e424b5
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Filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(5)
File No. 333-169290 |
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PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT
(To prospectus dated September 27, 2010) |
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3,000,000 Shares in Primary Offering
500,000 Shares Pursuant to Distribution Reinvestment Plan
Senior Common Stock
________________
We are offering 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common Stock at a price to the public of $15.00 per
share and 500,000 shares of Senior Common Stock to be issued pursuant to our distribution
reinvestment plan at a price of $15.00 per share to those stockholders who elect to participate in
such plan as described in this prospectus supplement. We reserve the right, however, to reallocate
shares between the primary offering and the offering pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan
in our sole and absolute discretion.
Gladstone Securities, LLC, the Dealer Manager, is not required to sell any specific number or
dollar amount of shares of Senior Common Stock but will use its best efforts to sell the shares
offered by this prospectus supplement. The minimum permitted purchase of shares of Senior Common
Stock is 200 shares having an aggregate minimum purchase price of $3,000. We reserve the right,
however, to waive the minimum purchase requirement in our sole and absolute discretion.
We will hold two closings per month for our primary offering. The closing dates were randomly
selected prior to the commencement of the primary offering, are not subject to change and will
occur once between the 1st and 15th of each month and once between the 16th and last day
of each month. We will place your subscription payment in an account held by our escrow agent, BB&T
Corporation, which funds will be held in trust for your benefit until the next closing date. On any
such subsequent closing date, we will either accept or reject your subscription, and (i) if
accepted, we will transfer your funds to our general account, and you will receive a confirmation
of your subscription, or (ii) if rejected, we will return your funds, without interest, within 10
business days thereafter. Subscriptions will be effective only upon our acceptance, and we reserve
the right to reject any subscription either in whole or in part in our sole and absolute
discretion.
The primary offering will commence on the date of this prospectus supplement and will
terminate on the earlier of (i) two years from the date of this prospectus supplement, unless
earlier terminated or extended by our board of directors, or (ii) the date on which 3,000,000
shares of Senior Common Stock are sold hereunder. If we extend the primary offering period beyond
two years from the date of this prospectus supplement, we will update this prospectus supplement
accordingly. We may extend the offering period for the 500,000 shares of Senior Common Stock being
offered hereby under our distribution reinvestment plan beyond the termination of the primary
offering and until we have sold all of the shares allocated to the plan through the reinvestment of
distributions. We reserve the right, however, to terminate the primary offering and the offering
pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan at any time in our sole and absolute discretion.
Distributions paid on shares of Senior Common Stock (i) will be in an amount equal to $1.05
per share per annum, declared daily and paid at the rate of $0.0875 per share per month and (ii)
must be paid before distributions are paid on shares of Listed Common Stock but after distributions
are paid on shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock.
There currently is no market for shares of Senior Common Stock, and we do not expect to have
the shares listed on any securities exchange or quoted on an automated quotation system. You may
not be able to sell your shares of Senior Common Stock when you desire, or at all, and, if you are
able to sell your shares, you may be forced to sell them at a substantial discount. Accordingly, if
you invest in shares of Senior Common Stock, you will have limited liquidity. After the fifth
anniversary from the date of issuance of the shares of Senior Common Stock, such shares, if not redeemed prior to that time, will be exchangeable by the holders thereof for shares of Listed
Common Stock. Our Listed Common Stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the
symbol GOOD.
An investment in shares of Senior Common Stock involves substantial risks. See Risk Factors
beginning on page S-23 of this prospectus supplement and in our most recent Annual Report on Form
10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other information that we file from time to time with
the Securities and Exchange Commission which are incorporated by reference into this prospectus
supplement and the accompanying prospectus.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has
approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or
complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
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Primary Offering |
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Distribution Reinvestment Plan |
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Per Share |
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Total |
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Per Share |
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Total |
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Public offering price (1) |
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$ |
15.00 |
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$ |
45,000,000 |
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$ |
15.00 |
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$ |
7,500,000 |
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Selling Commissions |
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$ |
1.05 |
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$ |
3,150,000 |
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$ |
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$ |
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Dealer Manager Fee |
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$ |
0.45 |
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$ |
1,350,000 |
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$ |
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$ |
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Net Proceeds (before expenses) (2) |
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$ |
13.50 |
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$ |
40,500,000 |
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$ |
15.00 |
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$ |
7,500,000 |
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(1) |
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Assumes that all shares of Senior Common Stock are sold in the primary offering and pursuant to
our distribution reinvestment plan. |
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(2) |
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We estimate that we will incur approximately $450,000 of expenses in connection with our
primary offering. See Estimated Use of Proceeds in this prospectus supplement. |
________________
GLADSTONE SECURITIES, LLC
________________
The date of this prospectus supplement is March 28, 2011
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Corinthian Colleges, Inc.
Austin and San Antonio, Texas |
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JBT Corporation
Chalfont, Pennsylvania |
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Elster Electricity, LLC
Raleigh, North Carolina |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Prospectus Supplement
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Page |
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About this Prospectus Supplement |
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S-1 |
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Summary |
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S-2 |
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Questions and Answers about this Offering |
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S-15 |
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Risk Factors |
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S-23 |
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Forward-Looking Statements |
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S-26 |
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Estimated Use of Proceeds |
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S-29 |
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Market Price and Distributions Paid in Respect of Listed Common Stock |
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S-31 |
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Distribution Reinvestment Plan |
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S-32 |
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Share Redemption Program |
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S-33 |
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Certain Relationships and Related-Party Transactions |
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S-34 |
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Additional Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations |
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S-37 |
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Plan of Distribution |
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S-38 |
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Supplemental Sales Material |
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S-40 |
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ERISA Considerations |
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S-41 |
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Legal Matters |
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S-45 |
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Experts |
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S-45 |
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Where You Can Find More Information |
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S-45 |
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Privacy Policy |
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S-46 |
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Appendix A Subscription Agreement |
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A-1 |
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Appendix B Distribution Reinvestment Plan |
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B-1 |
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Accompanying Prospectus
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Page |
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About This Prospectus |
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1 |
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Forward-Looking Statements |
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1 |
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The Company |
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3 |
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Risk Factors |
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3 |
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Use of Proceeds |
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3 |
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Consolidated Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges |
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4 |
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Description of Capital Stock |
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4 |
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Description of Debt Securities |
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11 |
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Description of Depositary Shares |
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17 |
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Description of Subscription Rights |
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19 |
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Book Entry Procedures and Settlement |
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20 |
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Certain Provisions of Maryland Law and of our Charter and Bylaws |
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20 |
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Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations |
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24 |
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Plan of Distribution |
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47 |
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Legal Matters |
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49 |
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Experts |
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49 |
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Where You Can Find More Information |
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50 |
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Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference |
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50 |
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You should rely only upon the information that is contained or incorporated by reference into this
prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and any related free writing prospectus that is
required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. We have not, and the
Dealer Manager has not, authorized any other person to provide you with different or additional
information. If anyone provides you with different or additional information, you should not rely
upon it. You should assume that the information appearing in this prospectus supplement, the
accompanying prospectus, any such free writing prospectus and the documents incorporated by
reference herein or therein are accurate only as of the respective dates of such documents or such
other dates as may be specified therein. Our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of
operations, funds from operations and prospects may have changed since those dates.
S-i
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT
This document is presented in two parts. The first part is comprised of this prospectus
supplement which describes the specific terms of this offering and certain other matters relating
to us. The second part, the accompanying prospectus, contains a more detailed description of the
shares of Senior Common Stock and provides more general information, some of which does not apply
to this offering, regarding the securities that we may offer from time to time. To the extent that
the information contained in this prospectus supplement differs or varies from the information
contained in the accompanying prospectus or in the documents that we previously filed with the SEC,
the information in this prospectus supplement will supersede such information. In addition, the
information that we file subsequently with the SEC prior to the completion of this offering will
automatically update and supersede the information in this prospectus supplement.
This prospectus supplement is part of a registration statement that we filed with the SEC
using a continuing offering process. This prospectus supplement does not contain all of the
information that we have included in the registration statement and in the accompanying exhibits
and schedules thereto in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC, and we refer you to
the omitted information. It is important for you to read and consider all of the information
contained in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus in making your investment
decision. You should also read and consider the additional information incorporated by reference
into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. See Where You Can Find More
Information in this prospectus supplement.
Unless the context otherwise requires or indicates, all references in this prospectus
supplement to (i) we, our, us and the Company mean Gladstone Commercial Corporation, a
Maryland corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries; (ii) Operating Partnership mean
Gladstone Commercial Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of the Company and a Delaware limited
partnership; (iii) Adviser mean Gladstone Management Corporation, a Delaware corporation and our
external adviser; (iv) Administrator mean Gladstone Administration, LLC, a Delaware limited
liability company and our external administrator; (v) Dealer Manager mean Gladstone Securities,
LLC, a Connecticut limited liability company and the dealer manager for this offering; (vi) Listed
Common Stock mean our common stock, par value $0.001 per share, which is listed on the NASDAQ
Global Select Market under the symbol GOOD; (vii) Senior Common Stock mean our senior common
stock, par value $0.001 per share; (viii) Series A Preferred Stock mean our 7.75% Series A
Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, which is listed on the NASDAQ
Global Select Market under the symbol GOODP; and (ix) Series B Preferred Stock mean our 7.50%
Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, which is listed on the
NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol GOODO.
This prospectus supplement does not constitute an offer to sell, nor is it seeking a
solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, to any person in any jurisdiction where such an
offer or solicitation would be unlawful.
S-1
SUMMARY
This summary is not complete and may not contain all of the information that may be important
to you in deciding whether to invest in shares of Senior Common Stock. To understand this offering
fully prior to making an investment decision, you should carefully read this entire prospectus
supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference herein and
therein, including the sections captioned Risk Factors beginning on page S-23 of this prospectus
supplement and in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q
and other information that we file from time to time with the SEC which are incorporated by
reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.
The Company
We were incorporated under the Maryland General Corporation Law on February 14, 2003 primarily
for the purpose of investing in and owning net leased industrial and commercial real estate
property and selectively making long-term industrial and commercial mortgage loans to creditworthy
entities. We have elected to be treated as a real estate investment trust, or REIT, for federal
income tax purposes. We are a publicly-traded REIT because shares of our Listed Common Stock,
Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock trade on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, or
NASDAQ, under the trading symbols GOOD, GOODP and GOODO, respectively.
Most of the properties that we own are leased to a wide cross section of tenants ranging from
small businesses to large public companies, many of which do not have publicly-rated debt. We have
in the past entered into, and intend in the future to enter into, purchase agreements for
properties that have triple net leases with terms of 10 to 15 years and built-in rental increases.
Under a triple net lease, the tenant is required to pay all operating, maintenance and insurance
costs and real estate taxes with respect to the leased property. We actively communicate with
buyout funds, real estate brokers and other third parties to identify properties for potential
acquisition, disposition or mortgage financing in an effort to build our portfolio. As of December
31, 2010, we owned 65 properties located in 21 states that contained approximately 6.8 million
rentable square feet.
We conduct substantially all of our activities, including the ownership of all of our
properties, through our Operating Partnership. We control our Operating Partnership through our
ownership of (i) GCLP Business Trust II, a subsidiary of the Company and a Massachusetts business
trust that holds the sole general partnership interest in our Operating Partnership, and (ii) GCLP
Business Trust I, a subsidiary of the Company and a Massachusetts business trust that holds all of
the limited partnership interests in our Operating Partnership.
Our Operating Partnership is also the sole member of Gladstone Commercial Lending, LLC, a
subsidiary of the Company and a Delaware limited liability company that was formed to conduct all
of our operations related to real estate mortgage loans. As of December 31, 2010, we had no
mortgage loans outstanding.
Our Adviser is an affiliated registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act
of 1940. Our Adviser is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, D.C., and also
has offices in New York, New York, Greenwich, Connecticut, Chicago, Illinois, Dallas, Texas and
Atlanta, Georgia. Our Adviser is responsible for managing our business on a daily basis and for
identifying and making acquisitions and dispositions that it believes satisfy our investment
criteria.
Our executive offices are located at 1521 Westbranch Drive, Suite 200, McLean, Virginia 22102,
and our telephone number is (703) 287-5800. Our website address is
http://www.GladstoneCommercial.com. However, the information located on, or accessible
from, our website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this prospectus supplement or
the accompanying prospectus or incorporated into any other filings that we make with the SEC.
Our Adviser
We are externally advised by our Adviser and have entered into an amended and restated
investment advisory agreement, or Advisory Agreement, with our Adviser pursuant to which our
Adviser is responsible for managing our assets and liabilities, operating our business on a daily
basis and identifying, evaluating, negotiating and consummating investment transactions consistent
with our investment policies as determined by our Board of
S-2
Directors, or Board. The directors, officers and employees of our Adviser have significant
experience in making investments in and lending to businesses of all sizes, including investing in
real estate and making mortgage loans.
Mr. David Gladstone, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, is also the Chairman, Chief
Executive Officer and sole stockholder of our Adviser. Mr. Terry Lee Brubaker, our Vice Chairman,
Secretary and Chief Operating Officer and a member of our Board, and Mr. George Stelljes III, our
President and Chief Investment Officer and a member of our Board, also serve in the same capacities
for our Adviser. For further discussion of the credentials of our executive officers, see Proposal
1 Election of Directors in our Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A as filed with the SEC
on March 25, 2011.
Our Adviser maintains an investment committee that approves each of our investments, and this
investment committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Gladstone, Brubaker and Stelljes. We believe
that our Advisers investment committee review process provides us with a unique competitive
advantage over other REITs because of the substantial experience and perspective that the members
possess in evaluating the blend of corporate credit, real estate and lease terms that combine to
provide an acceptable risk for our investments.
Our Advisers board of directors has empowered its investment committee to authorize and
approve our investments, subject to the terms of the Advisory Agreement. Before we acquire any
property, the transaction is reviewed by our Advisers investment committee to ensure that, in its
view, the proposed transaction satisfies our investment criteria and is within the parameters of
our investment policies. Approval by our Advisers investment committee is generally the final step
in the property acquisition approval process, although the separate approval of our Board is
required in certain circumstances.
Our Advisory Agreement
The Advisory Agreement provides for an annual base management fee equal to 2.0% of our total
stockholders equity less the recorded value of any shares of preferred stock, and a
performance-based incentive fee based upon funds from operations, or FFO. Our Adviser does not
charge acquisition or disposition fees when we acquire or dispose of properties as is common with
other externally-advised REITs. Furthermore, there are no fees charged when our Adviser secures
long-term or short-term credit or arranges mortgage loans on our properties.
For purposes of calculating the performance-based incentive fee, FFO includes any realized
capital gains and capital losses, less any distributions paid on preferred stock and Senior Common
Stock, but FFO does not include any unrealized capital gains or losses. The incentive fee would
reward our Adviser if our quarterly FFO, before giving effect to any incentive fee, or the
Pre-Incentive Fee FFO, exceeds 1.75%, or the Hurdle Rate, of total stockholders equity less the
recorded value of any shares of preferred stock. We pay our Adviser an incentive fee with respect
to our Pre-Incentive Fee FFO in each calendar quarter as follows:
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no incentive fee in any calendar quarter in which our Pre-Incentive Fee FFO
does not exceed the Hurdle Rate (7% annualized); |
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100% of the amount of the Pre-Incentive Fee FFO that exceeds the Hurdle Rate
but is less than 2.1875% in any calendar quarter (8.75% annualized); and |
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20% of the amount of our Pre-Incentive Fee FFO that exceeds 2.1875% in any
calendar quarter (8.75% annualized). |
S-3
Quarterly Incentive Fee Based upon FFO
Pre-incentive fee FFO
(expressed as a percentage of total common stockholders equity)
Percentage of pre-incentive fee FFO allocated to incentive fee
The incentive fee may be reduced because of a covenant in our New Line of Credit (as defined
below) which limits distributions to our stockholders to no more than 95% of our FFO.
Our Administrator
Our external administrator is Gladstone Administration, LLC, and we have entered into an
administration agreement, or Administration Agreement, with our Administrator pursuant to which we
pay separately for our allocable portion of our Administrators overhead expenses in performing its
obligations to us, including, but not limited to, rent and our allocable portion of the salaries
and benefits expenses attributable to our Administrators employees including our chief financial
officer, chief compliance officer, internal counsel, treasurer, investor relations and their
respective staffs.
Our Affiliated Dealer Manager
Gladstone Securities, LLC, our Dealer Manager is a securities broker-dealer registered with
the SEC and a member firm of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., or FINRA, and the
Securities Investor Protection Corporation, or SIPC. The Dealer Manager specializes in raising
public and private equity funding for U.S. and European fund managers and performing various
investment banking activities. Accordingly, the Dealer Manager will provide certain sales,
promotional and marketing services to us in connection with the distribution of shares of Senior
Common Stock in this offering.
The Dealer Manager is affiliated with us and is owned by David Gladstone, our Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer. Accordingly, you will not have the benefit of an independent due diligence
review and investigation of the type normally performed by an independent underwriter in connection
with an underwritten offering of securities. See Risk Factors in this prospectus supplement.
S-4
Our Structure
Below is a chart showing our organizational structure and the entities that are affiliated
with our Company.
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(1) |
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Gladstone Commercial Corporation also owns 100% of Gladstone Commercial Advisers, Inc., a
Delaware corporation and our taxable REIT subsidiary that is currently inactive but that may be
activated if needed. |
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(2) |
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Each of our properties is owned by a separate limited liability company. Any mortgage loans
that we may own in the future will be owned by Gladstone Commercial Lending, LLC. |
Our Investment Objectives and Strategy
Our principal investment objectives are to generate income from rental properties and, to a
much lesser extent, mortgage loans, which we use to fund our continuing operations and to pay out
monthly cash distributions to our stockholders. We intend to grow the distributions paid to our
stockholders over time and to increase the value of our Listed Common Stock, Senior Common Stock,
Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock. Our primary strategy to achieve our
investment objectives is to invest in and own a diversified portfolio of net leased industrial and
commercial real estate that we believe will produce stable cash flow and will increase in value. We
expect to sell certain of our properties from time to time when our Adviser determines that doing
so would be advantageous to us and our stockholders. We also expect to occasionally make mortgage
loans that are secured by income-producing commercial or industrial real estate and that may have
some form of equity participation.
Our strategy includes the use of leverage so that we may make more investments than would
otherwise be possible in order to maximize potential returns to stockholders. We are not limited
with respect to the amount of leverage that we may use for the acquisition of any specific
property. We intend to use non-recourse mortgage financing that will allow us to limit our loss
exposure on any property to the amount of equity invested in such property. However, the market for
long-term mortgages has been limited as the collateralized mortgage backed securities, or CMBS,
market has experienced significant disruption. With the stresses upon the CMBS market, many banks
are not lending on commercial real estate as they are no longer able to sell these loans to the
CMBS market, and many banks are not willing or able to keep these loans on their balance sheets. In
addition, many banks have significantly curtailed their general lending practices, as they are
having difficulty valuing the underlying real estate in the current market. We are, however,
beginning to see banks that are willing to issue medium-term mortgages, between two and five years,
on substantially less favorable terms than were previously available. Consequently, we intend to
continue to focus on using medium-term mortgages to finance our real estate activities until the
market for long-term mortgages returns.
S-5
In addition to the disruption of the CMBS market place, we expect that the number of
commercial mortgage loans coming due over the next seven years will create a significant investment
opportunity as these obligations mature. We believe that we will be well-positioned to provide
liquidity in the form of sale-leasebacks to small- and medium-sized business owners as a solution
for their maturing mortgages. We may also be able to purchase some mortgages at discount prices.
The chart below illustrates the scheduled maturity of commercial real estate mortgages in the
United States through 2017:
Commercial Real Estate Mortgage Maturities
Our Investment Approach and Track Record
We will continue to utilize the same conservative investment approach for sale-leaseback
transactions that we have employed since our inception. We provide real estate liquidity for small-
and medium-sized companies. We use our existing deal flow from strategic relationships with
leveraged buyout funds and senior lenders, as well as our extensive relationships in the real
estate market, to identify triple net sale-leaseback opportunities. We concentrate on conventional
real estate and seek to enter into leases with profitable companies in the light manufacturing,
specialty manufacturing, software, business services, medical services, retail and data industries.
We have not invested in hotels, but we may in the future if the economy improves. We have not
invested in housing or other sectors, such as apartment buildings.
We focus on acquiring properties, such as headquarters or key operating facilities, that are
critical to the long-term success of a business, which we believe increases the likelihood that the
tenants remain current on their rent payments. Prior to making an investment, we conduct reasonable
due diligence investigations of both the tenant and the property.
As of December 31, 2010, we had total gross and net investments of approximately $446 million
and $384 million, respectively, in 65 properties. As of December 31, 2010, all tenants were paying
as agreed. As of December 31, 2010, we had two buildings that were not occupied, and we are
currently seeking tenants for those properties; however, our remaining properties were
approximately 97% leased, and the weighted average yield on our occupied portfolio was
approximately 9.6%. The weighted average yield on our occupied portfolio is calculated by taking
the annualized straight-line rents, reflected as rental income on our consolidated statements of
operations, or mortgage interest payments, reflected as interest income from mortgage notes
receivable on our consolidated statements of operations, of each acquisition or mortgage loan as a
percentage of the acquisition or loan price, as applicable. The weighted average yield does not
take into account the interest expense incurred on the financings placed on our properties.
Since inception, we have never reduced our per-share distributions nor have we missed making a
scheduled distribution to our stockholders. Our Board has accepted our Advisers offer to
unconditionally, irrevocably and
S-6
voluntarily waive on a quarterly basis a portion of the incentive fee which has allowed us to
maintain this level of distributions to our stockholders. These waivers were applied through
December 31, 2010, and any waived fees may not be recouped by our Adviser in the future. Our
Adviser has indicated that it intends to continue to waive all or a portion of the incentive fee in
order to support distributions to our stockholders; however, our Adviser is not required to issue
any waiver, either in whole or in part. From inception through December 31, 2010, we have paid out
a total of $73.3 million, or $8.40 per share, in distributions to holders of shares of Listed
Common Stock. From inception through December 31, 2010 (the latest date for which such information
is available), only 19.1% of the distributions paid to holders of shares of Listed Common Stock
were deemed to be taxable dividends, in part because of the depreciation of the buildings
that we own. The remaining 80.9% of the distributions paid to holders of shares of Listed Common
Stock were deemed to be a return of capital to the extent of each individual stockholders tax
basis in the shares, and any distribution in excess of this amount was deemed a capital gain
(either long term or short term depending upon the holding period of the shares). We cannot,
however, guarantee that past results will be replicated in future years. Additionally, because each
investors tax considerations are different, we urge you to consult with your tax adviser prior to
investing in shares of Senior Common Stock.
Distributions paid in respect of shares of Senior Common Stock must be paid before
distributions are paid on shares of Listed Common Stock but after distributions are paid on shares
of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the
distributions paid in respect of shares of Listed Common Stock were $12.9 million, and the total
FFO available to holders of shares of Listed Common Stock was approximately $14.1 million. This
means that $14.1 million would have been available to pay to holders of shares of Senior Common
Stock before any payment to the holders of shares of Listed Common Stock. This further means that,
if all of the shares of Senior Common Stock contemplated to be sold in this offering had been
outstanding at the end of December 31, 2010, the indicated distribution of $3.2 million in respect
of shares of Senior Common Stock would have been covered in payment by 4.4 times. However, we
cannot guarantee that past results will be replicated in future years.
Net loss to common stockholders for the three months ended December 31, 2010 was approximately
$232,000, or $0.03 per share, and net income available to common stockholders for the year ended
December 31, 2010 was approximately $814,000, or $0.09 per share. A reconciliation of FFO for the
quarters and years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 to net income, which the Company believes is
the most directly comparable GAAP measure to FFO, and a computation of basic and diluted FFO per
weighted average share of common stock and basic and diluted net income per weighted average share
of common stock is set forth below:
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For the three months ended December 31, |
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For the year ended December 31, |
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2010 |
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2009 |
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2010 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Net income |
|
$ |
806,870 |
|
|
$ |
1,117,553 |
|
|
$ |
4,927,908 |
|
|
$ |
4,603,048 |
|
Less: Distributions attributable to preferred and senior common stock |
|
|
(1,038,830 |
) |
|
|
(1,023,439 |
) |
|
|
(4,113,800 |
) |
|
|
(4,093,750 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net (loss) income available to common stockholders |
|
|
(231,960 |
) |
|
|
94,114 |
|
|
|
814,108 |
|
|
|
509,298 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Add: Real
estate depreciation and amortization, including discontinued operations |
|
|
3,271,403 |
|
|
|
3,286,133 |
|
|
|
13,263,814 |
|
|
|
13,171,703 |
|
Less: Gain on sale of real estate |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(160,038 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FFO available to common stockholders |
|
$ |
3,039,443 |
|
|
$ |
3,380,247 |
|
|
$ |
14,077,922 |
|
|
$ |
13,520,963 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average shares outstanding basic |
|
|
8,562,777 |
|
|
|
8,563,264 |
|
|
|
8,576,303 |
|
|
|
8,563,264 |
|
Weighted average shares outstanding diluted |
|
|
8,577,173 |
|
|
|
8,563,264 |
|
|
|
8,601,153 |
|
|
|
8,563,264 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic net (loss) income per weighted average share of common stock |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
0.01 |
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
$ |
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted net (loss) income per weighted average share of common stock |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
0.01 |
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
$ |
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic FFO per weighted average share of common stock |
|
$ |
0.35 |
|
|
$ |
0.39 |
|
|
$ |
1.64 |
|
|
$ |
1.58 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted FFO per weighted average share of common stock |
|
$ |
0.35 |
|
|
$ |
0.39 |
|
|
$ |
1.64 |
|
|
$ |
1.58 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Distributions declared per share of common stock |
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
|
$ |
1.50 |
|
|
$ |
1.50 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of FFO paid per share of common stock |
|
|
106 |
% |
|
|
95 |
% |
|
|
91 |
% |
|
|
95 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) developed FFO as a
relative non-GAAP supplemental measure of operating performance of an equity REIT in order to
recognize that income- |
S-7
producing real estate historically has not depreciated on the basis determined under GAAP.
FFO, as defined by NAREIT, is net income (computed in accordance with GAAP), excluding gains (or
losses) from sales of property, plus depreciation and amortization of real estate assets, and after
adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. FFO does not represent cash flows
from operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered an
alternative to net income as an indication of the Companys performance or to cash flow from
operations as a measure of liquidity or ability to make distributions. The Company believes that
FFO per share provides investors with an additional context for evaluating the Companys financial
performance and as a supplemental measure to compare the Company to other REITs; however,
comparisons of the Companys FFO to the FFO of other REITs may not necessarily be meaningful due to
potential differences in the application of the NAREIT definition used by such other REITs. To
learn more about FFO, please refer to the Companys Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010,
as filed with the SEC on March 8, 2011.
FFO available to common stockholders is FFO adjusted to subtract preferred share and senior
common share distributions.
Our Properties
As of December 31, 2010, we owned 65 properties located in 21 states that contained
approximately 6.8 million rentable square feet. The following table provides certain summary
information about our 65 properties as of December 31, 2010. We own each of these properties in
fee simple with the exception of our properties located in Tulsa Oklahoma and Fridley, Minnesota
which are operated under ground leases:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Rental |
|
Total Rental |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income for the |
|
Income per |
|
|
|
|
Year Built/ |
|
Date of |
|
Rentable |
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Occupied |
|
Year of Lease |
Property |
|
Improvements |
|
Purchase |
|
Square Feet |
|
Occupancy |
|
December 31, 2010 |
|
Square Foot |
|
Expiration |
208 South Rogers Lane
(Raleigh, NC) |
|
|
1997 |
|
|
|
12/23/2003 |
|
|
|
58,926 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
624,118 |
|
|
|
10.59 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
3874 Highland Park NW
(Canton, OH) |
|
|
1994 |
|
|
|
1/30/2004 |
|
|
|
54,018 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
337,625 |
|
|
|
6.25 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
260 Springside Drive
(Akron, OH) (2) |
|
|
1968/1999 |
|
|
|
4/29/2004 |
|
|
|
83,891 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,026,692 |
|
|
|
12.24 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
5815 Westpark Drive
(Charlotte, NC) |
|
|
1984/1995 |
|
|
|
6/30/2004 |
|
|
|
64,500 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,006,553 |
|
|
|
15.61 |
|
|
|
2019 |
|
171 Great Oak Drive
(Canton, NC) |
|
|
1998 |
|
|
|
7/6/2004 |
|
|
|
228,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
600,145 |
|
|
|
2.63 |
|
|
|
2024 |
|
Rt. 219, Tax Par. No.
