CRA....................................................... 3.15%
8. News Corp Plvo............................................ 3.07%
9. Lend Lease................................................ 2.53%
10. Coles Myer................................................ 2.42%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 43.71% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Australia; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 59.15% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Australia; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 76.97% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Australia.
31
<PAGE>
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Australia, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI Australia represented thereby as of
October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Energy Sources............................................ 17.84%
2. Banking................................................... 16.19%
3. Metals -- Non Ferrous..................................... 10.63%
4. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 10.04%
5. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 7.24%
6. Real Estate............................................... 6.11%
7. Building Materials & Components........................... 5.81%
8. Gold Mines................................................ 3.68%
9. Multi-Industry............................................ 3.34%
10. Merchandising............................................. 2.74%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI
Australia Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI AUSTRIA INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Austria Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Austria") consisted of 24 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately ATS243.9 billion or US$22.9 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Austria represented approximately 61.9% of the total
market capitalization of Austria on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Austria and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Austria represented by such constituents
October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Bank Austria Stamm........................................ 18.05%
2. OMV AG.................................................... 11.55%
3. Verbund Oesterr Elek A.................................... 9.38%
4. Ea-generali Stamm......................................... 9.19%
5. Va Technologie............................................ 9.16%
6. Creditanstalt Stamm....................................... 8.55%
7. Wienerberger Baustoff..................................... 5.62%
8. Flughafen Wien............................................ 4.52%
9. Boehler-uddeholm.......................................... 3.59%
10. Creditanstalt Vorzug...................................... 3.23%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 57.32% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Austria; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 82.83% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Austria; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 97.83% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Austria.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Austria, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI Austria represented thereby as of
October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Banking................................................... 32.24%
2. Energy Sources............................................ 11.55%
3. Machinery & Engineering................................... 10.60%
4. Insurance................................................. 9.57%
5. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 9.38%
6. Building Materials & Components........................... 5.62%
7. Business & Public Services................................ 4.52%
8. Misc. Materials & Commodities............................. 4.31%
9. Metals -- Steel........................................... 3.60%
10. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 2.74%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Austria
Index as of October 31, 1996.
32
<PAGE>
THE MSCI BELGIUM INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Belgium Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Belgium") consisted of 17 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately BEF2,065 billion or US$66.2 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Belgium represented approximately 60.2% of the total
market capitalization of Belgium on August 30, 1996.
On October 31, 1996, the ten largest constituents of the MSCI Belgium and
the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Belgium represented by such
constituents as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Electrabel................................................ 19.07%
2. Petrofina................................................. 10.80%
3. Tractebel................................................. 10.01%
4. Generale Banque Groupe.................................... 8.70%
5. Fortis Ag................................................. 8.13%
6. Solvay.................................................... 7.55%
7. Kredietbank............................................... 6.33%
8. Royale Belge.............................................. 4.92%
9. Groupe Bruxelles Lambert.................................. 4.41%
10. Delhaize-Le Lion.......................................... 4.37%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 56.72% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Belgium; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 84.30% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Belgium; and the largest 15 constituents comprised
approximately 98.05% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Belgium.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Belgium, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI Belgium represented thereby as of
October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 19.07%
2. Multi-Industry............................................ 17.05%
3. Banking................................................... 15.88%
4. Insurance................................................. 13.05%
5. Energy Sources............................................ 10.80%
6. Chemicals................................................. 7.55%
7. Merchandising............................................. 4.37%
8. Electric Components....................................... 3.02%
9. Industrial Components..................................... 2.75%
10. Building Materials & Components........................... 2.69%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Belgium
Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI CANADA INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Canada Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Canada") consisted of 83 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately CAD336.4 billion or US$250.8 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Canada represented approximately 60.4% of the total
market capitalization in Canada on August 30, 1996.
33
<PAGE>
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Canada and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Canada represented by such constituents as
of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Northern Telecom.......................................... 6.71%
2. BCE Inc................................................... 5.80%
3. Seagram Co................................................ 5.56%
4. Thomson Corp.............................................. 4.81%
5. Royal Bank of Canada...................................... 4.14%
6. Barrick Gold Corp......................................... 3.89%
7. Canadian Pacific.......................................... 3.50%
8. Canadian Imperial Bank.................................... 3.40%
9. Bank Montreal............................................. 3.12%
10. Bank Nova Scotia.......................................... 2.97%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 27.02% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Canada; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 43.90% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Canada; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 65.23% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Canada.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Canada, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI Canada represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Banking................................................... 14.28%
2. Energy Sources............................................ 12.57%
3. Metals -- Non Ferrous..................................... 10.94%
4. Electrical & Electronics.................................. 8.86%
5. Gold Mines................................................ 7.31%
6. Multi-Industry............................................ 6.90%
7. Telecommunications........................................ 6.70%
8. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 6.29%
9. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 6.09%
10. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 4.51%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Canada
Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI FRANCE INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI France Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI France") consisted of 71 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately FRF1,901.2 billion or US$372.2 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI France represented approximately 65.2% of the total
market capitalization in France on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI France and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI France represented by such constituents as
of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. L'Oreal................................................... 6.16%
2. Elf Aquitaine............................................. 5.87%
3. Carrefour................................................. 5.74%
4. LVMH...................................................... 5.38%
5. Total SA.................................................. 5.08%
6. Generale Eaux (CIE)....................................... 3.94%
7. Alcatel Alsthom........................................... 3.71%
8. AXA....................................................... 3.24%
9. Saint-Gobain.............................................. 3.13%
10. Air Liquide............................................... 3.03%
</TABLE>
34
<PAGE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 28.23% of the market capitalization of the MSCI France; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 45.29% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI France; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 67.84% of the market capitalization of MSCI France.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI France, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI France represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Merchandising............................................. 10.97%
2. Energy Sources............................................ 10.95%
3. Health & Personal Care.................................... 9.36%
4. Banking................................................... 8.99%
5. Electrical & Electronics.................................. 7.45%
6. Business & Public Services................................ 7.40%
7. Recreation -- Other....................................... 6.96%
8. Chemicals................................................. 5.65%
9. Insurance................................................. 5.14%
10. Building Material......................................... 4.66%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI France
Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI GERMANY INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Germany Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Germany") consisted of 67 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately DEM607.7 billion or US$401.6 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Germany represented approximately 64.1% of the total
market capitalization in Germany on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Germany and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Germany represented by such constituents as
of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Allianz Holding........................................... 10.12%
2. Daimler-Benz.............................................. 7.51%
3. Siemens Stamm............................................. 7.21%
4. Bayer..................................................... 6.64%
5. Veba...................................................... 6.49%
6. Deutsche Bank............................................. 5.77%
7. BASF...................................................... 4.86%
8. Muenchener Rueck Nam...................................... 4.75%
9. Mannesmann................................................ 3.55%
10. RWE Stamm................................................. 3.46%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 37.97% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Germany; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 60.36% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Germany; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 81.56% of the market capitalization of MSCI Germany.
35
<PAGE>
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Germany, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI Germany represented thereby as of
October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Insurance................................................. 16.65%
2. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 14.21%
3. Banking................................................... 13.08%
4. Chemicals................................................. 11.50%
5. Automobiles............................................... 10.73%
6. Electrical & Electronic................................... 7.21%
7. Machinery & Engineering................................... 5.97%
8. Health & Personal Care.................................... 4.00%
9. Business & Public Services................................ 3.58%
10. Merchandising............................................. 3.09%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Germany
Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI HONG KONG INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Hong Kong Index (with net dividends
reinvested) (the "MSCI Hong Kong") consisted of 39 stocks with an aggregate
market capitalization of approximately HKD1,550.8 billion or US$200.6 billion.
In percentage terms, the MSCI Hong Kong represented approximately 58.0% of the
total market capitalization in Hong Kong on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Hong Kong and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Hong Kong represented by such constituents
as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Sun Hung Kai Properties................................... 13.56%
2. Hutchison Whampoa......................................... 12.59%
3. Hang Seng Bank............................................ 11.43%
4. Hongkong Telecom.......................................... 10.12%
5. Cheung Kong Holdings...................................... 9.19%
6. Swire Pacific A........................................... 6.98%
7. New World Development..................................... 5.11%
8. Wharf Holdings............................................ 4.64%
9. China Light & Power Co.................................... 4.61%
10. Cathay Pacific Airways.................................... 2.68%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 56.89% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Hong Kong; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 80.91% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Hong Kong; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 94.56% of the market capitalization of MSCI Hong Kong.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Hong Kong, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI Hong Kong represented thereby as of
October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Real Estate............................................... 38.90%
2. Multi-Industry............................................ 19.67%
3. Banking................................................... 14.16%
4. Telecommunications........................................ 10.12%
5. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 7.23%
6. Transportation -- Airlines................................ 2.68%
7. Leisure & Tourism......................................... 2.54%
8. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 1.86%
9. Merchandising............................................. 0.80%
10. Financial Services........................................ 0.51%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Hong
Kong Index as of October 31, 1996.
36
<PAGE>
THE MSCI ITALY INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Italy Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Italy") consisted of 55 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately ITL222,908.4 billion or US$147 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Italy represented approximately 63.5% of the total
market capitalization of Italy on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Italy and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Italy represented by such constituents as of
October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. ENI....................................................... 15.62%
2. Assicurazioni Generali.................................... 11.58%
3. Telecom Italia Ord........................................ 10.10%
4. Tim Ord (Telecom IT Mob).................................. 9.32%
5. Fiat Ord.................................................. 5.94%
6. INA....................................................... 3.77%
7. Mediaset.................................................. 3.68%
8. San Paolo Di Torino Ord................................... 3.30%
9. Imi Istituto Mobiliare.................................... 3.23%
10. Edison Ord................................................ 2.57%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 52.56% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Italy; the largest
ten constituents comprised approximately 69.11% of the market capitalization of
the MSCI Italy; and the largest 20 constituents comprised approximately 86.65%
of the market capitalization of MSCI Italy.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Italy, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI Italy represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Telecommunications........................................ 22.66%
2. Insurance................................................. 18.86%
3. Energy Sources............................................ 15.62%
4. Banking................................................... 13.53%
5. Automobiles............................................... 7.54%
6. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 4.33%
7. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 4.24%
8. Multi-Industry............................................ 2.45%
9. Industrial Components..................................... 2.13%
10. Textiles & Apparel........................................ 1.66%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities constituting the
MSCI Italy Index as of
October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI JAPAN INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Japan Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Japan") consisted of 309 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately JPY221,108.1 billion or US$1,944 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Japan represented approximately 60.1% of the total
market capitalization in Japan on August 30, 1996.
37
<PAGE>
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Japan and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Japan represented by such constituents as of
October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Bank Tokyo-Mitsubishi..................................... 4.89%
2. Toyota Motor Corp......................................... 4.59%
3. Sumitomo Bank............................................. 2.84%
4. Fuji Bank................................................. 2.69%
5. Industrial Bank of Japan.................................. 2.61%
6. Matsushita Elect Ind'l.................................... 1.73%
7. Sakura Bank............................................... 1.70%
8. Nomura Securities Co...................................... 1.67%
9. Tokyo Electric Power Co................................... 1.60%
10. Hitachi................................................... 1.52%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 17.61% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Japan; the largest
ten constituents comprised approximately 25.83% of the market capitalization of
the MSCI Japan; and the largest 20 constituents comprised approximately 37.12%
of the market capitalization of the MSCI Japan.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Japan, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI Japan represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Banking................................................... 21.60%
2. Automobiles............................................... 6.77%
3. Machinery & Engineering................................... 4.96%
4. Appliances................................................ 4.58%
5. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 4.10%
6. Chemicals................................................. 4.08%
7. Merchandising............................................. 3.86%
8. Transportation -- Road & Rail............................. 3.79%
9. Construction -- Housing................................... 3.66%
10. Health & Personal Care.................................... 3.64%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities constituting the
MSCI Japan Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI MALAYSIA INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Malaysia Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Malaysia") consisted of 76 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately MYR356.2 billion or US$141 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Malaysia represented approximately 53.4% of the total
market capitalization of Malaysia on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Malaysia and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Malaysia represented by such constituents as
of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Telekom Malaysia.......................................... 12.50%
2. Tenaga Nasional........................................... 8.73%
3. Malayan Banking........................................... 8.02%
4. Sime Darby................................................ 5.84%
5. Resorts World............................................. 4.44%
6. United Engineers (Mal).................................... 4.22%
7. Proton.................................................... 2.43%
8. YTL Corp.................................................. 2.24%
9. Malaysia Int'l Shipping................................... 2.11%
10. Rothmans Pall Mall (Mal).................................. 2.00%
</TABLE>
38
<PAGE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 39.54% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Malaysia; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 52.53% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Malaysia and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 67.99% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Malaysia.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Malaysia, and
the approximate percentages of the MSCI Malaysia represented thereby as of
October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Multi-Industry............................................ 13.79%
2. Telecommunications........................................ 13.78%
3. Banking................................................... 12.68%
4. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 8.73%
5. Leisure & Tourism......................................... 7.11%
6. Misc. Materials & Commodities............................. 5.93%
7. Automobiles............................................... 5.71%
8. Financial Services........................................ 5.01%
9. Real Estate............................................... 3.88%
10. Building Materials & Components........................... 3.46%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities constituting the
MSCI Malaysia Index as of October 31,1996.
THE MSCI MEXICO (FREE) INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Mexico (Free) Index (with gross dividends
reinvested) (the "MSCI Mexico (Free)") consisted of 42 stocks with an aggregate
market capitalization of approximately MXN538.7 billion or US$67.6 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Mexico (Free) represented approximately 59.4% of the
total market capitalization of Mexico on August 30, 1996.
On October 31,1996, the ten largest constituents of the MSCI Mexico (Free)
and the respective approximate percentages of the MSCI Mexico (Free) represented
by such constituents as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Telmex Telefonos Mex L.................................... 16.45%
2. Kimberly-Clark Mexico A................................... 7.87%
3. Grupo Modelo C............................................ 6.29%
4. Grupo Carso............................................... 6.20%
5. Grupo Televisa Cpo........................................ 6.02%
6. Telmex Telefonos Mex A.................................... 5.56%
7. Cifra B................................................... 4.58%
8. Alfa...................................................... 3.73%
9. Empresas Moderna Acp...................................... 3.04%
10. Cemex A................................................... 2.87%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 42.83% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Mexico (Free); the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 62.61% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Mexico (Free); and the largest 20 constituents
comprised approximately 85.85% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Mexico
(Free).
39
<PAGE>
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Mexico (Free),
and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Mexico (Free) represented thereby as
of October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Telecommunications........................................ 22.01%
2. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 12.61%
3. Multi-Industry............................................ 12.13%
4. Building Materials & Components........................... 8.96%
5. Merchandising............................................. 8.95%
6. Health & Personal Care.................................... 7.87%
7. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 6.02%
8. Metals -- Non Ferrous..................................... 5.22%
9. Banking................................................... 4.98%
10. Food and Household Products............................... 4.31%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities constituting the
MSCI Mexico (Free) Index as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI NETHERLANDS INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Netherlands Index (with net dividends
reinvested) (the "MSCI Netherlands") consisted of 22 stocks with an aggregate
market capitalization of approximately NLG 420.8 billion or US$248.1 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Netherlands represented approximately 72.4% of the
total market capitalization of the Netherlands on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Netherlands and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Netherlands represented by such constituents
as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Royal Dutch Petroleum Co.................................. 35.70%
2. Unilever NV Cert.......................................... 9.81%
3. Ing Groep................................................. 9.76%
4. ABN Amro Holding.......................................... 7.51%
5. Kon. PTT Nederland........................................ 6.76%
6. Philips Electronics....................................... 4.93%
7. Elsevier.................................................. 4.45%
8. Ahold (KON.).............................................. 3.92%
9. Heineken NV............................................... 3.82%
10. Akzo Nobel................................................ 3.61%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 69.53% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Netherlands; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 90.26% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Netherlands; and the largest 20 constituents
comprised approximately 99.52% of the market capitalization of MSCI Netherlands.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Netherlands,
and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Netherlands represented thereby as
of October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Energy Sources............................................ 35.70%
2. Food & Household Products................................. 9.81%
3. Financial Services........................................ 9.76%
4. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 7.97%
5. Banking................................................... 7.51%
6. Telecommunications........................................ 6.76%
7. Appliances................................................ 4.93%
8. Merchandising............................................. 3.92%
9. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 3.82%
10. Chemicals................................................. 3.61%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI
Netherlands as of October 31, 1996.
40
<PAGE>
THE MSCI SINGAPORE (FREE) INDEX
The MSCI Singapore (Free) Index (with net dividends reinvested) (the "MSCI
Singapore (Free)") is a "free" index in that it excludes companies and share
classes that are not purchasable by foreigners. On October 31, 1996, the MSCI
Singapore (Free) consisted of 38 stocks with an aggregate market capitalization
of approximately SGD129.8 billion or US$92.1 billion. In percentage terms, the
MSCI Singapore (Free) represented approximately 67.1% of the total market
capitalization of Singapore on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Singapore (Free) and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Singapore (Free) represented by such
constituents as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Singapore Telecom......................................... 15.42%
2. OCBC Bank FGN............................................. 12.45%
3. Singapore Airlines Fgn.................................... 12.25%
4. United Overseas Bank Fgn.................................. 9.67%
5. Development Bk Sing Fgn................................... 8.97%
6. City Developments......................................... 6.76%
7. Singapore Press Hldg Fgn.................................. 6.10%
8. Keppel Corp............................................... 4.24%
9. Fraser & Neave............................................ 3.18%
10. DBS Land.................................................. 3.14%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 58.76% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Singapore (Free);
the largest ten constituents comprised approximately 82.18% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Singapore (Free); and the largest 20 constituents
comprised approximately 93.03% of the market capitalization of the MSCI
Singapore (Free).
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Singapore
(Free), and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Singapore (Free) represented
thereby as of October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Banking................................................... 31.09%
2. Telecommunications........................................ 15.42%
3. Real Estate............................................... 13.94%
4. Transportation -- Airlines................................ 12.25%
5. Multi-Industry............................................ 7.12%
6. Broadcasting & Publishing................................. 6.10%
7. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 3.18%
8. Automobiles............................................... 2.66%
9. Leisure & Tourism......................................... 1.90%
10. Machinery & Engineering................................... 1.00%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI
Singapore (Free) as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI SPAIN INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Spain Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Spain") consisted of 31 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately ESP13,823.9 billion or US$108.4 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Spain represented approximately 63.0% of the total
market capitalization of Spain on August 30, 1996.
41
<PAGE>
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Spain and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Spain represented by such constituents as of
October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Telefonica de Espana...................................... 17.40%
2. Endesa Empresa Nal Elec................................... 14.69%
3. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya...................................... 10.08%
4. Repsol.................................................... 9.04%
5. Iberdrola................................................. 9.01%
6. Banco Santander........................................... 7.57%
7. Gas Natural SDG........................................... 6.02%
8. Argentaria Corp Bancaria.................................. 4.54%
9. Banco Central Hispano..................................... 3.53%
10. Autopistas Cesa (Acesa)................................... 2.43%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 60.22% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Spain; the largest
ten constituents comprised approximately 84.31% of the market capitalization of
the MSCI Spain; and the largest 20 constituents comprised approximately 96.42%
of the market capitalization of MSCI Spain.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Spain and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI Spain represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 31.55%
2. Banking................................................... 25.72%
3. Telecommunications........................................ 17.40%
4. Energy Sources............................................ 9.04%
5. Business & Public Services................................ 4.52%
6. Construction -- Housing................................... 1.84%
7. Real Estate............................................... 1.67%
8. Insurance................................................. 1.37%
9. Beverages & Tobacco....................................... 1.36%
10. Metals -- Steel........................................... 1.29%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Spain
as of October 31,1996.
THE MSCI SWEDEN INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Sweden Index (with net dividends reinvested)
(the "MSCI Sweden") consisted of 31 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately SEK879.3 billion or US$134 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Sweden represented approximately 59.4% of the total
market capitalization of Sweden on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Sweden and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Sweden represented by such constituents as
of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Ericsson (LM) B........................................... 19.38%
2. Astra A................................................... 17.22%
3. Abb AB A (Asea A)......................................... 5.66%
4. Volvo B................................................... 4.99%
5. Hennes & Mauritz B........................................ 4.10%
6. Skanska B................................................. 4.01%
7. Astra B................................................... 3.91%
8. Svenska Handelsbk A....................................... 3.82%
9. Skand.Enskilda Banken A................................... 3.30%
10. SCA SV Cellulosa B........................................ 3.10%
</TABLE>
42
<PAGE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 51.36% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Sweden; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 69.49% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Sweden; and the largest 20 constituents comprised
approximately 90.81% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Sweden.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Sweden, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI Sweden represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Electrical & Electronic................................... 27.29%
2. Health & Personal Care.................................... 21.14%
3. Banking................................................... 7.49%
4. Automobiles............................................... 7.19%
5. Forest Products........................................... 6.23%
6. Merchandising............................................. 4.10%
7. Construction -- Housing................................... 4.01%
8. Industrial Components..................................... 3.60%
9. Appliances................................................ 3.05%
10. Chemicals................................................. 2.91%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI Sweden
as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI SWITZERLAND INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI Switzerland Index (with net dividends
reinvested) (the "MSCI Switzerland") consisted of 41 stocks with an aggregate
market capitalization of approximately CHF409.5 billion or US$325.4 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI Switzerland represented approximately 79.5% of the
total market capitalization in Switzerland on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI Switzerland and the respective
approximate percentages of the MSCI Switzerland represented by such constituents
as of October 31, 1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Roche Holding Genuss...................................... 16.40%
2. Nestle.................................................... 13.22%
3. Sandoz Namen.............................................. 12.50%
4. Ciba-Geigy Namen.......................................... 9.60%
5. Schweiz Bankgesell Inh.................................... 6.24%
6. Roche Holding Inhaber..................................... 6.06%
7. CS Holding................................................ 5.81%
8. Schweiz Rueckvers......................................... 4.84%
9. Schweiz Bankverein........................................ 4.52%
10. Zuerich Versicherung...................................... 3.84%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 57.95% of the market capitalization of the MSCI Switzerland; the
largest ten constituents comprised approximately 83.03% of the market
capitalization of the MSCI Switzerland; and the largest 20 constituents
comprised approximately 95.41% of the market capitalization of the MSCI
Switzerland.
43
<PAGE>
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI Switzerland,
and the approximate percentages of the MSCI Switzerland represented thereby as
of October 31, 1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Health & Personal Care.................................... 35.97%
2. Banking................................................... 17.89%
3. Food & Household Products................................. 13.22%
4. Chemicals................................................. 11.01%
5. Insurance................................................. 8.69%
6. Electrical & Electronic................................... 3.47%
7. Business & Public Services................................ 2.77%
8. Building Materials & Components........................... 1.87%
9. Multi-Industry............................................ 1.37%
10. Recreation -- Other....................................... 1.34%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI
Switzerland as of October 31, 1996.
THE MSCI UNITED KINGDOM INDEX
On October 31, 1996, the MSCI United Kingdom Index (with net dividends
reinvested) (the "MSCI UK") consisted of 137 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of approximately GPB615.8 billion or US$1,002.8 billion. In
percentage terms, the MSCI UK represented approximately 64.5% of the aggregate
capitalization of the United Kingdom markets on August 30, 1996.
The ten largest constituents of the MSCI UK and the respective approximate
percentages of the MSCI UK represented by such constituents as of October 31,
1996 were, in order:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. British Petroleum......................................... 6.04%
2. Glaxo Wellcome............................................ 5.49%
3. HSBC Holdings (HKD 10).................................... 3.66%
4. British Telecom........................................... 3.63%
5. Smithkline Beecham........................................ 3.39%
6. Lloyds TSB Group.......................................... 3.28%
7. Zeneca Group.............................................. 2.57%
8. Barclays.................................................. 2.40%
9. Marks & Spencer........................................... 2.36%
10. BAT Industries............................................ 2.15%
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the largest five constituents together comprised
approximately 22.21% of the market capitalization of the MSCI UK; the largest
ten constituents comprised approximately 34.97% of the market capitalization of
the MSCI UK; and the largest 20 constituents comprised approximately 52.06% of
the market capitalization of MSCI UK.
The ten most highly represented industry sectors in the MSCI UK, and the
approximate percentages of the MSCI UK represented thereby as of October 31,
1996 were:
<TABLE>
<C> <S> <C>
1. Banking................................................... 11.81%
2. Health & Personal Care.................................... 11.45%
3. Merchandising............................................. 8.79%
4. Multi-Industry............................................ 6.93%
5. Energy Sources............................................ 6.81%
6. Telecommunications........................................ 6.58%
7. Food & Household Products................................. 4.56%
8. Insurance................................................. 4.41%
9. Business & Public Services................................ 4.07%
10. Utilities -- Electrical & Gas............................. 3.92%
</TABLE>
Appendix A hereto contains a complete list of the securities in the MSCI UK as
of October 31, 1996.
44
<PAGE>
REGIONAL INDEX REPLICATIONS
The MSCI single-country indices effectively serve as components of various
MSCI regional and international (i.e., multi-country) indices. For example the
MSCI EAFE Index -- covering European, Australasian and the Far Eastern markets
- -- is comprised of a weighted allocation of the MSCI Indices for Japan (34.54%),
the United Kingdom (17.71%), Germany (8.10%), France (6.71%), Switzerland
(5.65%), Netherlands (4.50%), Hong Kong (3.78%), Singapore (1.74%), Belgium
(1.17%), Malaysia (2.55%), Australia (2.89%), Spain (2.04%), Italy (3.01%),
Sweden (2.48%), Denmark (0.84%), Finland (0.65%), Norway (0.52%), New Zealand
(0.41%), Austria (0.41%) and Ireland (0.33%). The weightings shown
parenthetically are based on the EAFE Index as of December 5, 1996.
Investors may purchase WEBS of different WEBS Index Series of the Fund in
various proportions for the purpose of achieving regional or international
market exposure approximating that of certain of the MSCI regional and
international indices. For example, assuming the estimated values per Creation
Unit listed in the Fund's prospectus under the heading "Creation Units", an
investor might approximate the representation and weighting of the MSCI EAFE
Index by investing in the numbers of WEBS specified for the following 15 WEBS
Index Series, in order to achieve the basket weightings listed below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF % OF VALUE
WEBS INDEX SERIES WEBS OF BASKET
- ------------------------------ ---------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Japan 25,800 34.88%
United Kingdom 13,000 18.74%
Germany 5,900 8.35%
France 5,000 6.88%
Switzerland 5,000 5.82%
Netherlands 2,500 4.66%
Hong Kong 2,500 3.81%
Australia 2,800 2.94%
Malaysia 1,800 2.61%
Italy 2,200 3.13%
Sweden 1,500 2.55%
Spain 1,300 2.17%
Singapore (Free) 1,500 1.82%
Belgium 800 1.21%
Austria 400 0.43%
</TABLE>
The total cost of the above basket of WEBS, again using the values per
Creation Unit in the Prospectus, would be $1,000,000. It should be noted that
the WEBS basket set forth above does not include representation of five
countries included in the MSCI EAFE Index, representing 2.77% of the value of
such index on December 16, 1996.
EXCHANGE LISTING AND TRADING
The WEBS of each WEBS Index Series have been listed for trading on the AMEX.
The AMEX has approved modifications to its Rules to permit the listing of WEBS.
The non-redeemable WEBS trade on the AMEX at prices that may differ to some
degree from their net asset value. See "Special Considerations and Risks" and
"Determining Net Asset Value". There can be no assurance that the requirements
of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS of any Index Series will
continue to be met. The AMEX may remove the WEBS of a WEBS Index Series from
listing if (1) following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the
commencement of trading of a WEBS Index Series, there are fewer than 50
beneficial holders of the WEBS for 30 or more consecutive trading days, (2) the
value of the underlying index or portfolio of securities on which such WEBS
Index Series is based is no longer calculated or available or (3) such other
event shall occur or condition exist that, in the opinion of the AMEX, makes
further dealings on the AMEX inadvisable. In addition, the AMEX will remove the
shares from listing and trading upon termination of the Fund.
45
<PAGE>
As in the case of other stocks traded on the AMEX, the brokers' commission
on transactions will be based on negotiated commission rates at customary levels
for retail customers and rates which range between $.015 to $.12 per share for
institutions and high net worth individuals.
In order to provide current WEBS pricing information, the AMEX disseminates
through the facilities of the Consolidated Tape Association an updated
"indicative optimized portfolio value" ("IOPV") for each WEBS Index Series as
calculated by Bloomberg, L.P ("Bloomberg"). The Fund is not involved in or
responsible for any aspect of the calculation or dissemination of the IOPVs, and
makes no warranty as to the accuracy of the IOPVs. IOPVs are disseminated on a
per WEBS Index Series basis every 15 seconds during regular AMEX trading hours
of 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time.
The IOPV has an equity securities value component and a cash component. The
equity securities values included in the IOPV are the values of the Deposit
Securities for each WEBS Index Series. While the IOPV reflects the current
market value of the Deposit Securities required to be deposited in connection
with the purchase of a Creation Unit of WEBS, it does not necessarily reflect
the precise composition of the current portfolio of securities held by the Fund
for each WEBS Index Series at a particular point in time, because the current
portfolio of a WEBS Index Series may include securities that are not a part of
the current Deposit Securities. Therefore, the IOPV on a per WEBS Index Series
basis disseminated during AMEX trading hours should not be viewed as a real time
update of the net asset value per WEBS share of the Fund, which is calculated
only once a day. It is possible that the value of the portfolio of securities
held by the Fund for a particular WEBS Index Series may diverge from the
applicable IOPV during any trading day. In such case, the IOPV would not
precisely reflect the value of a WEBS Index Series' portfolio.
The equity securities included in the IOPV reflect the same market
capitalization weighting as the Deposit Securities of the particular WEBS Index
Series. In addition to the equity component described in the preceding
paragraph, the IOPV for each WEBS Index Series includes a cash component
consisting of estimated accrued dividend and other income, less expenses. Each
IOPV also reflects changes in currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar
and the applicable home foreign currency. For the WEBS Index Series of
Australia, Japan, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore (Free), there is no overlap
in trading hours between the foreign market and the AMEX. Therefore, for each of
these WEBS Index Series, Bloomberg utilizes closing prices (in applicable
foreign currency prices) in the foreign market for securities in the WEBS Index
Series portfolio, and converts the price to U.S. dollars. This value is updated
every 15 seconds during AMEX trading hours to reflect changes in currency
exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the applicable foreign currency. For
WEBS Index Series which have trading hours overlapping regular AMEX trading
hours, Bloomberg updates the applicable IOPV every 15 seconds to reflect price
changes in the principal foreign market, and converts such prices into U.S.
dollars based on the current currency exchange rate. When the foreign market is
closed but the AMEX is open, the IOPV is updated every 15 seconds to reflect
changes in currency exchange rates after the foreign market closes.
46
<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF THE FUND
The Board has responsibility for the overall management and operations of
the Fund, including general supervision of the duties performed by the Adviser
and other service providers. The Board currently consists of five Directors.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS POSITION WITH THE FUND DURING PAST FIVE YEARS
- ------------------------------------------- --------------------------- ----------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Nathan Most* Director, President and Senior Vice President (retired) (from
P.O. Box 193 Chairman of the Board 1992 to 1996) and Vice President (from
Burlingame, CA 94011-0193 1980 to 1992) of the American Stock
Age 82 Exchange, Inc.; President and CEO
(retired) (from 1982 to 1996) of AMEX
Commodities Corporation.
John B. Carroll Director Vice President of Investment Management
President (since 1984) of GTE Corporation;
GTE Investment Management Corp. President (since 1984) of GTE Investment
One Stamford Forum Management Corporation; Trustee and
Stamford, CT 06904 Member of the Executive Committee (since
Age 61 1991) of The Common Fund; Member of the
Investment Committee (since 1988) of the
TWA Pilots Annuity Trust Fund; Vice
Chairman and Executive Committee Member
(since 1992) of the Committee on
Investment of Employee Benefit Assets of
the Financial Executive Institute; and
Member (since 1986) of the Pension
Advisory Committee of the New York Stock
Exchange.
Timothy A. Hultquist Director Advisory Director (since 1995) and
Advisory Director Managing Director (from 1985 to 1995) of
Morgan Stanley & Co. Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated;
Incorporated Chairman (since 1994) and Trustee (since
1251 Avenue of the Americas 1985) of the Board of Trustees of
23rd Floor Macalester College; Trustee (since 1995)
New York, NY 10020 of the Russell Sage Foundation; Member
Age 46 (since 1994) of Wilmer Eye Institute
Advisory Counsel at John Hopkins Univer-
sity Hospital; President (since 1992) of
the Hultquist Foundation.
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
* "Interested" director, as defined in the 1940 Act, by reason of his position
as President of the Fund.
47
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS POSITION WITH THE FUND DURING PAST FIVE YEARS
- ---------------------------------- ---------------------- --------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Lloyd N. Morrisett Director President (since 1969) of The
President John and Mary R. Markle Foun-
The Markle Foundation dation; Member (since 1968) of
75 Rockefeller Plaza the Council on Foreign
Suite 1800 Relations; Member (since 1970)
New York, NY 10099 of the American Association for
Age 67 the Advancement of Science;
Chairman (since 1970) of the
Children's Television Workshop;
Director (since 1976) of Haskins
Laboratories, Inc.; Director
(since 1990) of The Multimedia
Corporation; Director (since
1992) of Classroom, Inc.;
Director (since 1994) of In-
fonautics Corporation; Member of
Board of Overseers (since 1995)
of Dartmouth School of Medicine;
Director (since 1995) of Smith
College-Center for the Study of
Social and Political Change.
Trustee (from 1973 to 1983, from
1985 to 1995, and since 1996) of
RAND.