33-251-0246
(Snyder Township, PA) |
|
|
1991 |
|
|
|
8/5/2004 |
|
|
|
290,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
930,522 |
|
|
|
3.21 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
9698 Old US Hwy. 52
(Lexington, NC) |
|
|
1986 |
|
|
|
8/5/2004 |
|
|
|
154,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
424,964 |
|
|
|
2.76 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
9100 Highway 290 East
(Austin, TX) |
|
|
2001 |
|
|
|
9/16/2004 |
|
|
|
51,933 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
751,333 |
|
|
|
14.47 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
13 Industrial Park Drive
(Mt. Pocono, PA) |
|
|
1995/1999 |
|
|
|
10/15/2004 |
|
|
|
223,275 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
637,025 |
|
|
|
2.85 |
|
|
|
2021 |
|
6550 First Park Ten Blvd.
(San Antonio, TX) |
|
|
1999 |
|
|
|
2/10/2005 |
|
|
|
60,245 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
769,793 |
|
|
|
12.78 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
4630 Journal Street
(Columbus, OH) |
|
|
1995 |
|
|
|
2/10/2005 |
|
|
|
39,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
308,105 |
|
|
|
7.90 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
199 Sing Sing Road
(Big Flats, NY) |
|
|
2001 |
|
|
|
4/15/2005 |
|
|
|
120,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
644,252 |
|
|
|
5.37 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
2525 North Woodlawn Ave.
(Wichita, KS) |
|
|
2000 |
|
|
|
5/18/2005 |
|
|
|
69,287 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,109,217 |
|
|
|
16.01 |
|
|
|
2012 |
|
725 & 737 Great Southwest Pkwy
(Arlington, TX) |
|
|
1966 |
|
|
|
5/26/2005 |
|
|
|
64,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
580,635 |
|
|
|
9.07 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
4032 Linden Avenue
(Dayton, OH) |
|
|
1956 |
|
|
|
6/30/2005 |
|
|
|
59,894 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
268,042 |
|
|
|
4.48 |
|
|
|
2018 |
|
81 Corbett Way
(Eatontown, NJ) |
|
|
1991 |
|
|
|
7/7/2005 |
|
|
|
30,268 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
537,321 |
|
|
|
17.75 |
|
|
|
2024 |
|
S-8
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Rental |
|
Total Rental |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income for the |
|
Income per |
|
|
|
|
Year Built/ |
|
Date of |
|
Rentable |
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Occupied |
|
Year of Lease |
Property |
|
Improvements |
|
Purchase |
|
Square Feet |
|
Occupancy |
|
December 31, 2010 |
|
Square Foot |
|
Expiration |
17 & 20 Veronica Avenue
(Franklin Township, NJ) |
|
|
1978 |
|
|
|
7/11/2005 |
|
|
|
183,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
975,229 |
|
|
|
5.33 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
150 Ridgeview Center Drive
(Duncan, SC) |
|
|
1984/2001/2007 |
|
|
|
7/14/2005 |
|
|
|
222,670 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,539,286 |
|
|
|
6.91 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
170 Ridgeview Center Drive
(Duncan, SC) |
|
|
1984/2001/2007 |
|
|
|
7/14/2005 |
|
|
|
55,350 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
382,627 |
|
|
|
6.91 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
5656 Campus Parkway
(Hazelwood, MO) |
|
|
1977 |
|
|
|
8/5/2005 |
|
|
|
51,155 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
289,928 |
|
|
|
5.67 |
|
|
|
2012 |
|
914 Wohlert Street
(Angola, IN) |
|
|
1982 |
|
|
|
9/2/2005 |
|
|
|
52,080 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
125,202 |
|
|
|
2.40 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
800 Growth Parkway
(Angola, IN) |
|
|
1998 |
|
|
|
9/2/2005 |
|
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
125,202 |
|
|
|
2.50 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
802 East 11th Street
(Rock Falls, IL) |
|
|
1988 |
|
|
|
9/2/2005 |
|
|
|
52,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
125,202 |
|
|
|
2.41 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
2 Opportunity Way
(Newburyport, MA) |
|
|
1994 |
|
|
|
10/17/2005 |
|
|
|
86,308 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
891,492 |
|
|
|
10.33 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
255 Spring Street
(Clintonville, WI) |
|
|
1992 |
|
|
|
10/31/2005 |
|
|
|
291,142 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
575,006 |
|
|
|
1.98 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
5700 Lee Road
(Maple Heights, OH) |
|
|
1974 |
|
|
|
12/21/2005 |
|
|
|
347,218 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,282,582 |
|
|
|
3.69 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
7545 Midlothian Turnpike
(Richmond, VA) (2) |
|
|
1972 |
|
|
|
12/30/2005 |
|
|
|
42,213 |
|
|
|
0 |
%(2) |
|
|
421,672 |
|
|
|
9.99 |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
3930 Sunforest Court
(Toledo, OH) |
|
|
1979 |
|
|
|
12/30/2005 |
|
|
|
23,368 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
327,152 |
|
|
|
14.00 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
75 Canal Street
(South Hadley, MA) (2) |
|
|
1978 |
|
|
|
2/15/2006 |
|
|
|
150,000 |
|
|
|
0 |
%(2) |
|
|
179,837 |
|
|
|
1.20 |
|
|
|
2010 |
|
2101 Fox Drive
(Champaign, IL) |
|
|
1996 |
|
|
|
2/21/2006 |
|
|
|
20,400 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
295,220 |
|
|
|
14.47 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
2109 Fox Drive
(Champaign, IL) |
|
|
1996 |
|
|
|
2/21/2006 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
578,863 |
|
|
|
14.47 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
2215 Fox Drive
(Champaign, IL) |
|
|
1996 |
|
|
|
2/21/2006 |
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
361,790 |
|
|
|
14.47 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
2301 Fox Drive
(Champaign, IL) |
|
|
1996 |
|
|
|
2/21/2006 |
|
|
|
22,862 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
330,849 |
|
|
|
14.47 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
2470 Highcrest Road
(Roseville, MN) |
|
|
1964 |
|
|
|
2/21/2006 |
|
|
|
359,540 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
3,030,458 |
|
|
|
8.43 |
|
|
|
2012 |
|
12000 Portland Avenue South
(Burnsville, MN) |
|
|
1984 |
|
|
|
5/10/2006 |
|
|
|
114,100 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,234,662 |
|
|
|
10.82 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
14701 Anthony Avenue
(Menomonee Falls, WI) |
|
|
1986/2000 |
|
|
|
6/30/2006 |
|
|
|
125,692 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
775,274 |
|
|
|
6.17 |
|
|
|
2016 |
|
1025 Birdsong Drive
(Baytown, TX) |
|
|
1997 |
|
|
|
7/11/2006 |
|
|
|
12,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
254,121 |
|
|
|
21.18 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
42400 Merrill Road
(Sterling Heights, MI) |
|
|
1979/1989 |
|
|
|
9/22/2006 |
|
|
|
532,869 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,166,654 |
|
|
|
2.19 |
|
|
|
2016 |
|
2150, 2200 Pinson Valley Pkwy
(Birmingham, AL) |
|
|
1961/1980 |
|
|
|
9/29/2006 |
|
|
|
63,514 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
271,173 |
|
|
|
4.27 |
|
|
|
2016 |
|
2325 West Fairview Avenue
(Montgomery, AL) |
|
|
1962/1989 |
|
|
|
9/29/2006 |
|
|
|
29,472 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
125,830 |
|
|
|
4.27 |
|
|
|
2016 |
|
5221 N Highway 763
(Columbia, MO) |
|
|
1978 |
|
|
|
9/29/2006 |
|
|
|
16,275 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
69,486 |
|
|
|
4.27 |
|
|
|
2016 |
|
4690 Parkway Drive
(Mason, OH) |
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
1/5/2007 |
|
|
|
60,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
681,270 |
|
|
|
11.35 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
201 South Rogers Lane
(Raleigh, NC) |
|
|
1994 |
|
|
|
2/16/2007 |
|
|
|
115,500 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
717,203 |
|
|
|
6.21 |
|
|
|
2015 |
|
S-9
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Rental |
|
Total Rental |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income for the |
|
Income per |
|
|
|
|
Year Built/ |
|
Date of |
|
Rentable |
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended |
|
Occupied |
|
Year of Lease |
Property |
|
Improvements |
|
Purchase |
|
Square Feet |
|
Occupancy |
|
December 31, 2010 |
|
Square Foot |
|
Expiration |
1110 West Tenkiller
(Tulsa, OK) (4) |
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
3/1/2007 |
|
|
|
238,310 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,565,794 |
|
|
|
6.57 |
|
|
|
2019 |
|
3725 East 10th Court
(Hialeah, FL) |
|
|
1956/1992 |
|
|
|
3/9/2007 |
|
|
|
132,337 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
995,048 |
|
|
|
7.52 |
|
|
|
2022 |
|
554 Clark Road
(Tewksbury, MA) |
|
|
1985/1989 |
|
|
|
5/17/2007 |
|
|
|
102,200 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
922,926 |
|
|
|
9.03 |
|
|
|
2017 |
|
5324 Natorp Boulevard
(Mason, OH) |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
7/1/2007 |
|
|
|
21,264 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
583,131 |
|
|
|
27.42 |
|
|
|
2027 |
|
7282 William Barry Boulevard
(Cicero, NY) |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
9/6/2007 |
|
|
|
71,880 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
529,743 |
|
|
|
7.37 |
|
|
|
2020 |
|
1515 Arboretum Drive SE
(Grand Rapids, MI) |
|
|
2001 |
|
|
|
9/28/2007 |
|
|
|
63,235 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,068,550 |
|
|
|
16.90 |
|
|
|
2025 |
|
4 Territorial Court
(Bollingbrook, IL) |
|
|
2002 |
|
|
|
9/28/2007 |
|
|
|
55,869 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
619,296 |
|
|
|
11.08 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
2349 Lawrenceville Highway
(Decatur, GA) |
|
|
1989 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
16,740 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
404,159 |
|
|
|
24.14 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
2341 Lawrenceville Highway
Decatur, GA) |
|
|
1989 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
4,372 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
105,555 |
|
|
|
24.14 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
2339 Lawrenceville Highway
(Decatur, GA) |
|
|
1989 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
5,488 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
132,498 |
|
|
|
24.14 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
311 Phillip Boulevard
(Lawrenceville, GA) |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
12,412 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
349,871 |
|
|
|
28.19 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
2096 McGee Road
(Snellville, GA) |
|
|
1986 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
3,800 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
90,815 |
|
|
|
23.90 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
7174 Wheat Street
(Covington, GA) |
|
|
2000 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
5,000 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
119,493 |
|
|
|
23.90 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
1055 Haw Creek Parkway
(Cumming, GA) |
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
13,919 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
380,410 |
|
|
|
27.33 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
1293 Wellbrook Circle
(Conyers, GA) |
|
|
1994 |
|
|
|
12/13/2007 |
|
|
|
6,400 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
152,951 |
|
|
|
23.90 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
425 Gateway Drive
(Reading, PA) |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
1/29/2008 |
|
|
|
42,900 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
716,666 |
|
|
|
16.71 |
|
|
|
2028 |
|
6499 University Avenue NE
(Fridley, MN) (4) |
|
|
1985/2006 |
|
|
|
2/26/2008 |
|
|
|
74,160 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
890,432 |
|
|
|
12.01 |
|
|
|
2013 |
|
7528 Auburn Road
(Concord Township, OH) |
|
|
1957/2008 |
|
|
|
3/31/2008 |
|
|
|
273,300 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
1,724,133 |
|
|
|
6.31 |
|
|
|
2028 |
|
10021 Rodney Street
(Pineville, NC) |
|
|
1985 |
|
|
|
4/30/2008 |
|
|
|
74,950 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
431,424 |
|
|
|
5.76 |
|
|
|
2028 |
|
28305 State Route 7
(Marietta, OH) |
|
|
1992/2007 |
|
|
|
8/29/2008 |
|
|
|
223,458 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
896,743 |
|
|
|
4.01 |
|
|
|
2028 |
|
400 Highpoint Drive
(Chalfont, PA) |
|
|
1987 |
|
|
|
8/29/2008 |
|
|
|
67,200 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
757,571 |
|
|
|
11.27 |
|
|
|
2016 |
|
1520 Albany Place SE
(Orange City, IA) (3) |
|
|
1990 |
|
|
|
12/15/2010 |
|
|
|
487,121 |
|
|
|
100 |
% |
|
|
53,215 |
|
|
|
2.37 |
|
|
|
2026 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Totals |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,791,280 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
41,180,036 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Two tenants occupy this building, each with separate leases ending in the same year. |
|
(2) |
|
On June 30, 2010 and July 31, 2010, respectively, the leases with the tenants that occupied
our properties located in South Hadley, Massachusetts and Richmond, Virginia, respectively,
expired and currently remain vacant. These two leases comprised approximately 2.6% of our
total annualized rental income and 2.6% of the rentable square feet. We are actively seeking
new tenants for these two properties while concurrently researching alternative uses for these
two properties and expect that we will re-lease these properties in the near future. |
|
(3) |
|
Rental income per occupied square foot is annualized, as if the building were held for all of
2010. |
|
(4) |
|
This property is operated pursuant to a ground lease. |
S-10
Diversity Across Industries
Our Adviser seeks to diversify our portfolio to avoid dependence upon any one particular
tenant, geographic market or tenant industry. By diversifying our portfolio, our Adviser intends to
reduce the adverse effect on our portfolio of a single under-performing investment or a downturn in
any particular industry or geographic market. Our largest tenant as of December 31, 2010 comprised
approximately 7.4% of our total rental income, and our largest concentration of properties was
located in Ohio, which accounted for approximately 18.1% of our total rental income.
The table below reflects the breakdown of our total rental income by tenant industry
classification for the year ended December 31, 2010:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage |
|
|
|
Rental |
|
|
of Rental |
|
Industry Classification |
|
Income |
|
|
Income |
|
Electronics |
|
$ |
6,165,788 |
|
|
|
15.0 |
% |
Healthcare, Education & Childcare |
|
|
6,145,415 |
|
|
|
14.9 |
% |
Telecommunications |
|
|
5,447,365 |
|
|
|
13.3 |
% |
Diversified/Conglomerate Manufacturing |
|
|
3,664,686 |
|
|
|
8.9 |
% |
Chemicals, Plastics & Rubber |
|
|
3,130,133 |
|
|
|
7.6 |
% |
Machinery |
|
|
2,332,672 |
|
|
|
5.7 |
% |
Containers, Packaging & Glass |
|
|
2,330,715 |
|
|
|
5.7 |
% |
Beverage, Food & Tobacco |
|
|
2,188,793 |
|
|
|
5.2 |
% |
Printing & Publishing |
|
|
2,187,504 |
|
|
|
5.3 |
% |
Buildings & Real Estate |
|
|
2,075,103 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
% |
Oil and Gas |
|
|
1,282,582 |
|
|
|
3.1 |
% |
Personal & Non-Durable Consumer Products |
|
|
1,228,100 |
|
|
|
2.9 |
% |
Automobile |
|
|
1,166,654 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
% |
Personal, Food & Miscellaneous Services |
|
|
575,006 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
% |
Home and Office Furnishings |
|
|
529,743 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
% |
Insurance |
|
|
421,672 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
% |
Diversified/Conglomerate Services |
|
|
308,105 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
41,180,036 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diversity in Location
The Company has properties located in 21 states. The following table summarizes the
geographic locations of our properties for leases in place as of December 31, 2010:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rental Revenue for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
the Year Ended |
|
|
% of Annualized |
|
State |
|
Square Feet |
|
|
Leases |
|
|
December 31, 2010 |
|
|
Base Rent |
|
Ohio |
|
|
1,185,411 |
|
|
|
11 |
|
|
$ |
7,435,475 |
|
|
|
18.1 |
% |
Minnesota |
|
|
547,800 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
5,155,552 |
|
|
|
12.5 |
% |
North Carolina |
|
|
695,876 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
|
3,804,407 |
|
|
|
9.2 |
% |
Pennsylvania |
|
|
623,375 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
3,041,784 |
|
|
|
7.4 |
% |
Texas |
|
|
188,178 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
2,355,882 |
|
|
|
5.7 |
% |
Michigan |
|
|
596,104 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
2,235,204 |
|
|
|
5.4 |
% |
Illinois |
|
|
164,131 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
2,186,018 |
|
|
|
5.3 |
% |
Massachusetts |
|
|
338,508 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
1,994,255 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
% |
All Other States |
|
|
2,451,897 |
|
|
|
17 |
|
|
|
12,971,459 |
|
|
|
31.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
6,791,280 |
|
|
|
52 |
|
|
$ |
41,180,036 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our Leases
We have in the past entered into, and intend in the future to enter into, purchase agreements
for real estate that have triple net leases with terms of 10 to 15 years and with lease escalations
that are tied to the Consumer Price
S-11
Index (with minimums) or that have fixed escalations. Under a triple net lease, the tenant is
responsible for the cost of repairs, maintenance, property taxes, utilities, insurance and other
operating costs with respect to the leased property. In accordance with certain of our lease
agreements, however, we may be responsible for the replacement of specific structural components of
a property such as the roof of the building or the parking lot. We seek to secure leases with
tenants that our Adviser deems to be creditworthy prior to or at the time of the acquisition of a
property.
The following table summarizes the lease expirations by year for our properties for leases in
place as of December 31, 2010:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rental Revenue for |
|
|
Annualized Base |
|
Year of Lease |
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
the Year Ended |
|
|
Rental Revenue as of |
|
Expiration |
|
Square Feet |
|
|
Leases |
|
|
December 31, 2010 |
|
|
December 31, 2010 |
|
2010 |
|
|
192,213 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
601,509 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
% |
2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.0 |
% |
2012 |
|
|
479,982 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
4,429,603 |
|
|
|
10.8 |
% |
2013 |
|
|
438,422 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
|
4,617,432 |
|
|
|
11.2 |
% |
2014 |
|
|
614,132 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
3,082,200 |
|
|
|
7.5 |
% |
2015 |
|
|
896,876 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
6,836,187 |
|
|
|
16.6 |
% |
2016 |
|
|
835,022 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
3,165,988 |
|
|
|
7.7 |
% |
2017 |
|
|
102,200 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
922,926 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
% |
2018 |
|
|
59,894 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
268,042 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
% |
2019+ |
|
|
3,172,539 |
|
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
17,256,149 |
|
|
|
41.8 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
6,791,280 |
|
|
|
52 |
|
|
$ |
41,180,036 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our Mortgage Loans
Although we expect such investments to be made sparingly, we may elect to structure our
investment in a particular property as a mortgage loan secured by the property in situations where
a standard net lease transaction would have an adverse tax impact on the seller of a property or
would otherwise be inappropriate for us. We anticipate that most of our lending transactions will
be loans secured by industrial or commercial property. We have not in the past, and we do not
anticipate that we will in the future, invest in residential mortgages. Our Adviser will attempt to
structure mortgage loans in a manner that would provide us with current income substantially
similar to that which we could expect to receive had the investment been structured as a net lease
transaction.
To the extent that we invest in mortgage loans, we will generally originate those loans.
However, we may also purchase mortgage loans from other lenders if such transactions are consistent
with our investment objectives. Our Adviser will service the mortgage loans in our portfolio by
monitoring the collection of monthly principal and interest payments on our behalf.
On April 15, 2005, we originated a mortgage loan in the amount of $10.0 million that was
collateralized by an office building located in McLean, Virginia in which our Adviser and
Administrator are subtenants. The mortgage loan was originally set to mature in May 2017, though,
on July 22, 2010, it was fully repaid. We received $3.3 million of additional income and prepayment
fees in connection with the early payment and the proceeds were used to repay a portion of our line
of credit. As of December 31, 2010, we had no mortgage loans outstanding.
Our New Line of Credit
In December 2010, we procured a new line of credit, or the New Line of Credit, with Capital
One, N.A. serving as a revolving lender, a letter of credit issuer and as an administrative agent
and Branch Banking and Trust Company serving as a revolving lender and a letter of credit issuer.
The New Line of Credit replaced our prior $50 million senior secured revolving credit facility
which was scheduled to mature on December 29, 2010, or the Prior Line of Credit. The New Line of
Credit provides for a senior secured revolving credit facility of up to $50 million, with a standby
letter of credit sublimit of up to $20 million. The New Line of Credit is subject to a maximum
borrowing base calculation which may, from time to time, affect the maximum amount available to be
drawn. The New Line of Credit may, upon satisfaction of certain conditions, be expanded up to $75
million.
S-12
The New Line of Credit has a term of three years and is scheduled to mature on December
28, 2013. The interest rate per annum applicable to the New Line of Credit is equal to the London
InterBank Offered Rate, or LIBOR, plus an applicable margin of up to three hundred basis points
depending upon our leverage. Our leverage ratio used in determining the applicable margin for
interest on the New Credit Line is recalculated quarterly. We paid an upfront fee of seventy-five
basis points, and will be charged an annual fee of twenty-five basis points, on the $50 million
commitment, which takes the place of an unused fee. We are required to pay a commission on all
outstanding letters of credit at a per annum rate equal to the applicable margin for LIBOR loans
under the New Line of Credit. Such letter of credit commission is payable quarterly in arrears.
With respect to each letter of credit, we are also required to pay to the bank issuing such letter
of credit a fronting fee equal to twenty basis points per annum times the face amount of the letter
of credit.
In connection with procuring the New Line of Credit, we repaid the $29.8 million outstanding
balance of the Prior Line of Credit with funds drawn from the New Line of Credit and with existing
cash. We incurred no early termination penalties or fees in connection with the repayment of
outstanding balance of the Prior Line of Credit.
The New Line of Credit currently has an outstanding balance of $5.2 million.
Our Employees
We do not currently have any employees and do not expect to have any employees in the
foreseeable future. Currently, services necessary for our business are provided by individuals who
are employees of our Adviser and our Administrator pursuant to the terms of the Advisory Agreement
and the Administration Agreement, respectively. Each of our executive officers is an employee or
officer, or both, of our Adviser or our Administrator. No employee of our Adviser or our
Administrator will dedicate all of his or her time to us. In addition, our Adviser maintains a team
of 50 investment professionals and support staff. To the extent that we acquire more investments,
we anticipate that the number of employees of our Adviser and our Administrator who devote time to
our matters will increase.
Our Independent Directors
As required under the NASDAQ Global Select Market listing standards, a majority of the members
of a listed companys board of directors must qualify as independent, as affirmatively determined
by the board of directors. Our Board consults with our chief compliance officer and chief financial
officer to ensure that its determinations are consistent with relevant securities and other laws
and regulations regarding the definition of independent, including those set forth in pertinent
listing standards of NASDAQ Global Select Market, as in effect from time to time.
Consistent with these considerations, after review of all relevant transactions or
relationships between each director, or any of his or her family members, and us, our senior
management and our independent auditors, our Board has affirmatively determined that the following
five directors are independent directors within the meaning of the applicable NASDAQ Global Select
Market listing standards: Messrs. Adelgren, Mead, Outland, Parker and Reilly and Ms. English. In
making this determination, our Board found that none of these directors had a material or other
disqualifying relationship with us. Mr. David Gladstone, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
Mr. Terry Lee Brubaker, our Vice Chairman, Chief Operating Officer and Secretary, Mr. George
Stelljes III, our President and Chief Investment Officer, and Mr. Dullum, a Senior Managing
Director of our Adviser, are not independent directors, however, as each is an employee of our
Adviser.
Our Board has four standing committees, which include an Audit Committee, a Compensation
Committee, an Executive Committee and an Ethics, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The
directors who serve on each of these committees are each independent directors. See Information
Regarding the Board of Directors and Corporate Governance Corporate Leadership Structure in our
Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A as filed with the SEC on March 25, 2011. The charters of
each of these respective committees are posted on our corporate website at
http://www.GladstoneCommercial.com.
S-13
Conflicts of Interest
We are subject to various potential conflicts of interest arising out of our relationship with
our Adviser, our Administrator and our other affiliates. Accordingly, we have adopted policies that
are designed to reduce potential conflicts of interest. In addition, our directors are subject to
certain provisions of Maryland law that are designed to minimize conflicts. For more information
regarding potential conflicts of interest, see Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
Conflicts of Interest in this prospectus supplement.
ERISA Considerations
The section captioned ERISA Considerations in this prospectus supplement describes some of
the effects the purchase of shares of Senior Common Stock may have on IRAs, retirement plans
subject to The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, or ERISA, and the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, or similar entities. ERISA is a federal law that regulates
the operation of certain tax-favored retirement plans. Any retirement plan trustee or individual
considering purchasing shares of Senior Common Stock for a retirement plan, an individual
retirement account, or similar entities should carefully read and consider the ERISA
Considerations section of this prospectus supplement.
Our REIT Status
We have historically operated and intend to continue to operate in a manner that will allow us
to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. As a REIT, we generally will not be subject
to federal income tax on income that we distribute to our stockholders. Under the Code, a REIT is
subject to numerous organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement that it
distribute at least 90% of its annual taxable income to its stockholders. If we fail to qualify for
taxation as a REIT in any year, our income will be taxed at regular corporate rates, and we may be
precluded from qualifying for taxation as a REIT for the four-year period following the taxable
year in which we fail to so qualify. Even if we qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes,
we may still be subject to state and local taxes on our income and property and to federal income
and excise taxes on our undistributed income. For more information regarding our REIT status, see
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations in the accompanying prospectus.
Restrictions on Stock Ownership
Our charter contains restrictions on ownership of the shares that prevent any one person from
owning (directly or under constructive ownership rules relevant for purposes of our qualification
as a REIT) more than 9.8% of our outstanding capital stock (which includes Listed Common Stock,
Senior Common Stock, Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock). These restrictions are
designed to enable us to comply with ownership restrictions imposed on REITs by the Code.
Our Distribution Policy
To maintain our qualification as a REIT, we are required to make aggregate annual
distributions to our stockholders of at least 90% of our annual taxable income (which does not
necessarily equal net income as calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles in the United States of America). Our Board may authorize distributions in excess of
those required for us to maintain our REIT status depending upon our financial condition and such
other factors as our Board deems relevant from time to time.
Because we own and depreciate real estate, the depreciation expense reduces our net income. As
a result, we have in the past elected to pay distributions to our Listed Common Stockholders in
excess of our net income.
S-14
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGARDING THIS OFFERING
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Q:
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How is this offering being conducted? |
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A:
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Through the Dealer Manager, we are offering 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common Stock at a price to the public of $15.00 per
share in our primary offering on a best efforts basis. We are also offering 500,000 shares of Senior Common Stock to be
issued pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan at a price of $15.00 per share to those stockholders who elect to
participate in such plan as described in this prospectus supplement. We reserve the right, however, to reallocate shares
between our primary offering and our offering pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan in our sole and absolute
discretion. |
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Q:
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How does a best efforts offering work? |
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A:
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When shares are offered on a best efforts basis, a dealer manager and participating broker-dealers are only required to
use their best efforts to sell the shares and have no firm commitment or obligation to purchase any of the shares.
Therefore, we may not sell all or any of the shares of Senior Common Stock that we are offering pursuant this prospectus
supplement. |
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Q:
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How long will this offering last? |
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A:
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The primary offering will commence on the date of this prospectus supplement and will terminate on the earlier of (i) two
years from the date of this prospectus supplement, unless earlier terminated or extended by our Board, or (ii) the date on
which 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common Stock are sold hereunder. If we extend the primary offering period beyond two years
from the date of this prospectus supplement, we will update this prospectus supplement accordingly. We may extend the
offering period for the 500,000 shares of Senior Common Stock being offered hereby under our distribution reinvestment plan
beyond the termination of the primary offering and until we have sold all of the shares allocated to the plan through the
reinvestment of distributions. We may terminate this offering at any time in our sole and absolute discretion. |
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Q:
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What is Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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Senior Common Stock is a separate class of our capital stock that has priority over Listed Common Stock with respect to the
payment of distributions and is pari passu with Listed Common Stock with respect to distributions upon liquidation. Senior
Common Stock, however, is junior to our Series A Preferred Stock and our Series B Preferred Stock with respect to the
payment of distributions, including distributions upon liquidation. Senior Common Stock is not listed or traded on a
national securities exchange or listed for quotation on a national market, but Listed Common Stock, Series A Preferred
Stock and Series B Preferred Stock are each listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the trading symbols GOOD,
GOODP and GOODO, respectively. |
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For more information about our Senior Common Stock, Listed Common Stock, Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred
Stock, see Description of Capital Stock in the accompanying prospectus. |
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Q:
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What are the main benefits of investing in shares of Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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We believe that an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock will provide the following benefits to investors: |
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Distribution rate of $1.05 per share per annum, declared daily and paid at
the rate of $0.0875 per share per month; |
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Distributions paid on shares of Senior Common Stock must be paid before
distributions are paid on shares of Listed Common Stock but after distributions are
paid on shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock; |
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Distributions paid on shares of Senior Common Stock cannot be decreased and
are cumulative; |
S-15
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Shares of Senior Common Stock are generally not callable prior to five
years after the completion of this offering; |
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Holders of shares of Senior Common Stock have the option to convert such
shares into shares of Listed Common Stock after five years; |
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A valuation of shares of Senior Common Stock will be published every
quarter beginning 18 months after the completion of this offering; and |
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Quarterly repurchase of shares of Senior Common Stock from cash available
from the sale of shares of Senior Common Stock under the distribution reinvestment
plan. |
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Q:
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Are there risks involved in an investment in shares of our Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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Yes. An investment in shares of Senior Common Stock involves substantial risks. In consultation with your
financial and legal advisers, you should carefully consider, among other matters, the factors set forth in
the section captioned Risk Factors on page S-23 of this prospectus supplement as well as in our most
recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other information that we may
subsequently file from time to time with the SEC which are incorporated by reference into this prospectus
supplement and the accompanying prospectus before deciding whether an investment in shares of Senior
Common Stock is suitable for you. |
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Q:
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Who can buy shares of Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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An investment in shares of Senior Common Stock involves substantial risks and is suitable only for persons
of substantial financial means who have no need for immediate liquidity in or from this investment. Shares
of Senior Common Stock will be sold to you only if you purchase a minimum of 200 shares having an
aggregate minimum purchase price of $3,000. We reserve the right, however, to waive the minimum purchase
requirement in our sole and absolute discretion. |
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Q:
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For whom is an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock recommended? |
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A:
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An investment in shares of Senior Common Stock may be appropriate if you (i) seek to diversify your
personal portfolio with a real estate-based investment, (ii) seek to receive current income, (iii) seek to
preserve capital, (iv) wish to obtain the benefits of potential long-term capital appreciation, and (v)
are able to hold your investment for an extended period of time. Conversely, we caution persons who
require near-term liquidity or guaranteed income or who seek a short-term investment to read this
prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference
herein before deciding whether an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock is suitable for you. See
Risk Factors in this prospectus supplement. |
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Q:
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Is there an established set of investor suitability standards that must be met in order to invest in
shares of Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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No. Because of its status as a covered security, Senior Common Stock is not subject to the various
state regulations that require specific suitability standards for purchasers of common stock of non-traded
REITs. However, shares of Senior Common Stock may not be a suitable investment for all investors. The term
covered security applies to securities exempt from state registration because of their oversight by
federal authorities and national-level regulatory bodies pursuant to Section 18 of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, or Securities Act. Generally, securities listed on national exchanges are the most
common type of covered security exempt from state registration. A non-traded security can also be a
covered security if it has a seniority greater than or equal to other securities from the same issuer that
are listed on a national exchange such as the NASDAQ Global Select Market. Senior Common Stock is a
covered security because it is senior to Listed Common Stock and, therefore, is exempt from state
registration. Typically, securities issued by non-traded REITs do not meet the requirements necessary to
be classified as covered securities, and, therefore, they are subject to state registration. |
S-16
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Q:
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How do I subscribe for shares of Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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If you choose to purchase shares of Senior Common Stock in this offering, you must complete a Subscription
Agreement, a form of which is appended to this prospectus supplement as Appendix A, specify the number of
shares that you wish to purchase and pay for the shares at the time you subscribe. |
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You should pay for your shares by check made payable to BB&T, as escrow agent for Gladstone Commercial
Corporation or as otherwise instructed by the Dealer Manager or any participating broker-dealer. We will
place your subscription payment in an account held by our escrow agent, BB&T Corporation, which funds will
be held in trust for your benefit until the next closing date. We will hold two closings per month for
our primary offering. The closing dates were randomly selected prior to the commencement of the primary
offering, and will occur once between the 1st and 15th of each month and once between the 16th and last
day of each month. On any such closing date, we will either accept or reject your subscription and (i) if
accepted, we will transfer your funds to our general account, and you will receive a confirmation of your
subscription, or (ii) if rejected, we will return your funds, without interest, within 10 business days
thereafter. Subscriptions will be effective only upon our acceptance, and we reserve the right to reject
any subscription either in whole or in part in our sole and absolute discretion. |
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Q:
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May I make an investment through my IRA, simplified employee pension plan or other tax-favored account? |
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A:
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Yes. You may make an investment through your individual retirement account, or IRA, a simplified employee
pension plan, or SEP, or other tax-favored account. In making these investment decisions, you should
consider, at a minimum, (i) whether the investment is in accordance with the documents and instruments
governing your IRA, SEP or other account, (ii) whether the investment satisfies the fiduciary requirements
associated with your IRA, SEP or other account, (iii) whether the investment will generate unrelated
business taxable income, or UBTI, to your IRA, SEP or other account, (iv) whether there is sufficient
liquidity for such investment under your IRA, SEP or other account, (v) the need to value the assets of
your IRA, SEP or other account annually or more frequently, and (vi) whether the investment would
constitute a prohibited transaction under applicable law. In addition, you should verify that the IRA or
SEP trustee or custodian is willing to hold non-publicly traded securities. For more information regarding
investments through an IRA, SEP or other tax-favored account, see ERISA Considerations Exception for
Insignificant Participation by Benefit Plan Investors in this prospectus supplement. |
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Q:
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Will I receive a stock certificate? |
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A:
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No. Shares of Senior Common Stock will be issued and maintained in book-entry form and registered in the
name of the stockholder. You will not receive a stock certificate in respect of your shares of Senior
Common Stock. |
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Q:
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Is there any minimum investment required? |
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A:
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Yes. Generally, you must purchase 200 shares of Senior Common Stock having an aggregate minimum purchase
price of $3,000. We reserve the right, however, to waive the minimum purchase requirement in our sole and
absolute discretion. Investors who already own shares of our Senior Common Stock can make additional
purchases for less than the minimum investment. See Plan of Distribution Minimum Purchase
Requirements in this prospectus supplement. |
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Q:
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How was the share price per share of the Senior Common Stock determined? |
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A:
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Our Board arbitrarily determined the selling price of $15.00 per share for shares of Senior Common Stock,
and such price bears no relationship to our book or asset values, our projections of book or asset values
or any other established criteria for valuing issued or outstanding shares. Because the offering price is
not based upon any independent valuation, the offering price may not be indicative of the proceeds that
you would receive upon liquidation. |
S-17
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Q:
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Do shares of Senior Common Stock have any voting rights? |
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A:
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Except as set forth below or as otherwise required by law, holders of shares of Senior Common Stock will
not have any voting rights. As long as any shares of Senior Common Stock remain outstanding, we will not,
without the affirmative vote or consent of the holders of a least a majority of the shares of Senior
Common Stock outstanding at the time, given in person or by proxy, either in writing or at a meeting
(voting separately by class), amend, alter or repeal the provisions of our charter, whether by merger,
consolidation or otherwise, so as to materially and adversely affect any right, preference, privilege or
voting power of shares of Senior Common Stock or the holders thereof. Shares of Listed Common Stock issued
upon conversion of shares of Senior Common Stock will have all voting rights associated with Listed Common
Stock. |
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Q:
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What is the distribution rate payable on shares of Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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Holders of shares of Senior Common Stock will be entitled to receive, subject to the preferential rights
of the holders of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock, when and as declared by our
Board, distributions in an amount equal to $1.05 per share per year, declared daily and paid at the rate
of $0.0875 per share per month. |
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Q:
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When will I begin accruing distributions and how often will I receive them? |
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A:
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You will begin accruing distributions immediately on a daily basis upon your investment in shares of
Senior Common Stock. We expect to pay distributions monthly on or about the fifth business day of the
month following the month in which such distributions are earned, with such payments beginning with the
first calendar month after you purchase shares of Senior Common Stock. Your first distribution payment may
include a partial accrued distribution payment. Although we generally intend to pay distributions on
shares of Senior Common Stock monthly, because such distributions are cumulative, they will accrue, if not
paid, and they must be paid before distributions are paid on shares of Listed Common Stock but after
distributions are paid on shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock. |
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Q:
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Will the distributions that I receive be taxable as ordinary income? |
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A:
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Generally, distributions that you receive, including distributions that are reinvested pursuant to our
distribution reinvestment plan, will be taxed as ordinary income to the extent that they are attributable
to our current or accumulated earnings and profits. As long as we qualify as a REIT, distributions made
out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits generally will be taxable to our stockholders as
ordinary dividend income. In determining the extent to which a distribution with respect to shares of our
capital stock constitutes a dividend for federal income tax purposes, our earnings and profits will be
allocated first to distributions with respect to our Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred
Stock, then to our Senior Common Stock, and then to our Listed Common Stock. As a result of certain
noncash expenses, such as depreciation, our aggregate distributions for Senior Common Stock generally are
expected to exceed our earnings and profits in future taxable years; however, no assurances can be given
that this will be the case in any given year. In 2010, our aggregate distributions paid in respect of
shares of our Listed Common Stock were approximately $12.9 million and our earnings and profits after
dividend payments for Preferred Stock and Senior Common Stock were approximately $2.0 million.
Accordingly, 100% of our distributions in respect of our Preferred Stock and Senior Common Stock was
treated as taxable dividends, 16% of our distributions in respect of our Listed Common Stock was treated
as taxable dividends, and 84% of our distributions in respect of our Listed Common Stock was treated as
other than taxable dividends. |
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Any distribution that is not made out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits will be deemed to
be a return of capital to the extent of each individual stockholders tax basis in the stockholders
shares. Any distribution in excess of an individual stockholders tax basis would, however, be deemed to
be a capital gain. You will not have to pay taxes on the portion of your distribution that is treated as a
return of capital. Such distributions will, however, reduce the tax basis of your investment and will not
be subject to tax until your investment is sold or we are liquidated, at which time you would be taxed at
capital gains rates (assuming the applicable holding period is met). Because each investors tax
considerations are |
S-18
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different, we suggest that you consult with your tax adviser prior to investing in shares of Senior Common Stock. Additionally, we
cannot guarantee that past results will be replicated in future years. |
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For more information regarding the tax consequences of purchasing shares of Senior Common Stock, see
Additional Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations in this prospectus supplement and Material
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations in the accompanying prospectus. |
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Q:
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May I reinvest my distributions? |
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A:
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Yes. Holders of shares of Senior Common Stock will have the option of participating in our distribution
reinvestment plan by checking the appropriate box on the Subscription Agreement or by filling out an
enrollment form that we will provide to you upon your request. You may purchase shares of Senior Common
Stock under our distribution reinvestment plan for $15.00 per share, subject to certain limitations. A
copy of our Senior Common Stock distribution reinvestment program is appended to this prospectus
supplement as Appendix B. |
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Q:
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Can you call my shares of Senior Common Stock for redemption? |
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A:
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Yes; however, we may not call your shares of Senior Common Stock for redemption prior to five years after
the completion of this offering except in certain limited circumstances relating to maintaining our
ability to qualify as a REIT. After the fifth anniversary of the completion of this offering, the Senior
Common Stock will be callable for redemption for cash at our option, in whole or part, at a redemption
price equal to $15.30 per share plus accrued and unpaid distributions. You may exchange your shares of
Senior Common Stock for shares of Listed Common Stock at any time after you have held them for at least
five years and before we call them. See Questions and Answers Regarding This Offering May I exchange
my shares of Senior Common Stock for shares of Listed Common Stock? below. |
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Q:
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May I exchange my shares of Senior Common Stock for shares of Listed Common Stock? |
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A:
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Yes, after you have held them for at least five years. Holders of shares of Senior Common Stock will have
the right, but not the obligation, following the fifth anniversary of the issuance of such shares proposed
to be exchanged to exchange any or all of such shares of Senior Common Stock for shares of Listed Common
Stock. The exchange ratio, or the Exchange Ratio, will be calculated by dividing $15.00 (the value
assigned to each share of Senior Common Stock) by the greatest of (i) the Closing Trading Price of Listed
Common Stock on the date on which such shares of Senior Common Stock were originally issued, (ii) the Book
Value Per Share of Listed Common Stock as determined as of the date on which such shares of Senior Common
Stock were originally issued, or (iii) $13.68. |
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For example, the Closing Trading Price and the Book Value Per Share of the Listed Common Stock as of
December 31, 2010 were $18.83 and $6.50, respectively. If you purchased shares of Senior Common Stock on
December 31, 2010, the Exchange Ratio for the shares of Senior Common Stock that you purchased would be
$15.00 divided by the greatest of $18.83, $6.50 or $13.68 per share. In this example, you would receive
0.79660 shares of Listed Common Stock for each share of Senior Common Stock ($15.00 divided by $18.83)
upon electing to exchange your shares (at least five years after your purchase).
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For this purpose, Book Value Per Share means, as of a given date, the common stockholders equity (as
reflected in our most recent periodic SEC filing) divided by the number of outstanding shares of common
stock as of the same date. Closing Trading Price means, on any date of determination, (i) the most
recently reported closing price per share of Listed Common Stock as of such date on the NASDAQ Global
Select Market, or (ii) if, as of such date, Listed Common Stock is not traded on the NASDAQ Global Select
Market, the most recently reported closing price per share of Listed Common Stock on the primary stock
exchange on which Listed Common Stock is then listed for trading, or (iii) if, as of such date, Listed
Common Stock is not listed for trading on any stock exchange, the closing bid price per share for Listed
Common Stock on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board, over-the-counter market or on the Pink Sheets, or
(iv) if there is no longer any public market for Listed Common Stock as of such date, the fair market
value of a share of Listed Common Stock as determined in good faith by our Board. |
S-19
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Q:
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Can I sell or redeem my shares of Senior Common Stock before they become exchangeable in five years? |
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A:
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Our Board has adopted a share redemption program to provide holders of shares of Senior Common Stock with
limited interim liquidity until shares of Senior Common Stock become exchangeable for shares of Listed
Common Stock. The redemption price will be $13.80 per share. Redemptions under the program will be made
quarterly on a pro rata basis subject to the following restrictions and limitations: |
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shares of Senior Common Stock must be held for a minimum of one year; |
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holders of shares of Senior Common Stock must present at least 25% of their
outstanding shares for redemption; |
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redemptions will be limited to the amount of cash available from the sale
of shares of Senior Common Stock under our distribution reinvestment plan; |
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redemptions will also not exceed 5% of the weighted average number of
shares of Senior Common Stock outstanding during the prior calendar year; |
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our Board may choose to amend, suspend or terminate our share redemption
program at any time upon 30 days notice; and |
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shares of Senior Common Stock will not be eligible for the share redemption
program once those shares become exchangeable for shares of Listed Common Stock. |
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Senior Common Stock will not be listed for trading on any national securities exchange or
quotation on a national market system. As a result, if you wish to sell your shares, you may
not be able to do so promptly or at all, or you may only be able to sell them at a
substantial discount from the price that you originally paid. |
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Q:
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Do shares of Senior Common Stock have any anti-dilution protection? |
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A:
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If the outstanding number of shares of Listed Common Stock is
increased or decreased or changed into or exchanged for a different
number or kind of shares or other securities of the Company or of any
other company by reason of any reclassification, recapitalization,
share split, combination of shares, or share distribution, appropriate
adjustment will be made to the number and relative terms of the shares
of Senior Common Stock. There will be no anti-dilution adjustment
upon the future sale of additional shares of Listed Common Stock,
regardless of the price at which the Senior Common Stock is sold. |
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Q:
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What would happen to my shares of Senior Common Stock upon the
occurrence of a merger or sale of the Company? |
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A:
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Shares of Senior Common Stock will automatically be converted into
shares of Listed Common Stock in accordance with the Exchange Ratio
upon the occurrence of any of the following events: |
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an acquisition of the Company by another company by means of any
transaction or series of related transactions to which we are a party (including,
without limitation, any stock acquisition, reorganization, merger or consolidation but
excluding any sale of stock for purposes of raising equity capital) other than a
transaction or series of transactions in which the holders of our voting securities
outstanding immediately prior to such transaction continue to retain at least 50% of
the total voting power represented by our voting securities or those of such other
surviving entity outstanding immediately after such transaction or series of
transactions; |
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a sale of all or substantially all of our assets; or |
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a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company. |
S-20
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Q:
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Do shares of Senior Common Stock have a liquidation preference? |
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A:
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No. Upon our liquidation, each share of Senior Common Stock will be
automatically converted to a number of shares of Listed Common Stock
in accordance with the Exchange Ratio. Therefore, Senior Common Stock
will rank pari passu with Listed Common Stock upon a liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Company. Holders of shares of Series
A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock will be entitled to
receive their liquidation preference in full before we can pay
distributions of remaining proceeds to all holders of shares of Senior
Common Stock and Listed Common Stock. As of December 31, 2010, we had
1,000,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock and 1,150,000 shares of
Series B Preferred Stock outstanding. Therefore, upon liquidation, we
would have to pay $53,750,000 in the aggregate to redeem these shares
of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock before we
could pay distributions of remaining proceeds to all holders of shares
of Senior Common Stock and Listed Common Stock. |
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Q:
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How will the Company apply the proceeds raised in this offering? |
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A:
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If we sell 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common Stock in our
primary offering at a price of $15.00 per share, we estimate that
approximately 89% of the money that you invest will be used for one or
more of the following purposes: |
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to invest in additional net leased industrial, commercial and other real
properties in accordance with our investment objectives and to pay real estate related
acquisition expenses; or |
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to pay down borrowings under our line of credit or other debt. |
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The remaining 11% will be used to pay sales commissions, Dealer Manager fees and other
offering expenses. |
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Based upon current market conditions, we anticipate that it may take several months to fully
invest the net proceeds that we receive in connection with the primary offering, depending
upon the availability of acquisition opportunities that are consistent with our investment
objectives and strategies. There can be no assurance we will be able to sell all of the
shares of Senior Common Stock that we are offering. If we sell only a portion of the shares
that we are offering, we may be unable to achieve our investment objectives. Pending the
application of the net proceeds of this offering, all or substantially all of such net
proceeds may be invested in interest-bearing accounts and short-term, interest-bearing
securities as is consistent with our intention to maintain our qualification for taxation as
a REIT. Such investments may include, for example, obligations of the Government National
Mortgage Association, other government and governmental agency securities, certificates of
deposit and interest-bearing bank deposits or other authorized investments that we
determine. We anticipate that all or substantially all of the proceeds from the sale of
500,000 shares of Senior Common Stock pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan will be
used to fund repurchases of shares of Senior Common Stock under our share redemption
program. See Estimated Use of Proceeds in this prospectus supplement. |
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Q:
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Will the Company provide a periodic share valuation? |
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A.
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Yes. Beginning 18 months after the completion of this offering, we will determine the value
per share of Senior Common Stock on a quarterly basis. This value will be determined as of the
last day of each quarter and will be published in our periodic SEC filings. |
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Q:
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Will I have access to periodic updates regarding the performance of the Company? |
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A:
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Yes. Because we are a reporting company, we are required to make certain filings with the SEC regarding our business,
financial condition and results of operations; accordingly, you will have access to periodic updates regarding the
performance of the Company which include, but are not limited to, the following sources: |
S-21
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annual and quarterly reports, proxy statements and other
information which are filed with the SEC and which are publicly available on the SECs
website at http://www.sec.gov; |
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quarterly telephone conference calls with stockholders which are conducted
by our management; |
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periodic press releases; and |
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full-scale investor relations department that utilizes a publicly-available
investor relations website at http://www.GladstoneCommercial.com. |
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Because we are conducting this offering pursuant to our effective shelf registration
statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-169290), we are allowed to incorporate by reference
into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus the information that we file
with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you
to those previously filed documents. Information that we subsequently file with the SEC will
automatically update and may supersede information contained in this prospectus supplement,
the accompanying prospectus and information that we previously filed with the SEC. |
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Our filings with the SEC are available to the public on the SECs website at
http://www.sec.gov. Any information that we file with the SEC after the date of this
prospectus supplement will be considered to be part of this prospectus supplement and the
accompanying prospectus automatically. |
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Q:
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Will I get detailed tax information and, if so, when? |
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A:
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Yes. Your IRS Form 1099 will be mailed on or before January 31 of each year. |
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Q:
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Is there a transfer agent for shares of Senior Common Stock? |
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A:
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Yes. ACS Securities Services, Inc. will act as our transfer agent, distribution paying agent and registrar for this
offering. Set forth below is the principal business address of and telephone number for ACS Securities Services, Inc.: |
3988 N. Central Expressway
Building 5, Floor 6,
Dallas, Texas 75204
(877) 588-5596
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Q:
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Is there a publicly-available website with information regarding this offering? |
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A:
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Yes. The website address is http://www.GladstoneCommercial.info. |
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Q:
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Who can help answer my questions? |
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A:
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If you have more questions about this offering or if you would like additional copies of this prospectus supplement and the
accompanying prospectus, you should contact your registered representative or contact: |
Gladstone Securities, LLC
22 Oak Drive
Riverside, Connecticut 06878
(203) 570-7950
Attn: David Geske
Email: info@gladstonesecurities.com
S-22
RISK FACTORS
An investment in shares of Senior Common Stock involves substantial risks. In consultation
with your financial and legal advisers, you should carefully consider, among other matters, the
factors set forth below as well as in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Quarterly
Reports on Form 10-Q and other information that we file from time to time with the SEC which are
incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus before
deciding whether an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock is suitable for you. If any of the
risks contained in or incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement or the accompanying
prospectus develop into actual events, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of
operations, FFO and prospects could be materially and adversely affected, the market price of our
securities could decline and you may lose all or part of your investment.
Risks Related to our Tenants, Borrowers and Properties
Our properties may be subject to impairment charges, which could adversely affect our results
of operations and FFO.
We are required to periodically evaluate our properties for impairment indicators. A
propertys value is considered impaired if managements estimate of the aggregate future cash flows
(undiscounted and without interest charges) to be generated by the property, based upon its
intended use, is less than the carrying value of the property. These estimates of cash flows are
based upon factors such as expected future operating income, trends and prospects, as well as the
effects of interest and capitalization rates, demand and occupancy, competition and other factors.
Ongoing adverse market and economic conditions and market volatility make it difficult to value our
properties. These factors may result in uncertainty in valuation estimates and instability in the
estimated value of our properties which, in turn, could result in a substantial decrease in the
value of the properties and significant impairment charges.
We continually assess our properties to determine if any impairments are necessary or
appropriate. No assurance can be given that we will be able to recover the current carrying amount
of our properties in the future. Our failure to do so would require us to recognize additional
impairment charges for the period in which we reached that conclusion, which could materially and
adversely affect us and our results of operations and FFO.
Risks Related to this Offering
There is no public market for shares of Senior Common Stock.
There is no established public trading market for shares of Senior Common Stock, and we
currently have no plans to list these shares on a national securities exchange or to include these
shares for quotation on any national securities market. Additionally, our charter contains
restrictions on the ownership and transfer of shares of our capital stock, and these restrictions
may inhibit your ability to sell your shares of Senior Common Stock promptly, or at all. If you are
able to sell your shares, you may only be able to sell them at a substantial discount from the
price which you paid for them. Therefore, you should purchase shares of Senior Common Stock only as
a long-term investment. After five years from the date of issuance, shares of Senior Common Stock
will be exchangeable at your option for shares of Listed Common Stock which are currently traded on
the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol GOOD.
We would be required to terminate this offering if Listed Common Stock is no longer listed on
the NASDAQ Global Select Market or another national securities exchange.
Senior Common Stock is a covered security and is therefore not subject to registration in
the various states due to its seniority to Listed Common Stock, which is listed on the NASDAQ
Global Select Market under the symbol GOOD. In the event that Listed Common Stock is no
longer listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market or another national securities exchange, we would
be required to register the offering in any state in which we subsequently offered shares of Senior
Common Stock. Such deregistration from the NASDAQ Global Select Market (i) would require the
termination of this offering, (ii) could result in our raising gross proceeds in an amount that is
S-23
substantially less than if we sold 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common Stock, and, consequently,
(iii) would reduce our ability to purchase additional properties and limit the further
diversification of our portfolio.
Our Dealer Manager is one of our affiliates, and, therefore, an investor in shares of Senior
Common Stock would not have the benefit of an independent underwriter who has performed an
independent due diligence review.
Our Dealer Manager is one of our affiliates. Because our Dealer Manager is an affiliate of the
Company, its due diligence review and investigation of us and this prospectus supplement cannot be
considered to be an independent review. Therefore, although certain participating broker-dealers
may elect to conduct or obtain an independent due diligence review of us prior to offering shares
of Senior Common Stock, you may not have the benefit of an independent review and investigation of
us and this offering of the type normally performed by an unaffiliated, independent underwriter in
a public securities offering.
Your ability to redeem shares of Senior Common Stock pursuant to our share redemption program
is limited to the proceeds generated by our distribution reinvestment plan, and the share
redemption program may be amended, suspended or terminated by our Board at any time without
stockholder approval.
Our share redemption program is designed to provide holders of Senior Common Stock with
limited interim liquidity by providing them with a limited opportunity to have their shares
redeemed after they have held them for a period of one year. However, holders should understand
that our share redemption program is limited to the amount of funds generated by our distribution
reinvestment plan and is subject to certain other restrictions. The redemption price for shares of
Senior Common Stock will be $13.80 per share. However, our Board may limit, suspend or terminate
our share redemption program upon 30 days notice without stockholder approval. In addition, we
will have no obligation to redeem shares if the redemption would violate the restrictions on
distributions under Maryland law, which prohibits distributions that would cause a corporation to
fail to meet statutory tests of solvency, or if our Board determines that such redemption could
prevent us from qualifying as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. See Share Redemption
Program in this prospectus supplement.
We will be able to call your shares of Senior Common Stock for redemption under certain
circumstances without your consent.
We will have the ability to call the outstanding shares of Senior Common Stock after the fifth
anniversary of the completion of this offering and at any time under certain circumstances relating
to maintaining our ability to qualify as a REIT. At any such time, we will have the right to
redeem, at our option, the outstanding shares of Senior Common Stock, in whole or in part, at a
redemption price of $15.30 per share, plus any accrued and unpaid distributions.
If Listed Common Stock fails to meet all applicable listing requirements, it could be delisted
from the NASDAQ Global Select Market, which could adversely affect the market price and liquidity
of Listed Common Stock and Senior Common Stock and harm our financial condition and business.
Listed Common Stock currently is listed and traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under
the symbol GOOD. If we fail to meet any of the continued listing standards of the NASDAQ Global
Select Market, Listed Common Stock could be delisted from the exchange. The NASDAQ Global Select
Market will consider the removal of a listed security on the exchange when, in its opinion, (i) the
financial condition or operating results of an issuer appear to be unsatisfactory, (ii) it appears
that the extent of public distribution or the aggregate market value of the security has become so
reduced as to make further dealings on the NASDAQ Global Select Market inadvisable, (iii) the
issuer has sold or otherwise disposed of its principal operating assets or has ceased to be an
operating company, (iv) the issuer has failed to comply with its listing agreements with the NASDAQ
Global Select Market or (v) any other event occurs or any condition exists which makes further
dealings on the NASDAQ Global Select Market unwarranted.
If Listed Common Stock were to be delisted from the NASDAQ Global Select Market, it could be
traded in the over-the-counter market or on an automated quotation system, such as the OTC Bulletin
Board or the Pink Sheets.
S-24
Any delisting could adversely affect the market price and the liquidity of Listed Common Stock
and Senior Common Stock and negatively impact our financial condition and business.
We established the offering price of shares of Senior Common Stock on an arbitrary basis, and,
as a result, the actual value of your investment may be substantially less than what you pay.
Our Board has arbitrarily determined the selling price of the shares of Senior Common Stock,
and such price bears no relationship to our book or asset values, our projections of book or asset
values or any other established criteria for valuing issued or outstanding shares. Because the
offering price is not based upon any independent valuation, the offering price may not be
indicative of the proceeds that you would receive upon liquidation.
The calculation of the Exchange Ratio could result in a deterrent to your exchanging shares of
Senior Common Stock for shares of Listed Common Stock if shares of Listed Common Stock are trading
at lower levels at the time that you desire to exchange your shares.
There is no prohibition on your ability to exchange your shares of Senior Common Stock for
shares of Listed Common Stock after you have held them for five years. The Exchange Ratio, however,
will be calculated by dividing $15.00 by the greatest of (i) the Closing Trading Price of Listed
Common Stock on the date on which such shares of Senior Common Stock were originally issued, (ii)
the Book Value Per Share of Listed Common Stock as determined as of the date on which such shares
of Senior Common Stock were originally issued, or (iii) $13.68. If the trading price of shares of
Listed Common Stock on the date of your exchange is less than the conversion price of your shares
of Senior Common Stock at the time you propose to exchange your shares of Senior Common Stock for
shares of Listed Common Stock, you would receive shares of Listed Common Stock with an aggregate
fair market value that is less than the price you paid to purchase the shares of Senior Common
Stock being exchanged. In such a situation, if you decided to exchange your shares of Senior Common
Stock for shares of Listed Common Stock at such time and immediately liquidate your investment by
selling your shares of Listed Common Stock, you would likely recognize a loss on your investment.
For example, the Closing Trading Price and the Book Value Per Share of the Listed Common Stock
as of December 31, 2010 were $18.83 and $6.50, respectively. If you purchased shares of Senior
Common Stock on December 31, 2010, the Exchange Ratio for the shares of Senior Common Stock that
you purchased would be $15.00 divided by the greatest of $18.83, $6.50 or $13.68 per share. In this
example, you would receive 0.79660 shares of Listed Common Stock for each share of Senior Common
Stock ($15.00 divided by $18.83) upon electing to exchange your shares (at least five years after
your purchase).
If you do not agree with the decisions of our Board, then you will not be able to influence
changes in our policies and operations because holders of shares of Senior Common Stock will
generally have no voting rights.
Our Board determines our major policies, including our policies regarding investments,
financing, growth, REIT qualification and distributions. Because holders of shares of Senior Common
Stock will have no voting rights (other than the right to consent to an amendment to our charter
materially and adversely affecting the rights and preferences of shares of Senior Common Stock),
you will have virtually no ability to change our policies and operations.
If you fail to meet the fiduciary and other standards under ERISA or the Code as a result of
an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock, you could be subject to criminal and civil
penalties.
There are special considerations that apply to employee benefit plans subject to ERISA (such
as profit sharing, section 401(k) or pension plans) and other retirement plans or accounts subject
to Section 4975 of the Code (such as an IRA) that invest in shares of Senior Common Stock. If you
invest the assets of such a plan or account in shares of Senior Common Stock, you should satisfy
yourself that:
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your investment is consistent with your fiduciary obligations under ERISA and
the Code; |
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your investment is made in accordance with the documents and instruments
governing your plan or IRA, including your plans or accounts investment policy;
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S-25
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your investment satisfies the prudence and diversification requirements of
Sections 404(a)(1)(B) and 404(a)(1)(C) of ERISA and other applicable provisions of ERISA
and the Code; |
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your investment will not impair the liquidity of the plan or IRA; |
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your investment will not produce UBTI for the plan or IRA; |
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you will be able to value the assets of the plan annually in accordance with
ERISA requirements and applicable provisions of the plan or IRA; and |
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your investment will not constitute a prohibited transaction under Section 406
of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code. |
Failure to satisfy the fiduciary standards of conduct and other applicable requirements of
ERISA and the Code may result in the imposition of civil and criminal penalties and could subject
the fiduciary to equitable remedies. In addition, if an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock
constitutes a prohibited transaction under ERISA or the Code, the fiduciary that authorized or
directed the investment may be subject to the imposition of excise taxes with respect to the amount
invested.
If our assets are deemed to be ERISA plan assets, we and our Adviser may be exposed to
liabilities under Title 1 of ERISA and the Code.
In certain circumstances where an ERISA plan holds an interest in an entity, both the equity
interest and an undivided interest in the underlying assets of the entire entity are deemed to be
ERISA plan assets unless an exception applies. Under those circumstances, any person that exercises
authority or control with respect to the management or disposition of the assets is an ERISA plan
fiduciary, and the obligations and other responsibilities of plan sponsors, plan fiduciaries and
plan administrators, and of parties in interest and disqualified persons, under Title I of ERISA
and Section 4975 of the Code, as applicable, may apply. There may be liability under these and
other provisions of ERISA and the Code. If our Adviser or we are exposed to liability under ERISA
or the Code, our performance and results of operations could be adversely affected. Prior to making
an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock, you should consult with your legal and other
advisers concerning the impact of ERISA and the Code on your investment and our performance.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, including the documents
incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, contain
forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section
21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. Forward-looking
statements provide our current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not statements of
historical fact. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed
future events, including, among other things, discussion and analysis of our future financial
condition, results of operations and FFO, our strategic plans and objectives, cost management,
occupancy and leasing rates and trends, liquidity and ability to refinance our indebtedness as it
matures, anticipated capital expenditures (and access to capital) required to complete projects,
amounts of anticipated cash distributions to our stockholders in the future and other matters.
Words such as anticipates, expects, intends, plans, believes, seeks, estimates and
variations of these words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking
statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks,
uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, are difficult to predict
and/or could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the
forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the following subjects, among others, are
forward-looking by their nature:
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our business and financing strategy; |
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our ability to implement our business plan;
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S-26
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pending transactions; |
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our projected operating results; |
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our ability to obtain future financing arrangements; |
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estimates relating to our future distributions; |
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our understanding of our competition and our ability to compete effectively; |
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market and industry trends; |
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interest and insurance rates; |
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estimates of our future operating expenses, including payments to our Adviser
under the terms of our Advisory Agreement; |
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projected capital expenditures; and |
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the use of the proceeds of our New Line of Credit, mortgage notes payable and
other future capital resources, if any. |
Forward-looking statements involve inherent uncertainty and may ultimately prove to be
incorrect or false. You are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Except as otherwise may be required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise
forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events
or actual operating results. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in
these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to:
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the loss of any of our key employees, such as Mr. David Gladstone, our Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Terry Lee Brubaker, our Vice Chairman and Chief Operating
Officer, or Mr. George Stelljes III, our President and Chief Investment Officer; |
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general volatility of the capital markets and the market price of Listed Common
Stock; |
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risks associated with negotiation and consummation of pending and future
transactions; |
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changes in our business strategy; |
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the adequacy of our cash reserves and working capital; |
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our failure to successfully integrate and operate acquired properties and
operations; |
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defaults upon or non-renewal of leases by tenants; |
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decreased rental rates or increased vacancy rates; |
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the degree and nature of our competition; |
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availability, terms and deployment of capital, including the ability to
maintain and borrow under our New Line of Credit, arrange for long-term mortgages on our
properties, secure one or more additional long-term credit facilities and raise equity
capital; |
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our ability to identify, hire and retain highly-qualified personnel in the
future; |
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changes in our industry or the general economy; |
S-27
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changes in real estate and zoning laws and increases in real property tax
rates; |
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changes in governmental regulations, tax rates and similar matters; and |
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environmental uncertainties and risks related to natural disasters. |
This list of risks and uncertainties, however, is only a summary of some of the most important
factors to us and is not intended to be exhaustive. You should carefully review the risks and
information contained, or incorporated by reference, in this prospectus supplement and in the
accompanying prospectus, including, without limitation, the Risk Factors incorporated by
reference herein from our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form
10-Q and other reports and information that we file with the SEC. New factors may also emerge from
time to time that could materially and adversely affect us.
S-28
ESTIMATED USE OF PROCEEDS
The following table (i) estimates the use of the proceeds raised in this offering by assuming
that we will sell 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common Stock in our primary offering at a price to the
public of $15.00 per share and (ii) assumes that we do not sell any shares of Senior Common Stock
pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan. We anticipate that all or substantially all of the
proceeds from the sale of such shares pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan will be used
to fund repurchases of shares of Senior Common Stock under our share redemption program
rather than real estate-related investments.
The amounts in this table assume that the full selling commissions and Dealer Manager fees are
paid on all shares of Senior Common Stock offered to the public on a best efforts basis. We have
not given effect to any special sales or volume discounts that could reduce the sales commissions
or Dealer Manager fees for sales pursuant to our primary offering. Reduction in these fees will be
accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the per share purchase price but will not materially
affect the amounts available to us for investment. See Plan of Distribution in this prospectus
supplement.
Certain of the figures set forth below represent managements best estimate as such figures
cannot be precisely calculated at this time. If we were to sell 3,000,000 shares of Senior Common
Stock in our primary offering at a price to the public of $15.00 per share, we estimate
that approximately 89% of the proceeds that you invest will be available for one or more of the
following purposes:
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to invest in additional net leased industrial, commercial and other real
properties in accordance with our investment objectives and to pay real estate related
acquisition expenses; or |
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to pay down borrowings under our New Line of Credit or other debt. |
The remaining 11% of the proceeds will be used to pay sales commissions, Dealer Manager fees
and other offering expenses.
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Primary Offering |
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Amount |
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Percent |
|
Gross Proceeds |
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$ |
45,000,000 |
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|
100 |
% |
Less: |
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Selling Commissions(1) |
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3,150,000 |
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7 |
% |
Dealer Manager Fee(1) |
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1,350,000 |
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3 |
% |
Offering Expenses(2) |
|
|
450,000 |
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|
|
1 |
% |
Net Proceeds Available for Investment |
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$ |
40,050,000 |
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|
89 |
% |
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(1) |
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Assumes selling commissions equal to 7% of gross offering proceeds of the primary offering
and a Dealer Manager fee equal to 3% of gross offering proceeds of the primary offering. The
Dealer Manager, in its sole and absolute discretion, may reallow all of its selling
commissions attributable to a participating broker-dealer and may also reallow a portion of
its Dealer Manager fee earned in respect of the proceeds generated by the participating
broker-dealer to any participating broker-dealer as a non-accountable marketing allowance. See
Plan of Distribution in this prospectus supplement. |
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(2) |
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Includes all expenses (other than selling commissions and the Dealer Manager fee) to be paid
by us in connection with the offering and the marketing and distribution of shares of Senior
Common Stock. Offering expenses include, but are not limited to, (i) printing, engraving,
mailing and distribution costs, (ii) travel, entertainment, technology, training, advertising
and marketing expenses, (iii) compensation of employees while engaged in sales activity (iv)
escrow, legal, accounting, transfer agent, registrars and experts and fees, (v) retail seminar
costs and (vi) bona fide accountable due diligence expenses. All organization and offering
expenses, including selling commissions and the Dealer Manager fee, will be capped at 15% of
the gross proceeds of the offering. |
Based upon current market conditions, we anticipate that it may take several months to fully
invest the net proceeds that we receive in connection with the primary offering, depending upon the
availability of acquisition opportunities that are consistent with our investment objectives and
strategies. There can be no assurance we will be
S-29
able to sell all of the shares of Senior Common Stock that we are registering. If we sell only
a portion of the shares that we are registering, we may be unable to achieve our investment
objectives. Pending the application of the net proceeds of this offering, all or substantially all
of such net proceeds may be invested in interest-bearing accounts and short-term, interest-bearing
securities as is consistent with our intention to maintain our qualification for taxation as a
REIT. Such investments may include, for example, obligations of the Government National Mortgage
Association, other government and governmental agency securities, certificates of deposit and
interest-bearing bank deposits or other authorized investments that we determine.