W. Allen Reed Director President and CEO and Director
President (since 1994) of General Motors
General Motors Investment Investment Management Corpo-
Management Corp. ration; Vice President and Trea-
767 Fifth Avenue surer (from 1991 to 1994) of
New York, NY 10153 Hughes Electronics; President
Age 49 (from 1984 to 1991) of Hughes
Investment Management Company;
Director (since 1995) of Taub-
man Centers, Inc. (a real estate
investment trust); Director
(since 1992) of FLIR Systems (an
imaging technology company);
Director (since 1994) of General
Motors Acceptance Corporation;
Director (since 1994) of General
Motors Insurance Corporation;
Director (since 1995) of Equity
Fund of Latin America; Director
(since 1995) of the Common-
wealth Equity Fund; Member
(since 1994) of the Pension Man-
agers Advisory Committee of the
New York Stock Exchange; Member
(since 1995) of the New York
State Retirement System Adviso-
ry Board; Chairman (since 1995)
of the Investment Advisory Com-
mittee of Howard Hughes Medical
Institute.
</TABLE>
48
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS POSITION WITH THE FUND DURING PAST FIVE YEARS
- ---------------------------------- ---------------------- --------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Stephen M. Wynne Treasurer Executive Vice President and
Executive Vice President Chief Accounting Officer (since
PFPC Inc. 1993) and Senior Vice President
400 Bellevue Parkway and Chief Accounting Officer
Wilmington, DE 19809 (from 1991 to 1993) of PFPC
Age 41 Inc.; Executive Vice President
(since 1995) of PFPC Interna-
tional; Vice President and Chief
Accounting Officer (since 1987)
of PNC Institutional Management
Corp.
R. Sheldon Johnson Secretary Managing Director, Institutional
Managing Director Equity Department, Morgan
Morgan Stanley & Co. Stanley & Co. Incorporated.
Incorporated
1585 Broadway
New York, NY 10036
Age 50
Stephen C. Beach Assistant Treasurer Senior Vice President -- Product
Senior Vice President and Client Development (since
PFPC Inc. 1995) and Managing Counsel (from
400 Bellevue Parkway 1990 to 1994) of PFPC Inc.
Wilmington, DE 19809
Age 43
Joanne M. Bennick Assistant Treasurer Vice President and Director of
Vice President Quality Assurance (since 1993)
PFPC Inc. of PFPC Inc.; Audit Manager
103 Bellevue Parkway (from 1990 to 1993) and Audit
Wilmington, DE 19809 Associate (from 1985 to 1990) of
Age 37 Coopers & Lybrand.
Gary M. Gardner Assistant Secretary Chief Counsel (since 1994) of
Chief Counsel PFPC Inc.; Associate General
PFPC Inc. Counsel (from 1992 to 1994) of
400 Bellevue Parkway The Boston Company, Inc.; Gen-
Wilmington, DE 19809 eral Counsel (from 1986 to 1992)
Age 45 of SunAmerica Asset Management
inc.
Kathleen L. Thren Assistant Secretary Counsel of PNC Bank, N.A. (since
Counsel 1996); Attorney (from 1993 to
PFPC Inc. 1996) of Drinker Biddle & Reath.
400 Bellevue Parkway
Wilmington, DE 19809
Age 32
</TABLE>
49
<PAGE>
REMUNERATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
The following table sets forth the remuneration of Directors and officers of
the Fund.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PENSION OR
RETIREMENT TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM
BENEFITS ACCRUED ESTIMATED ANNUAL REGISTRANT AND FUND
NAME OF PERSON, AGGREGATE COMPENSATION AS PART OF FUND BENEFITS UPON COMPLEX PAID TO
POSITION FROM REGISTRANT EXPENSES RETIREMENT DIRECTORS
- ----------------------- ----------------------- ------------------ ---------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Nathan Most, Director, $20,000 per annum, NONE NONE $20,000 per annum
President and Chairman $5,000 per Directors' $5,000 per Directors'
of the Board(1) meeting attended meeting attended
John B. Carroll, $20,000 per annum, NONE NONE $20,000 per annum
Director(1) $5,000 per Directors' $5,000 per Directors'
meeting attended meeting attended
Timothy A. Hultquist, $20,000 per annum, NONE NONE $20,000 per annum
Director(1) $5,000 per Directors' $5,000 per Directors'
meeting attended meeting attended
Lloyd N. Morrisett, $20,000 per annum, NONE NONE $20,000 per annum
Director(1) $5,000 per Directors' $5,000 per Directors'
meeting attended meeting attended
W. Allen Reed, $20,000 per annum, NONE NONE $20,000 per annum
Director(1) $5,000 per Directors' $5,000 per Directors'
meeting attended meeting attended
</TABLE>
No officer of the Fund is entitled to any compensation, and no officer or
Director is entitled to any pension or retirement benefits, from the Fund.
(1) It is anticipated that in the first full fiscal year of operation (August
31, 1996 - August 31, 1997) each Director of the Fund will receive $40,000
in aggregate compensation.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY, MANAGEMENT,
ADMINISTRATIVE AND DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with
the sections in the Prospectus entitled "Management of the Fund."
THE INVESTMENT ADVISER
Barclays Global Fund Advisors (the "Adviser"), formerly BZW Barclays Global
Fund Advisors, acts as investment adviser to the Fund and, subject to the
supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of each
WEBS Index Series. The Adviser is a California corporation indirectly owned by
Barclays Bank PLC, and is registered as an investment adviser under the
Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Adviser and its parent, Barclays Global
Investors, N.A., are responsible for managing or providing investment advice for
assets aggregating in excess of $335 billion as of October 31, 1996.
The Adviser serves as investment adviser to each WEBS Index Series pursuant
to an Investment Management Agreement (the "Management Agreement") between the
Fund and the Adviser. Under the Management Agreement, the Adviser, subject to
the supervision of the Fund's Board and in conformity with the stated investment
policies of each WEBS Index Series, manages the investment of each WEBS Index
Series' assets. The Adviser may enter into subadvisory agreements with
additional investment advisers to act as subadvisers with respect to particular
WEBS Index Series. The Adviser will pay subadvisers, if any, out of the fees
received by the Adviser. The Adviser is responsible for placing purchase and
sale orders and providing continuous supervision of the investment portfolio of
each WEBS Index Series. For its investment management services to each WEBS
Index Series the Adviser is paid management fees equal to each WEBS Index
Series' allocable portion of: .27% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the
Fund less than or equal to $1.7 billion, plus .15% per annum of the aggregate
net assets of the Fund between $1.7 billion and $7 billion, plus .12% per annum
of the aggregate net assets of the Fund between $7 billion and $10 billion, plus
.08% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund in excess of $10 billion.
The management fees are accrued daily and
50
<PAGE>
paid by the Fund as soon as practical after the last day of each calendar
quarter. The Fund's management fees, like those paid by most index funds, are
lower than those paid by many actively managed funds. One reason for the
difference in fee levels is that passive management requires fewer investment,
research and trading decisions, thereby justifying lower fees. Pursuant to the
Management Agreement, the Adviser is not liable for any error of judgment or
mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund, and the Fund has agreed to
indemnify the Adviser for certain liabilities, including certain liabilities
arising under the federal securities laws, unless such loss or liability results
from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of
its duties or the reckless disregard of its obligations and duties. The
Management Agreement continues in effect for two years from its effective date,
and thereafter is subject to annual approval by (1) the Fund's Board or (2) vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act)
of the Fund, provided that in either event the continuance also is approved by a
majority of the Fund's Board who are not interested persons (as defined in the
1940 Act) of the Fund by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose
of voting on such approval. The Management Agreement is terminable without
penalty, on 60 days' notice, by the Fund's Board or by vote of the holders of a
majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting
securities. The Management Agreement is also terminable upon 60 days' notice by
the Adviser and will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as
defined in the 1940 Act).
For the period ended August 31, 1996, the Fund paid fees to the Adviser for
its advisory service as follows: Australia WEBS Index Series $10,350; Austria
WEBS Index Series $9,748; Belgium WEBS Index Series $2,045; Canada WEBS Index
Series $13,800; France WEBS Index Series $14,503; Germany WEBS Index Series
$16,309; Hong Kong WEBS Index Series $7,597; Italy WEBS Index Series $25,345;
Japan WEBS Index Series $105,230; Malaysia WEBS Index Series $7,550; Mexico
(Free) WEBS Index Series $5,552; Netherlands WEBS Index Series $5,510; Singapore
(Free) WEBS Index Series $8,578; Spain WEBS Index Series $6,162; Sweden WEBS
Index Series $4,522; Switzerland WEBS Index Series $8,392; and United Kingdom
WEBS Index Series $14,599.
THE ADMINISTRATOR
PFPC Inc. (the "Administrator"), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of PNC
Bank Corp., acts as administration and accounting agent of the Fund pursuant to
an Administration and Accounting Services Agreement with the Fund and is
responsible for certain clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services, except
those to be performed by the Adviser, by Morgan Stanley Trust Company ("MSTC")
in its capacity as Custodian, or by PNC Bank, N.A. ("PNC") in its capacity as
Transfer Agent. The Administrator has no role in determining the investment
policies of the Fund or which securities are to be purchased or sold by the
Fund. The principal business address of the Administrator is 400 Bellevue
Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19809.
For the administrative and fund accounting services the Administrator
provides to the Fund, PFPC is paid aggregate fees equal to each WEBS Index
Series' allocable portion of: .10% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the
Fund less than $3 billion, plus .09% per annum of the aggregate net assets of
the Fund between $3 billion and $5 billion, plus .08% per annum of the aggregate
net assets of the Fund between $5 billion and $7.5 billion, plus .065% per annum
of the aggregate net assets of the Fund between $7.5 billion and $10 billion,
plus .05% per annum of the aggregate net assets of the Fund in excess of $10
billion. The Administrator may from time to time waive all or a portion of its
fees. For the first year of the Fund's operations, the Administrator has agreed
to waive a portion of its fees. During the first year of the Fund's operations,
the Administrator will charge the Fund an administrative and accounting service
fee equal to $4,167 per month for each WEBS Index Series, plus .05% of aggregate
average daily net assets of all WEBS Index Series in excess of $850 million per
annum. As of the date hereof, no fee amounts have been waived since the Fund has
not reached the asset levels at which such waiver would take effect. The
Administrator will charge an annual minimum fee of $850,000 for year one,
$1,275,000 for year two, and $1,700,000 for year three and thereafter (based on
an annual minimum of $50,000, $75,000 and $100,000 per portfolio, respectively).
Pursuant to a fee deferral arrangement entered into on May 30, 1996, the
Administrator's
51
<PAGE>
minimum fees are subject to a maximum annual rate of .17% of average daily net
assets. Any resulting shortfall between the above required minimums and the
asset based fee of .17% will be recouped as the WEBS Index Series' asset levels
reach thresholds to permit such recovery of fees. Once the aggregate minimum
fees are recouped, the standard fee schedule will apply, subject to the maximum
charge of .17% of average daily net assets and future recoupment of any future
deferred minimum fees. The deferred amount resulting from time to time from the
arrangements described above ($367,076 as of December 31, 1996) is a contingent
liability of the Fund, and all or a portion thereof will be accrued as an
expense of the Fund at such time (if ever) when net assets reach such a level
that repayment of the deferred amount or a portion thereof is both probable and
reasonably estimable.
If the Administrator is terminated within the first three years of the
Fund's operations, except if removed (i) for failing to substantially perform to
the satisfaction of the Board its material obligations under the Agreement or
(ii) in order to comply with federal or state law, the Fund shall pay any
reasonable costs of time and material associated with the deconversion and the
Administrator will recoup 100% of any fees waived during the first year of
operations. The Fund understands that PFPC would seek repayment of any deferred
fees upon its termination (other than for the reasons specified in (i) or (ii)
above). Pursuant to the Administration and Accounting Services Agreement, the
Administrator is liable for damages arising of its failure to perform its duties
due to willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of
such duties. The Fund will indemnify the Administrator for certain liabilities,
including certain liabilities arising under federal securities laws, except for
liabilities arising out of the Administrator's willful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties.
For the period ended August 31, 1996, the Fund paid fees to the
Administrator for its administrative services as follows: Australia WEBS Index
Series $6,524; Austria WEBS Index Series $6,123; Belgium WEBS Index Series
$1,289; Canada WEBS Index Series $8,682; France WEBS Index Series $9,081;
Germany WEBS Index Series $10,284; Hong Kong WEBS Index Series $4,793; Italy
WEBS Index Series $15,927; Japan WEBS Index Series $66,484; Malaysia WEBS Index
Series $4,761; Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series $3,503; Netherlands WEBS Index
Series $3,475; Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series $5,412; Spain WEBS Index
Series $3,858; Sweden WEBS Index Series $2,878; Switzerland WEBS Index Series
$5,251; and United Kingdom WEBS Index Series $9,200.
THE DISTRIBUTOR
Funds Distributor, Inc. (the "Distributor") is the principal underwriter and
distributor of WEBS. Its address is 60 State Street, Suite 1300, Boston, MA
02109, and investor information can be obtained by calling 1-800-810-WEBS(9327).
The Distributor has entered into an agreement with the Fund which will continue
for two years from its effective date, and which is renewable annually
thereafter (the "Distribution Agreement"), pursuant to which it distributes Fund
shares. WEBS will be continuously offered for sale by the Fund through the
Distributor only in Creation Units, as described below under "Purchase and
Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units." WEBS in less than Creation Units are not
distributed by the Distributor. The Distributor also acts as agent for the Fund.
The Distributor will deliver a prospectus to persons purchasing WEBS in Creation
Units and will maintain records of both orders placed with it and confirmations
of acceptance furnished by it. The Distributor is a broker-dealer registered
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and a member of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. Funds Distributor, Inc., as
Distributor, has no role in determining the investment policies of the Fund or
which securities are to be purchased or sold by the Fund.
To compensate the Distributor for the distribution-related services it
provides, and broker-dealers authorized by the Distributor for distribution
services they provide, the Fund has adopted a distribution plan (the "Plan")
pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Fund's Plan, for each WEBS
Index Series the Distributor is entitled to receive a distribution fee, accrued
daily and paid monthly, calculated with respect to each WEBS Index Series at the
annual rate of up to 25% of the average daily net assets of such WEBS Index
Series. From time to time the Distributor may waive all or a portion of these
fees.
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The Plan is designed to enable the Distributor to be compensated by the Fund
for distribution services provided by it with respect to each WEBS Index Series.
Payments under the Plan are not tied exclusively to the distribution expenses
actually incurred by the Distributor. The Board, including a majority of the
Directors who are not interested persons of the Fund and who have no direct or
indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plan ("Independent
Directors"), evaluate the appropriateness of the Plan and its payment terms on a
continuing basis and in doing so consider all relevant factors, including
expenses borne by the Distributor in the current year and in prior years and
amounts received under the Plan.
Under its terms, the Plan remains in effect from year to year, provided such
continuance is approved annually by vote of the Board, including a majority of
the Independent Directors. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially
the amount to be spent for the services provided by the Distributor without
approval by the shareholders of the WEBS Index Series of the Fund to which the
Plan applies, and all material amendments of the Plan also require Board
approval. The Plan may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by vote of a
majority of the Independent Directors, or, with respect to any WEBS Index Series
of the Fund, by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of
such WEBS Index Series of the Fund (as such vote is defined in the 1940 Act). If
a Plan is terminated (or not renewed) with respect to any one or more WEBS Index
Series of the Fund, it may continue in effect with respect to any WEBS Index
Series of the Fund as to which it has not been terminated (or has been renewed).
Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Distributor will provide the Board
periodic reports of any amounts expended under the Plan and the purpose for
which such expenditures were made.
The Distributor may also enter into sales and investor services agreements
with broker-dealers or other persons that are DTC Participants (as defined
below) to provide distribution assistance, including broker-dealer and
shareholder support and educational and promotional services. Under the terms of
most sales and investor services agreements, the Distributor will pay such
broker-dealers or other persons, out of 12b-1 fees received from the WEBS Index
Series, at the annual rate of .05 of 1% of the average daily net asset value of
WEBS held through DTC for the account of such DTC Participant. PaineWebber Inc.
and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated are party to sales and investor services
agreements that provide for fees ranging from .03 to .05 of 1% of the average
daily net asset value of WEBS in excess of $250 million that are not held for
their respective accounts at DTC, and for payments ranging from .04 to .07 of 1%
of the average daily net asset value of WEBS held through DTC for their
respective accounts.
During the period from commencement of operations through August 30, 1996,
the Distributor received the following amounts pursuant to the Plan with respect
to each WEBS Index Series, respectively: Australia WEBS Index Series, $9,583.13:
Austria WEBS Index Series, $9,026.04; Belgium WEBS Index Series, $1,893.69;
Canada WEBS Index Series, $12,780.00; France WEBS Index Series, $13,429.09;
Germany WEBS Index Series, $15,100.34; Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, $7,034.13;
Italy WEBS Index Series, $23,467.69; Japan WEBS Index Series, $97,435.42;
Malaysia WEBS Index Series, $6,990.22; Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series,
$5,140.57; Netherlands WEBS Index Series, $5,102.06; Singapore Index (Free) WEBS
Index Series, $7,942.98; Spain WEBS Index Series, $5,706.09; Sweden WEBS Index
Series, $4,187.36; Switzerland WEBS Index Series, $7,770.29; and United Kingdom
WEBS Index Series, $13,517.57.
In the aggregate, the Distributor received $246,106.67 from the WEBS Index
Series pursuant to the Plan, retaining $19,688.53 and paying out the remainder
to unaffiliated third parties. The retained amount represents .02% of the
average daily net assets of the WEBS Index Series, which the Distributor
receives for monitoring the purchase and redemption of Creation Units, as
described below under the "Purchase and Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units" and
"Redemption of WEBS in Creation Units." During the period, the Distributor paid
$184,745.53, $26,779.36 and $14,893.25 for (1) postage and other expenses of
distributing prospectuses, statements of additional information and other
marketing materials, (2) advertising-related expenses and (3) compensation to
broker-dealers for distribution assistance, respectively, which amounts were
allocated to each WEBS Index Series based on its average daily net assets for
the period.
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The Distribution Agreement provides that it may be terminated at any time,
without the payment of any penalty, (i) by vote of a majority of the Directors
who are not interested persons of the Fund (as defined under the 1940 Act) or
(ii) by vote of a majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the outstanding
voting securities of the relevant WEBS Index Series, on at least 60 days'
written notice to the Distributor. The Distribution Agreement is also terminable
upon 60 days' notice by the Distributor and will terminate automatically in the
event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act).
THE CUSTODIAN AND LENDING AGENT
MSTC serves as the Custodian for the cash and portfolio securities of each
WEBS Index Series of the Fund pursuant to a Custodian Agreement between MSTC and
the Fund. MSTC also serves as Lending Agent of the portfolio securities of each
WEBS Index Series. As Lending Agent, MSTC causes the delivery of loaned
securities from the Fund to borrowers, arranges for the return of loaned
securities to the Fund at the termination of the loans, requests deposit of
collateral, monitors daily the value of the loaned securities and collateral,
requests that borrowers add to the collateral when required by the loan
agreements, and provides recordkeeping and accounting services necessary for the
operation of the program. MSTC, as Custodian and Lending Agent, has no role in
determining the investment policies of the Fund or which securities are to be
purchased or sold by the Fund. The principal business address of MSTC is One
Pierrepont Plaza, Brooklyn, New York.
For its custody services to each WEBS Index Series, MSTC will be paid per
annum fees based on the aggregate net assets of the WEBS Index Series as
follows: Australia WEBS Index Series (.10%); Austria WEBS Index Series (.10%);
Belgium WEBS Index Series (.10%); Canada WEBS Index Series (.07%); France WEBS
Index Series (.11%); Germany WEBS Index Series (.10%); Hong Kong WEBS Index
Series (.12%); Italy WEBS Index Series (.09%); Japan WEBS Index Series (.07%);
Malaysia WEBS Index Series (.13%); Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series (.25%);
Netherlands WEBS Index Series (.10%); Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series (.10%);
Spain WEBS Index Series (.10%); Sweden WEBS Index Series (.10%); Switzerland
WEBS Index Series (.10%); and United Kingdom WEBS Index Series (.08%). As
remuneration for its services in connection with lending portfolio securities of
the WEBS Index Series, MSTC is paid by the Fund, in respect of each WEBS Index
Series, 50% of the net investment income earned on the collateral for securities
loaned.
TRANSFER AGENT
PNC (the "Transfer Agent"), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of PNC Bank
Corp., provides transfer agency services pursuant to an agreement with the Fund.
The Transfer Agent has no role in determining the investment policies of the
Fund or which securities are to be purchased or sold by the Fund. The principal
business address of the Transfer Agent is Broad and Chestnut Streets,
Philadelphia, PA 19110.
ADDITIONAL EXPENSES
In addition to the fees described above, the Fund is responsible for the
payment of expenses that include, among other things, organizational expenses,
compensation of the Directors of the Fund, reimbursement of out-of-pocket
expenses incurred by the Administrator, exchange listing fees, license fees,
brokerage costs, legal and audit fees, and litigation and extraordinary
expenses. For the use of the relevant MSCI Index, each WEBS Index Series pays a
license fee to Morgan Stanley equal to .03% per annum of the aggregate net
assets of the WEBS Index Series.
BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS
When selecting brokers and dealers to handle the purchase and sale of
portfolio securities, the Adviser looks for prompt execution of the order at a
favorable price. Generally, the Adviser works with recognized dealers in these
securities, except when a better price and execution of the order can be
obtained elsewhere. The Fund will not deal with affiliates in principal
transactions unless permitted by exemptive order or applicable rule or
regulation. Since the investment objective of each WEBS Index Series is
investment performance that corresponds to that of an index, the Adviser does
not intend to select brokers and dealers for the purpose of receiving research
services in addition to a favorable price and prompt execution either from that
broker or an unaffiliated third party.
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Subject to allocating brokerage to receive a favorable price and prompt
execution, the Adviser may select brokers who are willing to provide payments to
third party service suppliers to a WEBS Index Series, to reduce expenses of the
WEBS Index Series.
The Adviser assumes general supervision over placing orders on behalf of the
Fund for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities. If purchases or sales of
portfolio securities of the Fund and one or more other investment companies or
clients supervised by the Adviser are considered at or about the same time,
transactions in such securities are allocated among the several investment
companies and clients in a manner deemed equitable to all by the Adviser, taking
into account the sizes of such other investment companies and clients and the
amount of securities to be purchased or sold. In some cases this procedure could
have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the security so far as the
Fund is concerned. However, in other cases it is possible that the ability to
participate in volume transactions and to negotiate lower brokerage commissions
will be beneficial to the Fund. The primary consideration is prompt execution of
orders at the most favorable net price. Portfolio turnover may vary from year to
year, as well as within a year. High turnover rates are likely to result in
comparatively greater brokerage expenses. The portfolio turnover rate for each
WEBS Index Series is expected to be under 50%. See "Implementation of Policies"
in the Prospectus. The overall reasonableness of brokerage commissions is
evaluated by the Adviser based upon its knowledge of available information as to
the general level of commissions paid by other institutional investors for
comparable services.
BOOK ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM
DTC acts as securities depositary for the WEBS. WEBS of each WEBS Index
Series are represented by global securities registered in the name of DTC or its
nominee and deposited with, or on behalf of, DTC. Except as provided below,
certificates will not be issued for WEBS.
DTC has advised the Fund as follows: it is a limited-purpose trust company
organized under the laws of the State of New York, a member of the Federal
Reserve System, a "clearing corporation" within the meaning of the New York
Uniform Commercial Code, and a "clearing agency" registered pursuant to the
provisions of Section 17A of the Exchange Act. DTC was created to hold
securities of its participants (the "DTC Participants") and to facilitate the
clearance and settlement of securities transactions among the DTC Participants
in such securities through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of the DTC
Participants, thereby eliminating the need for physical movement of securities
certificates. DTC Participants include securities brokers and dealers, banks,
trust companies, clearing corporations and certain other organizations, some of
whom (and/or their representatives) own DTC. More specifically, DTC is owned by
a number of its DTC Participants and by the New York Stock Exchange, Inc., the
AMEX and the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. Access to the DTC
system is also available to others such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust
companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a DTC
Participant, either directly or indirectly (the "Indirect Participants"). DTC
agrees with and represents to its Participants that it will administer its
book-entry system in accordance with its rules and by-laws and requirements of
law.
Beneficial ownership of WEBS is limited to DTC Participants, Indirect
Participants and persons holding interests through DTC Participants and Indirect
Participants. Ownership of beneficial interests in WEBS (owners of such
beneficial interests are referred to herein as "Beneficial Owners") is shown on,
and the transfer of ownership is effected only through, records maintained by
DTC (with respect to DTC Participants) and on the records of DTC Participants
(with respect to Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners that are not DTC
Participants). Beneficial Owners will receive from or through the DTC
Participant a written confirmation relating to their purchase of WEBS. The laws
of some jurisdictions may require that certain purchasers of securities take
physical delivery of such securities in definitive form. Such laws may impair
the ability of certain investors to acquire beneficial interests in WEBS.
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Beneficial Owners of WEBS are not entitled to have WEBS registered in their
names, will not receive or be entitled to receive physical delivery of
certificates in definitive form and are not considered the registered holder
thereof. Accordingly, each Beneficial Owner must rely on the procedures of DTC,
the DTC Participant and any Indirect Participant through which such Beneficial
Owner holds its interests, to exercise any rights of a holder of WEBS. The Fund
understands that under existing industry practice, in the event the Fund
requests any action of holders of WEBS, or a Beneficial Owner desires to take
any action that DTC, as the record owner of all outstanding WEBS, is entitled to
take, DTC would authorize the DTC Participants to take such action and that the
DTC Participants would authorize the Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners
acting through such DTC Participants to take such action and would otherwise act
upon the instructions of Beneficial Owners owning through them. As described
above, the Fund recognizes DTC or its nominee as the owner of all WEBS for all
purposes. Conveyance of all notices, statements and other communications to
Beneficial Owners is effected as follows. Pursuant to the Depositary Agreement
between the Fund and DTC, DTC is required to make available to the Fund upon
request and for a fee to be charged to the Fund a listing of the WEBS holdings
of each DTC Participant. The Fund shall inquire of each such DTC Participant as
to the number of Beneficial Owners holding WEBS, directly or indirectly, through
such DTC Participant. The Fund shall provide each such DTC Participant with
copies of such notice, statement or other communication, in such form, number
and at such place as such DTC Participant may reasonably request, in order that
such notice, statement or communication may be transmitted by such DTC
Participant, directly or indirectly, to such Beneficial Owners. In addition, the
Fund shall pay to each such DTC Participant a fair and reasonable amount as
reimbursement for the expenses attendant to such transmittal, all subject to
applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.
WEBS distributions shall be made to DTC or its nominee, Cede & Co., as the
registered holder of all WEBS. DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any such
distributions, shall credit immediately DTC Participants' accounts with payments
in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in WEBS as
shown on the records of DTC or its nominee. Payments by DTC Participants to
Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners of WEBS held through such DTC
Participants will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices,
as is now the case with securities held for the accounts of customers in bearer
form or registered in a "street name," and will be the responsibility of such
DTC Participants. The Fund has no responsibility or liability for any aspects of
the records relating to or notices to Beneficial Owners, or payments made on
account of beneficial ownership interests in such WEBS, or for maintaining,
supervising or reviewing any records relating to such beneficial ownership
interests or for any other aspect of the relationship between DTC and the DTC
Participants or the relationship between such DTC Participants and the Indirect
Participants and Beneficial Owners owning through such DTC Participants.
DTC may determine to discontinue providing its service with respect to WEBS
at any time by giving reasonable notice to the Fund and discharging its
responsibilities with respect thereto under applicable law. Under such
circumstances, the Fund shall take action either to find a replacement for DTC
to perform its functions at a comparable cost or, if such a replacement is
unavailable, to issue and deliver printed certificates representing ownership of
WEBS, unless the Fund makes other arrangements with respect thereto satisfactory
to the AMEX (or such other exchange on which WEBS may be listed).
PURCHASE AND ISSUANCE OF WEBS IN CREATION UNITS
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SUPPLEMENTS AND SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH
THE SECTION IN THE PROSPECTUS ENTITLED "PURCHASE AND ISSUANCE OF WEBS IN
CREATION UNITS".
GENERAL
The Fund issues and sells WEBS only in Creation Units on a continuous basis
through the Distributor, without an initial sales load, at their net asset value
next determined after receipt, on any Business Day (as defined herein), of an
order in proper form.
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A "Business Day" with respect to each WEBS Index Series is any day on which
(i) the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") and (ii) the stock exchange(s) and Fund
subcustodian(s) relevant to such WEBS Index Series are open for business. As of
the date of the Prospectus, the NYSE observes the following holidays: New Year's
Day, President's Day (Washington's Birthday), Good Friday, Memorial Day
(observed), Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The
stock exchange and/or subcustodian holidays relevant to each WEBS Index Series
are set forth in Appendix B to this Statement of Additional Information.
PORTFOLIO DEPOSIT
The consideration for purchase of a Creation Unit of WEBS of a WEBS Index
Series generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of
equity securities (the "Deposit Securities") constituting an optimized
representation of the WEBS Index Series' benchmark foreign securities index and
an amount of cash computed as described below (the "Cash Component"). Together,
the Deposit Securities and the Cash Component constitute the "Portfolio
Deposit," which represents the minimum initial and subsequent investment amount
for shares of any WEBS Index Series of the Fund. The Cash Component is an amount
equal to the Dividend Equivalent Payment (as defined below), plus or minus, as
the case may be, a Balancing Amount (as defined below). The "Dividend Equivalent
Payment" enables the Fund to make a complete distribution of dividends on the
next dividend payment date, and is an amount equal, on a per Creation Unit
basis, to the dividends on all the Portfolio Securities with ex-dividend dates
within the accumulation period for such distribution (the "Accumulation
Period"), net of expenses and liabilities for such period, as if all of the
Portfolio Securities had been held by the Fund for the entire Accumulation
Period. The "Balancing Amount" is an amount equal to the difference between (x)
the net asset value (per Creation Unit) of the Index Series and (y) the sum of
(i) the Dividend Equivalent Payment and (ii) the market value (per Creation
Unit) of the securities deposited with the Fund (the sum of (i) and (ii) is
referred to as the "Deposit Amount"). The Balancing Amount serves the function
of compensating for any differences between the net asset value per Creation
Unit and the Deposit Amount.
The Adviser makes available through the Distributor on each Business Day,
immediately prior to the opening of business on the AMEX (currently 9:30 a.m.,
New York time), the list of the names and the required number of shares of each
Deposit Security to be included in the current Portfolio Deposit (based on
information at the end of the previous Business Day) for each WEBS Index Series.
Such Portfolio Deposit is applicable, subject to any adjustments as described
below, in order to effect purchases of Creation Units of WEBS of a given WEBS
Index Series until such time as the next-announced Portfolio Deposit composition
is made available.
The identity and number of shares of the Deposit Securities required for a
Portfolio Deposit for each WEBS Index Series changes as rebalancing adjustments
and corporate action events are reflected from time to time by the Adviser with
a view to the investment objective of the WEBS Index Series. The composition of
the Deposit Securities may also change in response to adjustments to the
weighting or composition of the securities constituting the relevant securities
index. In addition, the Fund reserves the right to permit or require the
substitution of an amount of cash (i.e., a "cash in lieu" amount) to be added to
the Cash Component to replace any Deposit Security which may not be available in
sufficient quantity for delivery or for other similar reasons. The adjustments
described above will reflect changes, known to the Adviser on the date of
announcement to be in effect by the time of delivery of the Portfolio Deposit,
in the composition of the subject index being tracked by the relevant WEBS Index
Series, or resulting from stock splits and other corporate actions.
In addition to the list of names and numbers of securities constituting the
current Deposit Securities of a Portfolio Deposit, the Distributor also makes
available (i) on each Business Day, the Dividend Equivalent Payment effective
through and including the previous Business Day, per outstanding WEBS of each
WEBS Index Series, and (ii) on a continuous basis throughout the day, the sum of
the Dividend Equivalent Payment effective through and including the close of the
previous trading session in the relevant foreign market, plus the current value
of the requisite Deposit Securities as in effect on such day.
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ROLE OF THE AUTHORIZED PARTICIPANT
Creation Units of WEBS may be purchased only by or through a DTC Participant
that has entered into an Authorized Participant Agreement with the Fund and the
Distributor ("Authorized Participant"). Such Authorized Participant will agree
pursuant to the terms of such Authorized Participant Agreement on behalf of
itself or any investor on whose behalf it will act, as the case may be, to
certain conditions, including that such Authorized Participant will make
available in advance of each purchase of WEBS an amount of cash sufficient to
pay the Cash Component, once the net asset value of a Creation Unit is next
determined after receipt of the purchase order in proper form, together with the
transaction fee described below. The Authorized Participant may require the
investor to enter into an agreement with such Authorized Participant with
respect to certain matters, including payment of the Cash Component. Investors
who are not Authorized Participants must make appropriate arrangements with an
Authorized Participant. Investors should be aware that their particular broker
may not be a DTC Participant or may not have executed an Authorized Participant
Agreement, and that therefore orders to purchase Creation Units of Fund shares
may have to be placed by the investor's broker through an Authorized
Participant. As a result, purchase orders placed through an Authorized
Participant may result in additional charges to such investor. The Fund does not
expect to enter into an Authorized Participant Agreement with more than a small
number of DTC Participants that have international capabilities. A list of the
Authorized Participants may be obtained from the Distributor.
PURCHASE ORDER
To initiate an order for a Creation Unit of WEBS, the Authorized Participant
must give notice to the Distributor of its intent to submit an order to purchase
WEBS not later than 4:00 p.m., New York time on the relevant Business Day. The
Distributor shall cause the Adviser and the Custodian to be informed of such
advice. The Custodian will then provide such information to the appropriate
subcustodian. For each WEBS Index Series, the Custodian shall cause the
subcustodian of the WEBS Index Series to maintain an account into which the
Authorized Participant shall deliver, on behalf of itself or the party on whose
behalf it is acting, the securities included in the designated Portfolio Deposit
(or the cash value of all or a part of such securities, in the case of a
permitted or required cash purchase or "cash in lieu" amount), with any
appropriate adjustments as advised by the Fund.
DEPOSIT SECURITIES MUST BE DELIVERED TO AN ACCOUNT MAINTAINED AT THE
APPLICABLE LOCAL SUBCUSTODIAN.