S-30
MARKET PRICE AND DISTRIBUTIONS PAID IN RESPECT OF LISTED COMMON STOCK
Our Listed Common Stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol GOOD.
The following table reflects, by quarter, the high and low sales prices per share of Listed Common
Stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and the distributions per share by quarter. Distributions
are declared quarterly and paid monthly. Amounts presented represent the cumulative amount of the
distributions declared for the months composing such quarter.
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Sales Price Per Share |
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Distributions Paid |
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Quarter Ended |
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High |
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Low |
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Per Share |
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03/31/08 |
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$ |
18.50 |
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$ |
14.81 |
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$ |
0.375 |
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06/30/08 |
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$ |
18.50 |
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$ |
15.36 |
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$ |
0.375 |
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09/30/08 |
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$ |
17.38 |
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$ |
13.96 |
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$ |
0.375 |
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12/31/08 |
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$ |
15.89 |
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$ |
6.37 |
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$ |
0.375 |
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03/31/09 |
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$ |
10.20 |
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$ |
5.36 |
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$ |
0.375 |
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06/30/09 |
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$ |
16.21 |
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$ |
8.20 |
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$ |
0.375 |
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09/30/09 |
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$ |
14.50 |
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$ |
11.26 |
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$ |
0.375 |
|
12/31/09 |
|
$ |
14.19 |
|
|
$ |
11.85 |
|
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
03/31/10 |
|
$ |
14.87 |
|
|
$ |
13.05 |
|
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
06/30/10 |
|
$ |
17.79 |
|
|
$ |
14.36 |
|
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
09/30/10 |
|
$ |
17.30 |
|
|
$ |
15.61 |
|
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
12/31/10 |
|
$ |
19.50 |
|
|
$ |
17.00 |
|
|
$ |
0.375 |
|
The closing price per share of Listed Common Stock on NASDAQ Global Select Market on March 25,
2011 was $18.21. As of February 7, 2011, there were approximately 7,921 beneficial holders of
Listed Common Stock. There is no established public trading market for shares of Senior Common
Stock, nor do we expect such a market for shares of Senior Common Stock to develop.
Continuous Private Offering of Senior Common Stock
In November 2009, we commenced a continuous private offering for a maximum of 3,333,333 shares
of its then newly-designated, unregistered Senior Common Stock at $15.00 per share. The private
offering of Senior Common Stock was made on a best efforts basis by Halcyon Capital Markets, LLC,
acting as the dealer manager. On October 19, 2010, the Company terminated the continuous private
offering, including the distribution reinvestment plan with respect to such unregistered shares of
senior common stock.
As of October 19, 2010, the date that the private offering was terminated, we had sold a total
of 58,776 shares of unregistered Senior Common Stock, and 117 shares of unregistered Senior Common
Stock were issued pursuant to the distribution reinvestment plan. No shares of Senior Common Stock
have been issued since the private offering was terminated in October 2010. Total net proceeds from
the sale of shares of the unregistered Senior Common Stock in the private offering, after
commissions and the dealer manager fees, were approximately $787,200. The issuance of shares of
Senior Common Stock in the private offering was exempt from registration under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended, pursuant to Rule 506 thereunder, among other exemptions, on the basis that the
securities were sold in a private offering not involving general solicitation and that the
purchasers of the securities in the private offering were accredited investors.
Distributions
In order to qualify as a REIT, we are required to make certain distributions to our
stockholders. The amount of these distributions must equal at least the sum of (i) 90% of our REIT
taxable income (computed without regard to the distributions paid deduction and net capital gain)
and (ii) 90% of the net income (after tax), if any, from foreclosure property, less the sum of
certain non-cash items.
For federal income tax purposes, our distributions generally consist of ordinary income,
capital gain, nontaxable return of capital or a combination thereof. Distributions that exceed our
current and accumulated earnings and profits (calculated for federal income tax purposes)
constitute a return of capital, which reduces the stockholders
S-31
basis in its shares of our stock and will not be taxable to the stockholder to the extent of
the stockholders basis in its shares of our stock. To the extent that a distribution exceeds the
stockholders share of current and accumulated earnings and profits and the stockholders basis in
its shares of our stock, that distribution will be treated as a capital gain from the sale or
exchange of that stockholders shares of our stock. Every year, we notify stockholders of the
taxability of distributions paid during the preceding year. See Material U.S. Federal Income Tax
Considerations in the accompanying prospectus.
DISTRIBUTION REINVESTMENT PLAN
Our distribution reinvestment plan allows you to have distributions that would otherwise be
distributable to you invested in additional shares of Senior Common Stock. We are offering 500,000
shares of Senior Common Stock under our distribution reinvestment plan which are not included in
the 3,000,000 shares being sold in the primary offering. As noted above, the primary offering will
terminate at the end of the offering period. However, we may extend the offering period for our
distribution reinvestment plan beyond the termination of the primary offering and until we have
sold all of the shares allocated to the plan through the reinvestment of distributions. The
following discussion summarizes the principal terms of our distribution reinvestment plan, a copy
of which is appended to this prospectus supplement as Appendix B.
Participation in our distribution reinvestment plan is limited to investors who have purchased
shares of Senior Common Stock in the primary offering. We may elect to deny your participation in
our distribution reinvestment plan if you reside in a jurisdiction or foreign country where, in our
sole and absolute discretion, the burden or expense of compliance with applicable securities laws
makes your participation impracticable or inadvisable or if your participation in the distribution
reinvestment plan could cause 25% or more of any class of our equity securities to be held by
benefit plan investors. See ERISA Considerations Exception for Insignificant Participation by
Benefit Plan Investors. Assuming that you are eligible, you may elect to participate in our
distribution reinvestment plan by completing the relevant portion of the Subscription Agreement or
other approved enrollment form available from the Dealer Manager or a participating broker-dealer.
Your participation in our distribution reinvestment plan will begin with the next distribution
made after receipt of your enrollment form. Once enrolled, you may continue to purchase shares of
Senior Common Stock under our distribution reinvestment plan until we have terminated such plan.
You can choose to have all or a portion of your distributions reinvested through our distribution
reinvestment plan. You may also change the percentage of your distributions that will be reinvested
at any time if you complete a new enrollment form or other form provided for that purpose. Any
election to increase your level of participation must be made through your participating
broker-dealer or, if you purchased shares of Senior Common Stock in this offering other than
through a participating broker-dealer, through the Dealer Manager.
Shares of Senior Common Stock will be purchased under our distribution reinvestment plan on
our distribution payment dates. The purchase of fractional shares is a permissible and likely
result of the reinvestment of distributions under our distribution reinvestment plan.
During our primary offering, the purchase price per share of Senior Common Stock will be
$15.00. The offering price for shares purchased under our distribution reinvestment plan may
increase after the closing of our primary offering. Fees are included in the price, and we will not
charge you any other fees in connection with your purchase of shares under our distribution
reinvestment plan. The price for shares purchased under our distribution reinvestment plan bears
little relationship to, and will likely exceed, what you might receive for your shares if you tried
to sell them or if we liquidated our portfolio. Purchases of shares of Senior Common Stock under
our distribution reinvestment plan may effectively lower the total return on your investment with
us. Our Board reserves the right to designate that certain cash or other distributions attributable
to net sale proceeds will be excluded from distributions that may be reinvested in shares under our
distribution reinvestment plan.
Within 90 days after the end of each calendar year, we will provide you with an individualized
report regarding your investment, including the purchase dates, purchase price, number of shares
owned, and the amount of distributions in the prior year.
S-32
We will not pay a commission in connection with your purchase of Senior Common Stock in our
distribution reinvestment plan. No Dealer Manager fees or due diligence expense allowance will be
paid in respect of shares of Senior Common Stock sold under the plan. We will not receive a fee for
selling stock under our distribution reinvestment plan. See Plan of Distribution in this
prospectus supplement.
Shares of Senior Common Stock acquired through our distribution reinvestment plan, like all
other shares of Senior Common Stock, will not have voting rights, except as set forth in
Description of Capital StockCommon StockSenior Common StockVoting Rights or as otherwise
from time to time may required by law.
If you elect to participate in our distribution reinvestment plan and are subject to federal
income taxation, you may incur a tax liability for distributions allocated to you even though you
have elected not to receive the distributions in cash but rather to have the distributions withheld
and reinvested pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan.
Specifically, you will be treated as if you have received the distribution in cash and then
applied such distribution to the purchase of additional shares of Senior Common Stock. You will be
taxed on the amount of such distribution as a dividend to the extent such distribution is from
current or accumulated earnings and profits, unless we have designated all or a portion of the
distribution as a capital gain distribution. We will withhold 28% of the amount of distributions
paid if you fail to furnish a valid taxpayer identification number, fail to properly report
interest or distributions or fail to certify that you are not subject to withholding.
You may terminate your participation in our distribution reinvestment plan at any time by
providing us with written notice. Any transfer of your shares of Senior Common Stock will effect a
termination of the participation of those shares in our distribution reinvestment plan. Moreover,
we will terminate your participation to the extent that a reinvestment of your distributions in
shares of Senior Common Stock would cause you to exceed the ownership limitation contained in our
charter. We will also terminate your participation to the extent that your continued participant
could cause 25% or more of any class of our equity securities to be held by benefit plan
investors. See ERISA Considerations Exception for Insignificant Participation by
Benefit Plan Investors in this prospectus supplement.
We may amend or terminate our distribution reinvestment plan in our sole and absolute
discretion at any time upon ten days prior written notice to participants, but no such amendment
will add compensation to the plan or remove the opportunity for you to terminate your participation
in the plan, as specified above.
SHARE REDEMPTION PROGRAM
Our Board has adopted a share redemption program that enables our stockholders to sell their
shares of Senior Common Stock to us after they have held them for at least one year, subject to the
conditions and limitations described below.
Senior Common Stock is currently not listed on a national securities exchange, or
included for quotation on a national securities market, and we do not intend to seek to list Senior
Common Stock. In order to provide stockholders with the benefit of interim liquidity, stockholders
who have held their shares of Senior Common Stock for at least one year may present all or a
portion consisting of at least 25% of their shares to us for redemption at any time in accordance
with the procedures outlined below. At that time, we may, subject to the conditions and limitations
described below, redeem the shares presented for redemption for cash to the extent that we have
sufficient funds available to us to fund such redemption. The redemption price for shares of Senior
Common Stock will be $13.80 per share. We will not pay to our Board, our Advisor or their
affiliates any fees to complete any transactions under our share redemption program.
You generally must hold your shares of Senior Common Stock for one year before redeeming your
shares under the share redemption program; however, we may waive the one-year holding period in the
event of the death, disability or bankruptcy of a stockholder. Shares redeemed in connection with
the death or disability of a stockholder may be repurchased at a purchase price equal to the price
actually paid for the shares.
S-33
During any calendar year, we will not redeem in excess of 5% of the weighted average number of
shares of Senior Common Stock outstanding during the prior calendar year. The cash available for
redemption will be limited to the proceeds from the sale of shares of Senior Common Stock pursuant
to our distribution reinvestment plan.
We will redeem shares of Senior Common Stock on the last business day of the month following
the end of each quarter. Requests for redemption would have to be received at or prior to the end
of the quarter in order for us to repurchase the shares as of the end of the next month. You may
withdraw your request to have your shares redeemed at any time prior to the last day of the
applicable quarter.
If we cannot purchase all shares presented for redemption in any quarter, based upon
insufficient cash available and the limit on the number of shares of Senior Common Stock that we
may redeem during any calendar year, we would attempt to honor redemption requests on a pro rata
basis. We would treat the unsatisfied portion of the redemption request as a request for redemption
for the following quarter. At such time, you may then (i) withdraw your request for redemption at
any time prior to the last day of the new quarter or (ii) ask that we honor your request at such
time, if, any, as sufficient funds become available. Such pending requests will generally be
honored on a pro rata basis. We will determine whether we have sufficient funds available as soon
as practicable after the end of each quarter but, in any event, prior to the applicable payment
date.
Our Board may choose to amend, suspend or terminate our share redemption program in its sole
and absolute discretion upon 30 days notice at any time. Because the redemption of shares will be
funded with the net proceeds that we receive from the sale of shares of Senior Common Stock under
our distribution reinvestment plan, the discontinuance or termination of our distribution
reinvestment plan will adversely affect our ability to redeem shares under our share redemption
program. We would notify you of such developments (i) in our annual or quarterly reports filed with
the SEC or (ii) by means of a separate mailing to you.
Our share redemption program is only intended to provide interim liquidity for stockholders.
Shares of Senior Common Stock will not be eligible for redemption under our share redemption
program commencing on the date such shares become exchangeable for shares of Listed Common Stock
(i.e., five years after the issuance of such shares of Senior Common Stock).
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Advisory and Administration Agreements
Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, our Adviser is responsible for our daily operations,
record keeping and regulatory compliance functions. Specifically, these responsibilities include
(i) identifying, evaluating, negotiating and consummating all investment transactions consistent
with our investment objectives and criteria, (ii) providing us with all required records and
reporting regularly to our Board concerning our Advisers efforts on our behalf, and (iii)
maintaining our compliance with all regulatory requirements that are applicable to us. The Advisory
Agreement provides for an annual base management fee equal to 2% of our total stockholders equity
(including equity attributable to shares of Senior Common Stock) less the recorded value of any
shares of preferred stock, and a performance-based incentive fee based upon our FFO, which rewards
our Adviser if our quarterly FFO (before giving effect to any incentive fee) exceeds 1.75% (7%
annualized) of our total stockholders equity (less the recorded value of any preferred stock). Our
Adviser has the ability to issue a full or partial waiver of the incentive fee and may do so in
order that we may maintain the current level of distributions to holders of our capital stock. For
the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, an unconditional and irrevocable voluntary waiver
was issued by our Adviser for approximately $0.2 million, $0.7 million and $2.2 million,
respectively. These waivers were applied through December 31, 2010, and any waived fees may not be
recouped by our Adviser in the future.
Pursuant to the Administration Agreement, we pay separately for our allocable portion of our
Administrators overhead expenses in performing its obligations to us, including, but not limited
to, rent and our allocable portion of the salaries and benefits expenses attributable to our
Administrators employees including our chief financial officer, chief compliance officer, internal
counsel, treasurer, investor relations and their respective staffs.
S-34
David Gladstone, Terry Lee Brubaker, George Stelljes III and Gary Gerson are all officers or
directors, or both, of our Adviser and Administrator. David Gladstone is the sole stockholder of
our Adviser. Although we believe that the terms of the Advisory Agreement and the Administration
Agreement are no less favorable to us than those that could be obtained from unaffiliated third
parties in arms-length transactions, our Adviser, its officers and its directors have a material
interest in the terms of these agreements.
As of December 31, 2010, we owed our Adviser approximately $710,000 in fees pursuant to the
Advisory Agreement and owed our Administrator approximately $255,000 in fees pursuant to the
Administration Agreement.
Allocation of our Advisers Time
We will rely, in part, upon our Adviser to manage our day-to-day activities and to implement
our investment strategy. Our Adviser and Administrator are currently the external investment
adviser and administrator, respectively, for Gladstone Capital Corporation, or GLAD, a
NASDAQ-listed business development company, or BDC, that primarily makes mezzanine and second lien
loans to small businesses; Gladstone Investment Corporation, or GAIN, a NASDAQ-listed BDC active in
buying small businesses; Gladstone Land Corporation, or LAND, a private company that owns farm land
in California; and Gladstone Partners Fund, L.P., or PARTNERS, a private fund formed primarily to
co-invest with GAIN and GLAD; and Gladstone Lending Corporation, or LENDING, a public, non-listed
BDC, currently in registration that intends to invest in term loans secured by first or second lien
security interests. As a result of these activities, our Adviser, its employees and certain of its
affiliates will have conflicts of interest in allocating their time between us and other activities
in which they are or may become involved.
Our Adviser and its employees will devote only as much of its time to our business as our
Adviser and its employees, in their judgment, determine is reasonably required, which may be
substantially less than their full time. Therefore, our Adviser, its personnel, and certain
affiliates may experience conflicts of interest in allocating management time, services, and
functions among us and any other business ventures in which they or any of their key personnel, as
applicable, are or may become involved. This could result in actions that are more favorable to
other affiliated entities than to us. However, our Adviser believes that it and its affiliates have
sufficient personnel to discharge fully their responsibilities to all activities in which they are
involved.
Affiliated Dealer Manager
We have engaged Gladstone Securities, LLC, which is owned by David Gladstone, our Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer, as our dealer manager and will pay fees to such entity pursuant to the
dealer management agreement. Under the terms of the dealer manager agreement, the Dealer Manager is
expected to act as our exclusive dealer manager until the end of the offering period or until the
dealer manager agreement is terminated by us or them. Because the Dealer Manager is affiliated with
us you will not have the benefit of an independent due diligence review and investigation of the
type normally performed by an independent underwriter in connection with an underwritten offering
of securities. See Plan of Distribution in this prospectus supplement.
Loan to Affiliate
As of December 31, 2010, we had a loan outstanding in the principal amount of $375,000 to
Laura Gladstone, a managing director of the Adviser and the daughter of Mr. David Gladstone, our
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. This loan was made in connection with the exercise of stock
options under the 2003 Equity Incentive Plan by Ms. Gladstone and was made on terms available to
all eligible participants of the 2003 Equity Incentive Plan. The 2003 Equity Incentive Plan was
terminated on December 31, 2006. The interest rate on the loan is 8.15% and the outstanding
principal amount of the loan is due and payable in cash on November 21, 2015. Mr. Gladstone has not
received, nor will he receive in the future, any direct or indirect benefit from this loan.
S-35
Conflict of Interest Policy
We have adopted policies to reduce potential conflicts of interest. In addition, our directors
are subject to certain provisions of Maryland law that are designed to minimize conflicts. Under
our current conflict of interest policy, without the approval of a majority of our independent
directors, we will not:
|
|
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acquire from or sell to any of our directors, officers or employees, or any
entity in which any of our officers, directors or employees has an interest of more than
5%, any assets or other property; |
|
|
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|
borrow from any of our directors, officers or employees, or any entity in which
any of our directors, officers or employees has an interest of more than 5%; or |
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|
|
engage in any other transaction with any of our directors, officers or
employees, or any entity in which any of our directors, officers or employees has an
interest of more than 5% (except that our Adviser may lease office space in a building that
we own, provided that the rental rate under the lease is determined by our independent
directors to be at a fair market rate). |
When allowed by applicable rules and regulations, from time to time, we may enter into
transactions with our Adviser or one or more of its affiliates. A majority of our independent
directors and a majority of our directors not otherwise interested in a transaction with our
Adviser must approve all such transactions with our Adviser or its affiliates.
It is our current policy that we will not purchase any property from or co-invest with our
Adviser, any of its affiliates or any business in which our Adviser or any of its subsidiaries have
invested, except that we may make leases to existing and prospective portfolio companies of
entities advised by our Adviser as long as any such portfolio company is not controlled by that
entity and if approved by the boards of directors of both companies. If we decide to change this
policy on co-investments with our Adviser or its affiliates, we will seek approval of this decision
from our independent directors.
Indemnification
Pursuant to our charter and bylaws, we have agreed to indemnify our directors and certain of
our officers by providing that, among other things, we will indemnify such officer or director,
under the circumstances and to the extent provided for therein, for expenses, damages, judgments,
fines and settlements that he or she may be required to pay in respect of actions or proceedings in
which he or she is or may be made a party by reason of his or her position as a director, officer
or other agent of the Company, and otherwise to the fullest extent permitted under Maryland law and
our charter and bylaws. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the indemnification provisions shall not
indemnify any officer or director from liability to us or our stockholders as a result of any
action that would constitute willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance
of such officers or directors duties, or reckless disregard of his or her obligations and duties.
Each of the Advisory and Administration Agreements provide that, absent willful misfeasance,
bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of their duties or by reason of the reckless
disregard of their duties and obligations, our Adviser, our Administrator and their respective
officers, managers, agents, employees, controlling persons, members and any other person or entity
affiliated with them are entitled to indemnification from us for any damages, liabilities, costs
and expenses (including reasonable attorneys fees and amounts reasonably paid in settlement)
arising from the rendition of services pursuant to the Advisory or Administration Agreements,
respectively, or otherwise as an investment adviser of the Company.
S-36
ADDITIONAL MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The following summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax considerations supplements
the discussion set forth under the caption Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations in the
accompanying prospectus, is for general information purposes only and is not tax advice. This
discussion does not purport to deal with all aspects of taxation that may be relevant to particular
holders of shares of Senior Common Stock in light of their personal investment or tax
circumstances.
We urge you to consult your own tax advisor regarding the specific tax consequences to you of
acquisition, ownership and disposition of shares of Senior Common Stock and of our election to be
taxed as a REIT. Specifically, you should consult your own tax advisor regarding the federal,
state, local, foreign, and other tax consequences of such acquisition, ownership, disposition and
election, and regarding potential changes in applicable tax laws.
The current federal income tax treatment of REITs may be modified, possibly with retroactive
effect, by legislative, judicial or administrative action at any time. The REIT rules are under
review constantly by persons involved in the legislative process and by the Internal Revenue
Service and the U.S. Treasury Department which may result in statutory changes as well as revisions
to regulations and interpretations. The recently enacted Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance
Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010, or the 2010 Tax Relief Act, postponed the sunset of
the provisions referred to in Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations Sunset of Reduced
Tax Rate Provisions in the accompanying prospectus. The 2010 Tax Relief Act extends the 2001 and
2003 federal income tax rates through 2012 for taxpayers that are taxable as individuals, trusts or
estates, including the maximum 35% tax rate on ordinary income and the maximum 15% tax rate for
long-term capital gains and qualified dividend income. As noted in the accompanying prospectus,
dividends paid by REITs generally will not constitute qualified dividend income eligible for the
15% tax rate for stockholders that are taxable as individuals, trusts or estates and generally will
be taxable at the higher ordinary income tax rates. The 2010 Tax Relief Act also extends the
reduced 28% backup withholding rate through 2012.
S-37
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
We are offering 3,000,000 shares of our Senior Common Stock at a price to the public of $15.00
per share and 500,000 shares of our Senior Common Stock to be issued pursuant to our distribution
reinvestment plan at a price of $15.00 per share to those stockholders who elect to participate in
such plan as described in this prospectus supplement. We reserve the right to reallocate shares
between our primary offering and our offering pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan in our
sole and absolute discretion. The Dealer Manager is not required to sell any specific number or
dollar amount of shares of Senior Common Stock but will use its best efforts to sell the shares
offered by this prospectus supplement. The minimum permitted purchase of shares of Senior Common
Stock is 200 shares having an aggregate minimum purchase price of $3,000. We reserve the right,
however, to waive the minimum purchase requirement in our sole and absolute discretion.
The primary offering will commence on the date of this prospectus supplement and will
terminate on the earlier of (i) two years from the date of this prospectus supplement, unless
earlier terminated or extended by our Board, or (ii) the date on which 3,000,000 shares of Senior
Common Stock are sold hereunder. If we extend the primary offering period beyond two years from the
date of this prospectus supplement, we will update this prospectus supplement accordingly. We may
extend the offering period for the 500,000 shares of Senior Common Stock being offered hereby under
our distribution reinvestment plan beyond the termination of the primary offering and until we have
sold all of the shares allocated to the plan through the reinvestment of distributions. We may,
however, terminate this offering at any time in our sole and absolute discretion.
The Dealer Manager is a securities broker-dealer registered with the SEC and a member firm of
FINRA and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, or SIPC. The Dealer Manager, which is
owned by Mr. David Gladstone, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, specializes in raising
public and private equity funding for U.S. and European fund managers and performing various
investment banking activities.
Compensation of Dealer Manager and Participating Broker-Dealers
We will pay the Dealer Manager selling commissions of 7% of the gross offering proceeds
generated by the primary offering. We will pay the Dealer Manager 3% of the gross offering proceeds
generated by the primary offering as compensation for acting as dealer manager and for expenses
incurred in connection with the marketing for, and due diligence of, the primary offering. We will
not pay selling commissions or any Dealer Manager fees with respect to shares purchased pursuant to
our distribution reinvestment plan nor will we pay referral or similar fees to any accountants,
attorneys or other persons in connection with the distribution of shares of Senior Common Stock.
We expect that the Dealer Manager will authorize other broker-dealers that are members of
FINRA to sell shares of Senior Common Stock. The Dealer Manager will reallow all of its selling
commissions attributable to a participating broker-dealer and may also reallow a portion of its
Dealer Manager fee earned in respect of the proceeds generated by the participating broker-dealer
to such participating broker-dealer as a non-accountable marketing allowance. The amount of the
reallowance to any participating broker-dealer will be determined by the Dealer Manager in its sole
and absolute discretion.
Any reduction in commissions in instances where lesser or no commissions or Dealer Manager
fees are paid by us in connection with the sale of shares of Senior Common Stock will reduce the
effective purchase price per share to the investor involved but will not materially alter the net
proceeds payable to us as a result of such sale. Distributions will be the same with respect to all
shares whether or not the purchaser received a discount. Investors for whom we pay reduced
commissions or Dealer Manager fees will receive higher returns on their investments in shares of
Senior Common Stock as compared to investors for whom we do not pay reduced commissions and Dealer
Manager fees.
The table below sets forth the nature and estimated amount of all items that are viewed as
underwriting compensation by FINRA, assuming that we sell all of the shares of Senior Common
Stock offered pursuant to this prospectus supplement.
S-38
Dealer Manager and Participating Broker-Dealer Compensation
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|
|
|
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|
|
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|
|
|
|
Per Share |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percent |
|
Selling Commissions (1) |
|
$ |
1.05 |
|
|
$ |
3,150,000 |
|
|
|
7 |
% |
Dealer Manager Fee (1) |
|
$ |
0.45 |
|
|
$ |
1,350,000 |
|
|
|
3 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
1.50 |
|
|
$ |
4,500,000 |
|
|
|
10 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Assumes that all shares of Senior Common Stock are sold in the primary offering. |
We will also reimburse the Dealer Manager for reimbursements it may make to participating
broker-dealers for bona fide accountable due diligence expenses presented on detailed and itemized
invoices.
We or our affiliates also may provide permissible forms of non-cash compensation to registered
representatives of our Dealer Manager and any participating broker-dealers, including gifts. In no
event shall such gifts exceed an aggregate value of $100 per annum per participating salesperson or
be pre-conditioned upon the achievement of a sales target. The value of any such items will be
considered underwriting compensation in connection with this offering.
To the extent permitted by law and our charter, we will indemnify the Dealer Manager and any
participating broker-dealers against certain civil liabilities, including certain liabilities
arising under the Securities Act and liabilities arising from breaches of our representations and
warranties contained in the Dealer Manager Agreement. However, the SEC takes the position that
indemnification against liabilities arising under the Securities Act is against public policy and
is not enforceable.
The total amount of underwriting compensation, including selling commissions and Dealer
Manager fees paid or reimbursed by us, our Adviser or any other source in connection with this
offering, will not exceed 10% of the gross proceeds of our primary offering. All organization and
offering expenses, including selling commissions and Dealer Manager fees, will be capped at 15% of
the gross proceeds of the offering.
Subscription Procedures
If you choose to purchase shares of Senior Common Stock in this offering, you must complete a
Subscription Agreement, a form of which is appended to this prospectus supplement as Appendix
A, specify the number of shares that you wish to purchase and pay for the shares at the time
you subscribe. You should pay for your shares by check made payable to BB&T, as escrow agent for
Gladstone Commercial Corporation or as otherwise instructed by the Dealer Manager or any
participating broker-dealer. We will place your subscription payment in an account held by our
escrow agent, BB&T Corporation, which funds will be held in trust for your benefit until the next
closing date. We will hold two closings per month for our primary offering. The closing dates were
randomly selected prior to the commencement of the primary offering, and will occur once between
the 1st and 15th of each month and once between the 16th and last day of each month. On any such
closing date, we will either accept or reject your subscription and (i) if accepted, we will
transfer your funds to our general account, and you will receive a confirmation of your
subscription, or (ii) if rejected, we will return your funds, without interest, within 10 business
days thereafter. Subscriptions will be effective only upon our acceptance, and we reserve the right
to reject any subscription either in whole or in part for whatever reason.
The Dealer Manager and any participating broker-dealer who sells shares of Senior Common Stock
on our behalf has the responsibility to make every reasonable effort to determine that the purchase
of shares is appropriate for the investor. In making this determination, the Dealer Manager and any
participating broker-dealer will rely upon relevant information provided by the investor, including
information as to the investors age, investment objectives, investment experience, income, net
worth, financial situation, other investments and other pertinent information. Each investor should
be aware that the Dealer Manager and any participating broker-dealer will be responsible for
determining whether this investment is appropriate for your portfolio. However, you are required to
represent and warrant in the Subscription Agreement that you have received a copy of this
prospectus supplement and have had sufficient time to review this prospectus supplement.
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The Dealer Manager and any participating broker-dealer shall maintain records of the
information used to determine that an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock is suitable and
that an investment in shares is suitable and appropriate for an investor. These records are
required to be maintained for a period of at least six years.
Minimum Purchase Requirements
The minimum permitted purchase of shares of Senior Common Stock is 200 shares having an
aggregate minimum purchase price of $3,000. We reserve the right, however, to waive the minimum
purchase requirement in our sole and absolute discretion. In order to satisfy the minimum purchase
requirement for retirement plans, unless otherwise prohibited by state law, a husband and wife may
jointly contribute funds from their separate IRAs, provided that each such contribution is made in
increments of $100. You should note that an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock will not,
in itself, create a retirement plan and that, in order to create a retirement plan, you must comply
with all applicable provisions of the Code.
Stockholders who desire to purchase additional shares of Senior Common Stock after their
initial investment may do so by obtaining an Additional Investment Form from the Dealer Manager or
any participating broker-dealer, and completing, executing and delivering the Additional Investment
Form, along with a check for the subscription amount, payable to BB&T, as escrow agent for
Gladstone Commercial Corporation to the Dealer Managers address set forth above. See Questions
and Answers about this Offering Who can help answer my questions? in this prospectus
supplement. The terms, conditions, representations and warranties in the holders Subscription
Agreement executed upon the holders initial investment in shares of Senior Common Stock shall be
applicable to the additional investment. Any questions about subscriptions or additional
contributions should be directed to the Dealer Manager at the contact information set forth above.
See Questions and Answers about this Offering Who can help answer my questions? in this
prospectus supplement.
You may not transfer your shares of Senior Common Stock in a manner that causes you or your
transferee to own fewer than the number of shares that are required for the minimum purchase
described above, except in the following circumstances: transfers by gift; transfers by
inheritance; intrafamily transfers; family dissolutions; transfers to affiliates; and transfers by
operation of law.
SUPPLEMENTAL SALES MATERIAL
In addition to this prospectus supplement, we may utilize additional sales materials in
connection with the offering of shares of Senior Common Stock although we will do so only when
accompanied by or preceded by the delivery of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying
prospectus. These supplemental sales materials may include information relating to this offering,
property brochures and articles and publications concerning real estate.