Following the notice of intention, an irrevocable order to purchase Creation
Units, in the form required by the Fund, must be received by the Distributor
from an Authorized Participant on its own or another investor's behalf by the
closing time of the regular trading session on the AMEX (currently 4:00 p.m.,
New York time) on the relevant Business Day. (The required form of an order to
purchase is available on request from the Distributor.) Those placing orders to
purchase Creation Units through an Authorized Participant should allow
sufficient time to permit proper submission of the purchase order to the
Distributor by the cut-off time on such Business Day. Orders must be transmitted
by the Authorized Participant to the Distributor by facsimile or electronic
transmission as provided in the Authorized Participant Agreement.
The Authorized Participant must also make available on or before the
contractual settlement date, by means satisfactory to the Fund, immediately
available or same day funds estimated by the Fund to be sufficient to pay the
Cash Component next determined after acceptance of the purchase order, together
with the applicable purchase transaction fee. Any excess funds will be returned
following settlement of the issue of the Creation Unit of WEBS. Those placing
orders should ascertain the applicable deadline for cash transfers by contacting
the operations department of the broker or depositary institution effectuating
the transfer of the Cash Component. This deadline is likely to be significantly
earlier than the closing time of the regular trading session on the AMEX.
Investors should be aware that an Authorized Participant may require orders
for purchases of WEBS placed with it to be in the form required by the
individual Authorized Participant, which form will not be the same as the form
of purchase order specified by the Fund, which the Authorized Participant must
deliver to the Distributor.
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ACCEPTANCE OF PURCHASE ORDER
Subject to the conditions that (i) a properly completed irrevocable purchase
order has been submitted by the Authorized Participant (either on its own or
another investor's behalf) not later than the closing time of the regular
trading session on the AMEX, and (ii) arrangements satisfactory to the Fund are
in place for payment of the Cash Component and any other cash amounts which may
be due, the Fund will accept the order, subject to its right (and the right of
the Distributor and the Adviser) to reject any order until acceptance.
Once the Fund has accepted an order, upon next determination of the net
asset value of the shares, the Fund will confirm the issuance, against receipt
of payment, of a Creation Unit of WEBS of the WEBS Index Series at such net
asset value. The Distributor will then transmit a confirmation of acceptance to
the Authorized Participant that placed the order.
The Fund reserves the absolute right to reject a purchase order transmitted
to it by the Distributor in respect of any WEBS Index Series if (a) the
purchaser or group of purchasers, upon obtaining the shares ordered, would own
80% or more of the currently outstanding shares of any WEBS Index Series; (b)
the Deposit Securities delivered are not as specified by the Adviser, as
described above; (c) acceptance of the Deposit Securities would have certain
adverse tax consequences to the WEBS Index Series; (d) the acceptance of the
Portfolio Deposit would, in the opinion of counsel, be unlawful; (e) the
acceptance of the Portfolio Deposit would otherwise, in the discretion of the
Fund or the Adviser, have an adverse effect on the Fund or the rights of
beneficial owners; or (f) in the event that circumstances outside the control of
the Fund, the Distributor and the Adviser make it for all practical purposes
impossible to process purchase orders. The Fund shall notify a prospective
purchaser of its rejection of the order of such person. The Fund and the
Distributor are under no duty, however, to give notification of any defects or
irregularities in the delivery of Portfolio Deposits nor shall either of them
incur any liability for the failure to give any such notification.
ISSUANCE OF A CREATION UNIT
A Creation Unit of WEBS of a WEBS Index Series will not be issued until the
transfer of good title to the Fund of the Deposit Securities and the payment of
the Cash Component have been completed. When the subcustodian has confirmed to
the Custodian that the required securities included in the Portfolio Deposit (or
the cash value thereof) have been delivered to the account of the relevant
subcustodian, the Custodian shall notify the Distributor and the Adviser, and
the Fund will issue and cause the delivery of the Creation Unit of WEBS.
The Authorized Participant Agreement provides that in the event that a
Portfolio Deposit is incomplete on the settlement date for a Creation Unit of
WEBS because certain Deposit Securities are missing, the Fund may, in its sole
discretion, issue the Creation Unit of WEBS notwithstanding such deficiency in
reliance on the undertaking of the Authorized Participant to deliver the missing
Deposit Securities as soon as possible, which undertaking shall be secured by
such Authorized Participant's delivery and maintenance of collateral consisting
of cash or Short-Term Investments having a value at least equal to 105% of the
value of the missing Deposit Securities. The Authorized Participant Agreement
will permit the Fund to buy the missing Deposit Securities at any time and will
subject the Authorized Participant to liability for any shortfall between the
cost to the Fund of purchasing such securities and the value of the collateral.
All questions as to the number of shares of each security in the Deposit
Securities and the validity, form, eligibility and acceptance for deposit of any
securities to be delivered shall be determined by the Fund, and the Fund's
determination shall be final and binding.
CASH PURCHASE METHOD
Although the Fund does not ordinarily permit cash purchases of Creation
Units, when cash purchases of Creation Units of WEBS are available or specified
for a WEBS Index Series, they will be effected in essentially the same manner as
in-kind purchases thereof. In the case of a cash purchase, the investor must pay
the cash equivalent of the Deposit Securities it would otherwise be required to
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provide through an in-kind purchase, plus the same Cash Component required to be
paid by an in-kind purchaser. In addition, to offset the Fund's brokerage and
other transaction costs associated with using the cash to purchase the requisite
Deposit Securities, the investor will be required to pay a fixed purchase
transaction fee, plus an additional variable charge for cash purchases, which is
expressed as a percentage of the value of the Deposit Securities. The
transaction fees for in-kind and cash purchases of Creation Units of WEBS are
described below.
PURCHASE TRANSACTION FEE
A purchase transaction fee payable to the Fund is imposed to compensate the
Fund for the transfer and other transaction costs of a WEBS Index Series. THE
PURCHASE TRANSACTION FEE FOR IN-KIND AND CASH PURCHASES AND THE ADDITIONAL
VARIABLE CHARGE FOR CASH PURCHASES (WHEN CASH PURCHASES ARE AVAILABLE OR
SPECIFIED) ARE LISTED FOR THE RELEVANT WEBS INDEX SERIES IN THE SHAREHOLDER
TRANSACTION EXPENSES TABLE IN "SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES" IN THE PROSPECTUS.
Where the Fund permits an in-kind purchaser to substitute cash in lieu of
depositing a portion of the Deposit Securities, the purchaser will be assessed
the additional variable charge for cash purchases on the "cash in lieu" portion
of its investment. Purchasers of WEBS in Creation Units are responsible for the
costs of transferring the securities constituting the Deposit Securities to the
account of the Fund. See "Summary of Fund Expenses" in the Prospectus.
EXAMPLE
A hypothetical example of the costs of creating a Creation Unit of WEBS of
the Japan WEBS Index Series is set forth below for illustrative purposes only.
The exchange rate reflected in the table is Y113.33 per US$1.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNIT CREATION DAILY NAV
CALCULATION CALCULATION
UNIT CREATION IN UNITED IN UNITED
CALCULATION IN STATES STATES
JAPANESE YEN DOLLARS DOLLARS
-------------- ------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Execution.................................................. 941,756,000 8,309,856 8,309,856
Commissions................................................ 941,756 8,310 N/A
Stamp Taxes................................................ 0 0 N/A
Risk Premium............................................... 0 0 N/A
Accrued Income............................................. 8,120,434 71,653 71,653
Creation Charge............................................ 906,640 8,000 N/A
WEBS Unit Value............................................ 951,724,830 8,397,819 8,381,509
Per WEBS................................................... 14.00 13.97
Shares..................................................... 600,000
</TABLE>
See "Management of the Fund," in the Prospectus, and "Investment Advisory,
Management, Administrative and Distribution Services" herein, for additional
information concerning the distribution arrangements for WEBS.
REDEMPTION OF WEBS IN CREATION UNITS
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SUPPLEMENTS AND SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH
THE SECTION IN THE PROSPECTUS ENTITLED "REDEMPTION OF WEBS IN CREATION UNITS".
WEBS may be redeemed only in Creation Units at their net asset value next
determined after receipt of a redemption request in proper form by the
Distributor and only on a day on which the AMEX is open for trading. THE FUND
WILL NOT REDEEM WEBS IN AMOUNTS LESS THAN CREATION UNITS. Beneficial Owners also
may sell WEBS in the secondary market, but must accumulate enough WEBS to
constitute a Creation Unit in order to have such shares redeemed by the Fund.
There can be no assurance, however, that there will be sufficient liquidity in
the public trading market at any time to
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permit assembly of a Creation Unit of WEBS. Investors should expect to incur
brokerage and other costs in connection with assembling a sufficient number of
WEBS to constitute a redeemable Creation Unit. See "Investment Considerations
and Risks" in the Prospectus.
With respect to each WEBS Index Series, the Adviser makes available through
the Distributor immediately prior to the opening of business on the AMEX
(currently 9:30 am, New York time) on each day that the AMEX is open for
business the Portfolio Securities that will be applicable (subject to possible
amendment or correction) to redemption requests received in proper form (as
defined below) on that day. Unless cash redemptions are available or specified
for a WEBS Index Series, the redemption proceeds for a Creation Unit generally
consist of Deposit Securities as announced by the Distributor on the Business
Day of the request for redemption, plus cash in an amount equal to the
difference between the net asset value of the shares being redeemed, as next
determined after a receipt of a request in proper form, and the value of the
Deposit Securities, less the redemption transaction fee described below. The
redemption transaction fee described below is deducted from such redemption
proceeds. In the case of a resident Australian holder, notwithstanding the
foregoing, such holder is only entitled to receive cash upon its redemption of
Creation Units of WEBS.
A redemption transaction fee payable to the Fund is imposed to offset
transfer and other transaction costs that may be incurred by the relevant WEBS
Index Series. THE REDEMPTION TRANSACTION FEE FOR REDEMPTIONS IN KIND AND FOR
CASH AND THE ADDITIONAL VARIABLE CHARGE FOR CASH REDEMPTIONS (WHEN CASH
REDEMPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE OR SPECIFIED) ARE LISTED FOR THE RELEVANT WEBS INDEX
SERIES IN THE SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES TABLE IN "SUMMARY OF FUND
EXPENSES" IN THE PROSPECTUS. Investors will also bear the costs of transferring
the Portfolio Deposit from the Fund to their account or on their order.
Investors who use the services of a broker or other such intermediary may be
charged a fee for such services.
Redemption requests in respect of Creation Units of any WEBS Index Series
must be submitted to the Distributor by or through an Authorized Participant on
a day that the AMEX is open for business. Investors other than through
Authorized Participants are responsible for making arrangements for a redemption
request to be made through an Authorized Participant. The Distributor will
provide a list of current Authorized Participants upon request.
The Authorized Participant must transmit the request for redemption, in the
form required by the Fund, to the Distributor in accordance with procedures set
forth in the Authorized Participant Agreement. Investors should be aware that
their particular broker may not have executed an Authorized Participant
Agreement, and that, therefore, requests to redeem Creation Units may have to be
placed by the investor's broker through an Authorized Participant who has
executed an Authorized Participant Agreement. At any given time there will be
only a limited number of broker-dealers that have executed an Authorized
Participant Agreement. Investors making a redemption request should be aware
that such request be in the form specified by such Authorized Participant.
Investors making a request to redeem Creation Units should allow sufficient time
to permit proper submission of the request by an Authorized Participant and
transfer of the WEBS to the Fund's Transfer Agent; such investors should allow
for the additional time that may be required to effect redemptions through their
banks, brokers or other financial intermediaries if such intermediaries are not
Authorized Participants.
A redemption request is considered to be in "proper form" if (i) an
Authorized Participant has transferred or caused to be transferred to the Fund's
Transfer Agent the Creation Unit of WEBS being redeemed through the book-entry
system of DTC so as to be effective by the AMEX closing time on a day on which
the AMEX is open for business and (ii) a duly completed request form is received
by the Distributor from the Authorized Participant on behalf of itself or
another redeeming investor by the AMEX closing time on such day. If the Transfer
Agent does not receive the investor's WEBS through DTC's facilities by the AMEX
closing time on the same day that the redemption request is received, the
redemption request shall be rejected and may be resubmitted the next day that
the AMEX is open for business. Investors should be aware that the deadline for
such transfers of shares through the DTC system may be significantly earlier
than the close of business on the AMEX. Those
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making redemption requests should ascertain the deadline applicable to transfers
of shares through the DTC system by contacting the operations department of the
broker or depositary institution effecting the transfer of the WEBS.
Upon receiving a redemption request, the Distributor shall notify the Fund
and the Fund's Transfer Agent of such redemption request. The tender of an
investor's WEBS for redemption and the distribution of the cash redemption
payment in respect of Creation Units redeemed will be effected through DTC and
the relevant Authorized Participant to the beneficial owner thereof as recorded
on the book-entry system of DTC or the DTC Participant through which such
investor holds WEBS, as the case may be, or by such other means specified by the
Authorized Participant submitting the redemption request. See "Book-Entry System
Only."
IN CONNECTION WITH TAKING DELIVERY OF SHARES OF DEPOSIT SECURITIES UPON
REDEMPTION OF WEBS, A REDEEMING BENEFICIAL OWNER OR AUTHORIZED PARTICIPANT
ACTING ON BEHALF OF SUCH BENEFICIAL OWNER MUST MAINTAIN APPROPRIATE SECURITY
ARRANGEMENTS WITH A QUALIFIED BROKER-DEALER, BANK OR OTHER CUSTODY PROVIDERS IN
EACH JURISDICTION IN WHICH ANY OF THE PORTFOLIO SECURITIES ARE CUSTOMARILY
TRADED, TO WHICH ACCOUNT SUCH PORTFOLIO SECURITIES WILL BE DELIVERED.
Deliveries of redemption proceeds by the WEBS Index Series relating to those
countries generally will be made within three business days. Due to the schedule
of holidays in certain countries, however, the delivery of in-kind redemption
proceeds may take longer than three business days after the day on which the
redemption request is received in proper form. For each country relating to a
WEBS Index Series, Appendix B hereto identifies the instances where more than
seven days would be needed to deliver redemption proceeds. PURSUANT TO AN ORDER
OF THE SEC, IN RESPECT OF EACH WEBS INDEX SERIES, THE FUND WILL MAKE DELIVERY OF
IN-KIND REDEMPTION PROCEEDS WITHIN THE NUMBER OF DAYS STATED IN APPENDIX B TO BE
THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF DAYS NECESSARY TO DELIVER REDEMPTION PROCEEDS.
If neither the redeeming Beneficial Owner nor the Authorized Participant
acting on behalf of such redeeming Beneficial Owner has appropriate arrangements
to take delivery of the Portfolio Securities in the applicable foreign
jurisdiction and it is not possible to make other such arrangements, or if it is
not possible to effect deliveries of the Portfolio Securities in such
jurisdiction, the Fund may in its discretion exercise its option to redeem such
shares in cash, and the redeeming Beneficial Owner will be required to receive
its redemption proceeds in cash. In such case, the investor will receive a cash
payment equal to the net asset value of its shares based on the net asset value
of WEBS of the relevant WEBS Index Series next determined after the redemption
request is received in proper form (minus a redemption transaction fee and
additional variable charge for cash redemptions specified above, to offset the
Fund's brokerage and other transaction costs associated with the disposition of
Portfolio Securities of the WEBS Index Series). Redemptions of WEBS for Deposit
Securities will be subject to compliance with applicable United States federal
and state securities laws and each WEBS Index Series (whether or not it
otherwise permits cash redemptions) reserves the right to redeem Creation Units
for cash to the extent that the WEBS Index Series could not lawfully deliver
specific Deposit Securities upon redemptions or could not do so without first
registering the Deposit Securities under such laws.
Although the Fund does not ordinarily permit cash redemptions of Creation
Units (except that, as noted above, resident Australian holders may redeem
solely for cash), in the event that cash redemptions are permitted or required
by the Fund, proceeds will be paid to the Authorized Participant redeeming
shares on behalf of the redeeming investor as soon as practicable after the date
of redemption (within seven calendar days thereafter, except for the instances
listed in Appendix B hereto where more than seven calendar days would be
needed).
Because the Portfolio Securities of a WEBS Index Series may trade on the
relevant exchange(s) on days that the AMEX is closed or are otherwise not
Business Days for such WEBS Index Series, stockholders may not be able to redeem
their shares of such WEBS Index Series, or to purchase or sell WEBS on the AMEX,
on days when the net asset value of such Index Series could be significantly
affected by events in the relevant foreign markets.
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<PAGE>
The right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment postponed
with respect to any WEBS Index Series (1) for any period during which the New
York Stock Exchange is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday
closings); (2) for any period during which trading on the New York Stock
Exchange is suspended or restricted; (3) for any period during which an
emergency exists as a result of which disposal of the shares of the WEBS Index
Series' portfolio securities or determination of its net asset value is not
reasonably practicable; or (4) in such other circumstance as is permitted by the
SEC.
DETERMINING NET ASSET VALUE
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with
the section in the Prospectus entitled "Determination of Net Asset Value."
Net asset value per share for each WEBS Index Series of the Fund is computed
by dividing the value of the net assets of such WEBS Index Series (i.e., the
value of its total assets less total liabilities) by the total number of WEBS
outstanding, rounded to the nearest cent. Expenses and fees, including the
management, administration and distribution fees, are accrued daily and taken
into account for purposes of determining net asset value. The net asset value of
each WEBS Index Series is determined as of the close of the regular trading
session on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (ordinarily 4:00 p.m., New York
City time) on each day that such exchange is open.
In computing a WEBS Index Series' net asset value, the WEBS Index Series'
portfolio securities are valued based on their last quoted current price. Price
information on listed securities is taken from the exchange where the security
is primarily traded. Securities regularly traded in an over-the-counter market
are valued at the latest quoted bid price in such market. Other portfolio
securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily available are
valued based on fair value as determined in good faith by the Adviser in
accordance with procedures adopted by the Board. Foreign currency values are
converted into US dollars using the same exchange rates utilized by Morgan
Stanley Capital International in the calculation of the relevant MSCI Indices
(currently, exchange rates as of 4:00 p.m. London time, except that the exchange
rate for the MSCI Mexico (Free) Index is that as of 3:00 p.m. New York City
time). The AMEX also disseminates during its trading day an indicative optimized
portfolio value ("IOPV") for each WEBS Index Series.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with
the section in the Prospectus entitled "Dividends and Capital Gains
Distributions."
Dividends from net investment income are declared and paid at least annually
by each WEBS Index Series. Distributions of net realized securities gains, if
any, generally are declared and paid once a year, but the Fund may make
distributions on a more frequent basis for certain WEBS Index Series to improve
tracking error or to comply with the distribution requirements of the Internal
Revenue Code, in all events in a manner consistent with the provisions of the
1940 Act. In addition, the Fund intends to distribute at least annually amounts
representing the full dividend yield on the underlying portfolio securities of
each WEBS Index Series, net of expenses of such WEBS Index Series, as if such
WEBS Index Series owned such underlying portfolio securities for the entire
dividend period. As a result, some portion of each distribution may result in a
return of capital. See "Tax Matters."
Dividends and other distributions on WEBS are distributed, as described
below, on a pro rata basis to Beneficial Owners of such WEBS. Dividend payments
are made through DTC and the Authorized Participants to Beneficial Owners then
of record with proceeds received from the Fund.
The Fund makes additional distributions to the minimum extent necessary (i)
to distribute the entire annual investment company taxable income of the Fund,
plus any net capital gains and (ii) to avoid imposition of the excise tax
imposed by Section 4982 of the Internal Revenue Code. Management of the Fund
reserves the right to declare special dividends if, in its reasonable
discretion, such action is necessary or advisable to preserve the status of each
WEBS Index Series as a RIC or to avoid imposition of income or excise taxes on
undistributed income.
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<PAGE>
TAXES
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with
the sections in the Prospectus entitled "Dividends and Capital Gains
Distributions" and "Tax Matters."
The Fund on behalf of each WEBS Index Series has the right to reject an
order for a purchase of WEBS if the purchaser (or group of purchasers) would,
upon obtaining the WEBS so ordered, own 80% or more of the outstanding WEBS of a
given WEBS Index Series and if, pursuant to section 351 of the Internal Revenue
Code, the respective WEBS Index Series would have a basis in the securities
different from the market value of such securities on the date of deposit. The
Fund also has the right to require information necessary to determine beneficial
share ownership for purposes of the 80% determination. See "Purchase and
Issuance of WEBS in Creation Units."
Each WEBS Index Series intends to qualify for and to elect treatment as a
separate regulated investment company ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Internal
Revenue Code. To qualify for treatment as a RIC, a company must annually
distribute at least 90 percent of its net investment company taxable income
(which includes dividends, interest and net short-term capital gains) and meet
several other requirements. Among such other requirements are the following: (1)
at least 90 percent of the company's annual gross income must be derived from
dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the
sale or other disposition of stock or securities or foreign currencies, or other
income (including gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with
respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies;
(2) at the close of each quarter of the company's taxable year, (a) at least 50
percent of the market value of the company's total assets must be represented by
cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other regulated
investment companies and other securities, with such other securities limited
for purposes of this calculation in respect of any one issuer to an amount not
greater than 5% of the value of the company's assets and not greater than 10% of
the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (b) not more than 25
percent of the value of its total assets may be invested in the securities of
any one issuer or of two or more issuers that are controlled by the company
(within the meaning of Section 851(b)(4)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code) and
that are engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses or related trades
or businesses (other than U.S. government securities or the securities of other
regulated investment companies); and (3) the company must derive less than 30
percent of its annual gross income from the sale or other disposition, after a
holding period of less than three months, of (i) stock or securities, (ii)
options, futures or forward contracts (other than options, futures or forward
contracts on foreign currencies) or (iii) foreign currencies (including options,
futures and forward contracts on foreign currencies) not directly related to the
company's principal business of investing in stock or securities (or options and
futures with respect to stocks and securities).
Each WEBS Index Series may be subject to foreign income taxes withheld at
source. Each WEBS Index Series will elect to "pass through" to its investors the
amount of foreign income taxes paid by the WEBS Index Series, with the result
that each investor will (i) include in gross income, even though not actually
received, the investor's pro rata share of the WEBS Index Series' foreign income
taxes, and (ii) either deduct (in calculating U.S. taxable income) or credit (in
calculating U.S. federal income tax) the investor's pro rata share of the WEBS
Index Series' foreign income taxes. A foreign tax credit may not exceed the
investor's U.S. federal income tax otherwise payable with respect to the
investor's foreign source income. For this purpose, each shareholder must treat
as foreign source gross income (i) his proportionate share of foreign taxes paid
by the WEBS Index Series and (ii) the portion of any dividend paid by the WEBS
Index Series which represents income derived from foreign sources; the WEBS
Index Series' gain from the sale of securities will generally be treated as U.S.
source income. This foreign tax credit limitation is applied separately to
separate categories of income; dividends from the WEBS Index Series will be
treated as "passive" or "financial services" income for this purpose. The effect
of this limitation may be to prevent investors from claiming as a credit the
full amount of their pro rata share of the WEBS Index Series' foreign income
taxes.
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If any WEBS Index Series owns shares in certain foreign investment entities,
referred to as "passive foreign investment companies," the WEBS Index Series
will be subject to one of the following special tax regimes: (i) the WEBS Index
Series is liable for U.S. federal income tax, and an additional charge in the
nature of interest, on a portion of any "excess distribution" from such foreign
entity or any gain from the disposition of such shares, even if the entire
distribution or gain is paid out by the WEBS Index Series as a dividend to its
shareholders; (ii) if the WEBS Index Series were able and elected to treat a
passive foreign investment company as a "qualified electing fund," the WEBS
Index Series would be required each year to include in income, and distribute to
shareholders in accordance with the distribution requirements set forth above,
the WEBS Index Series' pro rata share of the ordinary earnings and net capital
gains of the passive foreign investment company, whether or not such earnings or
gains are distributed to the WEBS Index Series or (iii) under certain proposed
regulations not yet effective, the WEBS Index Series would be entitled to
mark-to-market annually the shares of the passive foreign investment company,
and would be required to distribute to shareholders any such mark-to-market
gains in accordance with the distribution requirements set forth above.
A WEBS Index Series will be subject to a 4 percent excise tax on certain
undistributed income if it does not distribute to its shareholders in each
calendar year at least 98 percent of its ordinary income for the calendar year
plus 98 percent of its capital gain net income for the twelve months ended
October 31 of such year. Each WEBS Index Series intends to declare and
distribute dividends and distributions in the amounts and at the times necessary
to avoid the application of this 4 percent excise tax.
An investor in a WEBS Index Series that is a foreign corporation or an
individual who is a nonresident alien for U.S. tax purposes will be subject to
significant adverse U.S. tax consequences. For example, dividends paid out of a
WEBS Index Series' investment company taxable income will generally be subject
to U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or lower treaty rate if the
foreign investor is eligible for the benefits of an income tax treaty). Foreign
investors are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the U.S. tax
treatment, in their particular circumstances, of ownership of shares in a WEBS
Index Series.
The foregoing discussion is a summary only and is not intended as a
substitute for careful tax planning. Purchasers of shares of the Fund should
consult their own tax advisors as to the tax consequences of investing in such
shares, including under state, local and other tax laws. Finally, the foregoing
discussion is based on applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code,
regulations, judicial authority and administrative interpretations in effect on
the date hereof. Changes in applicable authority could materially affect the
conclusions discussed above, and such changes often occur.
CAPITAL STOCK AND SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
The Fund currently is comprised of seventeen series of shares of common
stock, par value $.001 per share, referred to herein as WEBS: the Australia WEBS
Index Series, the Austria WEBS Index Series, the Belgium WEBS Index Series, the
Canada WEBS Index Series, the France WEBS Index Series, the Germany WEBS Index
Series, the Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, the Italy WEBS Index Series, the Japan
WEBS Index Series, the Malaysia WEBS Index Series, the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index
Series, the Netherlands WEBS Index Series, the Singapore (Free) WEBS Index
Series, the Spain WEBS Index Series, the Sweden WEBS Index Series, the
Switzerland WEBS Index Series, and the United Kingdom WEBS Index Series. Each
WEBS Index Series has been issued a separate class of capital stock. The Board
may designate additional series of common stock and classify shares of a
particular series into one or more classes of that series.
Each WEBS issued by the Fund has a pro rata interest in the assets of the
corresponding WEBS Index Series. The Fund is currently authorized to issue 6
billion shares of common stock. The following number of shares is currently
authorized for each WEBS Index Series: the Australia WEBS Index Series, 127.8
million shares; the Austria WEBS Index Series, 19.8 million shares; the Belgium
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WEBS Index Series, 136.2 million shares; the Canada WEBS Index Series, 340.2
million shares; the France WEBS Index Series, 340.2 million shares; the Germany
WEBS Index Series, 382.2 million shares; the Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, 191.4
million shares; the Italy WEBS Index Series, 63.6 million shares; the Japan WEBS
Index Series, 2,124.6 million shares; the Malaysia WEBS Index Series, 127.8
million shares; the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series, 255 million shares; the
Netherlands WEBS Index Series, 255 million shares, the Singapore (Free) WEBS
Index Series, 191.4 million shares; the Spain WEBS Index Series, 127.8 million
shares; the Sweden WEBS Index Series, 63.6 million shares; the Switzerland WEBS
Index Series, 318.625 million shares; and the United Kingdom WEBS Index Series,
934.2 million shares. Fractional shares will not be issued. Shares have no
preemptive, exchange, subscription or conversion rights and are freely
transferable. Each share is entitled to participate equally in dividends and
distributions declared by the Board with respect to the relevant WEBS Index
Series, and in the net distributable assets of such WEBS Index Series on
liquidation. Shareholders are entitled to require the Fund to redeem Creation
Units of their shares.
Each WEBS has one vote with respect to matters upon which a stockholder vote
is required consistent with the requirements of the 1940 Act and the rules
promulgated thereunder and the Maryland General Corporation Law; stockholders
have no cumulative voting rights with respect to their shares. Shares of all
series vote together as a single class except that if the matter being voted on
affects only a particular WEBS Index Series it will be voted on only by that
WEBS Index Series and if a matter affects a particular WEBS Index Series
differently from other WEBS Index Series, that WEBS Index Series will vote
separately on such matter. Under Maryland law, the Fund is not required to hold
an annual meeting of stockholders unless required to do so under the 1940 Act.
The policy of the Fund is not to hold an annual meeting of stockholders unless
required to do so under the 1940 Act. All shares of the Fund (regardless of WEBS
Index Series) have noncumulative voting rights for the election of Directors.
Under Maryland law, Directors of the Fund may be removed by vote of the
stockholders.
As of November 29, 1996, the name, address and percentage of ownership of
each DTC Participant that owned of record 5% or more of the outstanding shares
of each WEBS Index Series were as follows: Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. 63 Wall
Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10005, Australia WEBS Index Series, 5.77%, Hong
Kong WEBS Index Series, 5.11%, Italy WEBS Index Series, 7.67%, Switzerland WEBS
Index Series, 5.48%, United Kingdom WEBS Index Series, 5.83%; Morgan Stanley &
Co., Incorporated, One Pierrepont Plaza, 7th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201,
Australia WEBS Index Series, 18.34%, Austria WEBS Index Series, 60.34%, Belgium
WEBS Index Series, 11.50%, Canada WEBS Index Series, 7.59%, France WEBS Index
Series, 32.54%, Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, 21.22%, Italy WEBS Index Series,
15.30%, Japan WEBS Index Series 23.07%, Malaysia WEBS Index Series, 9.82%,
Netherlands WEBS Index Series 19.51%, Spain WEBS Index Series, 34.26%, Sweden
WEBS Index Series, 22.81%, United Kingdom WEBS Index Series, 20.28%; Lehman
Brothers, Inc., c/o ADP Proxy Services, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717,
Japan WEBS Index Series, 9.87%; Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc., 4
Corporate Place, Corporate Park 287, Piscataway, NJ 08855, Germany WEBS Index
Series, 32.77%, Switzerland WEBS Index Series, 24.55%; Schwab (Charles) & Co.,
Inc., 101 Montgomery, 10th Floor, 333-9, San Francisco, CA 94104, Belgium WEBS
Index Series, 13.83%, Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, 7.08%, Singapore (Free) WEBS
Index Series, 5.75%; Paine, Webber, Inc., 1000 Harbor Blvd. Weehauken, NJ 07087,
Australia WEBS Index Series, 5.74%, Austria WEBS Index Series, 5.05%, France
WEBS Index Series, 8.79%, Germany WEBS Index Series, 15.71%, Hong Kong WEBS
Index Series, 8.58%, Malaysia WEBS Index Series, 7.21%, Mexico (Free) WEBS Index
Series, 18.57%, Netherlands WEBS Index Series, 5.01%, Singapore (Free) WEBS
Index Series, 9.22%, Sweden WEBS Index Series, 17.73%; Bear Stearns Securities
Corp., One Metrotech Center North, Brooklyn, NY 11201, Hong Kong WEBS Index
Series, 7.93%, Italy WEBS Index Series, 27.06%; Smith Barney, Inc., 333 W. 34th
Street, New York, NY 10001, Austria WEBS Index Series, 8.12%, Belgium WEBS Index
Series, 20.24%, Italy WEBS Index Series, 8.65%, Japan WEBS Index Series, 11.11%,
Malaysia WEBS Index Series, 25.83%, Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, 5.72%,
Spain WEBS Index Series, 20.83%; Spear, Leeds & Kellog, 120 Broadway, New York,
NY 10271, Belgium WEBS Index Series, 15.85%, Mexico (Free) WEBS Index Series,
12.36%, Netherlands WEBS
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Index Series, 30.46%, Sweden WEBS Index Series, 23.58%, Switzerland WEBS Index
Series, 7.68%, United Kingdom WEBS Index Series, 14.91%; Chase Manhattan Bank
(The), One Chase Manhattan Plaza, 3B - Proxy Department, New York, NY 10081,
Italy WEBS Index Series, 5.82%, Switzerland WEBS Index Series, 9.98%; Bankers
Trust Company, c/o BT Services Tennessee Inc., Custody Services, 648 Grassmere
Park Road, Nashville, TN 37211, Australia WEBS Index Series, 14.54%; Citibank,
N.A., 111 Wall Street, 20th Floor, Zone 9, New York, NY 10043, Malaysia WEBS
Index Series, 15.17%, Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, 6.79%;
Citibank/Private Banking Division, 20 Exchange Place, Level C, New York, NY
10043, Germany WEBS Index Series 9.80%; Boston Safe Deposit & Trust Co., c/o ADP
Proxy Services, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717, Canada WEBS Index Series,
45.00%, Malaysia WEBS Index Series, 5.73%; SSB-Custodian, c/o ADP Proxy
Services, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717, Australia WEBS Index Series,
6.79%, Belgium WEBS Index Series, 7.37%, France WEBS Index Series, 10.27%,
Germany WEBS Index Series, 10.80%, Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, 6.04%, Japan
WEBS Index Series, 14.89%, Malaysia WEBS Index Series, 7.86%, Mexico (Free) WEBS
Index Series, 29.57%, Netherlands WEBS Index Series, 8.39%, Singapore (Free)
WEBS Index Series, 9.78%, Spain WEBS Index Series, 10.18%, Sweden WEBS Index
Series, 8.60%, Switzerland WEBS Index Series, 12.75%, United Kingdom WEBS Index
Series, 30.80%; PNC Bank, N.A./Super Philadelphia, 400 Bellevue Parkway,
Wilmington, DE 19809, Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, 11.11%; Wells Fargo
Bank, NA, 464 California St., San Francisco, CA 94104, Belgium WEBS Index
Series, 6.88%, France WEBS Index Series, 13.92%, Hong Kong WEBS Index Series,
5.08%, Netherlands WEBS Index Series, 7.56%, Spain WEBS Index Series, 7.54%,
Switzerland WEBS Index Series, 8.43%, United Kingdom WEBS Index Series, 11.64%;
Investors Bank and Trust Co., One Lincoln Plaza, Boston, MA 02205, Canada WEBS
Index Series, 30.88%, Hong Kong WEBS Index Series, 10.82%; Bank of New York
(Smith), One Wall Street, New York, NY 10286, France WEBS Index Series, 13.00%;
Northern Trust Co., 801 S. Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60607, Mexico (Free) WEBS
Index Series, 10.43%; National Financial Services Corporation, 1 World Financial
Center, Tower A, New York, NY 10281, Singapore (Free) WEBS Index Series, 5.40%;
and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Safekeeping, 4 Corporate Place,
Corporate Park 287, 2nd Floor, Piscataway, NJ 08855, Australia WEBS Index
Series, 20.42%. The Fund does not have information concerning the beneficial
ownership of the WEBS held in the names of such DTC Participants.
The Fund issues through the Authorized Participants to its stockholders
semi-annual reports containing unaudited financial statements and annual reports
containing financial statements audited by independent auditors approved by the
Fund's Directors and by the stockholders when meetings are held and such other
information as may be required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Beneficial Owners also receive annually notification as to the tax status of the
Fund's distributions.
Stockholder inquiries may be made by writing to the Fund, c/o PFPC Inc., 400
Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19809.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The performance of the WEBS Index Series may be quoted in advertisements,
sales literature or reports to shareholders in terms of average annual total
return, cumulative total return and yield.
Quotations of average annual total return are expressed in terms of the
average annual rate of return of a hypothetical investment in a WEBS Index
Series over periods of 1, 5 and 10 years (or the life of a WEBS Index Series, if
shorter). Such total return figures will reflect the deduction of a proportional
share of such WEBS Index Series' expenses on an annual basis, and will assume
that all dividends and distributions are reinvested when paid.
Total return is calculated according to the following formula: P(1 + T)n =
ERV (where P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000, T = the average annual
total return, n = the number of years and ERV = the ending redeemable value of a
hypothetical $1,000 payment made at the beginning of the 1, 5 or 10 year
period).
67
<PAGE>
Quotations of a cumulative total return will be calculated for any specified
period by assuming a hypothetical investment in a WEBS Index Series on the date
of the commencement of the period and will assume that all dividends and
distributions are reinvested on ex date. However, currently there is no dividend
reinvestment option available to shareholders of WEBS and such calculation is
provided for informational purposes only. The net increase or decrease in the
value of the investment over the period will be divided by its beginning value
to arrive at cumulative total return. Total return calculated in this manner
will differ from the calculation of average annual total return in that it is
not expressed in terms of an average rate of return.
The yield of a WEBS Index Series is the net annualized yield based on a
specified 30-day (or one month) period assuming a semiannual compounding of
income. Included in net investment income is the amortization of market premium
or accretion of market and original issue discount. Yield is calculated by
dividing the net investment income per share earned during the period by the
maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period, according to the
following formula: YIELD = 2[(a-b/cd + 1) -1] (where a = dividends and interest
earned during the period, b = expenses accrued for the period (net of
reimbursements), c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the
period that were entitled to receive dividends and d = the maximum offering
price per share on the last day of the period).
Quotations of cumulative total return, average annual total return or yield
reflect only the performance of a hypothetical investment in a WEBS Index Series
during the particular time period on which the calculations are based. Such
quotations for a WEBS Index Series will vary based on changes in market
conditions and the level of such WEBS Index Series' expenses, and no reported
performance figure should be considered an indication of performance which may
be expected in the future.
The cumulative and average total returns and yields do not take into account
federal or state income taxes which may be payable; total returns and yields
would, of course, be lower if such charges were taken into account.
COUNSEL AND INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
Sullivan & Cromwell, 125 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, are counsel
to the Fund and have passed upon the validity of the Fund's shares.
Ernst & Young LLP, 787 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10019, serve as
the independent auditors of the Fund.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The audited financial statements and notes thereto in the Fund's Annual
Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended August 31, 1996 (the "1996
Annual Report") are incorporated in this Statement of Additional Information by
reference. No other parts of the 1996 Annual Report are incorporated by
reference herein. The financial statements included in the 1996 Annual Report
have been audited by the Fund's independent auditors, Ernst & Young LLP, whose
reports thereon are incorporated herein by reference. Such financial statements
have been incorporated herein in reliance upon such reports given upon their
authority as experts in accounting and auditing. Additional copies of the 1996
Annual Report may be obtained at no charge by telephoning the Distributor at
1-800-810-WEBS (9327).
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
Attached as Appendix C to this Statement of Additional Information are
certain supplemental educational materials concerning WEBS.
68
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-1
MSCI AUSTRALIA INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
BROKEN HILL PROP CO Energy 26,137 15.98%
NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK Finance 16,169 9.89%
NEWS CORP Services 11,399 6.97%
WESTPAC BANKING Finance 10,317 6.31%
COCA-COLA AMATIL Consumer Goods 7,473 4.57%
WMC Materials 6,997 4.28%
CRA Materials 5,147 3.15%
NEWS CORP PLVO Services 5,025 3.07%
LEND LEASE Finance 4,130 2.53%
COLES MYER Services 3,955 2.42%
AMCOR Materials 3,937 2.41%
BRAMBLES INDUSTRIES Services 3,669 2.24%
FOSTERS BREWING GROUP Consumer Goods 3,578 2.19%
CSR Materials 3,293 2.01%
ICI AUSTRALIA Materials 2,915 1.78%
BORAL Materials 2,809 1.72%
PIONEER INTERNATIONAL Materials 2,365 1.45%
PACIFIC DUNLOP Multi-Industry 2,272 1.39%
GENERAL PROPERTY TRUST Finance 2,158 1.32%
WESTFIELD TRUST Finance 2,156 1.32%
SANTOS Energy 2,148 1.31%
MIM HOLDINGS Materials 2,106 1.29%
NORMANDY MINING Gold 2,088 1.28%
NORTH Materials 1,997 1.22%
SOUTHCORP HOLDINGS Multi-Industry 1,764 1.08%
AUSTRALIAN GAS LIGHT CO Energy 1,594 0.97%
GIO AUSTRALIA HLDGS Finance 1,532 0.94%
QBE INSURANCE GROUP Finance 1,503 0.92%
GOODMAN FIELDER Consumer Goods 1,439 0.88%
SMITH (HOWARD) Multi-Industry 1,435 0.88%
TABCORP HOLDINGS Services 1,424 0.87%
LEIGHTON HOLDINGS Capital Equipment 1,183 0.72%
TNT Services 1,128 0.69%
CROWN Services 1,083 0.66%
HARDIE (JAMES) IND Materials 1,028 0.63%
RGC Materials 940 0.57%
QCT RESOURCES Energy 901 0.55%
PLUTONIC RESOURCES Gold 891 0.54%
BURNS, PHILP & CO Consumer Goods 829 0.51%
FAULDING (F.H.) & CO Consumer Goods 828 0.51%
NEWCREST MINING Gold 819 0.50%
STOCKLAND TRUST Finance 803 0.49%
EMAIL Consumer Goods 800 0.49%
ROTHMANS (AUSTRALIA) Consumer Goods 783 0.48%
SYDNEY HBR CASINO PREF Services 782 0.48%
GREAT CENTRAL MINES Gold 772 0.47%
</TABLE>
A-1
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL IND Materials 760 0.46%
SCHRODERS PROPERTY FUND Finance 745 0.46%
SONS OF GWALIA Gold 660 0.40%
FUTURIS CORP Capital Equipment 532 0.32%
JONES (DAVID) Services 526 0.32%
ASHTON MINING Materials 433 0.26%
METAL MANUFACTURES Capital Equipment 427 0.26%
RESOLUTE SAMANTHA Gold 400 0.24%
DELTA GOLD Gold 392 0.24%
ABERFOYLE Materials 198 0.12%
</TABLE>
A-2
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-2
MSCI AUSTRIA INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
BANK AUSTRIA STAMM Finance 4,133 18.05%
OMV AG Energy 2,645 11.55%
VERBUND OESTERR ELEK A Energy 2,147 9.38%
EA-GENERALI STAMM Finance 2,104 9.19%
VA TECHNOLOGIE Capital Equipment 2,099 9.16%
CREDITANSTALT STAMM Finance 1,958 8.55%
WIENERBERGER BAUSTOFF Materials 1,287 5.62%
FLUGHAFEN WIEN Services 1,036 4.52%
BOEHLER-UDDEHOLM Materials 823 3.59%
CREDITANSTALT VORZUG Finance 739 3.23%
BBAG OESTERR BRAU STAMM Consumer Goods 628 2.74%
MAYR-MELNHOF KARTON Materials 589 2.57%
RADEX-HERAKLITH INDUSTR. Materials 399 1.74%
AUSTRIAN AIRLINES Services 376 1.64%
BANK AUSTRIA VORZUG Finance 297 1.30%
BAU HOLDING STAMM Capital Equipment 267 1.17%
BANK AUSTRIA PART Finance 257 1.12%
LENZING Materials 240 1.05%
AUSTRIA MIKRO SYSTEME Capital Equipment 191 0.83%
UNIVERSALE-BAU Capital Equipment 190 0.83%
BWT STAMM Capital Equipment 188 0.82%
STEYR-DAIMLER-PUCH Capital Equipment 141 0.62%
EA-GENERALI VORZUG Finance 88 0.38%
BAU HOLDING VORZUG Capital Equipment 81 0.35%
</TABLE>
A-3
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-3
MSCI BELGIUM INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ELECTRABEL Energy 12,628 19.07%
PETROFINA Energy 7,149 10.80%
TRACTEBEL Multi-Industry 6,628 10.01%
GENERALE BANQUE GROUPE Finance 5,762 8.70%
FORTIS AG Finance 5,383 8.13%
SOLVAY Materials 5,001 7.55%
KREDIETBANK Finance 4,190 6.33%
ROYALE BELGE Finance 3,257 4.92%
GROUPE BRUXELLES LAMBERT Multi-Industry 2,921 4.41%
DELHAIZE-LE LION Services 2,893 4.37%
BARCO Capital Equipment 1,999 3.02%
BEKAERT Capital Equipment 1,818 2.75%
CBR (CIMENTERIES) Materials 1,783 2.69%
UNION MINIERE Materials 1,765 2.67%
GEVAERT Multi-Industry 1,740 2.63%
GLAVERBEL (GROUPE) Materials 728 1.10%
KREDIETBANK VVPR Finance 561 0.85%
</TABLE>
A-4
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-4
MSCI CANADA INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
NORTHERN TELECOM Capital Equipment 16,822 6.71%
BCE INC Services 14,557 5.80%
SEAGRAM CO Consumer Goods 13,952 5.56%
THOMSON CORP Services 12,056 4.81%
ROYAL BANK OF CANADA Finance 10,378 4.14%
BARRICK GOLD CORP Gold 9,747 3.89%
CANADIAN PACIFIC Multi-Industry 8,786 3.50%
CANADIAN IMPERIAL BANK Finance 8,537 3.40%
BANK MONTREAL Finance 7,833 3.12%
BANK NOVA SCOTIA Finance 7,446 2.97%
ALCAN ALUMINIUM Materials 7,423 2.96%
IMPERIAL OIL Energy 7,055 2.81%
PLACER DOME Gold 5,741 2.29%
NORANDA INC Materials 5,577 2.22%
NEWBRIDGE NETWORKS CORP Capital Equipment 5,400 2.15%
IMASCO Multi-Industry 5,386 2.15%
INCO COMMON Materials 5,249 2.09%
NOVA CORP Energy 4,091 1.63%
BOMBARDIER B Capital Equipment 3,984 1.59%
RENAISSANCE ENERGY Energy 3,612 1.44%
TRANSCANADA PIPELINES Energy 3,559 1.42%
MAGNA INTERNATIONAL A Capital Equipment 3,493 1.39%
TALISMAN ENERGY Energy 3,390 1.35%
POTASH CORP SASKATCHEWAN Materials 3,224 1.29%
LAIDLAW B Services 3,126 1.25%
CAMECO CORP Materials 2,412 0.96%
CANADIAN NAT RESOURCES Energy 2,399 0.96%
CANADIAN OCCIDENTAL Energy 2,396 0.96%
ALBERTA ENERGY CO Energy 2,378 0.95%
LOEWEN GROUP Services 2,330 0.93%
DUPONT CANADA Materials 2,311 0.92%
TELUS CORP Services 2,243 0.89%
BRASCAN A Multi-Industry 2,194 0.87%
SUNCOR Energy 2,112 0.84%
WESTON (GEORGE) Services 2,061 0.82%
TECK CORP B Materials 2,038 0.81%
MOORE CORP Services 2,013 0.80%
TRANSALTA CORP Energy 2,012 0.80%
NORCEN ENERGY RESOURCES Energy 1,993 0.79%
POWER CORP OF CANADA Finance 1,990 0.79%
COMINCO Materials 1,981 0.79%
IPL ENERGY Energy 1,943 0.77%
MACMILLAN BLOEDEL Materials 1,743 0.69%
GULF CANADA RESOURCES Energy 1,687 0.67%
WESTCOAST ENERGY Energy 1,654 0.66%
NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA Finance 1,620 0.65%
</TABLE>
A-5
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
DOFASCO Materials 1,520 0.61%
ROGERS COMMUNICATIONS B Services 1,433 0.57%
BOMBARDIER A Capital Equipment 1,430 0.57%
ANDERSON EXPLORATION Energy 1,408 0.56%
CANADIAN TIRE CORP A Services 1,254 0.50%
RIO ALGOM Materials 1,165 0.46%
QUEBECOR B Services 1,125 0.45%
AVENOR Materials 1,122 0.45%
DOMTAR Materials 1,112 0.44%
ECHO BAY MINES Gold 1,091 0.43%
SOUTHAM Services 1,054 0.42%
VIRIDIAN Materials 945 0.38%
EXTENDICARE MV Multi-Industry 939 0.37%
CAE Capital Equipment 914 0.36%
MOLSON COS A Consumer Goods 890 0.35%
CAMBIOR Gold 834 0.33%
RANGER OIL Energy 737 0.29%
INCO VBN Materials 656 0.26%
STELCO A Materials 615 0.25%
AIR CANADA COMMON Services 590 0.24%
LAIDLAW A Services 558 0.22%
OSHAWA GROUP A Services 550 0.22%
AGNICO-EAGLE MINES Gold 521 0.21%
CO-STEEL Materials 500 0.20%
REPAP ENTERPRISES Materials 488 0.19%
COTT CORP Consumer Goods 440 0.18%
PROVIGO Services 428 0.17%
COREL CORP Services 424 0.17%
NUMAC ENERGY Energy 421 0.17%
PEGASUS GOLD Gold 412 0.16%
CCL INDUSTRIES B Materials 361 0.14%
INT'L FOREST PRODUCTS A Materials 276 0.11%
DOMINION TEXTILE Consumer Goods 249 0.10%
SPAR AEROSPACE Capital Equipment 134 0.05%
TELE-METROPOLE B Services 108 0.04%
INTER-CITY PRODUCTS CORP Capital Equipment 105 0.04%
NOMA INDUSTRIES A Capital Equipment 97 0.04%
</TABLE>
A-6
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-5
MSCI FRANCE INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
LOREAL Consumer Goods 22,910 6.16%
ELF AQUITAINE Energy 21,840 5.87%
CARREFOUR Services 21,361 5.74%
LVMH Consumer Goods 20,028 5.38%
TOTAL SA Energy 18,925 5.08%
GENERALE EAUX (CIE) Services 14,666 3.94%
ALCATEL ALSTHOM Capital Equipment 13,809 3.71%
AXA Finance 12,071 3.24%
SAINT-GOBAIN Materials 11,659 3.13%
AIR LIQUIDE Materials 11,281 3.03%
DANONE (GROUPE) Consumer Goods 9,953 2.67%
SOCIETE GENERALE Finance 9,884 2.66%
RHONE-POULENC ORD A Materials 9,735 2.62%
SANOFI Consumer Goods 9,487 2.55%
PINAULT-PRINT.-REDOUTE Services 8,452 2.27%
PARIBAS(CIE FINANCIERE)A Finance 7,985 2.15%
BNP BANQUE NTLE PARIS Finance 7,768 2.09%
UAP (COMPAGNIE) Finance 7,047 1.89%
SUEZ (COMPAGNIE DE) Finance 7,046 1.89%
SCHNEIDER Capital Equipment 6,599 1.77%
CANAL + Services 6,170 1.66%
LAFARGE (FRANCE) Materials 5,668 1.52%
MICHELIN B Capital Equipment 5,595 1.50%
LYONNAISE DES EAUX Services 5,234 1.41%
PEUGEOT SA Consumer Goods 5,229 1.40%
PROMODES Services 5,172 1.39%
LEGRAND Capital Equipment 4,833 1.30%
HAVAS Services 4,220 1.13%
VALEO Capital Equipment 4,195 1.13%
ACCOR Services 4,157 1.12%
BIC Consumer Goods 4,151 1.12%
ERIDANIA BEGHIN-SAY Consumer Goods 4,141 1.11%
THOMSON-CSF Capital Equipment 3,733 1.00%
USINOR SACILOR Materials 3,611 0.97%
SODEXHO Services 3,407 0.92%
LAGARDERE Multi-Industry 3,067 0.82%
PERNOD RICARD Consumer Goods 3,047 0.82%
CASINO ORD Services 2,799 0.75%
COMPAGNIE BANCAIRE Finance 2,784 0.75%
SAGEM Capital Equipment 2,483 0.67%
COMPTOIRS MODERNES Services 2,473 0.66%
ESSILOR INTERNATIONAL Consumer Goods 2,438 0.66%
BOUYGUES Capital Equipment 2,352 0.63%
IMETAL Materials 2,317 0.62%
SEITA Consumer Goods 2,086 0.56%
PRIMAGAZ Energy 2,086 0.56%
</TABLE>
A-7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
PATHE Services 2,071 0.56%
SAINT LOUIS Multi-Industry 2,044 0.55%
SIDEL Capital Equipment 1,847 0.50%
EURAFRANCE Finance 1,597 0.43%
TECHNIP Capital Equipment 1,403 0.38%
SALOMON SA Consumer Goods 1,384 0.37%
SIMCO Finance 1,309 0.35%
SEFIMEG Finance 1,226 0.33%
UNIBAIL Finance 938 0.25%
CLUB MEDITERRANEE Services 865 0.23%
BONGRAIN Consumer Goods 858 0.23%
CPR(CIE PARIS.REESCOMPTE Finance 833 0.22%
CREDIT NATIONAL Finance 770 0.21%
GTM-ENTREPOSE Capital Equipment 711 0.19%
UNION IMMOBILIERE FRANCE Finance 647 0.17%
SOMMER-ALLIBERT Capital Equipment 598 0.16%
CASINO ADP Services 564 0.15%
MOULINEX Consumer Goods 542 0.15%
EUROPE 1 Services 358 0.10%
NORD-EST Materials 355 0.10%
SKIS ROSSIGNOL Consumer Goods 339 0.09%
CHARGEURS INTERNATIONAL Consumer Goods 333 0.09%
GENERALE GEOPHYSIQUE Capital Equipment 275 0.07%
DMC DOLLFUS MIEG & CIE Consumer Goods 186 0.05%
FINEXTEL Finance 181 0.05%
</TABLE>
A-8
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-6
MSCI GERMANY INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ALLIANZ HOLDING Finance 40,645 10.12%
DAIMLER-BENZ Consumer Goods 30,180 7.51%
SIEMENS STAMM Capital Equipment 28,953 7.21%
BAYER Materials 26,675 6.64%
VEBA Energy 26,058 6.49%
DEUTSCHE BANK Finance 23,163 5.77%
BASF Materials 19,504 4.86%
MUENCHENER RUECK NAM Finance 19,074 4.75%
MANNESMANN Capital Equipment 14,263 3.55%
RWE STAMM Energy 13,905 3.46%
DRESDNER BANK Finance 11,913 2.97%
VOLKSWAGEN STAMM Consumer Goods 10,934 2.72%
BAYER VEREINSBANK STAMM Finance 9,939 2.47%
VIAG Energy 9,739 2.42%
SAP STAMM Services 8,263 2.06%
BAYER HYPOTHEKEN BANK Finance 7,534 1.88%
METRO STAMM Services 7,440 1.85%
RWE VORZUG Energy 7,358 1.83%
MERCK KGAA Consumer Goods 6,322 1.57%
SAP VORZUG Services 5,702 1.42%
THYSSEN Materials 5,606 1.40%
SCHERING Consumer Goods 5,503 1.37%
LINDE Capital Equipment 5,208 1.30%
LUFTHANSA Services 4,993 1.24%
BEIERSDORF Consumer Goods 4,241 1.06%
ADIDAS Consumer Goods 3,890 0.97%
PREUSSAG Multi-Industry 3,670 0.91%
AACHEN & MUNCH BET NAMEN Finance 3,648 0.91%
DEGUSSA Materials 3,368 0.84%
HEIDELBERGER ZEMENT STAM Materials 3,257 0.81%
KARSTADT Services 3,066 0.76%
HOCHTIEF Capital Equipment 2,873 0.72%
MAN STAMM Capital Equipment 2,686 0.67%
SGL CARBON Materials 2,359 0.59%
VOLKSWAGEN VORZUG Consumer Goods 1,984 0.49%
CKAG COLONIA KONZ STAMM Finance 1,959 0.49%
CONTINENTAL Capital Equipment 1,645 0.41%
BILFINGER + BERGER Capital Equipment 1,458 0.36%
DOUGLAS HOLDING Services 1,345 0.33%
BUDERUS Materials 1,149 0.29%
PWA PAPIERWERKE WALDHOF Materials 1,017 0.25%
MAN VORZUG Capital Equipment 866 0.22%
GROHE (FRIEDRICH) VORZUG Materials 835 0.21%
FAG KUGELFISCHER Capital Equipment 824 0.21%
AACHEN & MUNCH BET INH Finance 646 0.16%
</TABLE>
A-9
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
MUENCHENER RUECK INH Finance 585 0.15%
AGIV AG IND & VERKEHR Multi-Industry 582 0.14%
METRO VORZUG I Services 480 0.12%
IWKA Capital Equipment 478 0.12%
DYCKERHOFF STAMM Materials 460 0.11%
BRAU & BRUNNEN Consumer Goods 368 0.09%
DYCKERHOFF VORZUG Materials 345 0.09%
CKAG COLONIA KONZ VORZUG Finance 306 0.08%
KLOECKNER-HUMBOLDT-DEUTZ Capital Equipment 286 0.07%
HOLSTEN-BRAUEREI Consumer Goods 258 0.06%
HERLITZ STAMM Services 234 0.06%
RHEINMETALL BERLIN STAMM Capital Equipment 231 0.06%
SALAMANDER Consumer Goods 207 0.05%
HERLITZ VORZUG Services 192 0.05%
STRABAG STAMM Capital Equipment 188 0.05%
DIDIER-WERKE Capital Equipment 186 0.05%
ESCADA STAMM Consumer Goods 135 0.03%
RHEINMETALL BERLIN VZG Capital Equipment 122 0.03%
ESCADA VORZUG Consumer Goods 117 0.03%
METRO VORZUG II Services 94 0.02%
DLW Materials 90 0.02%
STRABAG VORZUG Capital Equipment 21 0.00%
</TABLE>
A-10
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-7
MSCI HONG KONG INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
SUN HUNG KAI PROPERTIES Finance 27,195 13.56%
HUTCHISON WHAMPOA Multi-Industry 25,256 12.59%
HANG SENG BANK Finance 22,919 11.43%
HONGKONG TELECOM Services 20,303 10.12%
CHEUNG KONG HOLDINGS Finance 18,423 9.19%
SWIRE PACIFIC A Multi-Industry 13,993 6.98%
NEW WORLD DEVELOPMENT Finance 10,248 5.11%
WHARF HOLDINGS Finance 9,310 4.64%
CHINA LIGHT & POWER CO Energy 9,242 4.61%
CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS Services 5,379 2.68%
HONGKONG CHINA GAS Energy 5,257 2.62%
BANK EAST ASIA Finance 4,276 2.13%
HYSAN DEVELOPMENT Finance 3,300 1.65%
HOPEWELL HOLDINGS Finance 2,946 1.47%
HANG LUNG DEVELOPMENT CO Finance 2,668 1.33%
SHANGRI-LA ASIA Services 2,259 1.13%
HONGKONG SHANGHAI HOTEL Services 1,981 0.99%
CHINESE ESTATES HOLDINGS Finance 1,737 0.87%
SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST Services 1,478 0.74%
TELEVISION BROADCASTS Services 1,472 0.73%
WING LUNG BANK Finance 1,201 0.60%
MIRAMAR HOTEL & INVEST. Finance 1,120 0.56%
PEREGRINE INVESTMENTS Finance 1,016 0.51%
SHUN TAK HOLDINGS Services 968 0.48%
DICKSON CONCEPTS INT'L Services 895 0.45%
REGAL HOTELS INT'L Services 853 0.43%
JOHNSON ELECTRIC HLDGS Capital Equipment 833 0.42%
ORIENTAL PRESS GROUP Services 771 0.38%
GIORDANO INTERNATIONAL Services 715 0.36%
TAI CHEUNG HOLDINGS Finance 503 0.25%
HONGKONG AIRCRAFT HAECO Capital Equipment 472 0.24%
LAI SUN GARMENT INT'L Finance 384 0.19%
KUMAGAI GUMI (HK) Capital Equipment 347 0.17%
STELUX HOLDINGS INT'L Multi-Industry 205 0.10%
ELEC & ELTEK INT'L HLDGS Capital Equipment 182 0.09%
WINSOR PPTYS(NOT LISTED) Finance 178 0.09%
PLAYMATES TOYS HOLDINGS Consumer Goods 169 0.08%
WINSOR INDUSTRIAL CORP Consumer Goods 60 0.03%
APPLIED INT'L HOLDINGS Capital Equipment 43 0.02%
</TABLE>
A-11
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-8
MSCI ITALY INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ENI Energy 22,967 15.62%
ASSICURAZIONI GENERALI Finance 17,022 11.58%
TELECOM ITALIA ORD Services 14,851 10.10%
TIM ORD (TELECOM IT MOB. Services 13,695 9.32%
FIAT ORD Consumer Goods 8,729 5.94%
INA Finance 5,542 3.77%
MEDIASET Services 5,411 3.68%
SAN PAOLO DI TORINO ORD Finance 4,845 3.30%
IMI ISTITUTO MOBILIARE Finance 4,755 3.23%
EDISON ORD Energy 3,780 2.57%
RAS ORD Finance 3,123 2.12%
BANCA COMMERCIALE ORD Finance 3,093 2.10%
TELECOM ITALIA RNC Services 2,964 2.02%
PIRELLI SPA ORD Capital Equipment 2,610 1.78%
MONTEDISON ORD Multi-Industry 2,591 1.76%
MEDIOBANCA Finance 2,506 1.70%
ITALGAS Energy 2,449 1.67%
CREDITO ITALIANO ORD Finance 2,293 1.56%
PARMALAT FINANZIARIA Consumer Goods 2,119 1.44%
BENETTON GROUP Consumer Goods 2,029 1.38%
TIM RNC (TELECOM IT MOB. Services 1,795 1.22%
SIRTI Capital Equipment 1,323 0.90%
FIAT PRIV Consumer Goods 1,322 0.90%
BULGARI Consumer Goods 1,255 0.85%
OLIVETTI ORD Capital Equipment 1,055 0.72%
BANCA POPOLARE MILANO Finance 1,036 0.70%
FIAT RNC Consumer Goods 1,032 0.70%
BANCO AMBROSIANO VEN ORD Finance 1,009 0.69%
SAI ORD Finance 968 0.66%
MONDADORI ORD Services 951 0.65%
RINASCENTE ORD Services 936 0.64%
ITALCEMENTI ORD Materials 864 0.59%
CARTIERE BURGO ORD Materials 642 0.44%
RAS RNC Finance 628 0.43%
SNIA BPD ORD Multi-Industry 507 0.34%
MONTEDISON RNC Multi-Industry 457 0.31%
MAGNETI MARELLI ORD Capital Equipment 422 0.29%
FALCK ORD Materials 419 0.28%
BANCO AMBROSIANO VEN RNC Finance 345 0.23%
IMPREGILO ORD Capital Equipment 343 0.23%
LANE G.MARZOTTO ORD Consumer Goods 322 0.22%
SASIB ORD Capital Equipment 269 0.18%
PREVIDENTE (LA) Finance 253 0.17%
DANIELI & CO ORD Capital Equipment 231 0.16%
ITALCEMENTI RNC Materials 226 0.15%
SAI RNC Finance 183 0.12%
</TABLE>
A-12
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CEMENTIR Materials 140 0.10%
DANIELI & CO RNC Capital Equipment 115 0.08%
SASIB RNC Capital Equipment 113 0.08%
PIRELLI SPA RNC Capital Equipment 102 0.07%
RINASCENTE RNC Services 100 0.07%
LANE G.MARZOTTO RISP Consumer Goods 86 0.06%
SAFFA A ORD Materials 70 0.05%
RINASCENTE PRIV Services 67 0.05%
SNIA BPD RNC Multi-Industry 43 0.03%
</TABLE>
A-13
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-9
MSCI JAPAN INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
BANK TOKYO-MITSUBISHI Finance 95,001 4.89%
TOYOTA MOTOR CORP Consumer Goods 89,280 4.59%
SUMITOMO BANK Finance 55,232 2.84%
FUJI BANK Finance 52,225 2.69%
INDUSTRIAL BANK OF JAPAN Finance 50,684 2.61%
MATSUSHITA ELECT IND'L Consumer Goods 33,705 1.73%
SAKURA BANK Finance 32,976 1.70%
NOMURA SECURITIES CO Finance 32,446 1.67%
TOKYO ELECTRIC POWER CO Energy 31,044 1.60%
HITACHI Capital Equipment 29,586 1.52%
MITSUBISHI HEAVY IND Capital Equipment 25,946 1.33%
TOKAI BANK Finance 24,128 1.24%
ASAHI BANK Finance 23,897 1.23%
HONDA MOTOR CO Consumer Goods 23,300 1.20%
SONY CORP Consumer Goods 22,476 1.16%
ITO-YOKADO CO Services 20,740 1.07%
KANSAI ELECTRIC POWER CO Energy 20,564 1.06%
NIPPON STEEL CORP Materials 20,111 1.03%
MITSUBISHI TRUST Finance 19,236 0.99%
NISSAN MOTOR CO Consumer Goods 19,023 0.98%
EAST JAPAN RAILWAY CO Services 18,393 0.95%
DENSO CORP (NIPPONDENSO) Capital Equipment 17,996 0.93%
MITSUBISHI CORP Services 17,498 0.90%
SHARP CORP Consumer Goods 17,049 0.88%
TOKIO MARINE & FIRE Finance 17,031 0.88%
NEC CORP Capital Equipment 16,864 0.87%
CANON INC Capital Equipment 16,312 0.84%
MITSUBISHI ESTATE CO Finance 16,220 0.83%
FUJITSU Capital Equipment 16,189 0.83%
TAKEDA CHEMICAL IND Consumer Goods 15,014 0.77%
FUJI PHOTO FILM CO Consumer Goods 14,795 0.76%
DAIWA SECURITIES CO Finance 14,540 0.75%
BRIDGESTONE CORP Capital Equipment 13,510 0.69%
DAI NIPPON PRINTING CO Services 12,727 0.65%
MITSUI & CO Services 12,582 0.65%
MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORP Capital Equipment 12,440 0.64%
ASAHI GLASS CO Materials 12,399 0.64%
KYOCERA CORP Capital Equipment 12,344 0.63%
MITSUI TRUST & BANK CO Finance 11,589 0.60%
SANKYO CO Consumer Goods 11,155 0.57%
KIRIN BREWERY CO Consumer Goods 10,826 0.56%
KINKI NIPPON RAILWAY CO Services 10,756 0.55%
TOHOKU ELECTRIC POWER CO Energy 10,213 0.53%
JAPAN AIRLINES CO Services 10,166 0.52%
MITSUI FUDOSAN CO Finance 10,072 0.52%
KAWASAKI STEEL CORP Materials 10,034 0.52%
</TABLE>
A-14
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
SANYO ELECTRIC CO Consumer Goods 9,469 0.49%
JUSCO CO Services 9,459 0.49%
SUMITOMO ELECTRIC IND Capital Equipment 9,376 0.48%
SHIZUOKA BANK Finance 9,198 0.47%
ASAHI CHEMICAL IND CO Materials 9,005 0.46%
MITSUBISHI CHEMICAL CORP Materials 8,957 0.46%
NKK CORP Materials 8,860 0.46%
TOKYO GAS CO Energy 8,770 0.45%
NIPPON EXPRESS CO Services 8,737 0.45%
SUMITOMO METAL IND Materials 8,656 0.45%
ITOCHU CORP Services 8,609 0.44%
SUMITOMO CORP Services 8,601 0.44%
TOPPAN PRINTING CO Services 8,546 0.44%
TORAY INDUSTRIES Materials 8,465 0.44%
BANK YOKOHAMA Finance 8,444 0.43%
KAJIMA CORP Capital Equipment 8,274 0.43%
KOMATSU Capital Equipment 8,132 0.42%
KUBOTA CORP Capital Equipment 7,982 0.41%
OSAKA GAS CO Energy 7,824 0.40%
MURATA MANUFACTURING CO Capital Equipment 7,689 0.40%
FANUC Capital Equipment 7,680 0.40%
OJI PAPER CO (NEW OJI Materials 7,551 0.39%
SEKISUI HOUSE Capital Equipment 7,471 0.38%
TOKYU CORP Services 7,387 0.38%
SHIMIZU CORP Capital Equipment 7,141 0.37%
KAO CORP Consumer Goods 7,080 0.36%
DAIWA HOUSE IND CO Capital Equipment 7,069 0.36%
NIPPON OIL CO Energy 7,029 0.36%
SUMITOMO CHEMICAL CO Materials 6,929 0.36%
MARUBENI CORP Services 6,921 0.36%
AJINOMOTO CO Consumer Goods 6,904 0.36%
SECOM CO Services 6,856 0.35%
ROHM CO Capital Equipment 6,845 0.35%
MARUI CO Services 6,833 0.35%
TAISHO PHARMACEUTICAL CO Consumer Goods 6,811 0.35%
YAMAICHI SECURITIES CO Finance 6,737 0.35%
YAMANOUCHI PHARM. Consumer Goods 6,587 0.34%
TOYO SEIKAN KAISHA Materials 6,385 0.33%
KAWASAKI HEAVY IND Capital Equipment 6,353 0.33%
DAIEI Services 6,338 0.33%
TOSTEM CORP Materials 6,294 0.32%
TAISEI CORP Capital Equipment 6,276 0.32%
SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO Materials 6,163 0.32%
NIPPON YUSEN K.K Services 5,900 0.30%
SHIN-ETSU CHEMICAL CO Materials 5,867 0.30%
CHIBA BANK Finance 5,854 0.30%
JOYO BANK Finance 5,848 0.30%
OBAYASHI CORP Capital Equipment 5,752 0.30%
ACOM CO Finance 5,634 0.29%
YASUDA TRUST & BANK CO Finance 5,385 0.28%
</TABLE>
A-15
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
NIPPON PAPER IND CO Materials 5,354 0.28%
TOYODA AUTOMATIC LOOM Capital Equipment 5,233 0.27%
MITSUBISHI MATERIALS Materials 5,046 0.26%
HITACHI ZOSEN CORP Capital Equipment 4,899 0.25%
EISAI CO Consumer Goods 4,884 0.25%
SUMITOMO MARINE & FIRE Finance 4,841 0.25%
TOBU RAILWAY CO Services 4,839 0.25%
MITSUI MARINE & FIRE Finance 4,725 0.24%
SHISEIDO CO Consumer Goods 4,685 0.24%
OMRON CORP Capital Equipment 4,678 0.24%
GUNMA BANK Finance 4,547 0.23%
ODAKYU ELECTRIC RAILWAY Services 4,527 0.23%
TEIJIN Materials 4,515 0.23%
SUMITOMO METAL MINING CO Materials 4,468 0.23%
ASAHI BREWERIES Consumer Goods 4,444 0.23%
TOTO Materials 4,426 0.23%
MYCAL CORP (NICHII CO) Services 4,387 0.23%
TAKASHIMAYA CO Services 4,372 0.22%
HANKYU CORP Services 4,317 0.22%
MITSUKOSHI Services 4,191 0.22%
EBARA CORP Capital Equipment 4,144 0.21%
NIKON CORP Capital Equipment 4,098 0.21%