We are offering shares of Senior Common Stock only by means of this prospectus supplement and
the accompanying prospectus. Although the information contained in our supplemental sales materials
will not conflict with any of the information contained in this prospectus supplement and the
accompanying prospectus, the supplemental materials do not purport to be complete and are not, and
shall not be deemed to be, except as described below, a part of this prospectus supplement or the
accompanying prospectus or incorporated into any other filings that we make with the SEC.
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ERISA CONSIDERATIONS
The following is a summary of material considerations associated with an investment in our
shares by a qualified employee pension benefit plan or an IRA. This summary is based upon
provisions of ERISA and the Code, as of the date of this prospectus supplement, and the relevant
regulations, opinions and other authority issued by the Department of Labor and the IRS. We cannot
assure you that there will not be adverse tax or labor decisions or legislative, regulatory or
administrative changes that would significantly modify the statements expressed in this prospectus
supplement. Any such changes may apply to transactions entered into prior to the date of their
enactment. This discussion does not purport to deal with all aspects of ERISA or the Code that may
be relevant to particular investors in light of their particular circumstances and a prospective
investor is advised to consult its financial and legal advisers.
Each fiduciary of an employee pension benefit plan subject to ERISA (such as a profit sharing,
Section 401(k) or pension plan) or any other retirement plan or account subject to Section 4975 of
the Code, such as an IRA, seeking to invest plan assets in shares of Senior Common Stock must,
taking into account the facts and circumstances of each such plan or IRA, consider, among other
matters:
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whether the investment is consistent with the applicable provisions of ERISA
and the Code; |
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whether, under the facts and circumstances pertaining to the benefit plan at
issue, the fiduciarys responsibility to the plan has been satisfied; |
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whether the investment will produce an unacceptable amount of UBTI to the
benefit plan; and |
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the need to value the assets of the benefit plan at least annually. |
Under ERISA, a plan fiduciarys responsibilities include the following duties:
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to act solely in the interest of plan participants and beneficiaries and for
the exclusive purpose of providing benefits to them, as well as defraying reasonable
expenses of plan administration; |
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to invest plan assets prudently; |
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to diversify the investments of the plan, unless it is clearly prudent not to
do so; |
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to ensure sufficient liquidity for the plan; |
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to ensure that plan investments are made in accordance with plan documents; and |
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to consider whether an investment would constitute or give rise to a prohibited
transaction under ERISA or the Code. |
ERISA also requires that, with certain exceptions, the assets of an employee benefit plan be
held in trust and that the trustee, or a duly authorized named fiduciary or investment manager,
have exclusive authority and discretion to manage and control the assets of the plan.
Prohibited Transactions
Generally, both ERISA and the Code prohibit benefit plans from engaging in certain
transactions involving plan assets with specified parties, such as sales or exchanges or leasing of
property, loans or other extensions of credit, furnishing goods or services, or transfers to, or
use of, plan assets. The specified parties are referred to as parties-in-interest under ERISA and
as disqualified persons under the Code. These definitions generally include both parties owning
threshold percentage interests in an investment entity and persons providing services to the
benefit plan, as well as employer sponsors of the benefit plan, fiduciaries and other individuals
or entities affiliated with the foregoing. A person generally is a fiduciary with respect to a
benefit plan if, among other things, the person has discretionary authority or control with respect
to plan assets, has any discretionary responsibility in the benefit
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plans administration or provides investment advice for a fee with respect to plan assets.
Under current Department of Labor, or DOL, regulations, a person shall be deemed to be providing
investment advice if that person renders advice as to the advisability of investing in shares of
Senior Common Stock, that person regularly provides investment advice to the benefit plan pursuant
to a mutual agreement or understanding that such advice will serve as the primary basis for
investment decisions, and that the advice will be individualized for the benefit plan based upon
its particular needs. Under proposed DOL regulations, persons who receive a fee for providing
individualized investment advice or recommendations pursuant to an understanding that the advice
may be considered in connection with investment or management decisions may be deemed to provide
investment advice, even if the advice is not provided on a regular basis or does not serve as the
primary basis for investment decisions. The proposed regulation would include persons who receive
a fee for providing an appraisal of assets in an individual account plan for which there is no
generally recognized market.
If we are deemed to hold plan assets, our management could be characterized as fiduciaries
with respect to such assets, and each would be deemed to be a party-in-interest under ERISA and a
disqualified person under the Code with respect to investing benefit plans. Whether or not we are
deemed to hold plan assets, if we or our affiliates are affiliated with a benefit plan investor, we
might be a disqualified person or party-in-interest with respect to such benefit plan investor,
resulting in a prohibited transaction merely upon investment by such benefit plan in shares of
Senior Common Stock.
Plan Asset Considerations
In order to determine whether an investment in shares of Senior Common Stock by a benefit plan
creates or gives rise to the potential for either prohibited transactions or a commingling of
assets as referred to below, a fiduciary must consider whether an investment in our shares will
cause our assets to be treated as assets of the investing benefit plan. ERISA Section 3(42)
generally provides that plan assets means plan assets as defined in regulations issued by the DOL
(the Plan Assets Regulation). Those regulations provide guidelines as to whether, and under what
circumstances, the underlying assets of an entity will be deemed to constitute assets of a benefit
plan when the plan invests in that entity. Under the Plan Assets Regulation, the assets of an
entity in which a benefit plan makes an equity investment will generally be deemed to be plan
assets, unless one of the exceptions to this general rule applies.
In the event that our underlying assets were treated as plan assets, our management would be
treated as fiduciaries with respect to each benefit plan stockholder and an investment in shares of
Senior Common Stock might constitute an ineffective delegation of fiduciary responsibility to our
Adviser, and expose the fiduciary of the benefit plan to co-fiduciary liability under ERISA for any
breach by our Adviser of the fiduciary duties mandated under ERISA. Further, if our assets are
deemed to be plan assets, an investment by an IRA in shares of Senior Common Stock might be
deemed to result in an impermissible commingling of IRA assets with other property.
If our Adviser or its affiliates were treated as fiduciaries with respect to benefit plan
stockholders, the prohibited transaction restrictions of ERISA and the Code would apply to any
transaction involving our assets. These restrictions could, for example, require that we avoid
transactions with persons that are affiliated with or related to us or our affiliates or require
that we restructure our activities in order to obtain an administrative exemption from the
prohibited transaction restrictions. Alternatively, we might have to provide benefit plan
stockholders with the opportunity to sell their shares to us or we might dissolve.
If a prohibited transaction were to occur, the Code imposes an excise tax equal to 15% of the
amount involved and authorizes the IRS to impose an additional 100% excise tax if the prohibited
transaction is not corrected in a timely manner. These taxes would be imposed on any disqualified
person who participates in the prohibited transaction. In addition, our Adviser and possibly other
fiduciaries of Benefit Plan stockholders subject to ERISA who permitted the prohibited transaction
to occur or who otherwise breached their fiduciary responsibilities (or a non-fiduciary
participating in a prohibited transaction) could be required to restore to the benefit plan any
profits they realized as a result of the transaction or breach and repay any losses incurred by the
benefit plan as a result of the transaction or breach. With respect to an IRA that invests in
shares of Senior Common Stock, the occurrence of a prohibited transaction involving the individual
who established the IRA, or his or her beneficiary, would cause the IRA to lose its tax-exempt
status under Section 408(e)(2) of the Code.
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The Plan Assets Regulation provides that the underlying assets of an entity such as a REIT
will be treated as assets of a benefit plan investing therein unless the entity satisfies one of
the exceptions to the general rule.
Exception for Publicly-Offered Securities. If a benefit plan acquires publicly-offered
securities, the assets of the issuer of the securities will not be deemed to be plan assets
under the Plan Assets Regulation. A publicly-offered security must be freely transferable and
part of a class of securities that is widely held and either:
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sold as part of a public offering registered under the Securities Act and be
part of a class of securities registered under the Exchange Act within a specified time
period; or |
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part of a class of securities registered under section 12(b) or 12(g) of the
Exchange Act. |
For these purposes, a class of securities is widely held only if it is a class of securities
that is owned by 100 or more persons who are independent of the issuer and one another
Shares of Senior Common Stock are being sold as part of an offering of securities to the
public pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act and are part of a
class that will be registered under the Exchange Act within the specified period.
Whether a security is freely transferable depends upon the particular facts and
circumstances. The Plan Assets Regulation provides several examples of restrictions on
transferability that, absent unusual circumstances, will not prevent the rights of ownership in
question from being considered freely transferable if the minimum investment is $10,000 or less.
Where the minimum investment in a public offering of securities is $10,000 or less, the presence of
the following restrictions on transfer will not ordinarily affect a determination that such
securities are freely transferable:
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any restriction on, or prohibition against, any transfer or assignment that
would either result in a termination or reclassification of the entity for federal or state
tax purposes or that would violate any state or federal statute, regulation, court order,
judicial decree or rule of law; |
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any requirement that not less than a minimum number of shares or units of such
security be transferred or assigned by any investor, provided that such requirement does
not prevent transfer of all of the then remaining shares or units held by an investor; |
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any prohibition against transfer or assignment of such security or rights in
respect thereof to an ineligible or unsuitable investor; and |
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any requirement that reasonable transfer or administrative fees be paid in
connection with a transfer or assignment. |
We have been structured with the intent to satisfy the freely transferable requirement set
forth in the Plan Asset Regulation with respect to shares of Senior Common Stock, although there is
no assurance that the shares will meet such requirement or the exception in the Plan
Assets Regulation for publicly-offered securities. Shares of Senior Common Stock are subject to
certain restrictions on transfer intended to ensure that we continue to qualify for federal income
tax treatment as a REIT. The minimum investment in our shares is less than $10,000; thus, these
restrictions should not cause the shares to be deemed not freely transferable.
If our Listed Common Stock is held by 100 or more independent stockholders, and assuming that
no other facts and circumstances other than those referred to in the preceding paragraphs exist
that restrict transferability of shares of Listed Common Stock and the offering takes place as
described in this prospectus supplement, shares of Listed Common Stock should constitute
publicly-offered securities.
Exception for Insignificant Participation by Benefit Plan Investors. The Plan Assets
Regulation provides that the assets of an entity will not be deemed to be plan assets if equity
participation in the entity by employee benefit plans is not significant. The Plan Asset Regulation
provides that equity participation in an entity by benefit plan investors is significant if at
any time 25% or more of the value of any class of equity interest is held by benefit
S-43
plan investors. The term benefit plan investors is defined for this purpose under ERISA
Section 3(42) and includes any employee benefit plan subject to Part 4 of Title I of
ERISA, any plan subject Section 4975 of the Code, and any entity whose underlying assets include
plan assets by reason of a plans investment in such entity. In calculating the value of a class of
equity interests, the value of any equity interests held by us or any of our affiliates must be
excluded as must any equity interests held by a person (other than a benefit plan) who has
discretionary authority or control with respect to our assets or any person who provides investment
advice for a fee (direct or indirect) with respect to our assets, or any affiliate of such persons.
It is not clear whether we will qualify for this exception since we do expect to have equity
participation by benefit plan investors that may be in excess of 25%, which would be deemed to be
significant, as defined above.
Other Prohibited Transactions
Regardless of whether shares of Senior Common Stock qualify for the publicly-offered
security exception of the Plan Assets Regulation, a prohibited transaction could occur if we, our
Adviser, the Dealer Manager, any participating broker-dealer, any of their affiliates or any other
person listed in ERISA Section 3(14) or Section 4975(e)(2) of the Code is a party-in-interest or
disqualified person (within the meaning of such sections) with respect to any benefit plan
purchasing shares of Senior Common Stock. Accordingly, unless an administrative or statutory
exemption applies, shares of Senior Common Stock should not be purchased by a benefit plan with
respect to which any of the above persons is a party-in-interest or disqualified person.
Valuation
A fiduciary of an employee benefit plan subject to ERISA is required to determine annually the
fair market value of each asset of the plan as of the end of the plans fiscal year and to file a
report reflecting that value with the Department of Labor. When the fair market value of any
particular asset is not available, the fiduciary is required to make a good faith determination of
that assets fair market value assuming an orderly liquidation at the time the determination is
made. In addition, a trustee or custodian of an IRA must provide an IRA participant with a
statement of the value of the IRA each year. In discharging its obligation to value assets of a
plan, a fiduciary subject to ERISA must act consistently with the relevant provisions of the plan
and the general fiduciary standards of ERISA.
To assist fiduciaries in fulfilling their valuation and annual reporting responsibilities with
respect to ownership of shares of Senior Common Stock, beginning 18 months after the completion of
this offering, we will determine the value per share of Senior Common Stock on a quarterly basis.
This value will be determined as of the last day of each quarter and will be published in our
periodic SEC filings.
S-44
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters will be passed upon for us by Bass, Berry & Sims PLC, Memphis,
Tennessee. Certain matters of Maryland law, including the validity of the shares of Senior Common
Stock to be issued in connection with this offering, will be passed upon for us by Venable LLP,
Baltimore, Maryland.
EXPERTS
The financial statements and managements assessment of the effectiveness of internal control
over financial reporting (which is included in Managements Report on Internal Control over
Financial Reporting) incorporated in this prospectus by reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2010 have been so incorporated in reliance on the report(s) of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, given on the
authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We are a public company and file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and
other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any document that we file at the SECs public
reference room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may request copies of these
documents by writing to the SEC and paying a fee for the copying cost. Please call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330 for more information about the operation of the public reference room. Our SEC
filings are also available to the public at the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov. We also make
available free of charge through our website our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant
to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as well as the definitive proxy statement and Section
16 reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5. Our website address is http://www.GladstoneCommercial.com. However,
the information located on, or accessible from, our website is not, and shall not be deemed to be,
except as described below, a part of this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus or
incorporated into any other filings that we make with the SEC.
The SEC allows us to incorporate by reference the information that we file with it which
means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The
information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus supplement and
the accompanying prospectus, and the information that we file subsequently with the SEC prior to
the completion of this offering will automatically update and supersede this information.
We previously filed the following documents with the SEC, and such filings are incorporated by
reference into this prospectus supplement:
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Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, filed
March 8, 2011 (including portions of our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2011 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders incorporated therein by reference); |
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Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on January 1, 2011 and February 1, 2011
(excluding the information furnished under Item 7.01 and Exhibit 99.1); |
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The description of our Listed Common Stock contained in our Registration
Statement on Form 8-A filed August 12, 2003, as updated through subsequently filed reports; |
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The description of our 7.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock
contained in our Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed January 19, 2006, as updated
through subsequently filed reports; and |
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The description of our 7.50% Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock
contained in our Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed October 19, 2006, as amended in
our Registration Statement on Form 8-A/A filed on October 23, 2006, as updated through
subsequently filed reports. |
S-45
All documents that we file pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act
after the date of this prospectus supplement and before all of the securities offered by this
prospectus supplement are sold are incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement from
the date of the filing of such documents, except for information furnished under Item 2.02 or
Item 7.01 of Form 8-K or other information furnished to the SEC which is not deemed filed and not
incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus.
Information that we subsequently file with the SEC as aforesaid will automatically update and may
supersede information in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and information
previously filed with the SEC.
You may request a copy of these filings (other than exhibits, unless the exhibits are
specifically incorporated by reference into these documents) at no cost by writing or calling
Investor Relations at the following address and telephone number:
Investor Relations
Gladstone Commercial Corporation
1521 Westbranch Drive, Suite 200
McLean, Virginia 22102
(703) 287-5893
PRIVACY NOTICE
We are committed to protecting your privacy. This privacy notice explains our privacy policies
and supersedes any other privacy notice that you may have previously received from us.
We will safeguard, according to strict standards of security and confidentiality, all
information that we receive about you. The only information that we collect from you is your name,
address, ownership of our capital stock and social security number. This information is used only
so that we can send you information about us voluntarily or as may be required by law.
We do not share this information with any non-affiliated third party except as described
below.
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Authorized Employees of our Adviser. It is our policy that only authorized
employees of our Adviser who need to know your personal information will have access to it. |
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Service Providers. We may disclose your personal information to companies that
assist us with certain activities, such as record keeping, processing and mailing services.
These companies are required to protect your information and use it solely for the purpose
for which they received it. |
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Courts and Government Officials. If required by law, we may disclose your
personal information in accordance with a court order or at the request of government
regulators. Only that information which is required by law, subpoena or court order will be
disclosed. |
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Appendix A
SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
1. INVESTMENT
State of Sale: Amount of Subscription: $
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Minimum investment is 200 shares having an aggregate minimum purchase price of $3,000 |
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Money Orders, Travelers Checks, Starter Checks, Foreign Checks, Counter Checks,
Third-Party Checks or Cash cannot be accepted. |
2. INVESTMENT TYPE (CHECK ONE BOX ONLY)
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Non-Qualified |
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Qualified |
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o Individual (If TOD, attach application)
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o Traditional (Individual) IRA |
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o Joint Tenant (1) (If TOD, attach application)
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o Simple IRA |
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o
UGMA/UTMA: State of
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o SEP IRA |
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o Tenants in Common (1)
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o ROTH |
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o Community Property (1)
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o Profit Sharing Plan (2) |
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o Trust (2)
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o Pension Plan (2) |
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o Corporation or Partnership (2)
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o KEOGH Plan (2) |
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All parties must sign |
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Please attach pages of trust/plan document (or corporate resolution) which lists the
name of trust/plan, trustees, signatures and date. |
A-1
3. INVESTOR INFORMATION (SSN REQUIRED)
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Investor 1 |
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Name
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SSN/Tax ID:
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DOB: |
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Investor 2 |
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Name
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SSN/Tax ID:
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DOB: |
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Street Address:
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City:
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State:
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Zip Code: |
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Optional Mailing Address:
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City:
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State:
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Zip Code: |
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Phone (day):
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Phone (evening): |
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o US Citizen o US Citizen residing outside the US |
o Foreign citizen, country |
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o Check here if you are subject to backup withholding |
4. INVESTMENT TITLE (SSN OR TIN REQUIRED)
Please print names in which shares of common stock are to be registered. Include trust name if
applicable. If IRA or qualified plan, include both custodian and investor names and Tax ID Numbers.
If same as above, write same.
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Title Line 1 |
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Title Line 2 |
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Social Security No. or
Tax Identification No.
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Secondary Tax Identification Number |
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A-2
5. CUSTODIAN/TRUSTEE INFORMATION
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Trustee City
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State
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Zip Code |
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Trustee Tax Identification Number
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Investors Account Number with Trustee |
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6. DISTRIBUTION INFORMATION (CHOOSE ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING OPTIONS)
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If you select more than one option you must indicate the percentage of your distribution to be applied to each |
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option and the sum of the allocations must equal 100%. |
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distribution |
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I prefer to participate in the distribution reinvestment plan, as
described in the prospectus supplement. |
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o
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Send distributions via check to investors home address (or for
Qualified Plans to the address listed in Section 5). |
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Send distributions via check to alternate payee listed here (not
available for Qualified Plans). |
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¨ Direct Deposit (Attach Voided Check) I authorize Gladstone Commercial Corporation or its
agent to deposit my distributions in the checking or savings account identified below. This
authority will remain in force until I notify Gladstone Commercial Corporation or its agent in
writing to cancel it. In the event that Gladstone Commercial Corporation or its agent deposits
funds erroneously into my account, Gladstone Commercial Corporation or its agent is authorized to
debit my account for an amount not to exceed the amount of the erroneous deposit.
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Financial Institution Name
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o Checking o Savings |
A-3
7. BROKER-DEALER AND REGISTERED REPRESENTATIVE INFORMATION
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Representative Name
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Reps City
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o REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISER (RIA): All sales of shares of Senior Common Stock must be
made through a Broker-Dealer. If a RIA has introduced a sale, the sale must be conducted through
(i) the RIA in its capacity as a Registered Representative, if applicable; (ii) a Registered
Representative of a Broker-Dealer that is affiliated with the RIA, if applicable; or (iii) if
neither (i) or (ii) is applicable, an unaffiliated Broker-Dealer.
A-4
8. SUBSCRIBER SIGNATURES
TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER CONFIRMATION (REQUIRED): The investor signing below, under penalties
of perjury, certifies that (i) the number shown on this Subscription Agreement is his or her
correct Taxpayer Identification Number (or he or she is waiting for a number to be issued to him or
her ), (ii) he or she is not subject to backup withholding either because he or she has not been
notified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that he or she is subject to backup withholding as
a result of a failure to report all interest or dividends, or the IRS has notified him or her that
he or she is no longer subject to backup withholding and (iii) he or she is a U.S. Citizen unless
otherwise indicated in Section 3.
NOTE:
CLAUSE (ii) IN THIS CERTIFICATION SHOULD BE CROSSED OUT IF THE
WITHHOLDING BOX HAS BEEN CHECKED IN THE INVESTOR INFORMATION SECTION.
Please separately initial each of the representations below. Except in the case of fiduciary
accounts, you may not grant any person a power of attorney to make such representations on your
behalf. In order to induce Gladstone Commercial Corporation to accept this subscription, I hereby
represent and warrant to you as follows:
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OWNER |
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JOINT OWNER |
(a)
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I have received the Prospectus Supplement of Gladstone Commercial
Corporation prior to signing this Subscription Agreement.
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Initials ____________
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Initials ____________ |
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(b)
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I acknowledge that there is no public market for the shares and,
thus, my investment in shares is not liquid.
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Initials ____________
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Initials ____________ |
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(c)
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I am purchasing the shares for the account referenced in Section 4.
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Initials ____________
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Initials ____________ |
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(d)
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I understand that I will not be admitted as a stockholder until my
investment has been accepted. The acceptance process includes, but is
not limited to, reviewing the Subscription Agreement for completeness
and signatures, conducting an Anti-Money Laundering check as required
by the USA Patriot Act and payment of the full purchase price of the
shares.
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Initials ____________
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Initials ____________ |
The Internal Revenue Service does not require your consent to any provision of this document other
than the certifications required to avoid backup withholding.
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Signature of Investor
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Date
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Signature of Joint Investor or,
for Qualified Plans, of Trustee/Custodian
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Date |
A-5
9. FINANCIAL REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURES
The investors Financial Adviser must sign below to complete the order. The Financial Adviser
hereby warrants that he or she is duly licensed and may lawfully sell shares of Senior Common Stock
in the state designated as the investors legal residence. The Financial Adviser agrees to maintain
records of the information used to determine that an investment in shares is suitable and
appropriate for the investor for a period of six years. The undersigned confirm by their signatures
that they (i) have reasonable grounds to believe that the information and representations
concerning the investor identified herein are true, correct and complete in all respects; (ii) have
discussed such investors prospective purchase of shares with such investor; (iii) have advised
such investor of all pertinent facts with regard to the liquidity and marketability of the shares
and other fundamental risks related to the investment in the shares; (iv) have delivered the
Prospectus Supplement to such investor; (v) have reasonable grounds to believe that the investor is
purchasing these shares for his or her own account; and (vi) have reasonable grounds to believe
that the purchase of shares is a suitable investment for such investor and that such investor is in
a financial position to enable such investor to realize the benefits of such an investment and to
suffer any loss that may occur with respect thereto.
I understand this subscription agreement is for Gladstone Commercial Corporation
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Signature of Financial Representative
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Date
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Branch Manager Signature
(if required by Broker-Dealer)
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Date |
PLEASE NOTE: Only original, completed copies of the Subscription Agreement can be accepted. We
cannot accept photocopied or otherwise duplicated Subscription Agreements. Please make checks
payable to BB&T, as escrow agent for Gladstone Commercial Corporation.
The Subscription Agreement, together with a check for the full purchase price, should be delivered
or mailed to the Dealer Manager:
Gladstone Securities, LLC
22 Oak Drive
Riverside, Connecticut 06878
(203) 570-7950
Attn: David Geske
Email: info@gladstonesecurities.com
***** FOR OFFICE USE ONLY *****
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Check #
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Complied by:
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W/S |
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Batch #
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Input by:
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Subscription #
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Proofed by:
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Territory |
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A-6
Appendix B
DISTRIBUTION REINVESTMENT PLAN
SENIOR COMMON STOCK
Gladstone Commercial Corporation, a Maryland corporation (the Company), has adopted a
Distribution Reinvestment Plan (the Plan) for shares of its Senior Common Stock, par value of
$0.001 per share (Senior Common Stock). The terms and conditions of the Plan are set forth below.
1. Number of Shares of Senior Common Stock Issuable. The number of shares of senior common
stock authorized for issuance under the Plan is 500,000.
2. Participants. Holders of the Companys shares of Senior Common Stock who elect to
participate in the Plan may so participate (each, a Participant and, collectively,
Participants).
3. Distribution Reinvestment. The Company will apply that portion (as designated by a
Participant) of the distributions (Distributions) declared and paid in respect of a Participants
shares of Senior Common Stock to the purchase of additional shares of Senior Common Stock for such
Participant. Such shares will be sold through the dealer manager and/or broker-dealer through whom
the Company sold the underlying shares to which the Distributions relate unless the Participant
makes a new election through a different distribution channel. The Company will not pay selling
commissions in respect of shares of Senior Common Stock purchased through the Plan.
4. Procedures for Participation. Qualifying stockholders may elect to become a Participant
by completing and executing the Subscription Agreement, an enrollment form or any other
Company-approved authorization form as may be available from the dealer manager or participating
broker-dealers. To increase their participation in the Plan, Participants must complete a new
enrollment form and make the election through the dealer manager or the Participants
broker-dealer, as applicable. Participation in the Plan will begin with the next Distribution
payable after receipt of a Participants subscription, enrollment or authorization. Shares will be
purchased under the Plan on the date that the Company makes a Distribution. Distributions will be
paid monthly as authorized by the Board of Directors of the Company (the Board) and as declared
by the Company.
5. Purchase of Shares. Participants will acquire shares of Senior Common Stock initially
at a price of $15.00 per share. The Board may change the price per share of Senior Common Stock
issued pursuant to the Plan at any time upon notice of not less than 10 days to the Participants,
but the purchase price shall in no event be lower than 95% of the estimated fair market value per
share of the Senior Common Stock on the date of a Distribution. Participants may purchase
fractional shares so that 100% of the Distributions will be used to acquire shares. A Participant
will not, however, be able to acquire shares under the Plan to the extent such purchase would cause
it to exceed the capital stock ownership limits set forth in the Companys charter.
6. Taxation of Distributions. The reinvestment of Distributions through the Plan does not
relieve Participants of any taxes that may be payable as a result of those Distributions and their
reinvestment pursuant to the terms of this Plan.
7. Share Certificates. The shares issuable under the Plan shall be uncertificated unless
the Board determines otherwise.
8. Voting of Plan Shares. In connection with any matter requiring the vote of the
Companys Senior Common stockholders, each Participant will be entitled to vote all shares acquired
by the Participant through the Plan.
B-1
9. Reports. Within 90 days after the end of the calendar year, the Company shall provide
each Participant with (i) an individualized report on the Participants investment, including the
purchase date(s), purchase price and number of shares owned, as well as the amount of Distributions
received during the prior year, and (ii) all material information regarding the Plan and the effect
of reinvesting Distributions, including the tax consequences thereof. The Company shall provide all
such information reasonably requested by the dealer manager or a participating broker-dealer as is
necessary for such dealer manager or participating broker-dealer to meet its obligations to deliver
written notification to Participants of the information required by Rule 10b-10(b) promulgated
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
10. Termination by Participant. A Participant may terminate participation in the Plan at any
time by delivering to the Company a written notice. To be effective for any Distribution, such
notice must be received by the Company at least 10 business days prior to the last day of the month
to which the Distribution relates. Any transfer of shares by a Participant will terminate
participation in the Plan with respect to the transferred shares. Upon termination of Plan
participation, Distributions will be paid to the stockholder in cash.
11. Amendment, Suspension or Termination of Plan by the Board. The Board may amend, suspend
or terminate the Plan at any time upon notice of not less than 10 days to the Participants.
12. Liability of the Company. The Company shall not be liable for any act done in good
faith, or for any good faith omission to act.
13. Governing Law. The Plan shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland.
B-2
PROSPECTUS
$300,000,000
Common
Stock
Senior Common Stock
Preferred Stock
Debt Securities
Depositary Shares
Subscription Rights
We may offer, from time to time, one or more series or classes
of common stock, senior common stock, preferred stock, debt
securities, depositary shares and subscription rights. We refer
to our common stock, senior common stock, preferred stock, debt
securities, depositary shares and subscription rights
collectively as the securities. We may offer these
securities with an aggregate initial public offering price of up
to $300,000,000, or its equivalent in a foreign currency based
upon the exchange rate at the time of sale, in amounts, at
initial prices and on terms determined at the time of the
offering.
We may offer and sell these securities to or through one or more
underwriters, dealers and agents, or directly to purchasers, on
a continuous or delayed basis. If any underwriters, dealers or
agents are involved in the sale of any of the securities, their
names, and any applicable purchase price, fee, commission or
discount arrangement with, between or among them, will be set
forth, or will be calculable from the information set forth, in
an accompanying prospectus supplement. For more detailed
information, see Plan of Distribution beginning on
page 47 of this prospectus.
No securities may be sold without delivery of an accompanying
prospectus supplement describing the method and terms of the
offering of those securities. Accordingly, we will deliver this
prospectus together with an accompanying prospectus supplement
setting forth the specific terms of the securities that we are
offering. The accompanying prospectus supplement also will
contain information, where applicable, about federal income tax
considerations relating to, and any listing on a securities
exchange of, the securities covered by the prospectus
supplement. In addition, the specific terms may include
limitations on direct or beneficial ownership and restrictions
on transfer of the securities offered by this prospectus, in
each case as may be appropriate to preserve our status as a real
estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, among
other purposes.
Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market
under the symbol GOOD.
Investing in our securities involves substantial risks. See
Risk Factors on page 3 of this prospectus, as
well as the Risk Factors incorporated by reference
herein from our most recent Annual Report on
Form 10-K,
our Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q
and other reports and information that we file with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state
securities commission has approved or disapproved of these
securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or
complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal
offense.
The date of this prospectus is September 27, 2010
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
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1
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1
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3
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3
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3
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4
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4
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11
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17
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19
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20
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20
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24
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47
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49
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49
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50
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50
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No dealer, salesperson or other person is authorized to give
any information or to represent anything not contained or
incorporated by reference in this prospectus, any accompanying
prospectus supplement or any free writing prospectus that we may
provide to you in connection with an offering of securities. You
must not rely upon any unauthorized information or
representations not contained or incorporated by reference in
this prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement or any
free writing prospectus. This prospectus, any accompanying
prospectus supplement or any free writing prospectus does not
constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to
buy any securities other than the registered securities to which
they relate, nor does this prospectus, any accompanying
prospectus supplement or any free writing prospectus constitute
an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy
securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is
unlawful to make such offer or solicitation in such
jurisdiction. The information contained in this prospectus, any
accompanying prospectus supplement, any free writing prospectus
or the documents incorporated by reference herein or therein are
accurate only as of the date of such document. Our business,
financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, funds
from operations and prospects may have changed since those
dates.
ABOUT
THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus is part of a registration statement on
Form S-3
that we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or
SEC, using a shelf registration process for the
offering and sale of securities pursuant to Rule 415 under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act.
Under the shelf registration process, we may, over time, sell
any combination of the securities described in this prospectus
in one or more offerings. This prospectus provides you with a
general description of the securities that we may offer. As
allowed by SEC rules, this prospectus does not contain all of
the information that you can find in the registration statement
or the exhibits thereto. For further information, we refer you
to the registration statement, including any amendments thereto,
including its exhibits.
We will not use this prospectus to offer and sell securities
unless it is accompanied by a prospectus supplement that more
fully describes the securities being offered and the terms of
such offering. Any accompanying prospectus supplement or free
writing prospectus may also update, amend or supersede other
information contained in this prospectus. Before purchasing any
securities, you should carefully read this prospectus, any
accompanying prospectus supplement and any free writing
prospectus together with the information incorporated or deemed
to be incorporated by reference herein as described under the
heading Where You Can Find More Information below.
Unless the context otherwise requires or indicates, all
references to we, our, us
and the Company in this prospectus mean Gladstone
Commercial Corporation, a Maryland corporation, and its
consolidated subsidiaries. All references to the Operating
Partnership in this prospectus mean Gladstone Commercial
Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of the Company and a Delaware
limited partnership. All references to Adviser in
this prospectus mean, Gladstone Management Corporation, a
Delaware corporation.
FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS
This prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement,
including the documents incorporated by reference into this
prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement, contain
forward-looking statements within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange
Act. Forward-looking statements provide our current expectations
or forecasts of future events and are not statements of
historical fact. These forward-looking statements include
information about possible or assumed future events, including,
among other things, discussion and analysis of our future
financial condition, results of operations and funds from
operations, our strategic plans and objectives, cost management,
occupancy and leasing rates and trends, liquidity and ability to
refinance our indebtedness as it matures, anticipated capital
expenditures (and access to capital) required to complete
projects, amounts of anticipated cash distributions to our
stockholders in the future and other matters. Words such as
anticipates, expects,
intends, plans, believes,
seeks, estimates and variations of these
words and similar expressions are intended to identify
forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees
of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties
and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, are
difficult to predict
and/or could
cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed
or forecasted in the forward-looking statements. Statements
regarding the following subjects, among others, are
forward-looking by their nature:
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our business and financing strategy;
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our ability to implement our business plan;
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pending transactions;
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our projected operating results;
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our ability to obtain future financing arrangements;
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estimates relating to our future distributions;
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our understanding of our competition and our ability to compete
effectively;
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market and industry trends;
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interest and insurance rates;
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estimates of our future operating expenses, including payments
to our Adviser under the terms of our advisory agreement;
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projected capital expenditures; and
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use of the proceeds of our credit facilities, mortgage notes
payable and other future capital resources, if any.
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Forward-looking statements involve inherent uncertainty and may
ultimately prove to be incorrect or false. You are cautioned to
not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except
as otherwise may be required by law, we undertake no obligation
to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect
changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or
actual operating results. Our actual results could differ
materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking
statements as a result of various factors, including, but not
limited to:
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the loss of any of our key employees, such as Mr. David
Gladstone, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
Mr. Terry Lee Brubaker, our Vice Chairman and Chief
Operating Officer, or Mr. George Stelljes III, our
President and Chief Investment Officer;
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general volatility of the capital markets and the market price
of our common stock;
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risks associated with negotiation and consummation of pending
and future transactions;
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changes in our business strategy;
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the adequacy of our cash reserves and working capital;
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our failure to successfully integrate and operate acquired
properties and operations;
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defaults upon or non-renewal of leases by tenants;
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decreased rental rates or increased vacancy rates;
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the degree and nature of our competition;
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availability, terms and deployment of capital, including the
ability to maintain and borrow under our existing credit
facility, arrange for long-term mortgages on our properties,
secure one or more additional long-term credit facilities and
raise equity capital;
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our ability to identify, hire and retain highly-qualified
personnel in the future;
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changes in our industry or the general economy;
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changes in real estate and zoning laws and increases in real
property tax rates;
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changes in governmental regulations, tax rates and similar
matters; and
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environmental uncertainties and risks related to natural
disasters.
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This list of risks and uncertainties, however, is only a summary
of some of the most important factors to us and is not intended
to be exhaustive. You should carefully review the risks and
information contained, or incorporated by reference, in this
prospectus or in any accompanying prospectus supplement,
including, without limitation, the Risk Factors
incorporated by reference herein from our most recent Annual
Report on
Form 10-K,
our Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q
and other reports and information that we file with the SEC. New
factors may also emerge from time to time that could materially
and adversely affect us.
2
THE
COMPANY
We were incorporated under the Maryland General Corporation Law,
or MGCL, on February 14, 2003 primarily for the purpose of
investing in and owning net leased industrial and commercial
real estate property and selectively making long-term industrial
and commercial mortgage loans to creditworthy entities. Subject
to certain restrictions and limitations, the business of the
Company is managed by the Adviser. Most of the portfolio of real
estate that we own is leased to a wide cross section of tenants
ranging from small businesses to large public companies, many of
which do not have publicly-rated debt. We have in the past
entered into, and intend in the future to enter into, purchase
agreements for real estate that have triple net leases with
terms of 10 to 15 years and built in rental increases.
Under a triple net lease, the tenant is required to pay all
operating, maintenance and insurance costs and real estate taxes
with respect to the leased property. We actively communicate
with buyout funds, real estate brokers and other third parties
to locate properties for potential acquisition or mortgage
financing in an effort to build our portfolio.
We conduct substantially all of our activities, including the
ownership of all of our properties, through our Operating
Partnership. We control our Operating Partnership through our
ownership of GCLP Business Trust II, a subsidiary of the
Company and a Massachusetts business trust which holds the sole
general partnership interest in our Operating Partnership, and
of GCLP Business Trust I, a subsidiary of the Company and a
Massachusetts business trust which holds all of the limited
partnership interests of our Operating Partnership.
The Operating Partnership is also the sole member of Gladstone
Commercial Lending, LLC, a subsidiary of the Company and a
Delaware limited liability company. Gladstone Commercial
Lending, LLC was formed to conduct all operations related to our
real estate mortgage loans.
Our Adviser is an affiliated registered investment adviser under
the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Our Adviser is responsible
for managing our business on a daily basis and for identifying
and making acquisitions and dispositions that it believes
satisfy our investment criteria.
Our executive offices are located at 1521 Westbranch Drive,
Suite 200, McLean, Virginia 22102, and our telephone number
is
(703) 287-5800.
Our website address is
http://www.GladstoneCommercial.com.
However, the information located on, or accessible from, our
website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this
prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement or any free
writing prospectus or incorporated into any other filings that
we make with the SEC.
RISK
FACTORS
An investment in any securities offered pursuant to this
prospectus involves substantial risks. You should carefully
consider the risk factors incorporated by reference herein from
our most recent Annual Report on
Form 10-K,
our subsequent Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q
and the other information contained in this prospectus, as
updated, amended or superseded by our subsequent filings under
the Exchange Act, and the risk factors and other information
contained in any accompanying prospectus supplement before
acquiring any of such securities. The occurrence of any of these
risks might cause you to lose all or part of your investment in
the offered securities. Please also refer to the section
entitled Forward-Looking Statements above.
USE OF
PROCEEDS
Unless we specify otherwise in an accompanying prospectus
supplement, we intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of
securities by us to provide additional funds for general
corporate purposes. Any specific allocation of the net proceeds
of an offering of securities to a specific purpose will be
determined at the time of such offering and will be described in
the accompanying prospectus supplement to this prospectus.
3
RATIO OF
EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED DIVIDENDS
Our ratios of earnings to fixed charges and preferred dividends
for the six months ended June 30, 2010 and the years ended
December 31, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 are set forth
below. For purposes of calculating the ratio of earnings to
fixed charges and preferred dividends, earnings
consist of income (loss) from continuing operations before
income taxes and fixed charges. Fixed charges
consist of interest expense and the portion of operating lease
expense that represents interest.
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Six Months
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Ended
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Year Ended December 31,
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June 30, 2010
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2009
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2008
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2007
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2006
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2005
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Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends
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1.0
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1.0
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1.0
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1.1
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2.4
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DESCRIPTION
OF CAPITAL STOCK
General
Our authorized capital stock consists of 50,000,000 shares
of capital stock, $0.001 par value per share, 40,200,000 of
which are classified as common stock, 1,150,000 of which are
classified as 7.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable
Preferred Stock, 1,150,000 of which are classified as 7.50%
Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock and
7,500,000 of which are classified as Senior Common Stock. Under
our charter, our board of directors is authorized to classify
and reclassify any unissued shares of capital stock by setting
or changing in any one or more respects, from time to time
before issuance of such stock, the preferences, conversion or
other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to
dividends or other distributions, qualifications and terms and
conditions of redemption of such stock. Our board of directors
may also, without stockholder approval, amend our charter to
increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares of stock or
the number of shares of stock of any class that we have
authority to issue.
For purposes of this section Description of Capital
Stock, we refer to our common stock which is listed on the
NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol GOOD as
our Listed Common Stock. Further, we refer to our
(i) 7.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred
Stock which is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under
the symbol GOOD.P as our Series A
Preferred Stock and (ii) 7.50% Series B
Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock which is listed on the
NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol GOOD.O
as our Series B Preferred Stock.
The following summary description of our capital stock is not
necessarily complete and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to our charter and bylaws, each of which has been
filed with the SEC, as well as applicable provisions of the MGCL.
Common
Stock
Listed
Common Stock
Voting
Rights
Each share of Listed Common Stock is entitled to one vote on
each matter to be voted upon by our stockholders, including the
election of directors, and, except as provided with respect to
any other class or series of capital stock, the holders of the
Listed Common Stock possess exclusive voting power. There is no
cumulative voting in the election of directors which means that
the holders of a majority of the outstanding Listed Common Stock
can elect all of the directors then standing for election and
that the holders of the remaining shares are not able to elect
any directors.
Dividends,
Liquidations and Other Rights
Holders of Listed Common Stock are entitled to receive
distributions, when authorized by our board of directors and
declared by us, out of assets legally available for the payment
of distributions. They also are entitled to share ratably in our
assets legally available for distribution to our stockholders in
the event of our liquidation,
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dissolution or winding up, after payment of or adequate
provision for all of our known debts and liabilities. These
rights are subject to the preferential rights of any other class
or series of our shares, including the Senior Common Stock, our
Series A Preferred Stock and our Series B Preferred
Stock and the provisions of our charter regarding restrictions
on transfer and ownership of shares of our capital stock.
Holders of our Listed Common Stock have no preference,
conversion, exchange, sinking fund, redemption or appraisal
rights and have no preemptive rights to subscribe for any of our
securities. Subject to the restrictions on transfer and
ownership of shares of our capital stock contained in our
charter, all shares of Listed Common Stock have equal
distribution, liquidation and other rights.
Senior
Common Stock
Voting
Rights
Holders of our Senior Common Stock have no voting rights, except
as set forth below or as otherwise from time to time required by
law. So long as any shares of Senior Common Stock remain
outstanding, we will not, without the affirmative vote or
consent of the holders of a least a majority of the shares of
the Senior Common Stock outstanding at the time, given in person
or by proxy, either in writing or at a meeting (voting
separately by class), amend, alter or repeal the provisions of
our charter, whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise, so
as to materially and adversely affect any right, preference,
privilege or voting power of the Senior Common Stock or the
holders thereof.
Dividends,
Liquidations and Other Rights
The Senior Common Stock has priority over the Listed Common
Stock with respect to payment of distributions and is pari passu
with the Listed Common Stock with respect to distribution of
amounts upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up; however,
the Senior Common Stock ranks junior to our Series A
Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock with respect
to payment of distributions and distribution of amounts upon
liquidation, dissolution or winding up. The Senior Common Stock
will be entitled to receive, subject to the preferential rights
of the Series A Preferred Stock and the Series B
Preferred Stock and any other preferred stock that we may issue
in the future, when and as authorized by our board of directors
and declared by us, out of funds legally available for payment
of distributions, cash distributions in an amount equal to $1.05
per share per annum, declared daily and paid at the rate of
$0.0875 per share per month. Distributions are cumulative from
the date of issue of the shares and are payable monthly on or
about the 5th business day of the month following the month
in which such distributions are earned.
Exchange
Option
Holders of Senior Common Stock have the right, but not the
obligation, after the 5th anniversary of the issuance of
the shares of Senior Common Stock proposed to be exchanged, to
exchange any or all of such shares of Senior Common Stock for
our Listed Common Stock at a predetermined exchange ratio, or
the Exchange Ratio. The Exchange Ratio will be calculated by
dividing $15.00 by the greatest of (i) the Closing Trading
Price of the Listed Common Stock on the date on which such
shares of Senior Common Stock were originally issued,
(ii) the Book Value Per Share of the Listed Common Stock as
determined as of the date on which such shares of Senior Common
Stock were originally issued, and (iii) $13.68. For this
purpose, Book Value Per Share means, as of a given
date, the common stockholders equity (as reflected in our
most recent public filing with the SEC) divided by the number of
outstanding shares of common stock as of the same date.
Closing Trading Price means, on any date of
determination, (i) the most recently reported closing price
per share of the Listed Common Stock as of such date on the
NASDAQ Global Select Market, or (ii) if, as of such date,
the Listed Common Stock is not traded on the NASDAQ Global
Select Market, the most recently reported closing price per
share of the Listed Common Stock on the primary stock exchange
on which the Listed Common Stock is then listed for trading, or
(iii) if, as of such date, the Listed Common Stock is not
listed for trading on any stock exchange, the closing bid price
for the Listed Common Stock on the
Over-the-Counter
Bulletin Board,
over-the-counter
market or on the Pink Sheets, or (iv) if there is no longer
any public market for the Listed Common Stock as of such date,
the fair market value of a share of Listed Common Stock as
determined in good faith by our board of directors.
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Solely for purposes of determining when shares of Senior Common
Stock become exchangeable, shares of Senior Common Stock
purchased by a holder on dates subsequent to such holders
initial purchase of Senior Common Stock (excluding shares issued
pursuant to such holders participation in a distribution
reinvestment plan of the Company, if any) will be deemed to have
been issued on their respective issuance dates and, accordingly,
the 5-year
holding periods for such shares will commence from their
respective issuance dates. In addition, any shares issued
pursuant to a distribution reinvestment plan of the Company, if
any, will be deemed to have been issued, and the five-year
holding periods for such shares will be deemed to commence, on
the date of issuance of the shares of Senior Common Stock
purchased by the holder to which the shares issued pursuant to
such Companys distribution reinvestment plan relate.
All accumulated and unpaid distributions on the Senior Common
Stock shall be paid to the holder through the date of exchange.
Automatic
Conversion
Each share of Senior Common Stock will be converted into Listed
Common Stock in accordance with the Exchange Ratio automatically
upon any of the following events:
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an acquisition of the Company by another company by means of any
transaction or series of related transactions to which we are a
party (including, without limitation, any stock acquisition,
reorganization, merger or consolidation, but excluding any sale
of stock for capital raising purposes) other than a transaction
or series of transactions in which the holders of our voting
securities outstanding immediately prior to such transaction
continue to retain at least 50% of the total voting power
represented by our voting securities or those of such other
surviving entity outstanding immediately after such transaction
or series of transactions;
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a sale of all or substantially all of our assets; or
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a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company.
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All accumulated and unpaid distributions on the Senior Common
Stock shall be paid to the holder through the date of conversion.
Call
Protection
Shares of Senior Common Stock will be callable at our sole
option upon the earlier of (i) September 1, 2017 or
(ii) the 5th anniversary of the date on which
$100 million of Senior Common Stock is sold. At such time
the shares of Senior Common Stock will be callable for cash at
our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price
equivalent to $15.30 per share, plus accrued and unpaid
distributions. We may not call shares of Senior Common Stock
prior to such date, except in certain limited circumstances
relating to maintaining our ability to qualify as a real estate
investment trust, or REIT.
Anti-Dilution
If the outstanding Listed Common Stock is increased or decreased
or changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of
shares or other securities of the Company or of any other
company by reason of any reclassification, recapitalization,
share split up, combination of shares, or share distribution,
appropriate adjustment will be made to the number of shares and
relative terms of the Senior Common Stock. There will be no
anti-dilution adjustment upon the future sale of additional
shares of Listed Common Stock, regardless of the price at which
the Senior Common Stock is sold.
Valuation
We may consider implementing a valuation process to provide an
estimate of the value per share of Senior Common Stock on either
a monthly or quarterly basis.
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Common
Stock
Certificates
We will not issue certificates. Shares of Common Stock will be
held in uncertificated form, which will eliminate
the physical handling and safekeeping responsibilities inherent
in owning transferable stock certificates and eliminate the need
to return a duly executed stock certificate to the transfer
agent to effect a transfer. Transfers can be effected simply by
mailing to us a duly executed transfer form. Upon the issuance
of shares of Common Stock, we will send to each stockholder a
written statement which will include all information that is
required to be written upon stock certificates pursuant to the
MGCL.
Meetings
and Special Voting Requirements
An annual meeting of the stockholders will be held each year for
the purpose of electing the class of directors whose term is up
for election and to conduct other business that may properly be
before the stockholders. Special meetings of stockholders may be
called only upon the request of a majority of our directors, a
majority of our independent directors, our chairman or our
president and must be called by our secretary upon the written
request of stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of
all the votes entitled to be cast at a meeting. In general, the
presence in person or by proxy of a majority of the outstanding
shares, exclusive of excess shares (described in Certain
Provisions of Maryland Law and of Our Charter and
Bylaws Restrictions on Ownership of Shares,
below), shall constitute a quorum. Generally, the affirmative
vote of a majority of the votes cast at a meeting at which a
quorum is present is necessary to take stockholder action,
except that a plurality of all votes cast at such a meeting is
sufficient to elect a director.
Under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation generally cannot
dissolve, amend its charter, merge, sell all or substantially
all of its assets, engage in a share exchange or engage in
similar transactions outside the ordinary course of business,
unless approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled
to cast at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on
the matter. However, a Maryland corporation may provide in its
charter for approval of these matters by a lesser percentage,
but not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be
cast on the matter. Our charter provide for a majority vote in
these situations.
Stockholders may, by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the
shares entitled to vote generally in the election of directors,
elect to remove a director for cause. Stockholders do not have
the ability to vote to replace our Adviser or to select a new
adviser.
Information
Rights
Any stockholder may, during normal business hours and for any
lawful and proper purpose, inspect and copy our bylaws, minutes
of the proceedings of our stockholders, our annual financial
statements and any voting trust agreement that is on file at our
principal office. In addition, one or more stockholders who
together are, and for at least six months have been, record
holders of 5% of any class of our common stock are entitled to
inspect a copy of our stockholder list upon written request. The
list will include the name and address of, and the number of
shares owned by, each stockholder and will be available at our
principal office within 20 days of the stockholders
request.
The rights of stockholders described above are in addition to,
and do not adversely affect rights provided to investors under,
Rule 14a-7
promulgated under the Exchange Act, which provides that, upon
request of investors and the payment of the expenses of the
distribution, we are required to distribute specific materials
to stockholders in the context of the solicitation of proxies
for voting on matters presented to stockholders, or, at our
option, provide requesting stockholders with a copy of the list
of stockholders so that the requesting stockholders may make the
distribution themselves.
Distributions
Distributions will be paid to investors who are stockholders as
of the record date selected by our board of directors.
Distributions on the Listed Common Stock will be paid on a
monthly basis regardless of the frequency with which such
distributions are declared. We are required to make
distributions to our stockholders sufficient to
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satisfy the REIT requirements. Generally, income distributed to
our stockholders will not be taxable to us under federal income
tax laws unless we fail to comply with the REIT requirements.
Distributions will be paid at the discretion of our board of
directors based upon our earnings, cash flow and general
financial condition. The directors discretion will be
governed, in substantial part, by their obligation to cause us
to comply with the REIT requirements. Because we may receive
income from interest or rents at various times during our fiscal
year, distributions may not reflect our income earned in that
particular distribution period but may be made in anticipation
of cash flow which we expect to receive during a later period of
the year and may be made in advance of actual receipt in an
attempt to make distributions relatively uniform. We may borrow
to make distributions if the borrowing is necessary to maintain
our REIT status, or if the borrowing is part of a liquidation
strategy whereby the borrowing is done in anticipation of the
sale of properties and the proceeds will be used to repay the
loan.
Repurchases
of Excess Shares
We have the authority to redeem excess shares (as
defined in our charter) immediately upon becoming aware of the
existence of excess shares or after giving the holder of the
excess shares 30 days to transfer the excess shares to a
person whose ownership of such shares would not exceed the
ownership limit, and therefore such shares would no longer be
considered excess shares. The price paid upon redemption by us
shall be the lesser of the price paid for such excess shares by
the stockholder holding the excess shares or the fair market
value of the excess shares. We may purchase excess shares or
otherwise repurchase shares if the repurchase does not impair
our capital or operations. For additional information regarding
excess shares, see Certain Provisions of Maryland Law and
of Our Charter and Bylaws Restrictions on Ownership
of Shares.
Other
Matters
The transfer and distribution paying agent and registrar for our
common stock is BNY Mellon Shareowner Services.
Preferred
Stock
General
Subject to limitations prescribed by the MGCL and our charter,
our board of directors is authorized to issue, from the
authorized but unissued shares of stock, shares of preferred
stock in class or series and to establish from time to time the
number of shares of preferred stock to be included in the class
or series and to fix the designation and any preferences,
conversion and other rights, voting powers, restrictions,
limitations as to dividends and other distributions,
qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption of the
shares of each series, and any other subjects or matters as may
be fixed by resolution of our board of directors or one of its
duly authorized committees.
Existing
Series of Preferred Stock
Our board of directors has classified:
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1,150,000 shares of 7.75% Series A Preferred
Stock; and
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1,150,000 shares of 7.50% Series B Preferred Stock.
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Series A
Preferred Stock
Voting
Rights
Holders of Series A Preferred Stock generally have no
voting rights. However, if dividends on any shares of the
Series A Preferred Stock are in arrears for 18 or more
consecutive months, holders of the Series A Preferred Stock
(voting together as a single class with holders of shares of any
series of our preferred stock equal in rank with the
Series A Preferred Stock upon which like voting rights have
been conferred) will have the right to elect two additional
directors to serve on our board of directors until all dividends
for the past dividend periods and the then current dividend
period are fully paid or declared and set aside for payment. In
addition, we may not amend the
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charter, including the designations, rights, preferences,
privileges or limitations in respect of the Series A
Preferred Stock, in a manner that would materially and adversely
affect the rights, preferences, privileges or voting powers of
the Series A Preferred Stock or the holders thereof without
the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the shares of
Series A Preferred Stock then outstanding.
Dividends,
Liquidation Preference and Other Rights
Holders of Series A Preferred Stock are entitled to receive
preferential cumulative cash dividends at a rate of 7.75% per
annum of the $25.00 per share liquidation preference (equivalent
to $1.9375 per annum per share). Beginning on the date of
issuance, dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock are
payable monthly in arrears and are cumulative.
If we liquidate, dissolve or wind up, holders of the
Series A Preferred Stock will have the right to receive the
$25.00 per share liquidation preference, plus any accumulated
and unpaid dividends to and including the date of payment, but
without interest, before any payment is made to the holders of
our common stock (including our Listed Common Stock and Senior
Common Stock) or any other class or series of our capital stock
ranking junior to the Series A Preferred Stock.
With respect to the payment of dividends and amounts upon
liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the Series A
Preferred Stock will be equal in rank with our Series B
Preferred Stock and all equity securities that we issue, the
terms of which specifically provide that such equity securities
rank on a parity with the Series A Preferred Stock with
respect to dividend rights or rights upon our liquidation,
dissolution or winding up; senior to our common stock (including
our Listed Common Stock and Senior Common Stock); and junior to
all our existing and future indebtedness.
We may not redeem the Series A Preferred Stock prior to
January 30, 2011, except in limited circumstances relating
to our continuing qualification as a REIT. On and after
January 30, 2011, we may, at our option, redeem the
Series A Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, at any time
or from time to time, by payment of $25.00 per share, plus any
accumulated and unpaid dividends to and including the date of
redemption.
Shares of Series A Preferred Stock are not convertible into
or exchangeable for any other securities or property.
Series B
Preferred Stock
Voting
Rights
Holders of Series B Preferred Stock generally have no
voting rights. However, if dividends on any shares of the
Series B Preferred Stock are in arrears for 18 or more
consecutive months, holders of the Series B Preferred Stock
(voting together as a single class with holders of shares of any
series of our preferred stock equal in rank with the
Series B Preferred Stock upon which like voting rights have
been conferred) will have the right to elect two additional
directors to serve on our board of directors until all dividends
for the past dividend periods and the then current dividend
period are fully paid or declared and set aside for payment. In
addition, we may not amend the charter, including the
designations, rights, preferences, privileges or limitations in
respect of the Series B Preferred Stock, in a manner that
would materially and adversely affect the rights, preferences,
privileges or voting powers of the Series B Preferred Stock
or the holders thereof without the affirmative vote of at least
two-thirds of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock then
outstanding.
Dividends,
Liquidation Preference and Other Rights
Holders of Series B Preferred Stock are entitled to receive
preferential cumulative cash dividends on the Series B
Preferred Stock at a rate of 7.50% per annum of the $25.00 per
share liquidation preference (equivalent to $1.875 per annum per
share). Beginning on the date of issuance, dividends on the
Series B Preferred Stock are payable monthly in arrears and
are cumulative.
If we liquidate, dissolve or wind up, holders of the
Series B Preferred Stock will have the right to receive the
$25.00 per share liquidation preference, plus any accumulated
and unpaid dividends to and including the date of payment, but
without interest, before any payment is made to the holders of
our common stock (including our Listed
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Common Stock and Senior Common Stock) or any other class or
series of our capital stock ranking junior to the Series B
Preferred Stock.
With respect to the payment of dividends and amounts upon
liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the Series B
Preferred Stock will be equal in rank with our Series A
Preferred Stock and all other equity securities we issue, the
terms of which specifically provide that such equity securities
rank on a parity with the Series B Preferred Stock with
respect to dividend rights or rights upon our liquidation,
dissolution or winding up; senior to our common stock (including
our Listed Common Stock and Senior Common Stock); and junior to
all our existing and future indebtedness.
We may not redeem the Series B Preferred Stock prior to
October 31, 2011, except in limited circumstances relating
to our continuing qualification as a REIT. On and after
October 31, 2011, we may, at our option, redeem the
Series B Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, at any time
or from time to time, by payment of $25.00 per share, plus any
accumulated and unpaid dividends to and including the date of
redemption.
Shares of Series B Preferred Stock are not convertible into
or exchangeable for any other securities or property.
Future
Classes or Series of Preferred Stock
The following description of the terms of our preferred stock
sets forth general terms and provisions of our preferred stock
to which an accompanying prospectus supplement may relate.
Specific terms of any class or series of preferred stock offered
by an accompanying prospectus supplement will be described in
that prospectus supplement. The description set forth below is
subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to the
articles supplementary to our charter fixing the preferences,
conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions,
limitations as to dividends or other distributions,
qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption of a
particular class or series of preferred stock.
If we offer preferred stock pursuant to this prospectus, an
accompanying prospectus supplement will describe the specific
terms of the class or series of shares of preferred stock being
offered, including, but not limited to:
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the title and stated value of the class or series of shares of
preferred stock and the number of shares constituting that class
or series;
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the number of shares of the class or series of shares of
preferred stock offered, the liquidation preference per share
and the offering price of the shares of preferred stock;
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the dividend rate(s), period(s)and/or payment date(s)or the
method(s)of calculation for those values relating to the shares
of preferred stock of the class or series;
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the date from which dividends on shares of preferred stock of
the class or series shall cumulate, if applicable;
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the procedures for any auction and remarketing, if any, for
shares of preferred stock of the class or series;
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the provision for a sinking fund, if any, for shares of
preferred stock of the class or series;
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the provision for redemption or repurchase, if applicable, of
shares of preferred stock of the class or series, and any
restriction on our ability to exercise those redemption and
repurchase rights;
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any listing of the class or series of shares of preferred stock
on any securities exchange or market;
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the terms and conditions, if applicable, upon which shares of
preferred stock of the class or series will be convertible into
shares of preferred stock of another class or series or common
stock, including the conversion price, or manner of calculating
the conversion price, and the conversion period;
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whether the preferred stock will be exchangeable into debt
securities, and, if applicable, the exchange price, or how it
will be calculated, and the exchange period;
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voting rights, if any, of the shares of preferred stock of the
class or series;
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preemption rights, if any;
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whether interests in shares of preferred stock of the class or
series will be represented by global securities;
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a discussion of federal income tax considerations applicable to
shares of preferred stock of the class or series to the extent
not discussed in Material U.S. Federal Income Tax
Considerations;
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the relative ranking and preferences of shares of preferred
stock of the class or series as to dividend rights and rights
upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs;
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to the extent not otherwise addressed in this prospectus, any
limitations on issuance of any class or series of shares of
preferred stock ranking senior to or on a parity with the class
or series of shares of preferred stock as to dividend rights and
rights upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our
affairs; and
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any limitations on direct or beneficial ownership and
restrictions on transfer of shares of preferred stock of the
class or series, in each case as may be appropriate to preserve
our status as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the Code), among other purposes;
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the registrar and transfer agent for the shares of preferred
stock; and
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any other specific terms, preferences, rights, limitations or
restrictions of the class or series of shares of preferred stock.
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If we issue shares of preferred stock under this prospectus, the
shares will be fully paid and non-assessable and will not have,
or be subject to, any preemptive or similar rights.
The issuance of preferred stock could adversely affect the
voting power, conversion or other rights of holders of common
stock. Preferred stock could be issued quickly with terms
designed to delay or prevent a change in control of our company
or make removal of management more difficult. Additionally, the
issuance of preferred stock may have the effect of decreasing
the market price of our common stock.
DESCRIPTION
OF DEBT SECURITIES
We may issue debt securities under one or more trust indentures
to be executed by us and a specified trustee. The terms of the
debt securities will include those stated in the indenture and
those made a part of the indenture by reference to the
Trust Indenture Act of 1939, or the Trust Indenture
Act. The indentures will be qualified under the
Trust Indenture Act.
The following description sets forth certain anticipated general
terms and provisions of the debt securities to which an
accompanying prospectus supplement may relate. The particular
terms of the debt securities offered by an accompanying
prospectus supplement (which terms may be different than those
stated below) and the extent, if any, to which such general
provisions may apply to the debt securities so offered will be
described in the prospectus supplement relating to such debt
securities. Accordingly, for a description of the terms of a
particular issue of debt securities, investors should review
both the accompanying prospectus supplement relating thereto and
the following description. A form of the indenture (as discussed
herein) has been filed as an exhibit to the registration
statement of which this prospectus is a part.
The debt securities will be our direct obligations and may be
either senior debt securities or subordinated debt securities.
The indebtedness represented by subordinated securities will be
subordinated in right of payment to the prior payment in full of
our senior debt (as defined in the applicable indenture).
Except as set forth in the applicable indenture and described in
an accompanying prospectus supplement relating thereto, the debt
securities may be issued without limit as to aggregate principal
amount, in one or more series, secured or unsecured, in each
case as established from time to time in or pursuant to
authority granted by a resolution of the board of directors or
as established in the applicable indenture. All debt securities
of one series need not be issued at the same time and, unless
otherwise provided, a series may be reopened, without the
consent of the holders of the debt securities of such series,
for issuance of additional debt securities of such series.