SEGA ENTREPRISES Consumer Goods 4,070 0.21%
SMC CORP Capital Equipment 3,938 0.20%
DAIICHI PHARMACEUTICAL Consumer Goods 3,921 0.20%
TOKYO ELECTRON Capital Equipment 3,857 0.20%
YAMATO TRANSPORT CO Services 3,820 0.20%
HOYA CORP Consumer Goods 3,818 0.20%
HOKURIKU BANK Finance 3,794 0.20%
NSK Capital Equipment 3,736 0.19%
KINDEN CORP Capital Equipment 3,718 0.19%
KYOWA HAKKO KOGYO CO Consumer Goods 3,622 0.19%
SEVENTY-SEVEN BANK Finance 3,600 0.19%
JAPAN ENERGY CORP Energy 3,597 0.19%
PIONEER ELECTRONIC CORP Consumer Goods 3,552 0.18%
YAMAZAKI BAKING CO Consumer Goods 3,505 0.18%
NGK INSULATORS Capital Equipment 3,498 0.18%
FURUKAWA ELECTRIC CO Capital Equipment 3,485 0.18%
COSMO OIL CO Energy 3,421 0.18%
DAINIPPON INK Materials 3,395 0.17%
MITSUBISHI OIL CO Energy 3,363 0.17%
ASHIKAGA BANK Finance 3,331 0.17%
KURARAY CO Materials 3,290 0.17%
MINEBEA CO Capital Equipment 3,279 0.17%
UNY CO Services 3,279 0.17%
NAGOYA RAILROAD CO Services 3,262 0.17%
KOKUYO CO Services 3,241 0.17%
CREDIT SAISON CO Finance 3,158 0.16%
ADVANTEST CORP Capital Equipment 3,098 0.16%
MITSUI OSK LINES Services 3,095 0.16%
</TABLE>
A-16
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
NIPPON FIRE & MARINE Finance 3,063 0.16%
TOKYO DOME CORP Services 3,054 0.16%
NISSIN FOOD PRODUCTS CO Consumer Goods 3,009 0.15%
AUTOBACS SEVEN CO Services 3,006 0.15%
YAMAGUCHI BANK Finance 2,989 0.15%
NIPPON MEAT PACKERS Consumer Goods 2,985 0.15%
SAPPORO BREWERIES Consumer Goods 2,968 0.15%
YAMAHA CORP Consumer Goods 2,952 0.15%
ISETAN CO Services 2,945 0.15%
NANKAI ELECTRIC RAILWAY Services 2,870 0.15%
NTN CORP Capital Equipment 2,813 0.14%
NICHIDO FIRE & MARINE Finance 2,806 0.14%
SHOWA DENKO K.K Materials 2,765 0.14%
MITSUI TOATSU CHEMICALS Materials 2,734 0.14%
SHIONOGI & CO Consumer Goods 2,732 0.14%
CHICHIBU ONODA CEMENT Materials 2,729 0.14%
UBE INDUSTRIES Materials 2,711 0.14%
TBS TOKYO BROADCASTING Services 2,675 0.14%
KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES Capital Equipment 2,674 0.14%
KEIHIN ELECTRIC EXPRESS Services 2,662 0.14%
TOHO CO Services 2,639 0.14%
MITSUBISHI LOG.(MTB WARE Services 2,592 0.13%
NIPPON LIGHT METAL CO Materials 2,586 0.13%
FUJIKURA Capital Equipment 2,579 0.13%
NISHIMATSU CONSTRUCTION Capital Equipment 2,550 0.13%
SHIMANO Consumer Goods 2,505 0.13%
DAIKIN INDUSTRIES Capital Equipment 2,505 0.13%
AMADA CO Capital Equipment 2,498 0.13%
SUMITOMO FORESTRY CO Materials 2,497 0.13%
MITSUBISHI RAYON CO Materials 2,466 0.13%
ORIX CORP Finance 2,418 0.12%
TOKYO STEEL MFG CO Materials 2,415 0.12%
ONWARD KASHIYAMA CO Consumer Goods 2,408 0.12%
KONICA CORP Consumer Goods 2,393 0.12%
CITIZEN WATCH CO Consumer Goods 2,385 0.12%
OLYMPUS OPTICAL CO Capital Equipment 2,370 0.12%
TOSOH CORP Materials 2,350 0.12%
HIROSE ELECTRIC CO Capital Equipment 2,333 0.12%
YOKOGAWA ELECTRIC CORP Capital Equipment 2,303 0.12%
CASIO COMPUTER CO Consumer Goods 2,283 0.12%
SEIYU Services 2,263 0.12%
NGK SPARK PLUG CO Capital Equipment 2,258 0.12%
CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL CO Consumer Goods 2,254 0.12%
NITTO DENKO CORP Materials 2,253 0.12%
FUJITA KANKO Services 2,232 0.11%
ALPS ELECTRIC CO Capital Equipment 2,221 0.11%
KANDENKO CO Capital Equipment 2,220 0.11%
ARABIAN OIL CO Energy 2,219 0.11%
HANKYU DEPARTMENT STORES Services 2,213 0.11%
MAKITA CORP Capital Equipment 2,208 0.11%
</TABLE>
A-17
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
MEIJI SEIKA KAISHA Consumer Goods 2,178 0.11%
KUMAGAI GUMI CO Capital Equipment 2,155 0.11%
SEINO TRANSPORTATION CO Services 2,124 0.11%
TOYOBO CO Consumer Goods 2,120 0.11%
ORIENT CORP Finance 2,108 0.11%
MITSUI ENGINEERING&SHIP. Capital Equipment 2,097 0.11%
NIHON CEMENT CO Materials 2,095 0.11%
SUMITOMO HEAVY IND Capital Equipment 2,075 0.11%
KAMIGUMI CO Services 2,061 0.11%
NISSHINBO INDUSTRIES Consumer Goods 2,060 0.11%
INAX CORP Materials 2,043 0.11%
MITSUBISHI GAS CHEMICAL Materials 2,039 0.10%
PENTA-OCEAN CONSTRUCTION Capital Equipment 2,013 0.10%
SNOW BRAND MILK PRODUCTS Consumer Goods 2,009 0.10%
KANEKA CORP Materials 1,978 0.10%
HOUSE FOODS(HOUSE FD IND Consumer Goods 1,974 0.10%
SANWA SHUTTER CORP Materials 1,963 0.10%
HIGO BANK Finance 1,895 0.10%
DAICEL CHEMICAL IND Materials 1,894 0.10%
CSK CORP Services 1,889 0.10%
TAKARA SHUZO CO Consumer Goods 1,884 0.10%
NIPPON SHINPAN CO Finance 1,882 0.10%
SUMITOMO OSAKA CEMENT CO Materials 1,869 0.10%
AOYAMA TRADING CO Services 1,861 0.10%
NICHIREI CORP Consumer Goods 1,861 0.10%
JGC CORP Capital Equipment 1,861 0.10%
CHIYODA CORP Capital Equipment 1,854 0.10%
MITSUI MINING & SMELTING Materials 1,846 0.09%
WACOAL CORP Consumer Goods 1,843 0.09%
NIPPON SHEET GLASS CO Materials 1,835 0.09%
FUJITA CORP Capital Equipment 1,834 0.09%
SKYLARK CO Services 1,806 0.09%
DAITO TRUST CONSTRUCTION Capital Equipment 1,799 0.09%
DAIDO STEEL CO Materials 1,788 0.09%
UNI-CHARM CORP Consumer Goods 1,764 0.09%
KOMORI CORP Capital Equipment 1,758 0.09%
OKUMURA CORP Capital Equipment 1,744 0.09%
MEIJI MILK PRODUCTS CO Consumer Goods 1,737 0.09%
KOYO SEIKO CO Capital Equipment 1,725 0.09%
NIPPON SHOKUBAI CO Materials 1,641 0.08%
TEIKOKU OIL CO Energy 1,636 0.08%
DAIMARU Services 1,633 0.08%
MITSUBISHI PAPER MILLS Materials 1,571 0.08%
TOKYO STYLE CO Consumer Goods 1,557 0.08%
KAWASAKI KISEN KAISHA Services 1,555 0.08%
LION CORP Consumer Goods 1,522 0.08%
ITOHAM FOODS Consumer Goods 1,486 0.08%
OYO CORP Services 1,485 0.08%
NIPPON COMSYS CORP Capital Equipment 1,482 0.08%
HASEKO CORP Capital Equipment 1,461 0.08%
</TABLE>
A-18
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
MAEDA ROAD CONSTRUCTION Capital Equipment 1,459 0.08%
NORITAKE CO Consumer Goods 1,457 0.07%
KISSEI PHARMACEUTICAL CO Consumer Goods 1,448 0.07%
MORI SEIKI CO Capital Equipment 1,436 0.07%
DENKI KAGAKU KOGYO K.K Materials 1,433 0.07%
NAMCO Services 1,430 0.07%
TAIYO YUDEN CO Capital Equipment 1,416 0.07%
SHIMACHU CO Services 1,413 0.07%
Q. P. CORP Consumer Goods 1,406 0.07%
KIKKOMAN CORP Consumer Goods 1,399 0.07%
DAIFUKU CO Capital Equipment 1,399 0.07%
GUNZE Consumer Goods 1,380 0.07%
DAIWA KOSHO LEASE CO Finance 1,370 0.07%
BROTHER INDUSTRIES Consumer Goods 1,342 0.07%
TAKARA STANDARD CO Consumer Goods 1,342 0.07%
NIPPON SHARYO Capital Equipment 1,329 0.07%
SANKYO ALUMINIUM IND CO Materials 1,302 0.07%
DAINIPPON SCREEN MFG CO Capital Equipment 1,297 0.07%
NAGASE & CO Materials 1,291 0.07%
OKUMA CORP Capital Equipment 1,290 0.07%
IWATANI INTERNATIONAL Energy 1,260 0.06%
SATO KOGYO CO Capital Equipment 1,255 0.06%
KANEBO Consumer Goods 1,244 0.06%
KANSAI PAINT CO Materials 1,244 0.06%
AOKI CORP Capital Equipment 1,236 0.06%
TOKYO TATEMONO CO Finance 1,228 0.06%
EZAKI GLICO CO Consumer Goods 1,227 0.06%
JACCS CO Finance 1,213 0.06%
NOF CORP Materials 1,194 0.06%
TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO Capital Equipment 1,182 0.06%
UNITIKA Materials 1,176 0.06%
DAIKYO Finance 1,154 0.06%
KONAMI CO Services 1,141 0.06%
NIPPON SUISAN KAISHA Consumer Goods 1,139 0.06%
AMANO CORP Capital Equipment 1,138 0.06%
TOA CORP Capital Equipment 1,135 0.06%
HAZAMA CORP Capital Equipment 1,129 0.06%
KATOKICHI CO Consumer Goods 1,113 0.06%
TOKYOTOKEIBA CO Services 1,087 0.06%
TOEI CO Services 1,087 0.06%
MITSUI-SOKO CO Services 1,080 0.06%
SANDEN CORP Capital Equipment 1,076 0.06%
NIIGATA ENGINEERING CO Capital Equipment 1,051 0.05%
MISAWA HOMES CO Capital Equipment 1,044 0.05%
TOYO EXTERIOR CO Materials 1,025 0.05%
KUREHA CHEMICAL IND CO Materials 1,005 0.05%
TAKUMA CO Capital Equipment 1,002 0.05%
TOYO ENGINEERING CORP Capital Equipment 995 0.05%
JAPAN STEEL WORKS Capital Equipment 993 0.05%
ISHIHARA SANGYO KAISHA Materials 951 0.05%
</TABLE>
A-19
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
MARUHA CORP Consumer Goods 936 0.05%
KYUDENKO CORP Capital Equipment 934 0.05%
KURABO INDUSTRIES Consumer Goods 892 0.05%
RENOWN Consumer Goods 878 0.05%
UNIDEN CORP Capital Equipment 815 0.04%
OKAMOTO INDUSTRIES Multi-Industry 815 0.04%
TRANS COSMOS Services 780 0.04%
SANRIO CO Consumer Goods 739 0.04%
MAKINO MILLING MACHINE Capital Equipment 733 0.04%
GAKKEN CO Services 689 0.04%
NIPPON BEET SUGAR MFG CO Consumer Goods 660 0.03%
KAKEN PHARMACEUTICAL CO Consumer Goods 623 0.03%
JAPAN METALS & CHEMICALS Materials 520 0.03%
</TABLE>
A-20
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-10
MSCI MALAYSIA INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
TELEKOM MALAYSIA Services 17,621 12.50%
TENAGA NASIONAL Energy 12,314 8.73%
MALAYAN BANKING Finance 11,314 8.02%
SIME DARBY Multi-Industry 8,229 5.84%
RESORTS WORLD Services 6,266 4.44%
UNITED ENGINEERS (MAL) Multi-Industry 5,955 4.22%
PROTON Consumer Goods 3,421 2.43%
YTL CORP Capital Equipment 3,164 2.24%
MALAYSIA INT'L SHIPPING Services 2,968 2.11%
ROTHMANS PALL MALL (MAL) Consumer Goods 2,814 2.00%
DCB HOLDINGS Finance 2,681 1.90%
AMMB HOLDINGS Finance 2,677 1.90%
MAGNUM CORP Services 2,582 1.83%
RASHID HUSSAIN Finance 2,160 1.53%
EDARAN OTOMOBIL NASIONAL Consumer Goods 2,116 1.50%
PUBLIC BANK Finance 2,083 1.48%
MALAYSIAN AIRLINE SYSTEM Services 1,935 1.37%
MALAYSIAN RESOURCES CORP Finance 1,917 1.36%
NESTLE (MALAYSIA) Consumer Goods 1,838 1.30%
TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES IND Services 1,806 1.28%
COMMERCE ASSET-HOLDING Finance 1,798 1.27%
KUALA LUMPUR KEPONG Materials 1,791 1.27%
GOLDEN HOPE PLANTATIONS Materials 1,707 1.21%
HUME INDUSTRIES MALAYSIA Materials 1,559 1.11%
JAYA TIASA HOLDINGS Materials 1,436 1.02%
ORIENTAL HOLDINGS Consumer Goods 1,375 0.98%
IOI CORP Materials 1,322 0.94%
MULTI-PURPOSE HOLDINGS Multi-Industry 1,284 0.91%
UMW HOLDINGS Capital Equipment 1,207 0.86%
TAN CHONG MOTOR HOLDINGS Consumer Goods 1,144 0.81%
LAND & GENERAL Multi-Industry 1,084 0.77%
EKRAN Capital Equipment 1,079 0.77%
MBF CAPITAL Finance 1,074 0.76%
PERLIS PLANTATIONS Materials 1,056 0.75%
HIGHLANDS & LOWLANDS Materials 1,052 0.75%
NEW STRAITS TIMES PRESS Services 1,044 0.74%
SUNGEI WAY HOLDINGS Materials 1,012 0.72%
TIME ENGINEERING Capital Equipment 977 0.69%
LEADER UNIVERSAL HLDGS Capital Equipment 975 0.69%
MALAYAN UNITED IND Multi-Industry 939 0.67%
HONG LEONG PROPERTIES Finance 931 0.66%
AMSTEEL CORP Materials 917 0.65%
METROPLEX Finance 917 0.65%
MALAYSIA MINING CORP Materials 890 0.63%
SHELL REFINING CO (FOM) Energy 867 0.61%
TA ENTERPRISE Finance 844 0.60%
</TABLE>
A-21
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
MALAYSIAN PACIFIC IND Capital Equipment 813 0.58%
PAN MALAYSIA CEMENT WRKS Materials 796 0.56%
GUINNESS ANCHOR Consumer Goods 777 0.55%
KEDAH CEMENT HOLDINGS Materials 768 0.54%
RJ REYNOLDS Consumer Goods 761 0.54%
MALAYAN CEMENT Materials 740 0.52%
HONG LEONG INDUSTRIES Multi-Industry 716 0.51%
MALAYSIAN OXYGEN Materials 674 0.48%
IDRIS HYDRAULIC MALAYSIA Finance 665 0.47%
KIAN JOO CAN FACTORY Materials 632 0.45%
MULPHA INTERNATIONAL Multi-Industry 632 0.45%
BERJAYA LEISURE Services 609 0.43%
BERJAYA GROUP Multi-Industry 601 0.43%
LANDMARKS Services 561 0.40%
KEMAYAN CORP Materials 515 0.36%
IGB CORP Finance 488 0.35%
PROMET Capital Equipment 433 0.31%
MYCOM Finance 421 0.30%
MALAYSIAN MOSAICS Services 377 0.27%
SELANGOR PROPERTIES Finance 355 0.25%
ANTAH HOLDINGS Finance 313 0.22%
GOLDEN PLUS HOLDINGS Materials 280 0.20%
JOHAN HOLDINGS Capital Equipment 273 0.19%
PILECON ENGINEERING Capital Equipment 273 0.19%
AOKAM PERDANA Materials 269 0.19%
MALAYAWATA STEEL Materials 269 0.19%
PETALING GARDEN Finance 242 0.17%
KELANAMAS INDUSTRIES Materials 209 0.15%
PALMCO HOLDINGS Finance 204 0.14%
ALUMINIUM COMPANY OF MAL Materials 188 0.13%
</TABLE>
A-22
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-11
MSCI MEXICO INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
TELMEX TELEFONOS MEX L Services 11,120 16.45%
KIMBERLY-CLARK MEXICO A Consumer Goods 5,319 7.87%
GRUPO MODELO C Consumer Goods 4,248 6.29%
GRUPO CARSO Multi-Industry 4,190 6.20%
GRUPO TELEVISA CPO Services 4,071 6.02%
TELMEX TELEFONOS MEX A Services 3,757 5.56%
CIFRA B Services 3,096 4.58%
ALFA Multi-Industry 2,522 3.73%
EMPRESAS MODERNA ACP Consumer Goods 2,056 3.04%
CEMEX A Materials 1,939 2.87%
GRUPO MEXICO B Materials 1,876 2.78%
APASCO Materials 1,712 2.53%
BIMBO ACP Consumer Goods 1,679 2.48%
FOMENTO ECONOMICO MEX. Consumer Goods 1,657 2.45%
INDUSTRIAS PENOLES CP Materials 1,654 2.45%
CEMEX B Materials 1,575 2.33%
GRUPO FIN BANACCI B Finance 1,544 2.28%
DESC B Multi-Industry 1,487 2.20%
GRUPO ICA Capital Equipment 1,398 2.07%
GRUPO IND'L MASECA B2 Consumer Goods 1,127 1.67%
GRUPO FIN BANCOMER B Finance 1,111 1.64%
CIFRA C Services 1,034 1.53%
CONTROLADORA COM MEX UBC Services 943 1.39%
LIVERPOOL (EL PUERTO) 1 Services 838 1.24%
CEMEX CPO Materials 834 1.23%
TAMSA Capital Equipment 771 1.14%
VITRO Materials 691 1.02%
GRUPO FIN BBV-PROBURSA B Finance 665 0.98%
GRUPO CONTINENTAL Consumer Goods 565 0.84%
GRUPO FIN BANACCI L Finance 412 0.61%
TRANSPORTACION MARIT. L Services 398 0.59%
CYDSA Materials 227 0.34%
GRUPO FIN SERFIN B Finance 179 0.26%
EMPAQUES PONDEROSA (NEW) Materials 155 0.23%
LIVERPOOL (EL PUERTO) C1 Services 138 0.20%
CONSORCIO G GRUPO DINA Capital Equipment 130 0.19%
GRUPO FIN SERFIN LCP Finance 123 0.18%
GRUPO MEX DESARROLLO L Capital Equipment 100 0.15%
GRUPO SITUR B Services 79 0.12%
GRUPO SIMEC B Materials 68 0.10%
GRUPO HERDEZ B Consumer Goods 54 0.08%
GRUPO HERDEZ A Consumer Goods 50 0.07%
</TABLE>
A-23
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-12
MSCI NETHERLANDS INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ROYAL DUTCH PETROLEUM CO Energy 88,574 35.70%
UNILEVER NV CERT Consumer Goods 24,348 9.81%
ING GROEP Finance 24,211 9.76%
ABN AMRO HOLDING Finance 18,629 7.51%
KON. PTT NEDERLAND Services 16,763 6.76%
PHILIPS ELECTRONICS Consumer Goods 12,226 4.93%
ELSEVIER Services 11,046 4.45%
AHOLD (KON.) Services 9,718 3.92%
HEINEKEN NV Consumer Goods 9,482 3.82%
AKZO NOBEL Materials 8,962 3.61%
WOLTERS KLUWER Services 8,720 3.51%
KONINKLIJKE KNP BT Materials 2,254 0.91%
KLM Services 2,165 0.87%
GETRONICS Capital Equipment 2,112 0.85%
OCE-VAN DER GRINTEN Capital Equipment 2,021 0.81%
IHC CALAND Capital Equipment 1,477 0.60%
STAD ROTTERDAM Finance 1,189 0.48%
HOOGOVENS (KON.) Materials 1,156 0.47%
PAKHOED (KON.) Capital Equipment 967 0.39%
STORK (VER MACHINE.) Capital Equipment 934 0.38%
HOLLANDSCHE BETON GROEP Capital Equipment 610 0.25%
NEDLLOYD (KON.) Services 570 0.23%
</TABLE>
A-24
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-13
MSCI SINGAPORE INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
SINGAPORE TELECOM Services 14,201 15.42%
OCBC BANK FGN Finance 11,464 12.45%
SINGAPORE AIRLINES FGN Services 11,288 12.25%
UNITED OVERSEAS BANK FGN Finance 8,907 9.67%
DEVELOPMENT BK SING FGN Finance 8,266 8.97%
CITY DEVELOPMENTS Finance 6,227 6.76%
SINGAPORE PRESS HLDG FGN Services 5,620 6.10%
KEPPEL CORP Multi-Industry 3,907 4.24%
FRASER & NEAVE Consumer Goods 2,931 3.18%
DBS LAND Finance 2,896 3.14%
CYCLE & CARRIAGE Consumer Goods 2,454 2.66%
SINGAPORE TECH IND'L Multi-Industry 1,483 1.61%
UIC UNITED INDUSTRIAL Finance 1,122 1.22%
PARKWAY HOLDINGS Finance 1,117 1.21%
UNITED OVERSEAS LAND Finance 726 0.79%
STRAITS TRADING Materials 683 0.74%
HOTEL PROPERTIES Services 623 0.68%
OVERSEAS UNION ENT. Services 616 0.67%
NEPTUNE ORIENT LINES NOL Services 605 0.66%
FIRST CAPITAL CORP Finance 560 0.61%
NATSTEEL Materials 559 0.61%
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY Capital Equipment 545 0.59%
INCHCAPE BERHAD Multi-Industry 532 0.58%
JURONG SHIPYARD Capital Equipment 521 0.57%
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL Services 515 0.56%
COMFORT GROUP Services 472 0.51%
VAN DER HORST Capital Equipment 400 0.43%
HAW PAR BROTHERS INT'L Multi-Industry 373 0.40%
IPC CORP Capital Equipment 369 0.40%
METRO HOLDINGS Services 340 0.37%
HAI SUN HUP GROUP Services 304 0.33%
SEMBAWANG MARITIME Services 263 0.29%
LUM CHANG HOLDINGS Multi-Industry 262 0.28%
ROBINSON AND CO Services 246 0.27%
GOLDTRON Capital Equipment 243 0.26%
AMCOL HOLDINGS Finance 189 0.20%
CHUAN HUP HOLDINGS Capital Equipment 156 0.17%
PRIMA Consumer Goods 133 0.14%
</TABLE>
A-25
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-14
MSCI SPAIN INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
TELEFONICA DE ESPANA Services 18,867 17.40%
ENDESA EMPRESA NAL ELEC. Energy 15,930 14.69%
BANCO BILBAO VIZCAYA Finance 10,930 10.08%
REPSOL Energy 9,802 9.04%
IBERDROLA Energy 9,773 9.01%
BANCO SANTANDER Finance 8,207 7.57%
GAS NATURAL SDG Energy 6,534 6.02%
ARGENTARIA CORP BANCARIA Finance 4,923 4.54%
BANCO CENTRAL HISPANO Finance 3,830 3.53%
AUTOPISTAS CESA (ACESA) Services 2,631 2.43%
UNION ELECTRICA FENOSA Energy 1,979 1.82%
AGUAS DE BARCELONA Services 1,786 1.65%
MAPFRE (CORPORACION) Finance 1,490 1.37%
ACERINOX Materials 1,404 1.29%
TABACALERA Consumer Goods 1,349 1.24%
ALBA (CORP FINANCIERA) Multi-Industry 1,285 1.18%
FOMENTO CONST Y CONTR Capital Equipment 1,220 1.13%
ZARDOYA OTIS Capital Equipment 986 0.91%
VALLEHERMOSO Finance 850 0.78%
METROVACESA Finance 785 0.72%
DRAGADOS Y CONSTRUCCION Capital Equipment 770 0.71%
EBRO AGRICOLAS Consumer Goods 608 0.56%
PROSEGUR Services 485 0.45%
PORTLAND VALDERRIVAS Materials 447 0.41%
URALITA Materials 411 0.38%
VISCOFAN Materials 332 0.31%
ENCE EMPR NAC CELULOSAS Materials 273 0.25%
SARRIO Materials 200 0.18%
URBIS (INMOBILIARIA) Finance 171 0.16%
AGUILA (EL) Consumer Goods 121 0.11%
ERCROS Materials 67 0.06%
</TABLE>
A-26
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-15
MSCI SWEDEN INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ERICSSON (LM) B Capital Equipment 25,966 19.38%
ASTRA A Consumer Goods 23,074 17.22%
ABB AB A (ASEA A) Capital Equipment 7,583 5.66%
VOLVO B Consumer Goods 6,683 4.99%
HENNES & MAURITZ B Services 5,490 4.10%
SKANSKA B Capital Equipment 5,371 4.01%
ASTRA B Consumer Goods 5,240 3.91%
SVENSKA HANDELSBK A Finance 5,118 3.82%
SKAND.ENSKILDA BANKEN A Finance 4,415 3.30%
SCA SV CELLULOSA B Materials 4,150 3.10%
ELECTROLUX B Consumer Goods 4,083 3.05%
STORA KOPPARBERG A Materials 3,430 2.56%
STADSHYPOTEK A Finance 3,206 2.39%
ABB AB B (ASEA B) Capital Equipment 3,012 2.25%
VOLVO A Consumer Goods 2,945 2.20%
SKANDIA FORSAKRING Finance 2,877 2.15%
ATLAS COPCO A Capital Equipment 2,538 1.89%
AUTOLIV Capital Equipment 2,338 1.75%
AGA A Materials 2,139 1.60%
SCANCEM A (EUROC A) Materials 1,988 1.48%
SECURITAS B Services 1,874 1.40%
AGA B Materials 1,758 1.31%
TRELLEBORG B Multi-Industry 1,519 1.13%
SKF B Capital Equipment 1,413 1.05%
SWEDISH MATCH Consumer Goods 1,384 1.03%
ATLAS COPCO B Capital Equipment 1,259 0.94%
SKF A Capital Equipment 1,077 0.80%
STORA KOPPARBERG B Materials 769 0.57%
SVENSKA HANDELSBK B Finance 495 0.37%
ESSELTE A Services 423 0.32%
ESSELTE B Services 338 0.25%
</TABLE>
A-27
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-16
MSCI SWITZERLAND INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ROCHE HOLDING GENUSS Consumer Goods 53,361 16.40%
NESTLE Consumer Goods 43,003 13.22%
SANDOZ NAMEN Consumer Goods 40,671 12.50%
CIBA-GEIGY NAMEN Materials 31,223 9.60%
SCHWEIZ BANKGESELL INH Finance 20,307 6.24%
ROCHE HOLDING INHABER Consumer Goods 19,703 6.06%
CS HOLDING Finance 18,919 5.81%
SCHWEIZ RUECKVERS Finance 15,750 4.84%
SCHWEIZ BANKVEREIN Finance 14,701 4.52%
ZUERICH VERSICHERUNG Finance 12,509 3.84%
ABB INH(BBC BROWN BOVERI Capital Equipment 9,978 3.07%
ADECCO PORTEUR(ADIA PORT Services 4,616 1.42%
CIBA-GEIGY INHABER Materials 4,612 1.42%
SCHWEIZ BANKGESELL NAMEN Finance 4,280 1.32%
HOLDERBANK INHABER Materials 3,538 1.09%
SANDOZ INHABER Consumer Goods 3,292 1.01%
ALUSUISSE-LONZA HLDG NAM Multi-Industry 2,999 0.92%
SGS SURVEILLANCE PORT Services 2,638 0.81%
SMH PORTEUR Consumer Goods 2,228 0.68%
SMH NOM Consumer Goods 2,120 0.65%
SWISSAIR NAMEN Services 1,802 0.55%
ALUSUISSE-LONZA HLDG INH Multi-Industry 1,471 0.45%
HOLDERBANK NAMEN Materials 1,418 0.44%
SULZER NAMEN Capital Equipment 1,319 0.41%
ABB NAM(BBC BROWN BOVERI Capital Equipment 1,314 0.40%
SGS SURVEILLANCE NOM Services 1,203 0.37%
SCHINDLER NAMEN Capital Equipment 773 0.24%
KUONI REISEN NAMEN B Services 723 0.22%
VALORA HLDG NAMEN(MERKUR Services 696 0.21%
SCHINDLER PART Capital Equipment 620 0.19%
SULZER PART Capital Equipment 612 0.19%
FORBO HOLDING Materials 585 0.18%
SIKA FINANZ INHABER Materials 551 0.17%
FISCHER (GEORG) INHABER Capital Equipment 517 0.16%
DANZAS HOLDING NAMEN Services 453 0.14%
JELMOLI HOLDING INHABER Services 222 0.07%
MOEVENPICK INHABER Services 176 0.05%
JELMOLI HOLDING NAMEN Services 143 0.04%
MOEVENPICK PART Services 111 0.03%
DANZAS HOLDING PART Services 110 0.03%
FISCHER (GEORG) NAMEN Capital Equipment 97 0.03%
</TABLE>
A-28
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A-17
MSCI UNITED KINGDOM INDEX AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
BRITISH PETROLEUM Energy 60,545 6.04%
GLAXO WELLCOME Consumer Goods 55,074 5.49%
HSBC HOLDINGS (HKD 10) Finance 36,717 3.66%
BRITISH TELECOM Services 36,421 3.63%
SMITHKLINE BEECHAM Consumer Goods 34,002 3.39%
LLOYDS TSB GROUP Finance 32,841 3.28%
ZENECA GROUP Consumer Goods 25,774 2.57%
BARCLAYS Finance 24,049 2.40%
MARKS & SPENCER Services 23,667 2.36%
BAT INDUSTRIES Multi-Industry 21,554 2.15%
REUTERS HOLDINGS Services 20,878 2.08%
HSBC HOLDINGS (GBP 0.75) Finance 18,125 1.81%
CABLE & WIRELESS Services 17,693 1.76%
UNILEVER PLC Consumer Goods 17,134 1.71%
RTZ CORP REG Materials 17,107 1.71%
GENERAL ELECTRIC PLC Capital Equipment 17,075 1.70%
BTR Multi-Industry 16,776 1.67%
BRITISH SKY BROADCASTING Services 16,156 1.61%
GRAND METROPOLITAN Consumer Goods 15,816 1.58%
ABBEY NATIONAL Finance 14,615 1.46%
PRUDENTIAL CORP Finance 14,470 1.44%
GUINNESS Consumer Goods 13,811 1.38%
BRITISH GAS Energy 13,679 1.36%
GRANADA GROUP Multi-Industry 12,210 1.22%
VODAFONE GROUP Services 11,824 1.18%
TESCO Services 11,685 1.17%
BASS Services 11,272 1.12%
SAINSBURY (J) Services 10,868 1.08%
REED INTERNATIONAL Services 10,520 1.05%
ROYAL & SUN ALLIANCE INS Finance 10,435 1.04%
GREAT UNIVERSAL STORES Services 10,023 1.00%
IMPERIAL CHEMICAL ICI Materials 9,315 0.93%
BOOTS CO Services 9,179 0.92%
BRITISH AIRWAYS Services 8,678 0.87%
EMI GROUP (THORN EMI) Consumer Goods 8,474 0.85%
CADBURY SCHWEPPES Consumer Goods 8,261 0.82%
BRITISH AEROSPACE Capital Equipment 8,133 0.81%
NATIONAL POWER Energy 7,538 0.75%
KINGFISHER Services 7,129 0.71%
COMMERCIAL UNION Finance 7,105 0.71%
PEARSON Services 7,033 0.70%
HANSON Multi-Industry 6,820 0.68%
BOC GROUP Materials 6,794 0.68%
ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND Finance 6,682 0.67%
GKN Capital Equipment 6,582 0.66%
LEGAL & GENERAL GROUP Finance 6,562 0.65%
</TABLE>
A-29
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
SAFEWAY (ARGYLL GROUP) Services 6,428 0.64%
SCOTTISH & NEWCASTLE Services 6,392 0.64%
ASSOCIATED BRITISH FOODS Consumer Goods 6,182 0.62%
ROLLS-ROYCE Capital Equipment 6,050 0.60%
LAND SECURITIES Finance 5,963 0.59%
PEN & ORIENTAL STEAM Services 5,951 0.59%
SCOTTISH POWER Energy 5,914 0.59%
LUCASVARITY Capital Equipment 5,741 0.57%
BRITISH STEEL Materials 5,661 0.56%
RANK GROUP Services 5,538 0.55%
NATIONAL GRID GROUP Energy 5,027 0.50%
UNITED UTILITIES Services 4,872 0.49%
BLUE CIRCLE INDUSTRIES Materials 4,759 0.47%
CARLTON COMMUNICATIONS Services 4,637 0.46%
SCHRODERS Finance 4,425 0.44%
RMC GROUP Materials 4,410 0.44%
WOLSELEY Materials 4,398 0.44%
TI GROUP Multi-Industry 4,364 0.44%
SMITHS INDUSTRIES Capital Equipment 4,054 0.40%
LADBROKE GROUP Services 3,794 0.38%
GUARDIAN ROYAL EXCHANGE Finance 3,715 0.37%
ARGOS Services 3,580 0.36%
REDLAND Materials 3,562 0.36%
BURMAH CASTROL Energy 3,530 0.35%
WILLIAMS HOLDINGS Materials 3,431 0.34%
NEXT Services 3,414 0.34%
LASMO Energy 3,365 0.34%
MERCURY ASSET MGMT GROUP Finance 3,358 0.33%
THAMES WATER Services 3,346 0.33%
BRITISH LAND CO Finance 3,223 0.32%
TATE & LYLE Consumer Goods 3,088 0.31%
COURTAULDS PLC Materials 3,012 0.30%
BPB Materials 2,985 0.30%
MEPC Finance 2,919 0.29%
REXAM Materials 2,879 0.29%
ELECTROCOMPONENTS Capital Equipment 2,855 0.28%
PILKINGTON Materials 2,797 0.28%
SOUTHERN ELECTRIC Energy 2,710 0.27%
THORN Consumer Goods 2,444 0.24%
BBA GROUP Capital Equipment 2,417 0.24%
ANGLIAN WATER Services 2,395 0.24%
CARADON Materials 2,360 0.24%
RAILTRACK GROUP Services 2,255 0.22%
ARJO WIGGINS APPLETON Materials 2,206 0.22%
IMI Multi-Industry 2,194 0.22%
SEARS Services 2,170 0.22%
DE LA RUE Services 2,153 0.21%
JOHNSON MATTHEY Multi-Industry 2,141 0.21%
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL Finance 2,012 0.20%
BICC Capital Equipment 1,996 0.20%
</TABLE>
A-30
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX MARKET
CAPITALIZATION WEIGHT IN
(MILLIONS OF MSCI INDEX
CONSTITUENT NAME INDUSTRY SECTOR US$) (%)
- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------- ---------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
FKI Capital Equipment 1,930 0.19%
LONRHO Multi-Industry 1,894 0.19%
UNITED BISCUITS Consumer Goods 1,793 0.18%
HAMMERSON Finance 1,762 0.18%
COATS VIYELLA Consumer Goods 1,744 0.17%
LONDON ELECTRICITY Energy 1,728 0.17%
EAST MIDLANDS ELEC Energy 1,709 0.17%
UNIGATE Consumer Goods 1,666 0.17%
HYDER Services 1,614 0.16%
SLOUGH ESTATES Finance 1,578 0.16%
VICKERS Capital Equipment 1,572 0.16%
BOWTHORPE Capital Equipment 1,491 0.15%
HARRISONS & CROSFIELD Multi-Industry 1,483 0.15%
CHUBB SECURITY Services 1,453 0.14%
TARMAC Materials 1,357 0.14%
RACAL ELECTRONICS Capital Equipment 1,281 0.13%
HEPWORTH Materials 1,181 0.12%
OCEAN GROUP Services 1,172 0.12%
SEDGWICK GROUP Finance 1,110 0.11%
T & N Capital Equipment 1,108 0.11%
LAIRD GROUP Capital Equipment 1,063 0.11%
RUGBY GROUP Materials 1,055 0.11%
NORTHERN ELECTRIC Energy 1,045 0.10%
GREAT PORTLAND ESTATES Finance 995 0.10%
TAYLOR WOODROW Capital Equipment 974 0.10%
BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS Capital Equipment 962 0.10%
ENGLISH CHINA CLAYS Materials 939 0.09%
DELTA Capital Equipment 922 0.09%
COBHAM Capital Equipment 890 0.09%
MEYER INTERNATIONAL Materials 853 0.09%
WILLIS CORROON GROUP Finance 834 0.08%
CALOR GROUP Energy 813 0.08%
WIMPEY (GEORGE) Capital Equipment 738 0.07%
MARLEY Materials 720 0.07%
LEX SERVICE Services 670 0.07%
WILSON (CONNOLLY) HLDGS Capital Equipment 503 0.05%
COURTAULDS TEXTILES Consumer Goods 471 0.05%
TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT Services 467 0.05%
ST JAMES'S PLACE CAP(NEW Finance 413 0.04%
AMEC Capital Equipment 346 0.03%
AMSTRAD Capital Equipment 293 0.03%
</TABLE>
A-31
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
The Fund intends to effect deliveries of Portfolio Securities on a basis of
"T" plus three New York business days (i.e., days on which the New York Stock
Exchange is open) in the relevant foreign market of each WEBS Index Series,
except as discussed below. The ability of the Fund to effect in-kind redemptions
within three New York business days of receipt of a redemption request is
subject, among other things, to the condition that, within the time period from
the date of the request to the date of delivery of the securities, there are no
days that are local market holidays but "good" New York business days. For every
occurrence of one or more intervening holidays in the local market that are not
holidays observed in New York, the redemption settlement cycle will be extended
by the number of such intervening local holidays. In addition to holidays, other
unforeseeable closings in a foreign market due to emergencies may also prevent
the Fund from delivering securities within three New York business days.
The securities delivery cycles currently practicable for transferring
Portfolio Securities to redeeming investors, coupled with local market holiday
schedules, will require a delivery process longer than seven calendar days for
some WEBS Index Series, in certain circumstances, during 1997. The holidays
applicable to each WEBS Index Series during 1997 are listed below, as are
instances where more than seven days will be needed to deliver redemption
proceeds. Although certain holidays may occur on different dates in subsequent
years, the number of days required to deliver redemption proceeds in any given
year is not expected to exceed the maximum number of days listed below for each
WEBS Index Series. The proclamation of new holidays, or the elimination of
existing holidays, and changes in local securities delivery practices, could
affect the information set forth herein at some time in the future.
THE AUSTRALIA WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Australian holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Australia Day -- January 27, 1997
Labour Day (1) -- March 10, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
ANZAC Day -- April 25, 1997
Queens Birthday -- June 9, 1997
Bank Holiday (2) -- August 4, 1997
Labour Day (2) -- October 6, 1997
Melbourne Cup Day (1) -- November 4, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Boxing Day -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any
Australian holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7
calendar days in 1997.
(1) Victoria only.
(2) NSW only.
B-1
<PAGE>
THE AUSTRIA WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Austrian holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Epiphany -- January 6, 1997
Good Friday (1) -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Ascension Day -- May 8, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
Corpus Christi -- May 29, 1997
Assumption Day -- August 15, 1997
Immaculate Conception -- December 8, 1997
Christmas Eve -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
St. Stephen's Day -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Austrian holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- --------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/24/96 Christmas Eve 12/19/97 12/29/97 R + 10
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/22/97 12/30/97 R + 8
12/26/97 St. Stephen's Day 12/23/97 12/31/97 R + 8
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+10 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Austria WEBS Index Series.
(1) Exchange only.
B-2
<PAGE>
THE BELGIUM WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Belgian holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Good Friday (1) -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Ascension Day -- May 8, 1997
Bank Holiday -- May 9, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
National Day -- July 21, 1997
Assumption Day -- August 15, 1997
Bank Holiday -- November 3, 1997
Remembrance Day -- November 11, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Bridging Day -- December 26, 1997
New Years Eve (Exchange only) -- December 31, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Belgian holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- ------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/24/97 1/2/98 R + 9
12/26/91 Bridging Day
12/31/97 New Year's Eve
1/1/98 New Year's Day
</TABLE>
In 1997, R + 9 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Belgium WEBS Index Series.
(1) Exchange only.
B-3
<PAGE>
THE CANADA WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Canadian holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Victoria Day -- May 19, 1997
St. Jean Baptiste (1) -- June 24, 1997
Canada Day -- July 1, 1997
Civic Day (1) -- August 1, 1997
Labour Day -- September 1, 1997
Thanksgiving Day -- October 13, 1997
Remembrance Day -- November 11, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Boxing Day -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any Canadian
holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar
days in 1997.
(1) Except banks and Exchange in Quebec only.
B-4
<PAGE>
THE FRANCE WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular French holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Victory Day -- May 8, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
Bastille Day -- July 14, 1997
Assumption Day -- August 15, 1997
Eve of Armistice Day -- November 10, 1997
Armistice Day -- November 11 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any French
holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar
days in 1997.
B-5
<PAGE>
THE GERMANY WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular German holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Epiphany (1) -- January 6, 1997
Monday before Lent (1) -- February 10, 1997
Shrove Tuesday (2) -- February 11, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Ascension Day -- May 8, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
Local Holiday (3) -- May 20, 1997
Corpus Christi (1) -- May 29, 1997
Assumption Day (1) -- August 15, 1997
National Holiday -- October 3, 1997
Reformation Day (4) -- October 31, 1997
All Saints Day -- November 1, 1997
Christmas Eve -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
St. Stephen's Day -- December 26, 1997
New Year's Eve -- December 31, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following German holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- --------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/24/97 Christmas Eve 12/19/97 12/29/97 R + 10
12/25/91 Christmas Day 12/22/97 12/30/97 R + 8
12/26/97 St. Stephen's Day 12/23/97 1/2/98 R + 10
12/31/97 New Year's Eve
1/1/98 New Year's Day
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+10 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Germany WEBS Index Series.
(1) Parts of Germany.
(2) Shortened trading hours.
(3) Frankfurt only.
(4) Banks only.
B-6
<PAGE>
THE HONG KONG WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Hong Kong holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Lunar New Year's Day -- February 6, 1997
Lunar New Year's Day -- February 7, 1997
Lunar New Year's Day -- February 8, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Tuen Ng Festival -- June 9, 1997
Queen's Birthday Observed -- June 30, 1997
SAR Establishment Day -- July 1, 1997
SAR Establishment Day -- July 2, 1997
Sino-Japanese War Victory Day -- August 18, 1997
Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival -- September 17, 1997
National Day -- October 1, 1997
National Day -- October 2, 1997
Chung Yeung Festival -- October 10, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Christmas Holiday -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any Hong
Kong holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7
calendar days in 1997.
B-7
<PAGE>
THE ITALY WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Italian holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Epiphany -- January 6, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Liberation Day -- April 25, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Assumption Day -- August 15, 1997
Immaculate Conception -- December 8, 1997
Christmas Eve (1) -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
St. Stephen's Day -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Italian holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- --------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/24/97 Christmas Eve 12/19/97 12/29/97 R + 10
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/22/97 12/30/97 R + 8
12/26/97 St. Stephen's Day 12/23/97 12/31/97 R + 8
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+10 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Italy WEBS Index Series.
(1) Exchange only.
B-8
<PAGE>
THE JAPAN WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Japanese holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Bank Holiday -- January 2, 1997
Bank Holiday -- January 3, 1997
Adult's Day -- January 15, 1997
National Foundation Day -- February 11, 1997
Vernal Equinox Day -- March 20, 1997
Greenery Day -- April 29, 1997
Children's Day -- May 5, 1997
Ocean Day Observed -- July 21, 1997
Respect of the Aged Day -- September 15, 1997
Autumnal Equinox Day -- September 23, 1997
Sports Day -- October 10, 1997
Culture Day -- November 3, 1997
Labour Thanksgiving Day Observed -- November 24, 1997
Emperor's Birthday -- December 23, 1997
Exchange Holiday -- December 31, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Japanese holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- ----------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/31/97 Exchange Holiday 12/26/97 1/5/98 R + 10
1/1/98 New Year's Day 12/29/97 1/6/98 R + 8
1/2/98 First Weekday after New 12/30/97 1/7/98 R + 8
Year's Day
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+10 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Japan WEBS Index Series.
B-9
<PAGE>
THE MALAYSIA WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Malaysian holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Federal Territory Day -- February 1, 1997
Chinese New Year -- February 7, 1997
Chinese New Year -- February 8, 1997
Hari Raya Puasa (1) -- February 9, 1997
Hari Raya Puasa (1) -- February 10, 1997
Hari Raya Haji (1) -- April 18, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Awal Muharam -- May 8, 1997
Wesak Day -- May 21, 1997
Birthday of His Majesty -- June 7, 1997
Prophet Mohammed's Birthday -- July 17, 1997
National Day -- August 31, 1997
Deepavali (1) -- October 30, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any
Malaysian holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7
calendar days in 1997.
(1) Subject to change.
B-10
<PAGE>
THE MEXICO (FREE) WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Mexican holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Constitution Day -- February 5, 1997
Benito Juarez Day -- March 21, 1997
Holy Wednesday (1) -- March 26, 1997
Holy Thursday -- March 27, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Workers Day -- May 1, 1997
Puebla's Battle -- May 5, 1997
Mother's Day (1) -- May 10, 1997
State of the Union Address Day -- September 1, 1997
All Saint's Day -- November 2, 1997
Revolution Day -- November 20, 1997
Our Lady of Guadalupe Day -- December 12, 1997
Christmas Eve (1) -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Banking's Year End -- December 30, 1997
Year End -- December 31, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Mexican holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- ----------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
3/21/97 Benito Juarez Day 3/20/97 3/31/97 R + 11
3/26/97 Holy Wednesday 3/24/97 4/1/97 R + 8
3/27/97 Holy Thursday 3/25/97 4/2/97 R + 8
3/28/97 Good Friday
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/26/97 1/5/98 R + 10
12/30/97 Banking's Year End 12/29/97 1/6/98 R + 8
12/31/97 Year End
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+11 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Mexico (Free) WEBS Index
Series.
(1) Half day.
B-11
<PAGE>
THE NETHERLANDS WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Netherlands holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Queen's Birthday -- April 30, 1997
Ascension Day -- May 8, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Boxing Day -- December 26, 1997
Holiday -- December 31, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Netherlands holidays
would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples
are based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- ------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/24/97 1/2/98 R + 9
12/26/97 Boxing Day
12/31/97 Holiday
1/1/98 New Year's Day
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+9 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Netherlands WEBS Index
Series.
B-12
<PAGE>
THE SINGAPORE (FREE) WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Singaporean holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Chinese New Year -- February 7, 1997
Chinese New Year -- February 8, 1997
Chinese New Year -- February 9, 1997
Chinese New Year (1) -- February 10, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Hari Raya Haji -- April 18, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Vesak Day -- May 21, 1997
National Day -- August 9, 1997
Deepavali -- October 31, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any
Singaporean holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7
calendar days in 1997.
(1) Observance of Sunday's holiday.
B-13
<PAGE>
THE SPAIN WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Spanish holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Epiphany -- January 6, 1997
Holy Thursday -- March 27, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Madrid Day -- May 2, 1997
San Isidro -- May 15, 1997
St. James' Day -- July 25, 1997
Assumption Day -- August 15, 1997
Immaculate Concepcion -- December 8, 1997
Christmas Eve (1) -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any Spanish
holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar
days in 1997.
(1) Exchange only.
B-14
<PAGE>
THE SWEDEN WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Swedish holidays affecting the relevant
securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997) are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Epiphany -- January 6, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Ascension Day -- May 8, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
Midsummer Eve -- June 20, 1997
Christmas Eve -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Boxing Day -- December 26, 1997
New Year's Day -- December 31, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Swedish holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- ------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/24/97 Christmas Eve 12/19/97 12/29/97 R + 10
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/22/97 12/30/97 R + 8
12/26/97 Boxing Day 12/23/97 1/2/98 R + 10
12/31/97 New Year's Eve
1/1/98 New Year's Day
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+10 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Sweden WEBS Index Series.
B-15
<PAGE>
THE SWITZERLAND WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular Swiss (Zurich) holidays affecting the
relevant securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997)
are as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Berchtoldstag -- January 2, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
Labour Day -- May 1, 1997
Ascension Day -- May 8, 1997
Whit Monday -- May 19, 1997
National Day -- August 1, 1997
Knabenschiessen (1) -- September 15, 1997
Christmas Eve (1) -- December 24, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
St. Stephen's Day -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. A redemption request over the following Swiss holidays would
result in a settlement period that will exceed 7 calendar days (examples are
based on the days particular holidays fall in 1997):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
REDEMPTION REDEMPTION SETTLEMENT
DATE HOLIDAY REQUEST DATE (R) SETTLEMENT DATE PERIOD
- ---------- --------------------- ---------------- --------------- ----------------
<C> <S> <C> <C> <C>
12/24/97 Christmas Eve 12/19/97 12/29/97 R + 10
12/25/97 Christmas Day 12/22/97 12/30/97 R + 8
12/26/97 St. Stephen's Day 12/23/97 12/31/97 R + 8
</TABLE>
In 1997, R+10 calendar days would be the maximum number of calendar days
necessary to satisfy a redemption request made on the Switzerland WEBS Index
Series.
(1) Banks close at 12PM.
B-16
<PAGE>
THE UNITED KINGDOM WEBS INDEX SERIES
REGULAR HOLIDAYS. The regular United Kingdom holidays affecting the
relevant securities markets (and their respective dates in calendar year 1997)
are as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
New Year's Day -- January 1, 1997
Good Friday -- March 28, 1997
Easter Monday -- March 31, 1997
May Day -- May 5, 1997
Spring Bank Holiday -- May 26, 1997
August Bank Holiday -- August 25, 1997
Christmas Day -- December 25, 1997
Boxing day -- December 26, 1997
</TABLE>
REDEMPTION. The Fund is not aware of a redemption request over any United
Kingdom holiday that would result in a settlement period that will exceed 7
calendar days in 1997.
B-17
<PAGE>
APPENDIX C
World
Equity
Benchmark
Shares
A simple trade.
A sophisticated
investment.
[Logo]
Webs TM
THE CASE FOR INTERNATIONAL INDEX INVESTING
The emergence of the world marketplace, with growing interdependence between the
economies of the United States and other developed and emerging countries, is a
well-publicized story. But taking advantage of these investment opportunities
can present investors with a wide, often confusing array of choices.
World Equity Benchmark Shares (WEBS) offer U.S. individual and institutional
investors a flexible, relatively low-cost entry into international markets.
WHY INVEST INTERNATIONALLY?
Investors have long recognized that the U.S. economy and markets represent only
a portion of the world's investment opportunities. As the chart at right
shows, non-U.S. equities currently represent 60 percent of the world's market
capitalization.
With this growth in opportunity has come increased interest from American
investors.
- Over $115 billion have been invested in international securities--both
equities and fixed-income--in the three years ended December 31, 1995
by U.S. pension funds and other tax-exempt institutions. (1)
- International markets often move in different directions from the
U.S.--making them attractive as portfolio hedges.
- For portfolio diversification, many financial advisers recommend a 10
to 40 percent international component, depending on the investor's
objectives and risk tolerances.
STAYING AT HOME MEANS PASSING UP
60% OF THE WORLD'S MARKET!
PERCENT OF TOTAL WORLD MARKET CAPITALIZATION AT YEAR END.
[PIE CHART] [PIE CHART] [PIE CHART]
/ / /X/ / / /X/ / / /X/
56% 44% 49% 51% 40% 60%
1975 1985 1995
/ / U.S. equities /X/ Non-U.S. equities
Source: Morgan Stanley Capital International
INDEX INVESTING: INSTITUTIONS ACTIVELY SEEK 'PASSIVE' MANAGEMENT FOR MARKET
RETURNS
Broad based market indices, such as the S&P 500 in U.S., or the Morgan Stanley
Capital International Indices for international markets, are the yardsticks used
by most investors to judge portfolio performance. While the two basic
investment management styles differ in their approach, both measure success
using these and other yardsticks:
- Active management--selecting and trading a portfolio of stocks based on
which industries and companies will likely maximize performance. This
approach may or may not outperform the relevant market index.
- Passive management--the indexed approach--investing in a group of
stocks that are intended to track the performance of a broad index.
Indexing seeks to closely track a market's overall performance, not
outperform it.
Over $600 billion of U.S. tax-exempt institutional assets are now invested in
indexed portfolios,(2) which seek only to track an index, not outperform it.
Investing internationally, however, is nothing if not challenging. Choosing
which country or region offers the best opportunities at a given time can be
perplexing. Since past performance can't guarantee future results, selecting
the right active investment manager can be difficult, and purchasing individual
international equities can be complicated and expensive; using an indexed
approach reduces or eliminates the impact of these factors.
Consider these significant benefits of indexing:
- Returns for actively managed portfolios as compared to their benchmark
indices can fluctuate from year to year. As reported by
Morningstar, 78% of actively managed mutual funds did not outperform
the market over the last 10 years.
- Indexed portfolios follow a consistent strategy--to replicate the
market as nearly as possible--even if management personnel changes.
An index investor does not have to worry that a successful portfolio
manager will suddenly leave, or that a new manager will make major
changes in strategy that can affect an actively managed portfolio's
performance.
- Indexing generally means lower costs for the investor, due to a
relatively lower portfolio turnover rate and lower advisory fees than
is the case for active management.
(1) Source: INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR, April 1996.
(2) Source: PENSION & INVESTMENTS, February 19, 1996.
SINCE 1990, ALL INDEXED MUTUAL FUND
ASSETS HAVE INCREASED MORE THAN 800%.
[BAR GRAPH]
50-
$40.9
40- -----
Assets
in
billions
30-
$23.3
-----
$19.9
20- -----
$13.6
-----
10- $8.8
-----
$4.5
-----
0----------------------------------------------------------------
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995
Source: Financial Research Corporation
<PAGE>
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE for information and daily prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on THE BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark- WEBS(GO)
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and principal value of a WEBS investment will fluctuate so
that an investor's shares when sold, or Creation Unit(s) when redeemed, may be
worth more or less than their original cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including currency and political risks. For more
information on WEBS, including a prospectus which details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS. Please read the prospectus carefully before you
invest or send money.
Distributed by: Funds Distributor Inc.
INDEXING IS A SIMPLE WAY TO ENTER THE WORLD MARKETPLACE
Investing overseas involves special risks--such as exposure to currency
fluctuations, foreign economic and political changes and markets that are
generally more volatile, speculative and inefficient than U.S. markets. So,
many institutional investors believe indexing is a common-sense approach to
international investing, where picking a manager or individual securities may
be more difficult.
- U.S. pension funds, some of the country's most conservative investors,
placed $13 billion, almost half, of their 1995 international equity
investments into indexing.(1)
- International indexed assets grew 15 percent in 1995, almost three
times the growth rate of indexed assets overall, even after adjusting
for market performance. Nearly 20 percent of equity indexed products
in the U.S. were international at year end.(2)
- International indexing simplifies an investor's choices. Rather than
picking specific managers or securities, the choice is which
countries--or regions--offer the best opportunities.
WEBS OFFER INTERNATIONAL FLEXIBILITY WITH INDEXED SIMPLICITY
WEBS offer U.S. investors a simple, relatively inexpensive way to invest in
overseas markets or regions through indexed investing and provide investment
strategies previously available only to institutional investors.
- WEBS are 17 country-specific series of securities listed and traded on
the American Stock Exchange. Investing in WEBS provides immediate
access to international markets, with daily liquidity in U.S. dollars.
- Each WEBS Index Series invests in an optimized portfolio of ordinary
foreign shares and seeks to track the performance of a specific Morgan
Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Index.
- Adding WEBS to a domestic equity portfolio may enhance return, lower
volatility and reduce risk.
- With share prices which ranged between $10-$20 as of 8/31/96, and
relatively low operating expenses, WEBS give investors a relatively
low-cost entry into international investing.*
- WEBS are flexible. Available for 17 countries, WEBS allow an investor
to build an international portfolio of equity index investments.
ADDING INTERNATIONAL STOCKS TO A U.S. PORTFOLIO MAY ENHANCE RETURNS
WHILE LOWERING VOLATILITY.
Total Return Risk (Standard Deviation)
------------ -------------------------
100% International Stocks 16.08% 20.0%
60% U.S. Stocks
40% International Stocks 15.90% 15.2%
100% U.S. Stocks 15.80% 17.0%
THE EFFICIENT FRONTIER CHART ABOVE SHOWS THAT OVER THE LAST TWENTY
YEARS, A PORTFOLIO OF 60% U.S. STOCKS (S&P 500 INDEX) AND 40%
INTERNATIONAL STOCKS (EAFE INDEX) ACHIEVED ENHANCED RETURNS AND REDUCED
VOLATILITY.
U.S. stocks are represented by the S&P 500 Index, a market-value-
weighted benchmark of U.S. common stock performance. International
stocks are represented by Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe,
Australasia, Far East (EAFE) Index, a market-weighted benchmark of
international stock performance.
The S&P 500 and EAFE Indices are unmanaged indices that unlike WEBS, do
not incur expenses. This information is presented for illustrative
purposes only and is not indicative of any specific investment. Actual
investments may not be made in an index.
Source: Ibbotson Associates
COUNTRY AMEX SYMBOL IOPV(1)
Australia EWA WBJ
Austria EWO INY
Belgium EWK INK
Canada EWC WPB
France EWD WBF
Germany EWG ING
Hong Kong EWH INH
Italy EWI INE
Japan EWJ INJ
COUNTRY AMEX SYMBOL IOPV(1)
Malaysia EWM INM
Mexico (Free) EWW INW
Netherlands EWN INN
Singapore (Free) EWS INR
Spain EWP INP
Sweden EWD WBD
Switzerland EWL INL
United Kingdom EWU INU
(1) "INDICATIVE OPTIMIZED PORTFOLIO VALUES" (IOPVs) ARE CALCULATED
USING REAL-TIME PRICES AND FX RATES AND ARE UPDATED EVERY 15
SECONDS BY BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-. SEE THE STATEMENT OF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR A FURTHER DESCRIPTION OF IOPV. IN
MEXICO AND SINGAPORE, CERTAIN STOCKS HAVE RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGN
OWNERSHIP. MSCI CREATED (FREE) INDICES IN THOSE COUNTRIES WHICH
ONLY INCLUDE INVESTABLE STOCKS FOR FOREIGNERS.
(1) Source: INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR, April, 1996.
(2) Source: PENSION & INVESTMENTS, February 19, 1996.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* There is no guarantee that WEBS will maintain a $10-$20 price range. 10/96
<PAGE>
WORLD
EQUITY
BENCHMARK
SHARES
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN JAPANESE
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
SOURCE: MSCI
WEBS-TM-
JAPAN
ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-JAPAN WEBS
EWJ
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(2) $4.8 TR
Population: (12/95)(2) 125 MM
% Change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(1) 0.4
Exchange rate for YEN to USD (10/2/96)(3): 112
10-year Interest rates (5/31/96)(1): 3.14
Unemployment as of 8/96(3): 3.3%
Real GDP growth 1994(1): 0.5%
Real GDP growth 1995(1): 0.8%
(1) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(2) The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
(3) THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within
a nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-JAPAN WEBS INDEX SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
1. Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi 4.903 5,236,363.64
2. Toyota Motor Corp. 4.603 4,913,131.31
3. Sumitomo Bank 2.703 2,885,387.21
4. Fuji Bank LTD 2.639 2,818,585.86
5. Industrial Bank of Japan 2.513 2,682,828.28
6. Nomura Securities Co. 1.862 1,987,878.79
7. Matsushita Electric 1.698 1,813,333.33
8. Sakura Bank LTD 1.681 1,793,939.39
9. Hitachi LTD 1.525 1,629,090.91
10. Sony Corp 1.419 1,514,882.15
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (3/96) $3,825 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 1,689
U.S. flow of funds 1994 $14,724 MM
into Japan: 1995 $19,817 MM
-----------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
-----------------------------
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990........................ 5150.376800
1991........................ 3291.729200
1992........................ 1907.906800
1993........................ 3171.906800
1994........................ 3439.585600
1995........................ 3536.001600
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
JAPAN-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -------------
1. Banking 22.50
2. Automobiles 5.40
3. Merchandising 4.80
4. Utilities - Electrical and Gas 4.40
5. Appliances and Household Durables 4.10
Chemicals 4.10
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI JAPAN INDEX PERFORMANCE-For 5 Year Period
Ending 9/30/96
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETURNS
DATE US $
------ --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 3966.562
1/31/92 3782.777
2/29/92 3466.918
3/31/92 3091.078
4/30/92 2900.782
5/31/92 3132.831
6/30/92 2846.388
7/31/92 2813.809
8/31/92 3312.305
9/30/92 3232.899
10/31/92 3082.766
11/30/92 3162.409
12/31/92 3115.662
1/31/93 3105.501
2/28/93 3239.948
3/31/93 3695.734
4/30/93 4352.617
5/31/93 4472.500
6/30/93 4410.467
7/31/93 4689.795
8/31/93 4792.080
9/30/93 4564.283
10/31/93 4543.501
11/30/93 3789.422
12/31/93 3909.592
1/31/94 4540.798
2/28/94 4748.406
3/31/94 4545.271
4/30/94 4739.007
5/31/94 4842.752
6/30/94 5081.589
7/31/94 4899.088
8/31/94 4932.447
9/30/94 4810.686
10/31/94 4942.594
11/30/94 4693.874
12/31/94 4747.746
1/31/95 4470.851
2/28/95 4254.928
3/31/95 4646.453
4/30/95 4873.202
5/31/95 4570.961
6/30/95 4352.535
7/31/95 4698.954
8/31/95 4510.052
9/30/95 4548.309
10/31/95 4293.919
11/30/95 4548.072
12/31/95 4780.592
1/31/96 4717.769
2/29/96 4633.774
3/31/96 4797.306
4/30/96 5070.059
5/31/96 4809.133
6/30/96 4834.575
7/31/96 4618.082
8/31/96 4411.681
9/30/96 4564.533
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical performance of the Japan
MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It is
not possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI Japan Index currently consists of 317 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of $2,124.1 billion; it represents approximately 60.1% of Japan's
total market capitalization. The Japan Index reflects the reinvestment of net
dividends. The MSCI Japan Index is unmanaged and therefore does not bear
management, administration, distribution, transaction or other expenses as do
the WEBS.
Source: MSCI
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC]
12 am
NEW YORK
[GRAPHIC]
2 pm
TOKYO
CAPITAL:
Tokyo
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(EST. 1995):
US 22.4%;
China 10.7%;
South Korea 5.2%.
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Mineral fuels, foodstuffs,
metal ores, machinery and
transport equipment.
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS
(EST. 1995): US 28.1%; South Korea 7.0%;
Taiwan 6.5%.
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Machinery and transportation
equipment, metal products,
textiles, chemicals.
SOURCE:
The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS, including
a prospectus which details charges and
expenses, please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus carefully
before you invest.
Distributed by:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Japan's economy is the second largest in the world after that of the U.S.
Partial deregulation of its financial markets was introduced to alleviate the
ever worsening imbalance of bilateral trade. It is hoped that this measure will
alleviate the problem and stimulate imports. Japan imports much of its energy
resources (oil and gas) and is beginning to rely more on nuclear power.
Education is universal for children ages 6 and up, although the majority of the
population sends children from 3 to 5 to preschool. Nearly everyone in Japan is
insured under plans covering health, welfare, annuities, unemployment and/or
industrial accidents.