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The accompanying prospectus supplement relating to any series of
debt securities being offered will contain their specific terms,
including, without limitation:
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their title and whether they are senior securities or
subordinated securities;
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their initial aggregate principal amount and any limit on their
aggregate principal amount;
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the percentage of the principal amount at which they will be
issued and, if other than 100% of the principal amount, the
portion of the principal amount payable upon declaration of
acceleration of their maturity;
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the terms, if any, upon which they may be convertible into
shares of our common stock or preferred stock and the terms and
conditions upon which a conversion will be effected, including
the initial conversion price or rate and the conversion period;
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if convertible, the portion of the principal amount that is
convertible into common stock or preferred stock, or the method
by which any portion will be determined;
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if convertible, any applicable limitations on the ownership or
transferability of the common stock or preferred stock into
which they are convertible;
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the date or dates, or the method for determining the date or
dates, on which the principal will be payable;
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the rate or rates (which may be fixed or variable), or the
method for determining the rate or rates, at which they will
bear interest, if any;
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the date or dates, or the method for determining the date or
dates, from which any interest will accrue, the interest payment
dates on which any interest will be payable, the regular record
dates for the interest payment dates, or the method by which the
date will be determined, the person to whom the interest will be
payable, and the basis upon which interest will be calculated if
other than that of a
360-day year
of twelve
30-day
months;
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the place or places where the principal (and premium, if any)
and interest, if any, will be payable, where they may be
surrendered for conversion or registration of transfer or
exchange and where notices or demands to or upon us may be
served;
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the period or periods within which, the price or prices at which
and the terms and conditions upon which they may be redeemed, as
a whole or in part, at our option, if we are to have the option;
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our obligation, if any, to redeem, repay or purchase them
pursuant to any sinking fund or analogous provision or at the
option of a holder, and the period or periods within which, the
price or prices at which and the terms and conditions upon which
they will be redeemed, repaid or purchased, as a whole or in
part, pursuant to this obligation;
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if other than U.S. dollars, the currency or currencies in
which they are denominated and payable, which may be a foreign
currency or units of two or more foreign currencies or a
composite currency or currencies, and the related terms and
conditions;
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whether the payments of principal (and premium, if any) or
interest, if any, may be determined with reference to an index,
formula or other method (which index, formula or method may, but
need not be, based upon a currency, currencies, currency unit or
units or composite currencies) and the manner in which the
amounts will be determined;
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any additions to, modifications of or deletions from their terms
with respect to the events of default or covenants set forth in
the indenture;
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any provisions for collateral security for their repayment;
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whether they will be issued in certificated or book-entry form;
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whether they will be in registered or bearer form and, if in
registered form, the denominations if other than $1,000 and any
integral multiple thereof and, if in bearer form, the
denominations and related terms and conditions;
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the applicability, if any, of defeasance and covenant defeasance
provisions of the applicable indenture;
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whether and under what circumstances we will pay additional
amounts as contemplated in the applicable indenture in respect
of any tax, assessment or governmental charge and, if so,
whether we will have the option to redeem them in lieu of making
the payment; and
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any other terms and any deletions from or modifications or
additions to the applicable indenture.
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The debt securities may provide for less than the entire
principal amount thereof to be payable upon declaration of
acceleration of the maturity thereof. Special federal income
tax, accounting and other considerations applicable to debt
securities will be described in the accompanying prospectus
supplement.
The applicable indenture may contain provisions that would limit
our ability to incur indebtedness or that would afford holders
of debt securities protection in the event of a highly leveraged
or similar transaction involving us or in the event of a change
of control.
Restrictions on ownership and transfer of our common stock and
preferred stock are designed to preserve our status as a REIT,
among other purposes, and, therefore, may act to prevent or
hinder a change of control. See Certain Provisions of
Maryland Law And of Our Charter And Bylaws
Restrictions on Ownership and Transfer below. Investors
should review the accompanying prospectus supplement for
information with respect to any deletions from, modifications of
or additions to the events of default or covenants that are
described below, including any addition of a covenant or other
provision providing event risk or similar protection.
Merger,
Consolidation or Sale
The applicable indenture will provide that we may consolidate
with, or sell, lease or convey all or substantially all of our
assets to, or merge with or into, any other corporation,
provided that:
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we are the continuing corporation, or the successor corporation
(if other than the Company) formed by or resulting from any
consolidation or merger or which has received the transfer of
our assets will be organized and existing under U.S. or
state law and expressly assumes payment of the principal of (and
premium, if any), and interest on, all of the applicable debt
securities and the due and punctual performance and observance
of all of the covenants and conditions contained in the
applicable indenture;
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immediately after giving effect to the transaction and treating
any indebtedness which becomes our obligation or the obligation
of any subsidiary as a result thereof as having been incurred by
us or such subsidiary at the time of the transaction, no event
of default under the applicable indenture, and no event which,
after notice or the lapse of time, or both, would become an
event of default, will have occurred and be continuing; and
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an officers certificate and legal opinion covering these
conditions will be delivered to the trustee.
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Covenants
The applicable indenture will contain covenants requiring us to
take certain actions and prohibiting us from taking certain
actions. The covenants with respect to any series of debt
securities will be described in the accompanying prospectus
supplement.
Events of
Default, Notice and Waiver
Each indenture will describe specific events of
default with respect to a series of debt securities issued
under the indenture. These events of default are
likely to include (with grace and cure periods):
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our failure to pay any installment of interest;
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our failure to pay their principal (or premium, if any) at their
maturity;
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our failure to make any required sinking fund payment;
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our breach of any other covenant or warranty contained in the
applicable indenture (other than a covenant added to the
indenture solely for the benefit of a different series of debt
securities); and
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certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization, or
court appointment of a receiver, liquidator or trustee of us or
any substantial part of our property.
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If an event of default under any indenture with respect to debt
securities of any series at the time outstanding occurs and is
continuing, then the applicable trustee or the holders of not
less than 25% of the principal amount of the outstanding debt
securities of that series may declare the principal amount (or,
if the debt securities of that series are original issue
discount securities or indexed securities, such portion of the
principal amount as may be specified in the terms thereof) of
all the debt securities of that series to be due and payable
immediately by written notice thereof to us (and to the
applicable trustee if given by the holders). However, at any
time after such a declaration of acceleration with respect to
debt securities of such series (or of all debt securities then
outstanding under any indenture, as the case may be) has been
made, but before a judgment or decree for payment of the money
due has been obtained by the applicable trustee, the holders of
not less than a majority in principal amount of outstanding debt
securities of such series (or of all debt securities then
outstanding under the applicable indenture, as the case may be)
may rescind and annul such declaration and its consequences if:
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we shall have deposited with the applicable trustee all required
payments of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest
on the debt securities of such series (or of all debt securities
then outstanding under the applicable indenture, as the case may
be), plus certain fees, expenses, disbursements and advances of
the applicable trustee; and
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all events of default, other than the non-payment of accelerated
principal (or specified portion thereof), with respect to debt
securities of such series (or of all debt securities then
outstanding under the applicable indenture, as the case may be)
have been cured or waived as provided in such indenture.
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Each indenture also will provide that the holders of not less
than a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt
securities of any series (or of all debt securities then
outstanding under the applicable indenture, as the case may be)
may waive any past default with respect to the series and its
consequences, except a:
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payment default; or
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covenant default that cannot be modified or amended without the
consent of the holder of each outstanding debt security affected
thereby.
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Each trustee will be required to give notice to the holders of
debt securities within a certain number of days of a default
under the applicable indenture unless the default has been cured
or waived; provided, however, that the trustee may withhold
notice to the holders of any series of debt securities of any
default with respect to the series (except a default in the
payment of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on
any debt security of the series or in the payment of any sinking
fund installment in respect of any debt security of the series)
if specified responsible officers of the trustee consider
withholding the notice to be in the interest of the holders.
Each indenture will prohibit the holders of debt securities of
any series from instituting any proceedings, judicial or
otherwise, with respect to the indenture or for any remedy
thereunder, except in the case of failure of the applicable
trustee, for a certain period of time after the trustee has
received a written request to institute proceedings in respect
of an event of default from the holders of not less than a
majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities
of such series, as well as the furnishing of indemnity
reasonably satisfactory to it. This provision will not prevent
any holder of debt securities from instituting a suit to enforce
the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and
interest on the debt securities at the respective due dates
thereof.
Subject to the indenture, no trustee will be under any
obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under an
indenture at the request or direction of any holders of any
series of debt securities then outstanding, unless the holders
furnish the trustee thereunder reasonable security or indemnity.
The holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of
the outstanding debt securities of any series (or of all debt
securities then outstanding under an indenture, as the case may
be) will have the right to direct the time, method and place of
conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the
applicable trustee, or of exercising any trust or power
conferred upon the trustee. However, a trustee may refuse to
follow any direction which is in conflict with any law or the
applicable indenture,
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which may involve the trustee in personal liability or which may
be unduly prejudicial to the holders of debt securities of such
series not joining therein.
Within a certain period of time of the close of each fiscal
year, we will be required to deliver to each trustee, a
certificate, signed by one of several specified officers,
stating whether or not the officer has knowledge of any default
under the applicable indenture and, if so, specifying each
default and the nature and status thereof.
Modification
of the Indenture
The indenture will likely be modified or amended, with the
consent of the holders of not less than a majority in principal
amount of each series of the outstanding debt securities issued
under the indenture affected by the modification or amendment,
provided that no modification or amendment may, without the
consent of each affected holder of the debt securities:
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change the stated maturity date of the principal of (or premium,
if any) or any installment of interest, if any, on the debt
securities;
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reduce the principal amount of (or premium, if any) or the
interest, if any, on the debt securities or the principal amount
due upon acceleration of an original issue discount security;
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change the place or currency of payment of principal of (or
premium, if any) or interest, if any, on the debt securities;
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impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any
payment on or with respect to the debt securities;
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reduce the above-stated percentage of holders of the debt
securities necessary to modify or amend the indenture; or
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modify the foregoing requirements or reduce the percentage of
the outstanding debt securities necessary to waive compliance
with certain provisions of the indenture or for waiver of
certain defaults.
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A record date may be set for any act of the holders with respect
to consenting to any amendment.
The holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of
the outstanding debt securities of each series affected thereby
will have the right to waive our compliance with certain
covenants in the indenture. Each indenture will contain
provisions for convening meetings of the holders of debt
securities of a series to take permitted action. Under certain
circumstances, we and the trustee may make modifications and
amendments to an indenture without the consent of any holders of
outstanding debt securities.
Redemption
of Debt securities
The debt securities may be redeemed at any time at our option,
in whole or in part, to protect our status as a REIT. The debt
securities will also be subject to optional or mandatory
redemption on terms and conditions described in the accompanying
prospectus supplement.
Conversion
of Debt securities
The terms and conditions, if any, upon which any debt securities
are convertible into shares of our common stock or preferred
stock will be set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement
relating thereto. The terms will include:
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whether the debt securities are convertible into shares of our
common stock or preferred stock;
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the conversion price (or the manner of calculating the price);
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the conversion period;
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the events requiring an adjustment to the conversion price and
provisions affecting conversion if the debt securities are
redeemed; and
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any restrictions on conversion.
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Subordination
Upon any distribution to our creditors in a liquidation,
dissolution or reorganization, the payment of the principal of
and interest on any subordinated securities will be subordinated
to the extent provided in the applicable indenture to the prior
payment in full of all senior securities. No payment of
principal or interest will be permitted to be made on
subordinated securities at any time if any payment default or
any other default which permits accelerations exists. After all
senior securities are paid in full and until the subordinated
securities are paid in full, holders of subordinated securities
will be subrogated to the right of holders of senior securities
to the extent that distributions otherwise payable to holders of
subordinated securities have been applied to the payment of
senior securities. By reason of any subordination, in the event
of a distribution of assets upon our insolvency, some of our
general creditors may recover more, ratably, than holders of
subordinated securities. The accompanying prospectus supplement
or the information incorporated herein by reference will contain
the approximate amount of senior securities outstanding as of
the end of our most recent fiscal quarter.
Global
Debt Securities
The debt securities of a series may be issued in whole or in
part in global form. The global securities will be deposited
with a depositary, or with a nominee for a depositary,
identified in the accompanying prospectus supplement. In this
case, one or more global securities will be issued in a
denomination or aggregate denominations equal to the portion of
the aggregate principal amount of outstanding debt securities of
the series to be represented by the global security or
securities. Unless and until it is exchanged in whole or in part
for debt securities in definitive form, a global security may
not be transferred except as a whole by the depositary for the
global security to a nominee of the depositary or by a nominee
of the depositary to the depositary or another nominee of the
depositary or by the depositary or any nominee to a successor of
the depositary or a nominee of the successor.
The specific material terms of the depositary arrangement with
respect to any portion of a series of debt securities to be
represented by a global security will be described in the
accompanying prospectus supplement. We anticipate that the
following provisions will apply to all depositary arrangements.
Upon the issuance of a global security, the depositary for the
global security will credit, on its book-entry registration and
transfer system, the respective principal amounts of the debt
securities represented by the global security to the accounts of
persons, or participants, that have accounts with the
depositary. The accounts to be credited will be designated by
any underwriters or agents participating in the distribution of
the debt securities. Ownership of beneficial interests in a
global security will be limited to participants or persons that
may hold interests through participants. Ownership of beneficial
interests in the global security will be shown on, and the
transfer of that ownership will be effected only through,
records maintained by the depositary for the global security,
with respect to interests of participants, or by participants or
persons that hold through participants, with respect to
interests of persons other than participants. So long as the
depositary for a global security, or its nominee, is the
registered owner of the global security, the depositary or the
nominee, as the case may be, will be considered the sole owner
or holder of the debt securities represented by the global
security for all purposes under the indenture; provided,
however, that for purposes of obtaining any consents or
directions required to be given by the holders of the debt
securities, we, the trustee and our agents will treat a person
as the holder of the principal amount of debt securities as
specified in a written statement of the depositary. Except as
set forth herein or otherwise provided in the accompanying
prospectus supplement, owners of beneficial interests in a
global security will not be entitled to have the debt securities
represented by the global security registered in their names,
will not receive physical delivery of the debt securities in
definitive form and will not be considered the owners or holders
thereof under the indenture.
Principal, premium, if any, and interest payments on debt
securities represented by a global security registered in the
name of a depositary or its nominee will be made to the
depositary or its nominee, as the case may be, as the registered
owner of the global security. Neither we, the trustee nor any
paying agent for the debt securities, will have any
responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records
relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership
interests in the global security or for maintaining, supervising
or reviewing any records relating to the beneficial ownership
interests.
We expect that the depositary for any debt securities
represented by a global security, upon receipt of any payment of
principal, premium, if any, or interest will immediately credit
participants accounts with payments in
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amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests
in the principal amount of the global security as shown on the
records of the depositary. We also expect that payments by
participants will be governed by standing instructions and
customary practices, as is now the case with the securities held
for the accounts of customers registered in street
names and will be the responsibility of the participants.
If the depositary for any debt securities represented by a
global security is at any time unwilling or unable to continue
as depositary and a successor depositary is not appointed by us
within the period of time set forth in the indenture, we will
issue the debt securities in definitive form in exchange for the
global security. In addition, we may at any time, and in our
sole discretion, determine not to have any of the debt
securities of a series represented by one or more global
securities and, in that event, will issue debt securities of the
series in definitive form in exchange for all of the global
security or securities representing the debt securities.
The laws of some states require that certain purchasers of
securities take physical delivery of the securities in
definitive form. These laws may impair the ability to transfer
beneficial interests in debt securities represented by global
securities.
Governing
Law
The indenture and the debt securities will be governed by and
construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of
New York.
DESCRIPTION
OF DEPOSITARY SHARES
General
We may issue depositary shares, each of which will represent a
fractional interest of a share of a particular class or series
of our preferred stock, as specified in the accompanying
prospectus supplement which will more fully describe the terms
of those depositary shares. Shares of a class or series of
preferred stock represented by depositary shares will be
deposited under a separate deposit agreement among us, the
depositary named therein and the holders from time to time of
the depositary receipts issued by the preferred stock depositary
which will evidence the depositary shares. Subject to the terms
of the deposit agreement, each owner of a depositary receipt
will be entitled, in proportion to the fractional interest of a
share of a particular class or series of preferred stock
represented by the depositary shares evidenced by that
depositary receipt, to all the rights and preferences of the
class or series of preferred stock represented by those
depositary shares (including dividend, voting, conversion,
redemption and liquidation rights).
The depositary shares to be issued will be evidenced by
depositary receipts issued pursuant to the applicable deposit
agreement. Immediately following the issuance and delivery of a
class or series of preferred stock by us to the preferred stock
depositary, we will cause the preferred stock depositary to
issue, on our behalf, the depositary receipts. The following
description of the depositary shares, and any description of the
depositary shares in an accompanying prospectus supplement, may
not be complete and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety
by reference to, the underlying deposit agreement and the
depositary receipt, which we will file with the SEC at or prior
to the time of the sale of the depositary shares. You should
refer to, and read this summary together with, the deposit
agreement and related depositary receipt. You can obtain copies
of any form of deposit agreement or other agreement pursuant to
which the depositary shares are issued by following the
directions described under the caption Where You Can Find
More Information in the accompanying prospectus supplement.
Dividends
And Other Distributions
The depositary will distribute all cash dividends or other cash
distributions received in respect of our preferred stock to the
record holders of depositary shares relating to such preferred
stock in proportion to the number of such depositary shares
owned by such holders. The depositary shall distribute only such
amount, however, as can be distributed without attributing to
any holder of depositary shares a fraction of one cent, and the
balance not so distributed shall be added to and treated as part
of the next sum received by the depositary for distribution to
record holders of depositary shares.
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In the event of a distribution other than in cash, the
depositary will distribute property received by it to the record
holders of depositary shares entitled thereto, unless the
depositary determines that it is not feasible to make such
distribution, in which case the depositary may, with our
approval, sell such property and distribute the net proceeds
from such sale to such holders.
The deposit agreement will also contain provisions relating to
the manner in which any subscription or similar rights offered
by us to holders of our preferred stock shall be made available
to the holders of depositary shares.
Redemption Of
Depositary Shares
If a class or series of preferred stock represented by
depositary shares is subject to redemption, the depositary
shares will be redeemed from the proceeds received by the
depositary resulting from the redemption, in whole or in part,
of such class or series of preferred stock held by the
depositary. The redemption price per depositary share will be
equal to the applicable fraction of the redemption price per
share payable with respect to such class or series of preferred
stock. Whenever we redeem shares of preferred stock held by the
depositary, the depositary will redeem as of the same redemption
date the number of depositary shares representing the shares of
preferred stock so redeemed. If fewer than all the depositary
shares are to be redeemed, the depositary shares to be redeemed
will be selected by lot or pro rata as may be determined by the
depositary.
After the date fixed for redemption, the depositary shares so
called for redemption will no longer be outstanding and all
rights of the holders of the depositary shares will cease,
except the right to receive the money, securities or other
property payable upon such redemption and any money, securities
or other property to which the holders of such depositary shares
were entitled upon such redemption upon surrender to the
depositary of the depositary receipts evidencing such depositary
shares.
Voting
Our Preferred Stock
Upon receipt of notice of any meeting at which the holders of
preferred stock are entitled to vote, the depositary will mail
the information contained in such notice of meeting to the
record holders of the depositary shares relating to such
preferred stock. Each record holder of such depositary shares on
the record date (which will be the same date as the record date
for our preferred stock) will be entitled to instruct the
depositary as to the exercise of the voting rights pertaining to
the amount of preferred stock represented by such holders
depositary shares. The depositary will endeavor, insofar as
practicable, to vote the amount of preferred stock represented
by such depositary shares in accordance with such instructions,
and we will agree to take all action which may be deemed
necessary by the depositary in order to enable the depositary to
do so. The depositary may abstain from voting shares of
preferred stock to the extent it does not receive specific
instructions from the holders of depositary shares representing
such preferred stock.
Amendment
and Termination of The Depositary Agreement
The form of depositary receipt evidencing the depositary shares
and any provision of the deposit agreement may at any time be
amended by agreement between the depositary and us. However, any
amendment that materially and adversely alters the rights of the
holders of depositary shares will not be effective unless such
amendment has been approved by the holders of at least a
majority of the depositary shares then outstanding. The deposit
agreement may be terminated by us or the depositary only if
(i) all outstanding depositary shares have been redeemed or
(ii) there has been a final distribution in respect of our
preferred stock in connection with any liquidation, dissolution
or winding up of the Company and such distribution has been
distributed to the holders of depositary receipts.
Charges
of Depositary
We will pay all transfer and other taxes and governmental
charges arising solely from the existence of the depositary
arrangements. We will pay charges of the depositary in
connection with the initial deposit of our preferred stock and
any redemption of our preferred stock. Holders of depositary
receipts will pay other transfer and other taxes and
governmental charges and such other charges, including a fee for
the withdrawal of shares of preferred stock upon surrender of
depositary receipts, as are expressly provided in the deposit
agreement to be for their accounts.
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Miscellaneous
The depositary will forward to holders of depositary receipts
all reports and communications from the Company that are
delivered to the depositary and that we are required to furnish
to holders of preferred stock.
Neither the depositary nor the Company will be liable if it is
prevented or delayed by law or any circumstance beyond its
control in performing its obligations under the deposit
agreement. The obligations of the depositary and the Company
under the deposit agreement will be limited to performance in
good faith of their duties thereunder and they will not be
obligated to prosecute or defend any legal proceeding in respect
of any depositary shares or preferred stock unless satisfactory
indemnity is furnished. They may rely upon written advice of
counsel or accountants, or upon information provided by persons
presenting preferred stock for deposit, holders of depositary
receipts or other persons believed to be competent and on
documents believed to be genuine.
Resignation
and Removal of the Depositary
The depositary may resign at any time by delivering to us notice
of its election to do so, and we may at any time remove the
depositary, any such resignation or removal to take effect upon
the appointment of a successor depositary and its acceptance of
such appointment. Such successor depositary must be appointed
within 60 days after delivery of the notice of resignation
or removal.
Restrictions
on Ownership
The deposit agreement will contain provisions restricting the
ownership and transfer of depositary shares. Such restrictions
will be described in the accompanying prospectus supplement and
will be referenced on the applicable depositary receipts.
DESCRIPTION
OF SUBSCRIPTION RIGHTS
We may issue subscription rights to purchase one or more series
or classes of common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and
depositary shares. We may issue subscription rights
independently or together with any other offered security, which
may or may not be transferable by the stockholder. In connection
with any offering of subscription rights, we may enter into a
standby arrangement with one or more underwriters or other
purchasers pursuant to which the underwriters or other
purchasers may be required to purchase any securities remaining
unsubscribed for after such offering.
The accompanying prospectus supplement relating to any
subscription rights we may offer will contain the specific terms
of the subscription rights. These terms may include the
following:
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the price, if any, for the subscription rights;
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the exercise price payable for common stock, preferred stock,
debt securities or depositary shares upon the exercise of the
subscription rights;
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the number of subscription rights issued to each security holder;
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the number and terms of the common stock, preferred stock, debt
securities or depositary shares which may be purchased per each
subscription right;
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the extent to which the subscription rights are transferable;
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any provisions for adjustment of the number or amount of
securities receivable upon exercise of the subscription rights
or the exercise price of the subscription rights;
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any other terms of the subscription rights, including the terms,
procedures and limitations relating to the exchange and exercise
of the subscription rights;
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the date on which the right to exercise the subscription rights
shall commence, and the date on which the subscription rights
shall expire;
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the extent to which the subscription rights may include an
over-subscription privilege with respect to unsubscribed
securities; and
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if applicable, the material terms of any standby underwriting or
purchase arrangement entered into by us in connection with the
offering of subscription rights.
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The description in the accompanying prospectus supplement of any
subscription rights we offer will not necessarily be complete
and will be qualified in its entirety by reference to the
applicable subscription rights certificate or subscription
rights agreement, which will be filed with the SEC if we offer
subscription rights. For more information on how you can obtain
copies of any subscription rights certificate or subscription
rights agreement if we offer subscription rights, see
Where You Can Find More Information. We urge you to
read the applicable subscription rights certificate, the
applicable subscription rights agreement and any accompanying
prospectus supplement in their entirety.
BOOK
ENTRY PROCEDURES AND SETTLEMENT
We may issue the securities offered pursuant to this prospectus
in certificated or book-entry form or in the form of one or more
global securities. The accompanying prospectus supplement will
describe the manner in which the securities offered thereby will
be issued.
CERTAIN
PROVISIONS OF MARYLAND LAW AND OF OUR CHARTER AND
BYLAWS
Classification
of our Board of Directors
Pursuant to our bylaws, our board of directors is comprised of
ten members and is divided into three classes of directors.
Directors of each class are elected for a three-year term, and
each year one class of directors will be elected by the
stockholders. Any director elected to fill a vacancy shall serve
for the remainder of the full term of the class in which the
vacancy occurred and until a successor is elected and qualifies.
We believe that classification of our board of directors helps
to assure the continuity and stability of our business
strategies and policies as determined by our directors. Holders
of shares of our capital stock have no right to cumulative
voting in the election of directors. Consequently, at each
annual meeting of stockholders, the holders of a majority of the
capital stock are able to elect all of the successors of the
class of directors whose terms expire at that meeting.
Our classified board could have the effect of making the
replacement of incumbent directors more time consuming and
difficult. At least two annual meetings of stockholders, instead
of one, will generally be required to effect a change in a
majority of our board of directors. Thus, our classified board
could increase the likelihood that incumbent directors will
retain their positions. The staggered terms of directors may
delay, defer or prevent a tender offer or an attempt to change
control of us or another transaction that might involve a
premium price for our common stock that might be in the best
interest of our stockholders.
Removal
of Directors
Any director may be removed only for cause by the stockholders
upon the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of all the
votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of directors.
Restrictions
on Ownership and Transfer
In order for us to qualify as a REIT, not more than 50% (by
value) of our outstanding shares may be owned by any five or
fewer individuals (including some tax-exempt entities) during
the last half of each taxable year, and the outstanding shares
must be owned by 100 or more persons independent of us and each
other during at least 335 days of a
12-month
taxable year or during a proportionate part of a shorter taxable
year for which an election to be treated as a REIT is made. We
may prohibit certain acquisitions and transfers of shares to
maintain our qualification as a REIT under the Code. However, no
assurance can be given that this prohibition will be effective.
In order to assist our board of directors in preserving our
status as a REIT, among other purposes, our charter contains an
ownership limit which prohibits any person or group of persons
from acquiring, directly or indirectly,
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beneficial ownership of more than 9.8% of our outstanding shares
of capital stock (which includes our common stock and preferred
stock). Shares owned by a person or a group of persons in excess
of the ownership limit are deemed excess shares.
Shares owned by a person who individually owns of record less
than 9.8% of outstanding shares may nevertheless be excess
shares if the person is deemed part of a group for purposes of
this restriction.
Our charter stipulates that any purported issuance or transfer
of shares shall be valid only with respect to those shares that
do not result in the transferee-stockholder owning shares in
excess of the ownership limit. If the transferee-stockholder
acquires excess shares, the person is considered to have acted
as our agent and holds the excess shares on behalf of the
ultimate stockholder.
The ownership limit does not apply to offerors which, in
accordance with applicable federal and state securities laws,
make a cash tender offer, where at least 90% of the outstanding
shares of our stock (not including shares or subsequently issued
securities convertible into common stock which are held by the
tender offeror and any affiliates or
associates thereof within the meaning of the
Exchange Act) are duly tendered and accepted pursuant to the
cash tender offer. The ownership limit also does not apply to
the underwriter in a public offering of our shares. The
ownership limit also does not apply to a person or persons which
our directors exempt from the ownership limit upon appropriate
assurances that our qualification as a REIT is not jeopardized.
Business
Combinations
The MGCL prohibits business combinations between a
corporation and an interested stockholder or an affiliate of an
interested stockholder for five years after the most recent date
on which the interested stockholder becomes an interested
stockholder. These business combinations include a merger,
consolidation, statutory share exchange, or, in circumstances
specified in the statute, certain transfers of assets, certain
stock issuances and transfers, liquidation plans and
reclassifications involving interested stockholders and their
affiliates. The MGCL defines an interested stockholder as:
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any person who beneficially owns 10% or more of the voting power
of our outstanding voting stock; or
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an affiliate or associate of the corporation who, at any time
within the two-year period prior to the date in question, was
the beneficial owner of 10% or more of the voting power of the
then-outstanding stock of the corporation.
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A person is not an interested stockholder if the board of
directors approves in advance the transaction by which the
person otherwise would have become an interested stockholder.
However, in approving the transaction, the board of directors
may provide that its approval is subject to compliance, at or
after the time of approval, with any terms and conditions
determined by the board of directors.
After the five-year prohibition, any business combination
between a corporation and an interested stockholder generally
must be recommended by the board of directors and approved by
the affirmative vote of at least:
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80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of the then
outstanding shares of voting stock; and
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two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of the
voting stock other than shares held by the interested
stockholder with whom or with whose affiliate the business
combination is to be effected or shares held by an affiliate or
associate of the interested stockholder.
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These super-majority vote requirements do not apply if the
common stockholders receive a minimum price, as defined under
Maryland law, for their shares in the form of cash or other
consideration in the same form as previously paid by the
interested stockholder for its shares.
The statute permits various exemptions from its provisions,
including business combinations that are approved by the board
of directors before the time that the interested stockholder
becomes an interested stockholder.
Our board of directors has by resolution exempted any business
combination between the corporation and our officers and
directors from these provisions of the MGCL and, consequently,
the five-year prohibition and the super-majority vote
requirements will not apply to business combinations between us
and any of our officers and directors unless our board later
resolves otherwise. We believe that our ownership restrictions
will substantially
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reduce the risk that a stockholder would become an
interested stockholder within the meaning of the
Maryland business combination statute.
Subtitle
8
Subtitle 8 of Title 3 of the MGCL permits a Maryland
corporation with a class of equity securities registered under
the Exchange Act and at least three independent directors to
elect to be subject, by provision in its charter or bylaws or a
resolution of its board of directors and notwithstanding any
contrary provision in the charter or bylaws, to any or all of
five provisions:
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a classified board of directors;
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a two-thirds vote requirement for removing a director;
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a requirement that the number of directors be fixed only by vote
of the directors;
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a requirement that a vacancy on the board be filled only by the
remaining directors and for the remainder of the full term of
the class of directors in which the vacancy occurred; and
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a majority requirement for the calling by stockholders of a
special meeting of stockholders.
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We have elected to be subject to each of the above provisions of
Title 3, Subtitle 8 of the MGCL.
Merger;
Amendment of Charter
Under Maryland law, we generally will not be able to amend our
charter or merge with another entity unless declared advisable
by our board of directors and approved by the affirmative vote
of stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of the
votes entitled to be cast on the matter. As permitted by
Maryland law, our charter contains a provision permitting our
directors, without any action by our stockholders, to amend the
charter to increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares
of stock or the number of shares of any class of stock that we
have the authority to issue.
Operations
We generally are prohibited from engaging in certain activities,
including acquiring or holding property or engaging in any
activity that would cause us to fail to qualify as a REIT.
Term and
Termination
Our charter provides for us to have a perpetual existence.
Pursuant to our charter, and subject to the provisions of any of
our classes or series of stock then outstanding and the approval
by a majority of the entire board of directors, our
stockholders, at any meeting thereof, by the affirmative vote of
a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the
matter, may approve a plan of liquidation and dissolution.
Advance
Notice of Director Nominations and New Business
Our bylaws provide that, with respect to an annual meeting of
stockholders, nominations of persons for election to our board
of directors and the proposal of business to be considered by
stockholders at the annual meeting may be made only:
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pursuant to our notice of the meeting;
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by or at the direction of our board of directors; or
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by a stockholder who was a stockholder of record both at the
time of the provision of notice and at the time of the meeting,
who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has complied with
the advance notice procedures set forth in our bylaws.
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With respect to special meetings of stockholders, only the
business specified in our notice of meeting may be brought
before the meeting of stockholders and nominations of persons
for election to our board of directors at which directors are to
be elected pursuant to our notice of the meeting may be made
only:
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by or at the direction of our board of directors; or
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by a stockholder who was a stockholder of record both at the
time of the provision of notice and at the time of the meeting,
who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has complied with
the advance notice provisions set forth in our bylaws.
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Power to
Issue Additional Shares
We currently do not intend to issue any securities other than
the shares described in this prospectus, although we may do so
at any time, including upon the redemption of limited
partnership interests that we may issue in connection with
acquisitions of real property. We believe that the power to
issue additional shares of stock and to classify or reclassify
unissued shares of common stock or preferred stock and
thereafter to issue the classified or reclassified shares
provides us with increased flexibility in structuring possible
future financings and acquisitions and in meeting other needs
which might arise. These actions can be taken without
stockholder approval, unless stockholder approval is required by
applicable law or the rules of any stock exchange or automated
quotation system on which our securities may be listed or
traded. Although we have no present intention of doing so, we
could issue a class or series of shares that could delay, defer
or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might
involve a premium price for holders of common stock or otherwise
be in their best interest.