Business sentiment has been weak in recent times. Inflation is developing
moderately (-.1% in 1995 and .2% in 1996)(1), but is not considered to be a
problem. The depreciation of the Yen (September 1995) has caused inflation to
stabilize. Competition in the retail sector has become more fierce as a
result of deregulation of the entry requirements for large supermarkets
(discount stores). Appreciation of the Japanese Yen in the mid-1990s had
caused the price of imported goods to fall for several years. Thus, foreign
inputs (raw materials) became cheaper for Japanese producers, as did imported
finished goods. This triggered productivity improvements and had considerable
impact on price trends. Japan increased the Value Added Tax (VAT) from 3% to
5% on April 1, 1996(1). There is a question as to whether the retailers will
pass the price increase to their clients (given the growing competition) or
absorb all or some of the increase themselves. GDP is on the rise moving from
.8% in 1995 to a forecasted 3.4% for 1996.(1)
(1) Barclays Global Fund Advisors.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
World
Equity
Benchmark
Shares
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN GERMAN
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG -Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
SOURCE: MSCI
WEBS-TM-
GERMANY
ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-GERMANY WEBS
EWG
- -------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(1) $2.4 TR
Population: (12/95)(1) 81.5 MM
% Change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(2) 1.5
Exchange rate for DM to USD (10/2/96)(3): 1.53
10-year Interest rates (5/31/96)(2): 6.52
Unemployment as of 8/96(3): 10.2%
Real GDP growth 1994(2): 3.0%
Real GDP growth 1995(2): 1.9%
(1) The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
(2) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3) THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within
a nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-GERMANY WEBS INDEX SERIES
- -------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
1. Allianz Holding 10.720 1,766,267.82
2. Siemens 7.044 1,160,544.17
3. Daimler-Benz 6.677 1,100,147.52
4. Veba 6.231 1,026,743.16
5. Muenchener Rueck 5.507 907,392.23
6. Deutsche Bank 5.322 876,800.52
7. Basf Ag 4.966 818,226.52
8. Bayer Ag 4.903 807,736.44
9. Dresdner Bank 4.162 685,776.10
10. MannesMann Ag 3.642 600,032.78
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (3/96) $577 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 1,467
U.S. flow of funds: 1994 $1,438 MM
1995 $510 MM
-----------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
-----------------------------
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990..................... 2034.826800
1991..................... 1451.932800
1992..................... 1816.822000
1993..................... 2379.772400
1994..................... 2368.415600
1995..................... 2375.744800
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
GERMANY-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -----------
1. Insurance 18.20
2. Banking 13.80
3. Utilities - Electrical and Gas 10.90
4. Automobiles 10.20
5. Chemicals 9.00
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- -------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI GERMANY INDEX PERFORMANCE-For 5 Year Period
Ending 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETURNS
DATE US $
-------- --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 988.634
1/31/92 995.286
2/29/92 1020.006
3/31/92 997.615
4/30/92 993.006
5/31/92 1055.884
6/30/92 1074.267
7/31/92 1015.419
8/31/92 1014.667
9/30/92 975.183
10/31/92 907.344
11/30/92 901.590
12/31/92 887.096
1/31/93 916.062
2/28/93 963.230
3/31/93 990.420
4/30/93 976.723
5/31/93 974.039
6/30/93 941.801
7/31/93 972.932
8/31/93 1081.322
9/30/93 1099.445
10/31/93 1164.825
11/30/93 1137.197
12/31/93 1203.221
1/31/94 1168.045
2/28/94 1146.115
3/31/94 1185.801
4/30/94 1256.865
5/31/94 1184.245
6/30/94 1187.716
7/31/94 1246.162
8/31/94 1291.912
9/30/94 1215.238
10/31/94 1283.022
11/30/94 1215.598
12/31/94 1259.350
1/31/95 1235.444
2/28/95 1340.140
3/31/95 1309.380
4/30/95 1364.825
5/31/95 1376.162
6/30/95 1415.046
7/31/95 1498.805
8/31/95 1417.770
9/30/95 1437.285
10/31/95 1419.740
11/30/95 1422.515
12/31/95 1466.015
1/31/96 1529.263
2/29/96 1542.809
3/31/96 1536.866
4/30/96 1480.766
5/31/96 1501.909
6/30/96 1532.459
7/31/96 1536.742
8/31/96 1572.090
9/30/96 1582.271
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical performance of the
Germany MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It is not
possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI Germany Index consists of 69 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of $377.1 billion; it represents approximately 62.7% of
Germany's total market capitalization. The Germany Index reflects the
reinvestment of net dividends. The MSCI Germany Index is unmanaged and
therefore does not bear management, administration, distribution, transaction
or other expenses as do the WEBS.
Source: MSCI
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
12 am
NEW YORK
6 am
FRANKFURT
CAPITAL:
Berlin
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(1994):
(EU 55.4%), France 11.0%
Italy 8.4%, Netherlands 8.2%
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Food, energy products, electrical
products, autos, apparel
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS
(1994):
(EU 55.7%), France 12%,
UK 8.0%, US 7.9%
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Chemicals, autos, iron and steel,
electrical products
SOURCE:
The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
US Department of State
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS,
including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus
carefully before you invest.
DISTRIBUTED BY:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Germany ranks among the world's most important economic powers. With a
strong, competitive economy, Germany possesses abundant human capital, low
corporate debt burdens, and cooperative government-industry relations.
In 1994, the German economy turned the corner on recovery, with GDP
increasing by 3%(1). This recovery was led by the eastern states, areas
formerly part of the GDR (East Germany), which had a 10% growth in GDP(1).
More recently, in order to alleviate the economic sluggishness in late 1995
and early 1996, the German Central Bank lowered interest rates to post-WWII
lows.
Major components of German industry include motor vehicles, machinery,
chemicals, and heavy electrical equipment. The economy is heavily export
oriented, with one-third of its national output going to the external sector.
Japan and the US are its two major trading partners outside of the EU.
Foreign investment is encouraged; the US is Germany's largest source of
foreign investment.
In the last year, Germany has seen a surge in the value of the currency,
excessive wage settlements, a slowdown in overseas export activity and a tax
related drop in construction activity. The slowdown of the economy and the
strength of the Deutschmark in late 1995 had a beneficial impact on inflation
and it fell, below estimates, to 1.6%(2). In April 1996, the Bundesbank eased
monetary policy and reduced the key discount rate to 2.5%(3). Unemployment
had increased sharply in the last few years, but is expected to decrease
slightly from 10.3% in 1996 to 10% in 1997(2). Labor market reforms are being
implemented to make the market more flexible and to address the very serious
unemployment crisis. Consumer expenditure should get a boost from a recent
reduction in personal taxes.
(1) US Department of State/CIA Factbook
(2) Barclays Global Fund Advisors
(3) PaineWebber Research
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
WORLD
EQUITY
BENCHMARK
SHARES
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN FRENCH
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
SOURCE: MSCI
WEBS -TM-
FRANCE
ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-FRANCE WEBS
EWQ
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(1) $1.5 TR
Population: (12/95)(1) 58.1 MM
% change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(2) 2.4
Exchange rate FRANC to USD (10/2/96)(3): 5.17
10-year Interest rates (5/31/96)(2): 6.51
Unemployment as of 8/96(3): 12.6%
Real GDP growth 1994(2): 2.9%
Real GDP growth 1995(2): 2.2%
(1) The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
(2) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3) THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within
a nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-FRANCE WEBS INDEX SERIES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
1. L'Oreal 6.374 514,700.90
2. Carrefour 5.959 480,241.22
3. Elf Aquitaine 5.822 469,537.42
4. Lvmh (Moet Henne) 5.329 430,046.98
5. Total SA-B 5.126 413,489.95
6. Gen Des Eaux 3.602 290,214.58
7. Alcatel Alsthom 3.513 283,512.71
8. Air Liquide 3.330 268,462.10
9. ST Gobain 3.159 256,333.25
10. AXA SA 3.126 251,956.06
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (3/96) $565 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 922
U.S. flow of funds: 1994 $2,094 MM
1995 $1,457 MM
------------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
------------------------------
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990.................. 4842.54800
1991.................. 4490.16000
1992.................. 4995.16400
1993.................. 6871.20400
1994.................. 8082.78400
1995.................. 8526.44000
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
FRANCE-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -----------
1. Energy Sources 10.60
2. Banking 10.50
3. Merchandising 8.80
4. Health And Personal Care 7.20
5. Beverages And Tobacco 6.80
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI FRANCE INDEX PERFORMANCE-FOR 5 YEAR PERIOD
ENDING 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DATE US $
-------- --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 1059.771
1/31/92 1062.993
2/29/92 1105.795
3/31/92 1092.798
4/30/92 1149.346
5/31/92 1197.999
6/30/92 1180.948
7/31/92 1131.542
8/31/92 1142.002
9/30/92 1178.097
10/31/92 1080.413
11/30/92 1062.233
12/31/92 1089.535
1/31/93 1061.497
2/28/93 1153.679
3/31/93 1206.607
4/30/93 1189.298
5/31/93 1158.514
6/30/93 1141.261
7/31/93 1155.302
8/31/93 1255.755
9/30/93 1244.599
10/31/93 1255.410
11/30/93 1216.283
12/31/93 1317.406
1/31/94 1368.796
2/28/94 1342.838
3/31/94 1281.673
4/30/94 1338.385
5/31/94 1275.414
6/30/94 1226.094
7/31/94 1347.192
8/31/94 1354.215
9/30/94 1262.532
10/31/94 1307.509
11/30/94 1293.480
12/31/94 1249.100
1/31/95 1219.842
2/28/95 1240.216
3/31/95 1403.556
4/30/95 1417.692
5/31/95 1433.488
6/30/95 1409.365
7/31/95 1473.642
8/31/95 1379.802
9/30/95 1353.736
10/31/95 1374.479
11/30/95 1367.688
12/31/95 1425.423
1/31/96 1483.309
2/29/96 1500.650
3/31/96 1545.378
4/30/96 1573.314
5/31/96 1555.844
6/30/96 1583.799
7/31/96 1539.640
8/31/96 1507.843
9/30/96 1590.954
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical performance of the
France MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It is not
possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI France Index consists of 74 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of $341.5 billion; it represents approximately 65.1% of France's
total market capitalization. The France Index reflects the reinvestment of net
dividends. The MSCI France Index is unmanaged and therefore does not bear
management, administration, distribution, transaction or other expenses as do
the WEBS.
Source:MSCI
<PAGE>
- ------------------------------------------------
12am
NEW YORK
6am
PARIS
CAPITAL:
Paris
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(1995): Germany 18.5%, Italy 10%,
Belg/Lux 9.0%, UK 8.0%, US 7.8%
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Crude petroleum, electronics, machinery, chemicals, autos and parts,
agricultural produce, foodstuffs
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS
(1995): Germany 17.7%, Italy 9.6%, UK
9.3%, Belg/Lux 8.5%, Spain 7.3%
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Chemicals, autos, aircraft, foodstuffs, machinery
SOURCE:
The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
US Dept. of State/CIA Fact Book
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS,
including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus
carefully before you invest.
Distributed by:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
France is the fourth-largest Western industrialized economy. It has substantial
agricultural resources, a diversified modern industrial system, and a highly
skilled work force. Government policy stresses investment and maintenance of
fiscal and monetary stability. Its policies generally keep France's inflation
rate low relative to other European economies.(1)
Industrial production generates about one third of GDP and employs about one
third of the workforce, a relationship similar to those of other highly
industrialized nations. Primary industries include steel and related products,
aluminum, chemicals, and mechanical and electrical goods. The nation has
well-developed telecommunications, aerospace, and weapons sectors. With
virtually no domestic oil production, France generates about 75% of its
electrical energy utilizing nuclear power.(1)
As the second largest trading nation in Western Europe (after Germany), France
experienced two successive record years for trade surplus during 1993 and 1994.
France is also the leading agricultural producer in Western Europe, and is one
of the world's major exporters of dairy products, wheat, and wine.(1)
France's biggest problem is reducing its deficit to 4% of GDP by the end of
1996.(2) The deficit reduction plan has resulted in wage freezes, tax
increases, and postponement of payments to the unemployment insurance fund.
A major change in the government following the general election (a move from
a Socialist president to a Center-Right president) has upset the economy.
Consumer spending has fallen, as have the volume of both imports and exports.
The rate of inflation has remained stable at 2% and is expected to continue
at this level.(2) The Bank of France was able to resume its policy of gradual
interest rate cuts with a 10 basis point reduction to 3.25% in September,
1996.(3) The government has also announced plans for tax cuts. The low level
of interest rates is important to the goal of increasing consumption. Savings
deposits are yielding 2.5%, the lowest in 30 years.(3)
(1) US Department of State
(2) Barclays Global Fund Advisors
(3) PaineWebber Research
- -----------------------------
<PAGE>
World
Equity
Benchmark
Shares
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN HONG KONG
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
SOURCE: MSCI
WEBS-TM-
HONG KONG
ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-HONG KONG WEBS
EWH
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(1) $143.7 BN
Population: (12/95)(1) 6.19 MM
% Change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(2) 8.7
Exchange rate HKD to USD (10/2/96)(3): 7.73
10-year Interest rates (5/31/96)(2): 7.74
Unemployment as of 12/95:(2) 2.3%
Real GDP growth 1994:(2) 5.5%
Real GDP growth 1995:(2) 4.6%
(1) The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
(2) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3) THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within a
nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-HONG KONG WEBS INDEX SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
1. Sun Hung Kai Properties 14.304 1,191,258.24
2. Hutchison Whampo 12.919 1,075,908.44
3. Hong Kong Telecom 10.435 869,002.97
4. Hang Seng Bank 9.168 763,481.18
5. Cheung Kong 4.435 369,326.26
6. Bank of East Asia 4.382 364,960.56
7. Swire Pacific 4.301 358,205.10
8. Hong Kong China GS 4.084 341,121.17
9. New World Development 4.045 336,014.48
10. China Light+Power 4.025 335,186.86
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (3/96) $310 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 529
U.S. flow of funds: 1994 $2,405 MM
1995 $2,182 MM
-----------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
-----------------------------
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990.................... 138.304400
1991.................... 154.386800
1992.................... 314.578000
1993.................... 529.146400
1994.................... 504.228400
1995.................... 383.328000
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
HONG KONG-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -----------
1. Real Estate 35.10
2. Multi-Industry 20.70
3. Banking 13.30
4. Telecommunications 12.00
5. Utilities - Electrical And Gas 8.50
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- -------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI HONG KONG INDEX PERFORMANCE-For 5 Year Period
Ending 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETURNS
DATE US $
-------- --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 5164.178
1/31/92 5644.313
2/29/92 6109.986
3/31/92 6112.923
4/30/92 6597.105
5/31/92 7556.184
6/30/92 7662.887
7/31/92 7318.603
8/31/92 6991.373
9/30/92 6942.835
10/31/92 7824.082
11/30/92 7237.927
12/31/92 6831.439
1/31/93 7123.269
2/28/93 7856.734
3/31/93 7883.543
4/30/93 8486.436
5/31/93 9217.533
6/30/93 8889.830
7/31/93 8725.309
8/31/93 9361.348
9/30/93 9556.777
10/31/93 11777.211
11/30/93 11611.260
12/31/93 14803.508
1/31/94 14248.961
2/28/94 12757.049
3/31/94 11383.062
4/30/94 11431.097
5/31/94 12221.517
6/30/94 11231.049
7/31/94 12127.589
8/31/94 12815.379
9/30/94 12269.838
10/31/94 12362.355
11/30/94 10860.844
12/31/94 10525.347
1/31/95 9288.477
2/28/95 10713.015
3/31/95 10986.928
4/30/95 10676.925
5/31/95 12083.073
6/30/95 11888.439
7/31/95 12129.591
8/31/95 11728.629
9/30/95 12430.729
10/31/95 12457.586
11/30/95 12491.768
12/31/95 12900.569
1/31/96 14563.338
2/29/96 14400.972
3/31/96 14414.343
4/30/96 14447.636
5/31/96 14881.295
6/30/96 14536.344
7/31/96 13874.534
8/31/96 14328.768
9/30/96 15306.613
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical
performance of the Hong Kong MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It
is not possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI Hong Kong Index consists of 38 stocks with an aggregate
market capitalization of $183.8 billion; it represents
approximately 59.2% of Hong Kong's total market capitalization.
The Hong Kong Index reflects the reinvestment of net dividends.
The MSCI Hong Kong Index is unmanaged and therefore does not
bear management, administration, distribution, transaction or
other expenses as do the WEBS.
Source: MSCI
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
[GRAPHIC]
12 am
NEW YORK
[GRAPHIC]
1 pm
HONG KONG
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(1995):
Japan 21%, US 11%,
Taiwan 9%, China 7.0%
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Foodstuffs, transportation
equipment, raw materials,
petroleum
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS:
(1995):
China 27.4%, US 26.4%,
Germany 5.3%, Singapore 5.3%
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Clothing and textiles, watches
and clocks, electronics
SOURCE:
The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS,
including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus
carefully before you invest.
DISTRIBUTED BY:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
China will have a greater influence on Hong Kong after July 1, 1997, when
Britain will transfer control of the territory to China. While the transition
to Chinese control in 1997 is cause for concern and the Hong Kong market is
considered to involve a high degree of risk, Hong Kong is one of the
world's leading business centers because of its open economic policies, a
stable government, ready availability of professional financial and insurance
services, efficient communications and transportation networks, and
well-established legal and accounting systems. It is an important regional
financial and banking center, with 85 of the world's top 100 banks doing
business there, a major stock market, the world's fifth largest foreign
exchange market, and a flourishing insurance industry.
The economy is fundamentally service based, and Hong Kong is the 10th largest
exporter of services in the world. The service sector contributes 83% of GDP
and employs 80% of workers.(1)
As of June 1996, the government forecast for GDP growth in 1996 was 4.7%,(1)
compared to 4.6% for 1995.(2) The most recent inflation and unemployment
statistics show improvements over 1995, with inflation running at 6.1% from
January 1996 through August 1996, compared to 8.7% for 1995.(1) Retail sales
reversed a declining trend during the first half of 1996, led by automobiles
and consumer durable goods.
The GDP growth rate touched a low of 3.1% in the first quarter.(3)
Unemployment fell below the 3% mark in July for the first time in 14 months.
Inflation is at 6.8% in the first half of 1996(3). There has been a surge in
tourism which, together with a shift in trade towards offshore trading and a
continued increase in exports of financial and other business products, should
contribute to promote robust growth in exports of services in late 1996.
(1) Hong Kong Trade Development Council
(2) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3) Barclays Global Fund Advisors
- ----------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
WORLD
EQUITY
BENCHMARK
SHARES
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN AUSTRALIAN
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
SOURCE: MSCI
WEBS-TM-
AUSTRALIA
ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-AUSTRALIA WEBS
EWA
- -------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(1) $347 BN
Population: (12/95)(1) 18.1 MM
% change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(2) 3.7
Exchange rate AUSD to USD (10/2/96)(3) 1.26
10-year interest rates (5/31/96)(2): 8.92
Unemployment as of 8/96(3): 8.8%
Real GDP growth 1994(2): 5.2%
Real GDP growth 1995(2): 3.1%
(1) The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
(2) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3) THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within
a nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-AUSTRALIA WEBS INDEX SERIES
- -------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
1. Broken Hill Properties 16.564 1,679,194.82
2. National Bank Australia 10.485 1,066,085.36
3. WestPac Banking 7.198 729,645.04
4. News Corp 6.753 684,603.03
5. Western Mining Corp 4.442 450,301.47
6. Coca-Cola Amatil 4.405 446,582.58
7. CRA LTD 3.118 323,226.41
8. Coles Meyer 2.723 276,020.32
9. Fosters Brewing 2.667 270,319.35
10. Lend Lease Corp 2.640 267,640.96
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (3/96) $271 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 1,186
U.S. flow of funds: 1994 $1,442 MM
1995 $957 MM
-----------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
-----------------------------
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990......................160,744,000
1991......................186,746,000
1992......................182,308,000
1993......................271,167,000
1994......................379,635,000
1995......................393,241,000
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
AUSTRALIA-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -----------
1. Energy Sources 21.90
2. Banking 14.70
3. Broadcasting & Publishing 11.10
4. Metals - Non-Ferrous 9.30
5. Metals - Steel 6.90
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- -------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI AUSTRALIA INDEX PERFORMANCE-For 5 Year Period
Ending 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETURNS
DATE US $
-------- --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 470.835
1/31/92 457.863
2/29/92 460.976
3/31/92 464.085
4/30/92 480.358
5/31/92 488.013
6/30/92 471.440
7/31/92 460.587
8/31/92 424.258
9/30/92 406.197
10/31/92 381.378
11/30/92 384.138
12/31/92 419.910
1/31/93 406.512
2/28/93 437.732
3/31/93 454.956
4/30/93 457.868
5/31/93 449.771
6/30/93 439.551
7/31/93 482.732
8/31/93 503.142
9/30/93 490.494
10/31/93 545.973
11/30/93 511.780
12/31/93 567.610
1/31/94 628.308
2/28/94 596.288
3/31/94 552.560
4/30/94 572.560
5/31/94 599.901
6/30/94 569.034
7/31/94 597.947
8/31/94 626.260
9/30/94 592.572
10/31/94 608.830
11/30/94 585.743
12/31/94 598.286
1/31/95 562.167
2/28/95 580.075
3/31/95 574.124
4/30/95 612.828
5/31/95 598.865
6/30/95 592.143
7/31/95 647.279
8/31/95 659.263
9/30/95 655.088
10/31/95 638.771
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical performance of the
Australia MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It is not
possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI Australia Index consists of 49 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of $138.8 billion; it represents approximately 55.1% of
Australia's total market capitalization. The Australia Index reflects the
reinvestment of net dividends. The MSCI Australia Index is unmanaged and
therefore does not bear management, administration, distribution, transaction
or other expenses as do the WEBS.
Source:MSCI
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
12 am
NEW YORK
3 pm
CANBERRA
CAPITAL:
Canberra
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(EST. 1995): US 22%; Japan 16%,
Germany 7%, UK 6%
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Machinery and transportation equipment; computers, oil
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS
(EST. 1995): Japan 23%, S. Korea 8%,
New Zealand 7%, US 6%
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Coal, gold, wool, meat, iron ore,
wheat, aluminum
SOURCE:
The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
CIA Factbook 1995
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS,
including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus
carefully before you invest.
DISTRIBUTED BY:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
The economy of the Commonwealth of Australia historically has consisted of
export-oriented agricultural and mining sectors, coupled with a diversified
manufacturing and service sector dedicated to domestic requirements. The
government encourages foreign investment, particularly in transportation,
ranching, and manufacturing. In 1995, cumulative US investment in Australia
totaled more that $65 billion, 21% of all foreign investment.(1)
A net exporter of energy products, Australia is rich in natural resources. It
is one of the world's leading producers and exporters of aluminum, bauxite,
cobalt, copper, industrial diamonds, gold, iron ore, silver, and uranium. It
has abundant supplies of coal, natural gas, and liquid petroleum.
Historically, manufacturing has been limited both by small domestic markets
and a relatively small labor force. Tariffs that had been imposed to
discourage imports and encourage domestic production resulted in the
development of a broad-based manufacturing sector. Beginning in 1984, the
government began to reduce trade barriers; this, combined with more recent
reforms, has boosted economic diversification and increased industry's export
orientation.
Australia suffered a significant recession in 1990-91, followed by a period
of growth in 1992-93. Real GDP growth slowed to 3.1% in 1995. Inflation,
which reached 5.1% during the recovery, had fallen below 4% by late 1995.(1)
The fear of a Reserve Bank interest rate cut came to an end following the
report showing a GDP growth rate of 4.8% through March.(2) The consumer,
business and government sectors all contributed to this growth, although the
services, agriculture and mining (particularly gold mining), sectors were the
leaders. The manufacturing and construction sectors performed poorly overall.
In May, the Australian dollar appreciated 1.4% against the United States
dollar, which resulted in increased imports.(2) However, in June 1996 a slump
in gold and copper prices contributed to a slight depreciation of the
Australian dollar. Overall, Australia has experienced stable inflation rates,
asset prices and healthy corporate profits, all of which have resulted in
slow, steady growth of the economy.
(1) US Dept of State/CIA Factbook
(2) Barclays Global Fund Advisors
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
WORLD
EQUITY
BENCHMARK
SHARES
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN MEXICAN
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG -Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
Source: MSCI
WEBS-TM-
MEXICO
ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-MEXICO WEBS
EWW
- -------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(1) $244.3 BN
Population: (12/95)(1) 93.7 MM
% change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(2) 36.90
Exchange rate PESO to USD (10/2/96)(3): 7.52
Unemployment as of 12/95(2): 5.2%
Real GDP growth 1994(2): 3.7%
Real GDP growth 1995(2): -6.9%
(1) The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
(2) Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3) THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within
a nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- --------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-MEXICO WEBS INDEX SERIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
1. Telef de Mexico 20.675 1,440,000.00
2. Grupo Telev-CPO 7.212 514,966.89
3. Grupo Modelo 6.748 462,516.56
4. Apasco SA 4.223 288,158.94
5. EMP Moderna 4.127 287,284.77
6. Alfa SA 3.801 272,823.11
7. Cifra 3.757 258,913.91
8. Fomento Econ 3.726 255,894.04
9. Grupo Mexico 3.564 242,781.46
10 Indus Penoles 3.312 228,516.56
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (5/96) $111 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 206
U.S. flow of funds: 1994 $1,437 MM
1995 $153 MM
-----------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
-----------------------------
RETURNS
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990......................285,218,000
1991......................298,016,000
1992......................205,590,000
1993......................254,932,000
1994......................345,334,000
1995......................140,149,000
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
MEXICO-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -----------
1. Telecommunications 31.70
2. Beverages And Tobacco 11.90
3. Merchandising 8.80
4. Metals - Non-Ferrous 8.80
5. Building Materials And Components 8.00
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- -------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI MEXICO INDEX PERFORMANCE-For 5 Year Period
Ending 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETURN
DATE US $
-------- --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 1196.299
1/31/92 1330.002
2/29/92 1535.223
3/31/92 1546.530
4/30/92 1483.815
5/31/92 1505.215
6/30/92 1260.092
7/31/92 1274.553
8/31/92 1190.479
9/30/92 1134.911
10/31/92 1344.763
11/30/92 1452.775
12/31/92 1495.130
1/31/93 1411.226
2/28/93 1328.130
3/31/93 1508.279
4/30/93 1403.794
5/31/93 1387.304
6/30/93 1406.577
7/31/93 1485.291
8/31/93 1627.273
9/30/93 1570.067
10/31/93 1732.024
11/30/93 1912.278
12/31/93 2232.988
1/31/94 2409.704
2/28/94 2193.955
3/31/94 1943.393
4/30/94 1890.127
5/31/94 2036.944
6/30/94 1822.125
7/31/94 1979.101
8/31/94 2124.316
9/30/94 2159.891
10/31/94 1983.764
11/30/94 2003.765
12/31/94 1327.464
1/31/95 1037.234
2/28/95 789.934
3/31/95 804.288
4/30/95 957.164
5/31/95 929.584
6/30/95 1028.807
7/31/95 1123.157
8/31/95 1161.574
9/30/95 1091.488
10/31/95 947.652
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical performance of the
Mexico MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It is not
possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI Mexico Index consists of 41 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of $63.8 billion; it represents approximately 59.4% of
Mexico's total market capitalization. The Mexico Index reflects the
reinvestment of net dividends. The MSCI Mexico Index is unmanaged and
therefore does not bear management, administration, distribution, transaction
or other expenses as do the WEBS.
Source: MSCI
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
[GRAPHIC]
12 am
NEW YORK
[GRAPHIC]
11 pm
MEXICO CITY
Capital:
Mexico City
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(1994):
US 69%
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Motor vehicle parts, office
equipment and agricultural
products
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS
(1994):
US 84.9%
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Petroleum, cars and
agricultural products
SOURCE:
The Economist Intelligence Unit, Ltd.
CIA World Factbook 1995
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS,
including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus
carefully before you invest.
Distributed by:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
The economy of Mexico has been expanding the first half of 1996. While high,
interest rates have held relatively stable at 31.6% in 1996.(1) Mexico's
economic results have boosted the stock market to record highs in local
currency. However, measured in US dollars, there is still much ground to
cover to regain pre-devaluation levels. On August 19, 1996, Mexico's Finance
Ministry announced that real GDP grew 7.2% in this year's second quarter
compared to the second quarter of 1995.(2) This was the first quarter since
the 1994 Peso devaluation in which the GDP showed positive real growth versus
the prior year. However, prior economic difficulties in 1995 were
significant. GDP declined by 6.9% and inflation hit 53%.(1) Unemployment more
than doubled in the first seven months of 1995.
To further stabilize the financial and foreign exchange markets, the
government instituted a number of new policies. These included the adoption
of a floating exchange rate system to enable the central bank to better
control the monetary base, and the introduction of new bills allowing the
privatization of ports, airports, railroads, and the opening up of
telecommunications services to competition.
Mexico's recovery has begun to diversify beyond the export sector and into
more domestic-oriented industries. The construction industry, which was the
most negatively impacted in 1995, increased 7.8% in the second quarter of
1996.(2) The services sector grew 5.4%.(2) The commerce, restaurants and
hotels sector, which includes retailers, increased 7.9% for the quarter.(2)
Since 1995, trade balances have improved, and for the 12 month period ending
September 1996, Mexico registered a trade surplus of $7.1 billion.(3) The
banking system is solidifying, with an ongoing emphasis on improving asset
quality, strengthening reserves, and increasing its capacity to support
economic growth.
Mexico's recovery has had very little impact on its population's purchasing
power, which decreased by more than 50% during a severe recession in 1995.
There is room for improvement in construction (producing 25% less in real
terms than it did in the 2nd quarter of 1994) and commerce/restaurants/hotels
(producing 12% less).(2)
(1) Barclays Global Fund Advisors
(2) PaineWebber Research
(3) The Economist
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
WORLD
EQUITY
BENCHMARK
SHARES
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED
TO HELP YOU EVALUATE AN
INVESTMENT IN SWEDISH
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK
SHARES ("WEBS"). WEBS ARE
17 COUNTRY-SPECIFIC SECURITIES
THAT ARE LISTED AND TRADED
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK
EXCHANGE ("AMEX"). EACH
WEBS INDEX SERIES REPRESENTS
AN INVESTMENT IN AN OPTIMIZED
PORTFOLIO OF ORDINARY FOREIGN
SHARES THAT SEEKS TO TRACK
THE PERFORMANCE OF A SPECIFIC
MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL
INTERNATIONAL ("MSCI")
COUNTRY INDEX.
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily
prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-
WEBS < GO >
Source: MSCI
WEBS-TM-
SWEDEN ECONOMIC AND MARKET FACT SHEET
AMEX PRICE TICKER-SWEDEN WEBS
EWD
- -------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
GDP: (12/95)(1) $208 BN
Population: (12/95)(1) 8.8 MM
% Change in inflation rate: (5/31/95-5/31/96)(2) 1
Exchange rate KRONA to USD (10/2/96)(3): 6.60
10-year Interest rates (5/31/96)(2): 8.43
Unemployment as of 7/96(3): 8.8%
Real GDP growth 1994(2): 2.6%
Real GDP growth 1995(2): 3.0%
(1)CIA Factbook, 1995.
(2)Morgan Stanley & Co.
(3)THE ECONOMIST
GDP measures the value of all goods & services produced within
a nation's borders regardless of the nationality of the producer.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
TOP 10 HOLDINGS-SWEDEN WEBS INDEX SERIES
- -------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------
% OF MARKET VALUE
STOCK NAME INDEX SERIES (US$)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
1. Ericsson LM-B 17.866 816,847.83
2. Astra AB-A 15.163 693,236.71
3. ABB AB-A 4.821 220,434.78
4. Svenska Han-A 4.521 206,702.90
5. Hennes+Mauri-B 4.113 188,030.80
6. Skanska AB-B 3.994 182,608.70
7. Skandi Enskil-A 3.754 171,618.36
8. Electrolux AB-B 3.444 157,457.73
9. Astra AB-B 3.153 144,148.55
10. Stadshypotek AB 3.027 138,381.64
Source: Barclays Global Fund Advisors As of 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET FACTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Total Market Cap: (3/96) $184 BN
Listed companies: (12/94) 229
U.S. Flow of funds: 1994 N/A
1995 $2,843 MM
-----------------------------
AVERAGE DAILY VALUE OF TRADES
-----------------------------
DATE US$ MILLIONS
------ ------------
1990..................... 82.272800
1991..................... 62.952000
1992..................... 114.601600
1993..................... 171.013600
1994..................... 344.348000
1995..................... 376.839600
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 9/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
SWEDEN-TOP 5 INDUSTRIES RANKED BY MARKET CAPITALIZATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------
INDUSTRY % OF MARKET
-------- -----------
1. Electrical and electronics 29.40
2. Health and personal care 21.40
3. Automobiles 9.00
4. Banking 8.10
5. Forest products and paper 6.90
Source: Morgan Stanley & Co. as of 11/30/95
- -------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORIC MSCI SWEDEN INDEX PERFORMANCE-For 5 Year Period
Ending 9/30/96
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETURNS
DATE US $
-------- --------
<S> <C>
12/31/91 1842.522
1/31/92 1841.873
2/29/92 1794.889
3/31/92 1876.646
4/30/92 1859.643
5/31/92 1975.364
6/30/92 1908.076
7/31/92 1857.158
8/31/92 1745.482
9/30/92 1551.610
10/31/92 1412.437
11/30/92 1611.094
12/31/92 1577.020
1/31/93 1505.217
2/28/93 1560.835
3/31/93 1576.589
4/30/93 1731.933
5/31/93 1913.685
6/30/93 1780.866
7/31/93 1829.290
8/31/93 1999.724
9/30/93 2030.655
10/31/93 2221.101
11/30/93 1955.960
12/31/93 2160.322
1/31/94 2532.254
2/28/94 2412.737
3/31/94 2263.348
4/30/94 2448.670
5/31/94 2414.968
6/30/94 2289.020
7/31/94 2441.300
8/31/94 2429.636
9/30/94 2437.321
10/31/94 2670.203
11/30/94 2597.071
12/31/94 2556.452
1/31/95 2570.906
2/28/95 2614.761
3/31/95 2572.869
4/30/95 2806.667
5/31/95 2847.645
6/30/95 2974.072
7/31/95 3180.676
8/31/95 3095.626
9/30/95 3522.957
10/31/95 3372.461
11/30/95 3487.705
12/31/95 3409.290
1/31/96 3326.413
2/29/96 3651.413
3/31/96 3736.031
4/30/96 3695.255
5/31/96 3859.418
6/30/96 3910.916
7/31/96 3750.146
8/31/96 4000.523
9/30/96 4166.295
</TABLE>
The above chart is intended to represent the historical performance of the
Sweden MSCI Index.
It does not represent any past or future performance of WEBS. It is not
possible to invest in an index.
The MSCI Sweden Index consists of 30 stocks with an aggregate market
capitalization of $104.0 billion; it represents approximately 60.6% of
Sweden's total market capitalization. The Sweden Index reflects the
reinvestment of net dividends. The MSCI Sweden Index is unmanaged and
therefore does not bear management, administration, distribution, transaction
or other expenses as do the WEBS.
Source: MSCI
<PAGE>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
[GRAPHIC]]
12 am
NEW YORK
[GRAPHIC]
6 am
STOCKHOLM
CAPITAL:
Stockholm
PRINCIPAL SOURCE OF IMPORTS
(1995):
Germany 17.9%, US 8.4%,
Denmark 7.5%, UK 6.3%,
Finland 6%
PRINCIPAL IMPORTS:
Automobile parts, petroleum, food,
data processing equipment, iron
and steel
PRINCIPAL EXPORT CUSTOMERS
(1995):
Germany 15%, UK 9.7%,
Norway 8.4%, US 8.2%,
Denmark 7.2%
PRINCIPAL EXPORTS:
Road vehicles/automobiles,
chemicals, misc. manufactured
articles, crude materials
SOURCE:
CIA Factbook 1995
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and
principal value of a WEBS
investment will fluctuate
so that an investor's shares
when sold, or Creation Unit(s)
when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original
cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including
currency and political risks. For
more information on WEBS,
including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses,
please call 1-800-810-WEBS.
Please read the prospectus
carefully before you invest.
DISTRIBUTED BY:
Funds Distributor Inc.
- -------------------------------------------------------------
With a modern distribution system, well-developed internal and external
communications, and a skilled labor force, Sweden has achieved a relatively
high standard of living under a mixed system of high-tech capitalism and
relatively high social welfare benefits. Timber, hydropower, and iron ore
constitute the resource base of an economy that is heavily oriented toward
foreign trade. Privately owned firms account for about 90% of industrial
output,(1) about half of which comes from the engineering sector.
Major industries include iron and steel, precision equipment (bearings, radio
and telephone components, armaments), wood pulp and paper products, processed
foods, and automobiles.
The government is determined to restrict public finances and reduce the
budget deficit to 8% of GDP this year (down from an estimated 9.5% in 1995),
with further reductions into 1997.(2) A preliminary budget has been drafted
and savings are planned for 1997 and 1998, 65% of which are to be made via
spending cuts.(2) The remaining 35% is expected to come from increased energy
taxes, base tax rates and payroll taxes. Spending cuts are widespread except
on higher and adult education. This budget revision is in response to the
criteria set forth in the Maastricht Treaty requiring Europe to reduce budget
deficits. Inflation fell to 2.6% in 1995 and is expected to fall to 2.5% in
1996.(2) Lower interest rates, and lower prices on clothing and petrol were
the main sources of the decline. Both the appreciation of the Swedish Krona
and the sluggishness in consumer demand eased price pressures. The Riksbank
has cut the repo rate eight times this year from 8.91% to 7.15%. The deposit
rate has been cut from 7.5% to 6.75% and the lending rate from 9% to
8.25%.(2) This easing of monetary policy reflects a benign inflationary
environment and the improvement of the currency over the last few months.
The Swedish economy has expanded this year, driven mainly by fixed investment
and exports with consumer demand remaining weak.
(1) US Department of State/1995 CIA Factbook
(2) Barclays Global Fund Advisors
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
CONTENTS: Questions investors may have about WEBS
1 Introduction
2 Features
4 Benefits
5 Structure
6 Pricing
8 Creation and Redemption
9 Performance
10 Dividends and Capital Gains
12 Who to Contact
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
INTRODUCTION
WEBS enable institutional and individual investors to gain exposure
to selected international equity markets. They represent a
convenient and relatively economical means of diversifying a
portfolio and gaining passive index management in certain foreign
countries.
Introduced for trading on the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) in
March, 1996, WEBS are issued in a number of country-specific Index
Series by WEBS Index Fund, Inc. (the "Fund"), an investment company
registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The companies
and institutions involved include Barclays Global Fund Advisors
(the "Adviser"), Funds Distributor, Inc. (the "Distributor"),
Morgan Stanley Trust Company (the "Custodian"), Morgan Stanley
Capital International ("MSCI"), PFPC Inc. (the "Administrator") and
the American Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "AMEX").
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions
about WEBS.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
2 FEATURES
Q What are "WEBS?"
A WEBS, an acronym for "World Equity Benchmark Shares," are shares
issued in series by the Fund (each series being a "WEBS Index
Series").
Q Who should invest in WEBS?
A WEBS are designed for investors who seek a relatively low-cost
"passive" approach for investing in a portfolio of equity
securities of companies located in a particular foreign country.
Q What is the objective of each WEBS Index Series?
A The Fund is an index fund. The investment objective of each of
the WEBS Index Series is to seek to provide investment results
that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of
publicly traded securities in the aggregate in particular
markets, as represented by a particular foreign equity
securities index compiled by MSCI.
Q Which countries are represented by WEBS Index Series?
A There are 17 WEBS Index Series of the Fund:
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
AMEX AMEX AMEX
TRADING TRADING TRADING
COUNTRY SYMBOL COUNTRY SYMBOL COUNTRY SYMBOL
- ------------------------ --------- ------------------------ --------- ------------------------ ---------
Australia ewa Hong Kong ewh Singapore (Free) ews
- ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
Austria ewo Italy ewi Spain ewp
- ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
Belgium ewk Japan ewj Sweden ewd
- ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
Canada ewc Malaysia ewm Switzerland ewl
- ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
France ewq Mexico (Free) eww United Kingdom ewu
- ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
Germany ewg Netherlands ewn
More WEBS Index Series may be added in the future.
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Q When were WEBS introduced?
A WEBS were introduced for trading on the AMEX in March, 1996.
Q What are the MSCI Indices?
A The MSCI Indices used by the WEBS Index Series as benchmarks are
market capitalization weighted indices that seek to track the
performance of a particular country's publicly traded equity
securities. They generally reflect approximately 60% of the
capitalization of a country's stock market. The MSCI Indices
balance the inclusiveness of an "all share" index against the
replicability of a "blue chip" index.
MSCI Indices have covered the world's developed markets since
1969, and the emerging markets since 1988. They are notable for
the depth and breadth of their coverage.
Q Can WEBS provide international and regional exposure?
A Yes. Shares in different WEBS Index Series can be purchased in
different weightings to achieve desired international exposure,
specifically or regionally, including most of the components of
the MSCI EAFE Index (Europe, Australasia and Far East Index).
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Q How are WEBS different from mutual fund shares?
A There are a number of important differences. WEBS shares trade
continuously on a secondary market, the AMEX, during regular
AMEX trading hours, like any other publicly traded U.S. stocks
listed on this Exchange. In contrast, mutual fund shares do not
trade in the secondary market, and are normally bought and sold
from the issuing mutual fund at prices determined only at the
end of the day. WEBS may be bought and sold on the AMEX in any
amount, but may be purchased from, and redeemed by, the Fund
only in very large "Creation Unit" aggregations. Mutual fund
shares are normally available from the issuing fund in much
smaller amounts, and are redeemable in units of as little as one
share.
Q How are WEBS different from closed-end funds?
A Closed-end funds, including other country or region-specific
funds, which also trade on U.S. exchanges, frequently trade at
discounts or premiums to their net asset value (NAV). This is
because the price of their shares reflects the forces of supply
and demand. Although as of August 31, 1996 the WEBS had traded
at an average end-of-day premium of .04 over their NAV, the Fund
cannot predict whether the WEBS of its various WEBS Index Series
will trade at, above or below their NAVs in the future. However,
given the fact that WEBS can be created or redeemed on any
business day by institutional investors in Creation Unit
aggregations (see Creation and Redemption section, page 7), the
Fund believes that large discounts or premiums to the NAV of
WEBS are unlikely to be sustainable.
Q Are WEBS leveraged derivatives?
A No. Each WEBS Index Series may not use derivatives for the
purpose of leveraging its investment portfolio, but they may be
used to "equitize" a cash position, and for other limited
purposes. A WEBS Index Series may also borrow money from banks
for temporary or emergency purposes.
Q What is the expected price range for WEBS?
A The initial price per WEBS share of each Index Series has ranged
between $10 and $20, although there can be no assurance of this
price range in the future.
Q What is a round lot of WEBS?
A A round lot of shares of a WEBS Index Series is 100 WEBS.
BENEFITS
Q How can WEBS simplify the process of international investing?
A WEBS offer a number of advantages compared to the alternative of
investing directly in a foreign market:
- WEBS give investors broad market exposure for a specific
country, in one trade.
- WEBS give investors a way to gain exposure internationally yet
trade locally, on the AMEX.
- WEBS' index investing approach frees investors from the process
of stock selection and the many complexities associated with
direct foreign stock ownership.
- WEBS trade and settle in U.S. Dollars three business days after
the trade date.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Q How easily can I buy and sell WEBS?
A Investors can trade WEBS during normal market hours, just like
any other U.S. stock.
Q Can I use WEBS for targeted portfolio exposure?
A Yes. WEBS are well suited for this purpose. You can choose a
specific country and its equity market from a range of available
WEBS Index Series that covers 15 countries in Europe,
Australasia and the Far East, as well as Canada and Mexico. More
WEBS Index Series may be added in the future.
Q How broad is the exposure in a given foreign equity market?
A MSCI generally seeks to have 60% of the capitalization of a
country's stock market reflected in the MSCI index for such
country. Each WEBS Index Series seeks to provide investment
results that correspond generally to the price and yield
performance of the relevant index.
STRUCTURE
Q Who issues WEBS?
A WEBS Index Fund, Inc., an investment company registered under
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and organized as
a series fund.
Q Who owns the Fund?
A Investors in WEBS become equity shareholders in the Fund.
Q Who manages the investment portfolios of the WEBS Index Series?
A Barclays Global Fund Advisors is responsible for the investment
management of each WEBS Index Series. Their responsibilities
include portfolio construction, monitoring and rebalancing
designed to help track the performance of the relevant MSCI
Index for each WEBS Index Series.
Q Where are these portfolio securities held?
A Morgan Stanley Trust Company is the global custodian and lending
agent for the portfolio securities and cash of each of the WEBS
Index Series. Portfolio securities will be held in the various
foreign countries, through the Custodian's network of local
sub-custodians.
PRICING
Q How is Net Asset Value (NAV) determined?
A Net Asset Value (NAV) per WEBS for each WEBS Index Series is
computed by dividing the value of the net assets of such WEBS
Index Series by the total number of WEBS of such Index Series
outstanding, rounded to the nearest cent. Expenses and fees,
including the management, administration and distribution fees,
are accrued daily and taken into account for purposes of
determining NAV. The NAV for each WEBS Index Series is
determined as of the close of the regular trading session on the
New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (NYSE), ordinarily 4 p.m. New York
time, on each day such Exchange is open.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
In computing a WEBS Index Series' NAV, the WEBS Index Series'
portfolio securities are valued based on their last-quoted
current price. Price information on listed securities is taken
from the exchange where the security is primarily traded.
Securities regularly traded in the over-the-counter market are
valued at the latest quoted bid price. Other portfolio
securities and assets for which market quotations are not
readily available are valued based on fair value, as determined
in good faith by the Adviser, in accordance with procedures
adopted by the Fund's board of directors.
The values of portfolio securities are converted into U.S.
Dollars at the same foreign exchange rate used by MSCI in
computing the relevant MSCI Index on any particular day. This is
currently the rate at 4:00 p.m., London time, except for the
Mexico (Free) WEBS Index, where the rate used is that as of 3:00
p.m. New York time.
Q Will the NAV fluctuate?
A The NAV of each WEBS Index Series will fluctuate with changes in
the market value of its underlying portfolio securities, with
changes in the exchange rates between the U.S. Dollar and the
relevant foreign currency, and with the WEBS Index Series'
income and expenses.
Q Do I maintain the foreign currency exposure of the benchmark
MSCI Index?
A Although WEBS trade in U.S. Dollars, investors still have
foreign currency exposure with respect to the underlying
securities of a WEBS Index Series. The Fund will not hedge such
foreign currency exposure.
Q Do I have any other performance exposure?
A Yes. WEBS investors have full exposure to the price movements of
the underlying securities, and to the movement of the foreign
currencies against the U.S. Dollar.
Q Are there any sales loads?
A No. The Fund does not impose any initial or deferred sales
charge, and is thus a "no-load" fund. Investors will pay normal
brokerage commissions when buying and selling WEBS on the AMEX,
just as they do when transacting in any other AMEX-listed
security.
Q How do the management fees payable by the Fund compare to those
paid by actively managed funds?
A The Fund is an index fund. Management fees for passively managed
index funds are typically lower than for actively managed funds.
The reason for this is that passive management will require
fewer investment, research and trading decisions, thereby
justifying lower fees.
Q Where can I get immediate, up-to-date price information?
A Pricing of WEBS on the AMEX is continuous during normal trading
hours. Investors can obtain this information using the AMEX's
pricing symbols for WEBS, through any information service that
reports AMEX prices. The closing prices will be published in
major newspapers on the following business day.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CREATION AND REDEMPTION: FOR INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS
Q How are WEBS created or redeemed?
A WEBS may be created and redeemed only in Creation Units, which
range in value depending on the WEBS Index Series. A detailed
description of the creation and redemption process appears in
the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information.
Q What is a "Creation Unit?"
A A specified number of WEBS, which varies depending on the WEBS
Index Series. To purchase a Creation Unit, an investor generally
deposits a portfolio of securities designated by the Adviser,
plus an amount of cash specified by the Administrator.
Q What is the difference between a Creation Unit and a WEBS?
A A Creation Unit is simply a specified number of WEBS shares.
Q Who can create them?
A Any investor who makes an in-kind deposit through an Authorized
Participant of a designated portfolio of equity securities
specified for a WEBS Index Series, plus a cash amount, and a fee
to cover creation and other transaction costs.
Q How are they issued?
A The Fund issues and sells Creation Units of WEBS of each WEBS
Index Series on a continuous basis through the Distributor at
their NAV next determined after receipt of an order in proper
form. WEBS may also be sold in Creation Units for cash, in the
sole discretion of the Fund.
Q Can WEBS be redeemed for their underlying portfolio securities?
A Yes. WEBS are redeemable, but only when aggregated in a Creation
Unit.
Q How are Creation Units redeemed?
A A Creation Unit will be redeemed by the Fund at its NAV. On
redemption, the Fund will deliver the portfolio securities, plus
cash in an amount equal to the difference between the NAV of the
WEBS shares and the value of the deposit securities, less a
redemption transaction fee. Redemption requests must be
submitted to the Distributor through an Authorized Participant.
A Creation Unit may also be redeemed for cash, in the sole
discretion of the Fund.
Q When can Creation Units be redeemed?
A Authorized Participants can instruct the Distributor (at
1-800-810-WEBS) to redeem Creation Units, between the hours of
9.30 a.m. and 4 p.m. New York time, when the AMEX is open for
business.
Q Are there costs involved in creating and redeeming Creation
Units?
A Yes. A redeeming investor must pay a fee to the Fund to offset
transfer and other transaction costs that may be incurred by the
relevant WEBS Index Series. Investors will also bear the costs
of transferring the deposited securities to or from the Fund to
their account.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INDEXED PERFORMANCE
Q What is the performance objective of each WEBS Index Series?
A Each WEBS Index Series intends to remain as fully invested as
practicable in a pool of equity securities, the performance of
which will, in the Adviser's judgement, approximate the
performance of the relevant MSCI Index taken in its entirety.
For more information, see "Investment Policies" in the
Prospectus.
Q Will each WEBS Index Series fully replicate the relevant MSCI
Index?
A A WEBS Index Series generally will not hold all the stocks that
comprise the relevant MSCI Index, due in part to the costs
involved and, in certain instances, to the potential illiquidity
of certain securities. Instead, each Index Series will attempt
to hold a representative sample of the securities in the MSCI
Index, which will be selected by the Adviser using quantitative
analytical models, in a technique known as "portfolio sampling."
Certain WEBS Index Series may also hold securities that are not
in the relevant MSCI Index where this is considered necessary or
appropriate in light of applicable invesment restrictions.
Q What is portfolio sampling?
A Under this technique, each stock is considered for inclusion in
the Index Series based on its contribution to certain
capitalization, industry and fundamental investment
characteristics. The Adviser will try to construct each WEBS
Index Series portfolio so that, in the aggregate, its
capitalization, industry and fundamental investment
characteristics are expected to perform like those of the
relevant MSCI Index.
Q How closely will the performance of WEBS track the Index
performance?
A Due to the use of the portfolio sampling technique, a WEBS Index
Series is not expected to track its benchmark index with the
same degree of accuracy as it would if it invested in every
stock in the relevant Index. The expected tracking error of a
WEBS Index Series relative to the performance of its benchmark
index is expected to be less than 5%. The tracking error will
generally be greater for WEBS Index Series that have benchmark
indices with fewer rather than greater numbers of component
stocks.
Q What if the performance of the underlying equity portfolio
exceeds or underperforms the relevant Index?
A Over time, the portfolio composition of a WEBS Index Series may
be rebalanced, to reflect changes in the subject MSCI Index, or
with a view to bringing the performance and characteristics of
the WEBS Index Series more in line with that of the relevant
MSCI Index. Any such rebalancing would require the WEBS Index
Series to incur transaction costs and other expenses.
Q Do the WEBS Index Series track the performance of the MSCI
Indices with or without dividends reinvested?
A The MSCI Indices utilized by the WEBS Index Series reflect the
reinvestment of net dividends (except for the Mexico (Free) WEBS
Index Series, which uses an MSCI Index that reflects
reinvestment of gross dividends).
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INCOME VIA DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS
Q When are dividends and capital gains paid on WEBS?
A Dividends and capital gain distributions will be payable at
least annually, and will be distributed to investors in U.S.
Dollars. Dividends may be more frequent than annually for
certain WEBS Index Series.
Q Can WEBS dividends be reinvested?
A Dividends may not be automatically reinvested in WEBS shares of
a WEBS Index Series at this time, although investors may always
purchase additional WEBS in the secondary market with
distributions received on their existing WEBS.
Q What is included in WEBS' accrued income?
A Net investment income from dividends, interest income,
securities lending income and net gains from currency
transactions, less WEBS Index Series operating expenses, plus
net short-term capital gains.
Q Is income commingled among WEBS Index Series?
A No. However, the WEBS Index Series share certain expenses
incurred at the Fund level.
Q Is there any withholding tax on income?
A Dividends on the portfolio stocks held in each WEBS Index Series
may be subject to foreign income taxes withheld at source. There
should not be any further withholding tax on distributions to
WEBS investors who are U.S. investors and who complete all
required U.S. tax forms. Foreign investors will be subject to
U.S. withholding tax on WEBS' ordinary income dividends at a 30%
rate or lower, pursuant to the relevant tax treaty. Each WEBS
Index Series will flow through such withholding taxes to its
shareholders, who can choose to either deduct or credit them
against their U.S. income tax liability.
Q How are dividends and capital gains treated for Federal income
tax purposes?
A Tax treatment is comparable to an investment in a mutual fund
that invests in foreign securities. Dividends paid out of a WEBS
Index Series' net investment income and distributions of net
realized short-term capital gains are taxable to a U.S. investor
as ordinary income. Distributions of net long-term capital
gains, if any, in excess of net short-term capital losses, are
taxable to a U.S. investor as long-term capital gains,
regardless of how long the investor has held their WEBS.
Dividends and distributions paid by a WEBS Index Series will not
qualify for the deduction for dividends received by
corporations.
Distributions in excess of a WEBS Index Series' current and
accumulated earnings and profits will be treated as a tax-free
return of capital to each WEBS Index Series investor, to the
extent of the investor's basis in their WEBS, and as capital
gain thereafter.
Gains or losses realized upon a sale by a holder of WEBS or
redemption by a Creation Unit holder who is not a securities
dealer, will generally be treated as a long-term capital gain or
loss if the WEBS or Creation Unit have been held for more than
one year; and otherwise as a short-term capital gain or loss.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Q Do investors receive the gross amount of all their WEBS Index
Series' dividends and capital gains?
A No. Expenses are deducted daily against each WEBS Index Series'
income flows.
Q Where can I find the record date for a WEBS Index Series?
A They will be announced in accordance with applicable AMEX
requirements.
WHO TO CONTACT
If you have further questions or need more WEBS product
information, call 1-800-810-WEBS toll free. Or, write to: WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor, Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
- To buy WEBS shares on the AMEX, contact your broker.
- To create WEBS Creation Units, contact an Authorized
Participant.
The names of the current Authorized Participants are available
from the Distributor at 1-800-810-WEBS.
- To redeem WEBS Creation Units, contact Funds Distributor, Inc.
at the above toll-free number.
- To get current WEBS prices, consult your broker, or any service
that carries current trading information for AMEX-listed
securities.
- For information concerning requirements for purchasing or
redeeming Creation Unit aggregations of WEBS, call
1-800-810-WEBS.
Funds Distributor, Inc., Distributor
For more information on WEBS, including a prospectus which
details charges and expenses, please call 1-800-810-WEBS. Please
read the prospectus carefully before you invest.
The investment returns and principal value of a WEBS investment
will fluctuate, so that an investor's shares when sold, or
Creation Unit(s) when redeemed, will be worth more or less than
their original cost.
There are special risks of international investing, including
currency and political risks.
12
Design: Studio Morris NYC / LA Writing: Colin Goedecke NYC
FFQ&A
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
World
Equity
Benchmark
Shares
A SIMPLE TRADE.
A SOPHISTICATED
INVESTMENT.
INVESTMENT
HIGHLIGHTS
[Logo]
Webs-TM-
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK SHARES
What are WEBS?
- - WEBS are 17 country-specific series of securities that are listed and
traded on the American Stock Exchange (AMEX).
- - Each WEBS Index Series represents an investment in an optimized portfolio
of ordinary foreign shares that seeks to provide investment results that
track the price and yield performance of a specific Morgan Stanley
Capital International (MSCI) country index.
Investor profile:
- - WEBS are appropriate for individuals and institutions who want easy access
to one or more international stock markets through indexed investing.
What is the purpose of WEBS?
- - WEBS are designed to give US investors exposure to specific international
equity markets through a diversified portfolio of stocks for each foreign
country selected.
- - These sophisticated investments are purchased through a simple stock trade
and are free from the complexities, but not the risks, of foreign
investing.
WEBS do not:
WEBS are not: - Use leverage to increase their net
- - Closed-end mutual funds. assets.
- - ADRs or UITs. - Attempt to outperform an
- - Derivatives. international market through stock
selection.
WEBS series initially issued for 17 countries:
COUNTRY AMEX SYMBOL IOPV COUNTRY AMEX SYMBOL IOPV
---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Australia EWA WBJ Malaysia EWM INM
Austria EWO INY Mexico (Free) EWW INW
Belgium EWK INK Netherlands EWN INN
Canada EWC WPB Singapore (Free) EWS INR
France EWQ WBF Spain EWP INP
Germany EWG ING Sweden EWD WBQ
Hong Kong EWH INH Switzerland EWL INL
Italy EWI INE United Kingdom EWU INU
Japan EWJ INJ
"INDICATIVE OPTIMIZED PORTFOLIO VALUES" (IOPV'S) ARE CALCULATED USING REAL-TIME
PRICES AND FX RATES AND ARE UPDATED EVERY 15 SECONDS BY BLOOMBERG-Registered
Trademark-. SEE THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OF WEBS INDEX FUND, INC.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON IOPV.
IN MEXICO AND SINGAPORE CERTAIN STOCKS HAVE RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGN OWNERSHIP.
MSCI CREATED (FREE) INDICES IN THOSE COUNTRIES WHICH ONLY INCLUDE STOCKS IN
WHICH FOREIGNERS MAY INVEST.
Fund adviser:
- - Barclays Global Fund Advisors, one of the world's largest institutional
index money managers, will construct an optimized portfolio of foreign
ordinary shares that seeks to perform like those of a specific MSCI Index.
WEBS benefits:
- - WEBS provide investors immediate access to international markets.
- - At $10-20 per share, it is a relatively low cost, simplified approach to
foreign investing.*
- - WEBS seek to produce investment results that correspond generally to the
price and yield performance of a particular MSCI index.
- - Each WEBS Index Series holds a diversified portfolio of foreign stocks of a
country that is selected and monitored by a globally recognized
institutional money manager.
- - Pricing is anticipated to be near NAV, due to WEBS' unique structure.
- - Daily liquidity on the AMEX in US dollars.
- - Potential to enhance returns and reduce portfolio risk through
international diversification.
*AS OF FISCAL YEAR-END 8/31/96 THE WEBS INDEX SERIES HAD MAINTAINED A PRICE
RANGE OF $10-$20 PER SHARE. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THAT PRICES WILL REMAIN WITHIN
THIS RANGE.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
For more information call
1 800 810-WEBS
VISIT OUR INTERNET SITE
for information and daily prices and valuations
http://websontheweb.com
Real-time IOPVs available on
The BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark- WEBS(GO)
WEBS
c/o Funds Distributor Inc.
60 State Street
Suite 1300
Boston, MA 02109
The investment return and principal value of a WEBS investment will fluctuate so
that an investor's shares when sold, or Creation Unit(s) when redeemed, may be
worth more or less than their original cost. There are special risks of
international investing, including currency and political risks. Please call
your financial advisor or 1 800 810-WEBS to obtain more compete information
about WEBS, including a prospectus which details charges and expenses. Please
read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money.
Distributed by:
Funds Distributor, Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Creation Units:
- - They are large aggregations of a specified number of WEBS shares that are
created and redeemed through an "Authorized Participant" (Broker/Dealer).
- - Each Creation Unit is backed by an in-kind deposit of a portfolio of
foreign shares selected by the Adviser for each country offered, plus a
specified amount of cash.
- - The process of creating or redeeming shares in Creation Units at their net
asset value should enable WEBS to trade close to their NAV.
- - The Fund will not redeem or create WEBS in amounts less than Creation
Units. However, WEBS may be bought and sold on the AMEX in any amount.
Investment risks:
- - There may be premiums/discounts to NAV from time to time, but large
variances are not expected to be sustained due to the Creation/Redemption
process.
- - WEBS are subject to foreign currency risk since they do not hedge
currencies.
- - Investment returns in international markets may be more volatile than that
of the US Market. WEBS involve normal foreign investment risks, such as
market fluctuations, due to changes in the economic and political
developments in the countries with which they are associated.
WEBS features:
- - Simple, liquid, indexed way to invest in a foreign country with a domestic
trade.
- - All 17 WEBS are traded in US dollars on the AMEX and settle T+3.
- - WEBS are marginable.
- - Can be sold short, even on a downtick.
- - WEBS are fully invested in stocks--generally, at least 95%.
- - Anticipated low portfolio turnover, since WEBS are "passively" managed.
- - WEBS are tax efficient; capital gains should be modest and are due mostly
to corporate actions and rebalancing.
- - Dividends and capital gains, if any, distributed in US dollars, at least
annually.
- - NAV daily at 4:00 pm NY time based on local market closing prices. Exchange
rates at 4:00 pm London time. Except Mexican WEBS, FX rate 3:00 pm NY
time.
- - Real-time IOPV updated every 15 seconds by BLOOMBERG-Registered Trademark-
and available on all quote systems.
WEBS possible applications:
- - Obtain index exposure to a single country or a specific region.
- - Combine WEBS to create a customized portfolio of multiple or regional
international markets.
- - Replicate MSCI EAFE Index through the purchase of a portfolio of WEBS.
- - Alternative or complement to traditional closed-end and open-end funds.
- - Gain access to the foreign countries that do not have country specific
funds available in the United States.
- - Use as the international component in an asset allocation account.
WEBS world class partners:
ISSUER: WEBS Index Fund, Inc.
ADVISER: Barclays Global Fund Advisors
INDICES: Morgan Stanley Capital International
DISTRIBUTOR: Funds Distributor, Inc.
EXCHANGE: American Stock Exchange
CUSTODIAN: Morgan Stanley Trust Company
TRANSFER AGENT &
ADMINISTRATOR: PFPC Inc.
SPECIALISTS: Spear Leeds & Kellog, and AIM Securities
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12/96
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[LOGO]-TM- AVERAGE ANNUAL PERFORMANCE OF MSCI INDICES -- PERIODS ENDING 9/30/96
IN US DOLLARS -- (REINVESTMENT OF NET DIVIDENDS)*
Equity
Benchmark
Shares
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YTD 3 YR 5 YR 10 YR 10 YR CUM
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
AUSTRALIA 8.10 13.60 8.85 13.09 242.11
AUSTRIA -0.14 -0.72 -0.39 7.44 105.00
BELGIUM 6.78 17.64 15.22 14.65 292.25
CANADA 15.10 13.82 6.86 8.65 129.20
FRANCE 11.61 8.53 9.39 10.30 166.46
GERMANY 7.93 12.90 11.25 8.57 127.59
HONG KONG 18.65 17.00 26.30 23.21 706.46
ITALY 10.24 6.53 5.50 0.70 7.19
JAPAN -4.52 0.00 2.85 4.58 56.47
MALAYSIA 17.00 11.84 22.51 19.58** 378.07**
MEXICO (FREE) 18.05 -7.37 4.20 33.44** 1147.85**
NETHERLANDS 14.39 20.82 19.77 16.36 355.13
SINGAPORE (FREE) -8.72 9.67 15.65 16.59 364.17
SPAIN 13.72 13.52 6.88 9.57 149.41
SWEDEN 22.20 27.07 17.08 15.56 324.80
SWITZERLAND 3.79 21.18 23.07 14.43 284.93
UNITED KINGDOM 11.24 14.19 9.91 14.73 295.20
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
EAFE 4.39 8.06 8.17 8.67 129.63
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
MSCI: Morgan Stanley Capital International Indexes
EAFE: Europe, Australasia and Far East.
*Net dividends means dividends after reduction for taxes withheld at source,
except that Mexico reflects gross dividends, since Mexican companies do not
withhold tax from U.S. investors. The dividend withholding rate used by MSCI is
that relevant for residents of Luxembourg, and such rate is higher than the rate
applicable to U.S. investors, in several cases.
**Return calculated since 12/31/87 (inception of index).
Past performance is no guarantee of future results, nor do Index results
represent any past or expected performance of WEBS. It is not possible to invest
in an index. Indices are unmanaged and do not bear expenses unlike WEBS.
Foreign investing may be volatile and performance is subject to market
fluctuations, political risks and currency risks.
For more information on WEBS, including a prospectus which details charges and
expenses, please call 1-800-810-WEBS. Please read the prospectus carefully
before you invest or send money. Funds Distributor, Inc., Distributor.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Morgan Stanley Capital International
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[LOGO]-TM- ANNUAL MARKET PERFORMANCE AND RANKING FOR 17 MSCI INDICES AND S&P 500
IN US DOLLARS -- (REINVESTMENT OF NET DIVIDENDS, EXCEPT FOR
MEXICO AND U.S.)*
World
Equity
Benchmark
Shares
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Ranking 1995 1994 1993 1992
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1. Switzerland 44.12% Japan 21.44% Hong Kong 116.70% Hong Kong 32.29%
2. US 37.58% Sweden 18.34% Malaysia 110.00% Mexico(Free) 24.98%
3. Sweden 33.36% Netherlands 11.70% Singapore(Free) 67.97% Malaysia 17.77%
4. Spain 29.83% Italy 11.56% Mexico(Free) 49.35% Switzerland 17.23%
5. Netherlands 27.71% Belgium 8.24% Switzerland 45.79% US 7.62%
6. Belgium 25.88% Singapore(Free) 6.68% Sweden 36.99% Singapore(Free) 6.28%
7. Hong Kong 22.57% Australia 5.40% Germany 35.64% France 2.81%
8. United Kingdom 21.27% Germany 4.66% Netherlands 35.28% Netherlands 2.30%
9. Canada 18.31% Switzerland 3.54% Australia 35.17% Belgium (1.47%)
10. Germany 16.41% US 1.32% Spain 29.78% United Kingdom (3.65%)
11. France 14.12% United Kingdom (1.63%) Italy 28.53% Germany (10.27%)
12. Australia 11.19% Canada (3.04%) Austria 28.09% Austria (10.65%)
13. Malaysia 8.34% Spain (4.80%) Japan 25.48% Australia (10.82%)
14. Singapore (Free) 6.45% France (5.18%) United Kingdom 24.44% Canada (12.15%)
15. Italy 1.05% Austria (6.28%) Belgium 23.51% Sweden (14.41%)
16. Japan 0.69% Malaysia (19.94%) France 20.91% Japan (21.45%)
17. Austria (4.72%) Hong Kong (28.90%) Canada 17.58% Spain (21.87%)
18. Mexico (Free) (20.37%) Mexico(Free) (40.55%) US 10.08% Italy (22.22%)
<CAPTION>
1991 1990 1989
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1. Mexico(Free) 126.05% Mexico(Free) 62.65% Austria 103.91%
2. Hong Kong 49.52% United Kingdom 10.29% Mexico(Free) 89.20%
3. Australia 33.64% Hong Kong 9.17% Malaysia 55.76%
4. US 30.47% Austria 6.33% Germany 46.26%
5. Singapore(Free) 24.96% US (3.10%) Singapore(Free) 42.26%
6. France 17.83% Netherlands (3.19%) France 36.15%
7. Netherlands 17.80% Switzerland (6.23%) Netherlands 35.75%
8. United Kingdom 16.02% Malaysia (7.91%) US 31.69%
9. Switzerland 15.77% Germany (9.36%) Switzerland 26.21%
10. Spain 15.63% Belgium (10.98%) Canada 24.30%
11. Sweden 14.42% Singapore(Free) (11.66%) United Kingdom 21.87%
12. Belgium 13.77% Canada (13.00%) Italy 19.42%
13. Canada 11.08% France (13.83%) Belgium 17.29%
14. Japan 8.92% Spain (13.85%) Spain 9.76%
15. Germany 8.16% Australia (17.54%) Sweden 9.76%
16. Malaysia 4.94% Italy (19.19%) Australia 9.30%
17. Italy (1.82%) Sweden (20.99%) Hong Kong 8.39%
18. Austria (12.23%) Japan (36.10%) Japan 1.71%
</TABLE>
*Assumes reinvestment of dividend and capital gain distributions. Net dividends
means dividends after reduction for taxes withheld at source. Mexico and U.S.
reflect gross dividends since Mexican and U.S. companies do not withhold tax
from U.S. investors. US Market represented by the S&P 500 Index. The dividend
withholding rate used by MSCI is that relevant for residents of Luxembourg, and
such rate is higher than the rate applicable to U.S. residents, in several
cases.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results, nor do index results
represent any past or expected performance of WEBS. It is not possible to invest
in an index. Indices are unmanaged, and do not bear expenses, unlike WEBS.
Foreign investing may be volatile and performance is subject to market
fluctuations, political risks and currency risks.
Annual total return in US $ for each country index is based on the change for
the period of 1/1 through 12/31 in the market and currency value of the
individual stocks comprising each index, assuming reinvestment of any dividends
and capital gains.
For more information on WEBS, including a prospectus which details charges and
expenses, please call 1-800-810-WEBS. Please read the prospectus carefully
before you invest or send money. Funds Distributor, Inc., Distributor.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources: Lipper Analytical Services, Morgan Stanley Capital International and
Standard and Poor's Corporation