Control
Share Acquisitions
The MGCL provides that control shares of a Maryland
corporation acquired in a control share acquisition
have no voting rights except to the extent approved at a special
meeting by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the votes
entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding shares of stock in
a corporation in respect of which any of the following persons
is entitled to exercise or direct the exercise of the voting
power of shares of stock of the corporation in the election of
directors: (i) a person who makes or proposes to make a
control share acquisition, (ii) an officer of the
corporation or (iii) an employee of the corporation who is
also a director of the corporation. Control shares
are voting shares of stock which, if aggregated with all other
such shares of stock previously acquired by the acquiror or in
respect of which the acquiror is able to exercise or direct the
exercise of voting power (except solely by virtue of a revocable
proxy), would entitle the acquiror to exercise voting power in
electing directors within one of the following ranges of voting
power: (i) one-tenth or more but less than one-third,
(ii) one-third or more but less than a majority, or
(iii) a majority or more of all voting power. Control
shares do not include shares that the acquiring person is then
entitled to vote as a result of having previously obtained
stockholder approval. A control share acquisition
means the acquisition of issued and outstanding control shares,
subject to certain exceptions.
A person who has made or proposes to make a control share
acquisition, upon satisfaction of certain conditions (including
an undertaking to pay expenses), may compel our board of
directors to call a special meeting of stockholders to be held
within 50 days of demand to consider the voting rights of
the shares. If no request for a meeting is made, the corporation
may itself present the question at any stockholders meeting.
If voting rights are not approved at the meeting or if the
acquiring person does not deliver an acquiring person statement
as required by the statute, then, subject to certain conditions
and limitations, the corporation may redeem any or all of the
control shares (except those for which voting rights have
previously been approved) for fair value determined, without
regard to the absence of voting rights for the control shares,
as of the date of the last control share acquisition by the
acquiror or of any meeting of stockholders at which the voting
rights of such shares are considered and not approved. If voting
rights for control shares are approved at a stockholders meeting
and the acquiror becomes entitled to vote a majority of the
shares entitled to vote, all other stockholders may exercise
appraisal rights. The fair value of the shares as determined for
purposes of such appraisal rights may not be less than the
highest price per share paid by the acquiror in the control
share acquisition.
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The control share acquisition statute does not apply (a) to
shares acquired in a merger, consolidation or share exchange if
the corporation is a party to the transaction or (b) to
acquisitions approved or exempted by the charter or bylaws of
the corporation.
Our bylaws do not contain a provision which exempts from the
control share acquisition statute any and all acquisitions by
any person of our stock and, consequently, the applicability of
the control share acquisitions.
Possible
Anti-Takeover Effect of Certain Provisions of Maryland Law and
of Our Charter and Bylaws
The business combination provisions and the control share
acquisition provisions of the MGCL, the provisions of our bylaws
regarding the classification of our board of directors and the
restrictions on the transfer and ownership of stock and the
advance notice provisions of our bylaws could have the effect of
delaying, deferring or preventing a transaction or a change in
control that might involve a premium price for holders of common
stock or otherwise be in their best interests.
MATERIAL
U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
This section summarizes the current material federal income tax
consequences generally resulting from our election to be taxed
as a REIT and the current material federal income tax
considerations relating to the ownership and disposition of our
common stock, senior common stock and preferred stock. If we
offer securities other than our common stock, senior common
stock and preferred stock, information about any additional
federal income tax considerations to holders of those securities
will be included in the documents pursuant to which those
securities are offered. As used in this section, the terms
we and our refer solely to Gladstone
Commercial Corporation and not to our subsidiaries and
affiliates which have not elected to be taxed as REITs for
federal income tax purposes.
This discussion is not exhaustive of all possible tax
considerations and does not provide a detailed discussion of any
state, local or foreign tax considerations. This discussion does
not address all aspects of taxation that may be relevant to
particular investors in light of their personal investment or
tax circumstances, or to certain types of investors that are
subject to special treatment under the federal income tax laws,
such as insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations (except to
the limited extent discussed below under
Taxation of Tax-Exempt Stockholders),
financial institutions or broker-dealers,
non-U.S. individuals
and foreign corporations (except to the limited extent discussed
below under Taxation of
Non-U.S. Stockholders)
and other persons subject to special tax rules. Moreover, this
summary assumes that our stockholders hold our stock as a
capital asset for federal income tax purposes, which generally
means property held for investment. The statements in this
section are based on the current federal income tax laws, are
for general purposes only and are not tax advice. We cannot
assure you that new laws, interpretations of law, or court
decisions, any of which may take effect retroactively, will not
cause any statement in this section to be inaccurate.
We urge you to consult your own tax advisor regarding the
specific tax consequences to you of acquisition, ownership and
disposition of our common stock, senior common stock and
preferred stock and of our election to be taxed as a REIT.
Specifically, you should consult your own tax advisor regarding
the federal, state, local, foreign, and other tax consequences
of such acquisition, ownership, disposition and election, and
regarding potential changes in applicable tax laws.
Taxation
of Our Company
We elected to be taxed as a REIT under the federal income tax
laws beginning with our taxable year ended December 31,
2003. We believe that, beginning with such taxable year, we have
been organized and have operated in such a manner as to qualify
for taxation as a REIT under the Code, and we intend to continue
to operate in such a manner. However, no assurances can be given
that our beliefs or expectations will be fulfilled, since
qualification as a REIT depends on our continuing to satisfy
numerous asset, income, stock ownership and distribution tests
described below, the satisfaction of which depends, in part, on
our operating results.
The sections of the Code relating to qualification, operation
and taxation as a REIT are highly technical and complex. The
following discussion sets forth only the material aspects of
those sections. This summary is qualified in its entirety by the
applicable Code provisions and the related rules and regulations.
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In the opinion of Bass, Berry & Sims PLC, we qualified
to be taxed as a REIT under the federal income tax laws for our
taxable years ended December 31, 2006 through
December 31, 2009, and our organization and current and
proposed method of operation will enable us to continue to
qualify as a REIT for our taxable year ending December 31,
2010 and in the future. Investors should be aware that Bass,
Berry & Sims PLCs opinion is based on existing
federal income tax law governing qualification as a REIT, which
is subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis, is not
binding on the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS,
or any court, and speaks only as of the date issued. In
addition, Bass, Berry & Sims PLCs opinion is
based on customary assumptions and is conditioned upon certain
representations made by us as to factual matters, including
representations regarding the nature of our assets and the
future conduct of our business. Moreover, our continued
qualification and taxation as a REIT depend on our ability to
meet, on a continuing basis, through actual results, certain
qualification tests set forth in the federal income tax laws.
Those qualification tests involve the percentage of our income
that we earn from specified sources, the percentage of our
assets that falls within specified categories, the diversity of
our stock ownership, and the percentage of our earnings that we
distribute. While Bass, Berry & Sims PLC has reviewed
those matters in connection with the foregoing opinion, Bass,
Berry & Sims PLC will not review our compliance with
those tests on a continuing basis. Accordingly, no assurance can
be given that the actual results of our operations for any
particular taxable year will satisfy such requirements. Bass,
Berry & Sims PLCs opinion does not foreclose the
possibility that we may have to use one or more of the REIT
savings provisions described below, which may require us to pay
a material excise or penalty tax in order to maintain our REIT
qualification. For a discussion of the tax consequences of our
failure to qualify as a REIT, see Failure to Qualify
as a REIT below.
If we qualify as a REIT, we generally will not be subject to
federal income tax on the taxable income that we distribute to
our stockholders. The benefit of that tax treatment is that it
avoids the double taxation, or taxation at both the
corporate and stockholder levels, that generally results from
owning stock in a corporation. However, we will be subject to
federal tax in the following circumstances:
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We are subject to the corporate federal income tax on any
taxable income, including net capital gain, that we do not
distribute to our stockholders during, or within a specified
time period after, the calendar year in which the income is
earned.
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We may be subject to the corporate alternative minimum
tax on any items of tax preference, including any
deductions of net operating losses.
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We are subject to tax, at the highest corporate rate, on:
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net income from the sale or other disposition of property
acquired through foreclosure (foreclosure property),
as described below under Gross Income
Tests Foreclosure Property, that we hold
primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of
business, and
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other non-qualifying income from foreclosure property.
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We are subject to a 100% tax on net income from sales or other
dispositions of property, other than foreclosure property, that
we hold primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course
of business.
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If we fail to satisfy one or both of the 75% gross income test
or the 95% gross income test, as described below under
Gross Income Tests, but nonetheless
continue to qualify as a REIT because we meet other
requirements, we will be subject to a 100% tax on:
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the greater of the amount by which we fail the 75% gross income
test or the 95% gross income test, in either case, multiplied by
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a fraction intended to reflect our profitability.
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If we fail to distribute during a calendar year at least the sum
of: (1) 85% of our REIT ordinary income for the year,
(2) 95% of our REIT capital gain net income for the year,
and (3) any undistributed taxable income required to be
distributed from earlier periods, then we will be subject to a
4% nondeductible excise tax on the excess of the required
distribution over the amount we actually distributed.
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If we fail any of the asset tests, other than a de minimis
failure of the 5% asset test, the 10% vote test or the 10% value
test, as described below under Asset
Tests, as long as (1) the failure was due to
reasonable
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cause and not to willful neglect, (2) we file a description
of each asset that caused such failure with the IRS, and
(3) we dispose of the assets causing the failure or
otherwise comply with the asset tests within six months after
the last day of the quarter in which we identify such failure,
we will pay a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or the highest
federal corporate income tax rate (currently 35%) multiplied by
the net income from the nonqualifying assets during the period
in which we failed to satisfy the asset tests.
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If we fail to satisfy one or more requirements for REIT
qualification, other than the gross income tests and the asset
tests, and such failure is due to reasonable cause and not to
willful neglect, we will be required to pay a penalty of $50,000
for each such failure.
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We may elect to retain and pay income tax on our net long-term
capital gain, as described below under
Taxation of Taxable
U.S. Stockholders.
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We will be subject to a 100% excise tax on transactions with a
taxable REIT subsidiary that are not conducted on an
arms-length basis.
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If we acquire any asset from a C corporation, or a corporation
that generally is subject to full corporate-level tax, in a
merger or other transaction in which we acquire a basis in the
asset that is determined by reference either to the C
corporations basis in the asset or to another asset, we
will pay tax at the highest regular corporate rate applicable if
we recognize gain on the sale or disposition of the asset during
the 10-year
period after we acquire the asset. The amount of gain on which
we will pay tax generally is the lesser of:
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the amount of gain that we recognize at the time of the sale or
disposition, and
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the amount of gain that we would have recognized if we had sold
the asset at the time we acquired it.
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We may be required to pay monetary penalties to the IRS in
certain circumstances, including if we fail to meet
record-keeping requirements intended to monitor our compliance
with rules relating to the composition of a REITs
stockholders, as described below in
Recordkeeping Requirements.
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The earnings of our lower-tier entities that are C corporations,
including taxable REIT subsidiaries, are subject to federal
corporate income tax.
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In addition, we may be subject to a variety of taxes, including
payroll taxes and state, local and foreign income, property and
other taxes on our assets and operations. We also could be
subject to tax in situations and on transactions not presently
contemplated.
Requirements
for Qualification as a REIT
A REIT is a corporation, trust or association that meets each of
the following requirements:
(1) It is managed by one or more trustees or directors;
(2) Its beneficial ownership is evidenced by transferable
shares of stock, or by transferable shares or certificates of
beneficial interest;
(3) It would be taxable as a domestic corporation, but for
Sections 856 through 860 of the Code, i.e. the REIT
provisions;
(4) It is neither a financial institution nor an insurance
company subject to special provisions of the federal income tax
laws;
(5) At least 100 persons are beneficial owners of its
stock or ownership shares or certificates (determined without
reference to any rules of attribution);
(6) Not more than 50% in value of its outstanding stock or
ownership shares or certificates is owned, directly or
indirectly, by five or fewer individuals, which the federal
income tax law defines to include certain entities, during the
last half of any taxable year;
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(7) It elects to be a REIT, or has made such election for a
previous taxable year, and satisfies all relevant filing and
other administrative requirements established by the IRS that
must be met to elect and maintain REIT status;
(8) It uses a calendar year for federal income tax purposes
and complies with the recordkeeping requirements of the federal
income tax laws; and
(9) It meets certain other qualifications, tests described
below, regarding the sources of its income, the nature and
diversification of its assets and the distribution of its income.
We must meet requirements 1 through 4, 8 and 9 during our entire
taxable year and must meet requirement 5 during at least
335 days of a taxable year of 12 months, or during a
proportionate part of a taxable year of less than
12 months. If we comply with certain requirements for
ascertaining the beneficial ownership of our outstanding stock
in a taxable year and have no reason to know that we violated
requirement 6, we will be deemed to have satisfied requirement 6
for that taxable year. For purposes of determining stock
ownership under requirement 6, an individual
generally includes a supplemental unemployment compensation
benefits plan, a private foundation, or a portion of a trust
permanently set aside or used exclusively for charitable
purposes. An individual, however, generally does not
include a trust that is a qualified employee pension or profit
sharing trust under the federal income tax laws, and
beneficiaries of such a trust will be treated as holding our
stock in proportion to their actuarial interests in the trust
for purposes of requirement 6. Our charter provides for
restrictions regarding the ownership and transfer of our stock
that should allow us to continue to satisfy these requirements.
The provisions of the charter restricting the ownership and
transfer of our stock are described in Certain Provisions
of Maryland Law and of Our Charter and Bylaws
Restrictions on Ownership of Shares. We believe we have
issued sufficient stock with enough diversity of ownership to
satisfy requirements 5 and 6 set forth above.
Qualified REIT Subsidiaries. A qualified
REIT subsidiary is a corporation, all of the stock of
which is owned, directly or indirectly, by a REIT and that has
not elected to be a taxable REIT subsidiary. A corporation that
is a qualified REIT subsidiary is treated as a
division of its owner and not as a separate entity for federal
income tax purposes. Thus, all assets, liabilities, and items of
income, deduction, and credit of a qualified REIT
subsidiary are treated as assets, liabilities, and items
of income, deduction, and credit of the REIT that directly or
indirectly owns the qualified REIT subsidiary. Consequently, in
applying the REIT requirements described herein, the separate
existence of any qualified REIT subsidiary that we
own will be ignored, and all assets, liabilities, and items of
income, deduction, and credit of such subsidiary will be treated
as our assets, liabilities, and items of income, deduction, and
credit.
Other Disregarded Entities and
Partnerships. An unincorporated domestic entity,
such as a partnership or limited liability company that has a
single owner as determined under federal income tax law,
generally is not treated as an entity separate from its owner
for federal income tax purposes. We own various direct and
indirect interests in entities that are classified as
partnerships, limited liability companies and trusts for state
law purposes. Nevertheless, these entities currently are not
treated as entities separate from us for federal income tax
purposes because we currently own, directly or indirectly, all
of the ownership interests in these entities. Consequently, the
assets and items of gross income of these entities will be
treated as our assets and items of gross income for purposes of
applying the various REIT qualification tests.
An unincorporated domestic entity with two or more owners, as
determined under the federal income tax laws, generally is
treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes. In the
case of a REIT that is a partner in a partnership, the REIT is
treated as owning its proportionate share of the assets of the
partnership and as earning its allocable share of the gross
income of the partnership for purposes of the applicable REIT
qualification tests. Thus, our proportionate share of the assets
and items of gross income of any partnership, joint venture, or
limited liability company that is treated as a partnership for
federal income tax purposes would be treated as our assets and
items of gross income for purposes of applying the various REIT
qualification tests. For purposes of the 10% value test
(described in Asset Tests), our
proportionate share would be based on our proportionate interest
in the equity interests and certain debt securities issued by a
partnership. For all of the other asset and income tests, our
proportionate share would be based on our proportionate interest
in the capital of the partnership.
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Taxable REIT Subsidiaries. A REIT is permitted
to own up to 100% of the stock of one or more taxable REIT
subsidiaries. A taxable REIT subsidiary is a fully taxable
corporation that may earn income that would not be qualifying
income for purposes of the gross income tests, as described
below, if earned directly by the parent REIT. The subsidiary and
the REIT must jointly elect to treat the subsidiary as a taxable
REIT subsidiary. A corporation of which a taxable REIT
subsidiary directly or indirectly owns more than 35% of the
voting power or value of the securities, however, is
automatically treated as a taxable REIT subsidiary without an
election. We are not treated as holding the assets of a taxable
REIT subsidiary or as receiving any income that the taxable REIT
subsidiary earns. Rather, the stock issued by a taxable REIT
subsidiary to us is an asset in our hands, and we treat the
distributions paid to us from such taxable REIT subsidiary, if
any, as income. This treatment may affect our compliance with
the gross income tests and asset tests.
A taxable REIT subsidiary will pay income tax at regular
corporate rates on any income that it earns. In addition, the
taxable REIT subsidiary rules limit the deductibility of
interest paid or accrued by a taxable REIT subsidiary to its
parent REIT to assure that the taxable REIT subsidiary is
subject to an appropriate level of corporate taxation. Further,
the rules impose a 100% excise tax on transactions between a
taxable REIT subsidiary and its parent REIT or the REITs
tenants that are not conducted on an arms-length basis. We
may engage in activities indirectly through a taxable REIT
subsidiary as necessary or convenient to avoid obtaining the
benefit of income or services that would jeopardize our REIT
status if we engaged in the activities directly. In particular,
we likely would engage in activities through a taxable REIT
subsidiary if we wished to provide services to unrelated parties
which might produce income that does not qualify under the gross
income tests described below. We also might dispose of an
unwanted asset through a taxable REIT subsidiary as necessary or
convenient to avoid the 100% tax on income from prohibited
transactions. See description below under
Gross Income Tests Prohibited
Transactions.
Rent that we receive from a taxable REIT subsidiary will qualify
as rents from real property for purposes of the
gross income tests described below if (1) at least 90% of
the leased space in the property is leased to persons other than
taxable REIT subsidiaries and related-party tenants, and
(2) the amount paid by the taxable REIT subsidiary to rent
space at the property is substantially comparable to rents paid
by other tenants of the property for comparable space, as
described in further detail below under Gross
Income Tests Rents from Real Property.
Gross
Income Tests
We must satisfy two gross income tests annually to maintain our
qualification as a REIT. First, at least 75% of our gross income
for each taxable year must consist of defined types of income
that we derive, directly or indirectly, from investments
relating to real property or mortgages on real property or
qualified temporary investment income. Qualifying income for
purposes of that 75% gross income test generally includes:
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rents from real property;
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interest on debt secured by mortgages on real property or on
interests in real property;
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dividends or other distributions on, and gain from the sale of,
stock or shares of beneficial interest in other REITs;
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gain from the sale of real estate assets;
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income and gain derived from foreclosure property; and
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income derived from the temporary investment of new capital that
is attributable to the issuance of our stock or a public
offering of our debt with a maturity date of at least five years
and that we receive during the one-year period beginning on the
date on which we receive such new capital.
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Second, in general, at least 95% of our gross income for each
taxable year must consist of income that is qualifying income
for purposes of the 75% gross income test, other types of
interest and dividends, gain from the sale or disposition of
stock or securities, or any combination of these.
Gross income from our sale of property that we hold primarily
for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business is
excluded from both the numerator and the denominator in both
gross income tests. In addition, any gains
28
from hedging transactions, as defined in
Hedging Transactions, that are clearly
and timely identified as such will be excluded from both the
numerator and the denominator for purposes of the 95% gross
income test. Income and gain from hedging
transactions entered into after July 30, 2008 that
are clearly and timely identified as such will also be excluded
from both the numerator and the denominator for purposes of the
75% gross income test; however, income and gain from
hedging transactions entered into on or before
July 30, 2008 will be treated as non-qualifying income for
purposes of the 75% gross income test. In addition, certain
foreign currency gains recognized after July 30, 2008 will
be excluded from gross income for purposes of one or both of the
gross income tests. See Foreign Currency
Gain.
The following paragraphs discuss the specific application of the
gross income tests to us.
Rents from Real Property. Rent that we receive
for the use of our real property will qualify as rents
from real property, which is qualifying income for
purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests, only if the
following conditions are met:
First, the rent must not be based in whole or in part on the
income or profits of any person. Participating rent, however,
will qualify as rents from real property if it is
based on percentages of receipts or sales and the percentages:
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are fixed at the time the leases are entered into;
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are not renegotiated during the term of the leases in a manner
that has the effect of basing percentage rent on income or
profits; and
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conform with normal business practice.
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More generally, the rent will not qualify as rents from
real property if, considering the relevant lease and all
the surrounding circumstances, the arrangement does not conform
with normal business practice, but is in reality used as a means
of basing the rent on income or profits. We have represented to
Bass, Berry & Sims PLC that we intend to set and
accept rents which are fixed dollar amounts or a fixed
percentage of gross revenue, and not to any extent determined by
reference to any persons income or profits, in compliance
with the rules above.
Second, we must not own, actually or constructively, 10% or more
of the stock or the assets or net profits of any tenant,
referred to as a related-party tenant, other than a
taxable REIT subsidiary. The constructive ownership rules
generally provide that, if 10% or more in value of our stock is
owned, directly or indirectly, by or for any person, we are
considered as owning the stock owned, directly or indirectly, by
or for such person. We do not own any stock or any assets or net
profits of any tenant directly. However, because the
constructive ownership rules are broad and it is not possible to
monitor direct and indirect transfers of our stock continually,
no absolute assurance can be given that such transfers or other
events of which we have no knowledge will not cause us to own
constructively 10% or more of a tenant (or a subtenant, in which
case only rent attributable to the subtenant is disqualified)
other than a taxable REIT subsidiary at some future date.
Under an exception to the related-party tenant rule described in
the preceding paragraph, rent that we receive from a taxable
REIT subsidiary will qualify as rents from real
property as long as (1) at least 90% of the leased
space in the property is leased to persons other than taxable
REIT subsidiaries and related-party tenants, and (2) the
amount paid by the taxable REIT subsidiary to rent space at the
property is substantially comparable to rents paid by other
tenants of the property for comparable space. The
substantially comparable requirement must be
satisfied when the lease is entered into, when it is extended,
and when the lease is modified, if the modification increases
the rent paid by the taxable REIT subsidiary. If the requirement
that at least 90% of the leased space in the related property is
rented to unrelated tenants is met when a lease is entered into,
extended, or modified, such requirement will continue to be met
as long as there is no increase in the space leased to any
taxable REIT subsidiary or related-party tenant. Any increased
rent attributable to a modification of a lease with a taxable
REIT subsidiary in which we own, directly or indirectly, more
than 50% of the voting power or value of the stock (a
controlled taxable REIT subsidiary) will not be
treated as rents from real property.
Third, we must not furnish or render noncustomary services,
other than a de minimis amount of noncustomary services, as
described below, to the tenants of our properties, or manage or
operate our properties, other than through an independent
contractor who is adequately compensated and from whom we do not
derive or receive any income.
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However, we need not provide services through an
independent contractor, but instead may provide
services directly to our tenants, if the services are
usually or customarily rendered in connection with
the rental of space for occupancy only and are not considered to
be provided for the tenants convenience. In addition, we
may provide a minimal amount of noncustomary
services to the tenants of a property, other than through an
independent contractor, as long as our income from the services
(valued at not less than 150% of our direct cost for performing
such services) does not exceed 1% of our income from the related
property. Finally, we may own up to 100% of the stock of one or
more taxable REIT subsidiaries, which may provide noncustomary
services to our tenants without our rents from the related
properties being treated as nonqualifying income for purposes of
the 75% and 95% gross income tests. We have not performed, and
do not intend to perform, any services other than customary ones
for our tenants, unless such services are provided through
independent contractors or taxable REIT subsidiaries.
If the rent from a lease of property does not qualify as
rents from real property because (1) the rent
is based on the net income or profits of the tenant,
(2) the lessee is a related-party tenant or fails to
qualify for the exception to the related-party tenant rule for
qualifying taxable REIT subsidiaries, or (3) we furnish
noncustomary services to the tenants of the property, or manage
or operate the property, other than through a qualifying
independent contractor or a taxable REIT subsidiary, that are in
excess of 1% of our income from the related property, none of
the rent from the property would qualify as rents from
real property. In any of these circumstances, we could
lose our REIT status, unless we qualified for certain statutory
relief provisions, because we might be unable to satisfy either
the 75% or 95% gross income test.
Tenants may be required to pay, in addition to base rent,
reimbursements for certain amounts we are obligated to pay to
third parties (such as a lessees proportionate share of a
propertys operational or capital expenses), penalties for
nonpayment or late payment of rent or additions to rent. These
and other similar payments should qualify as rents from
real property. To the extent they do not, they should be
treated as interest that qualifies for the 95% gross income test.
In addition, rent attributable to any personal property leased
in connection with a lease of real property will not qualify as
rents from real property if the rent attributable to
such personal property exceeds 15% of the total rent received
under the lease. The rent attributable to personal property
under a lease is the amount that bears the same ratio to total
rent under the lease for the taxable year as the average of the
fair market values of the leased personal property at the
beginning and at the end of the taxable year bears to the
average of the aggregate fair market values of both the real and
personal property covered by the lease at the beginning and at
the end of such taxable year, or the personal property ratio. If
a portion of the rent that we receive from a property does not
qualify as rents from real property because the rent
attributable to personal property exceeds 15% of the total rent
for a taxable year, the portion of the rent that is attributable
to personal property will not be qualifying income for purposes
of either the 75% or 95% gross income test. Thus, if such rent
attributable to personal property, plus any other income that is
nonqualifying income for purposes of the 95% gross income test,
during a taxable year exceeds 5% of our gross income during the
year, we would lose our REIT status, unless we qualified for
certain statutory relief provisions. With respect to each of our
leases, we believe that the personal property ratio generally is
less than 15%. Where that is not, or may in the future not be,
the case, we believe that any income attributable to personal
property will not jeopardize our ability to qualify as a REIT.
There can be no assurance, however, that the IRS would not
challenge our calculation of a personal property ratio, or that
a court would not uphold such assertion. If such a challenge
were successfully asserted, we could fail to satisfy the 75% or
95% gross income test and thus potentially lose our REIT status.
Interest. The term interest
generally does not include any amount received or accrued,
directly or indirectly, if the determination of such amount
depends in whole or in part on the income or profits of any
person. However, an amount received or accrued generally will
not be excluded from the term interest solely
because it is based on a fixed percentage or percentages of
receipts or sales. Furthermore, to the extent that interest from
a loan that is based on the profit or net cash proceeds from the
sale of the property securing the loan constitutes a
shared appreciation provision, income attributable
to such participation feature will be treated as gain from the
sale of the secured property.
We may invest opportunistically from time to time in mortgage
debt and mezzanine loans when we believe our investment will
allow us to acquire control of the related real estate. Interest
on debt secured by a mortgage on real
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property or on interests in real property, including, for this
purpose, discount points, prepayment penalties, loan assumption
fees, and late payment charges that are not compensation for
services, generally is qualifying income for purposes of the 75%
gross income test. However, if a loan is secured by real
property and other property and the highest principal amount of
such loan that was outstanding during a taxable year exceeds the
fair market value of the real property securing the loan as of
the date the REIT agreed to originate or acquire the loan, a
portion of the interest income from such loan will not be
qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test, but
will be qualifying income for purposes of the 95% gross income
test. The portion of the interest income that will not be
qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test will
be equal to the interest income attributable to the portion of
the principal amount of the loan that is not secured by real
property. The principal amount of the loan that is not secured
by real property is the amount by which the loan exceeds the
value of the real estate that is security for the loan.
Mezzanine loans are loans secured by equity interests in an
entity that directly or indirectly owns real property, rather
than by a direct mortgage of the real property. IRS Revenue
Procedure
2003-65
provides a safe harbor pursuant to which a mezzanine loan, if it
meets each of the requirements contained in the Revenue
Procedure, will be treated by the IRS as a real estate asset for
purposes of the REIT asset tests described below, and interest
derived from it will be treated as qualifying mortgage interest
for purposes of the 75% gross income test. Although the Revenue
Procedure provides a safe harbor on which taxpayers may rely, it
does not prescribe rules of substantive tax law. We anticipate
that any mezzanine loans that we acquire typically will not meet
all of the requirements for reliance on this safe harbor.
Nevertheless, we intend to invest in mezzanine loans in manner
that will enable us to continue to satisfy the gross income
tests and asset tests.
Dividends. Our share of any dividends received
from any corporation (including any taxable REIT subsidiary, but
excluding any REIT) in which we own an equity interest will
qualify for purposes of the 95% gross income test but not for
purposes of the 75% gross income test. Our share of any
dividends received from any other REIT in which we own an equity
interest will be qualifying income for purposes of both gross
income tests.
Prohibited Transactions. A REIT will incur a
100% tax on the net income derived from any sale or other
disposition of property, other than foreclosure property, that
the REIT holds primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary
course of a trade or business. We believe that none of our
assets are held primarily for sale to customers and that a sale
of any of our assets will not be in the ordinary course of our
business. Whether a REIT holds an asset primarily for sale
to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business
depends, however, on the facts and circumstances that exist from
time to time, including those related to a particular asset. A
safe harbor to the characterization of the sale of property by a
REIT as a prohibited transaction and the 100% prohibited
transaction tax is available if the following requirements are
met:
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the REIT has held the property for not less than two years (or,
for sales made on or before July 30, 2008, four years);
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the aggregate expenditures made by the REIT, or any partner of
the REIT, during the two-year period (or, for sales made on or
before July 30, 2008, four-year period) preceding the date
of the sale that are includable in the basis of the property do
not exceed 30% of the selling price of the property;
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either (1) during the year in question, the REIT did not
make more than seven property sales other than sales of
foreclosure property or sales to which Section 1033 of the
Code applies, (2) the aggregate adjusted bases of all such
properties sold by the REIT during the year did not exceed 10%
of the aggregate bases of all of the assets of the REIT at the
beginning of the year or (3) for sales made after
July 30, 2008, the aggregate fair market value of all such
properties sold by the REIT during the year did not exceed 10%
of the aggregate fair market value of all of the assets of the
REIT at the beginning of the year;
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in the case of property not acquired through foreclosure or
lease termination, the REIT has held the property for at least
two years (or, for sales made on or before July 30, 2008,
four years) for the production of rental income; and
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if the REIT has made more than seven property sales (excluding
sales of foreclosure property) during the taxable year,
substantially all of the marketing and development expenditures
with respect to the property were made through an independent
contractor from whom the REIT derives no income.
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We will attempt to comply with the terms of the safe-harbor
provisions in the federal income tax laws prescribing when an
asset sale will not be characterized as a prohibited
transaction. We cannot assure you, however, that we can comply
with the safe-harbor provisions or that we will avoid owning
property that may be characterized as property held
primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of
a trade or business. We may hold and dispose of certain
properties through a taxable REIT subsidiary if we conclude that
the sale or other disposition of such property may not fall
within the safe-harbor provisions. The 100% tax will not apply
to gains from the sale of property that is held through a
taxable REIT subsidiary or other taxable corporation, although
such income will be taxed to the taxable REIT subsidiary or
other taxable corporation at federal corporate income tax rates.
Foreclosure Property. We will be subject to
tax at the maximum corporate rate on any income from foreclosure
property, which includes certain foreign currency gains and
related deductions recognized subsequent to July 30, 2008,
other than income that otherwise would be qualifying income for
purposes of the 75% gross income test, less expenses directly
connected with the production of that income. However, gross
income from foreclosure property will qualify under the 75% and
95% gross income tests. Foreclosure property is any
real property, including interests in real property, and any
personal property incident to such real property:
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that is acquired by a REIT as the result of the REIT having bid
on such property at foreclosure, or having otherwise reduced
such property to ownership or possession by agreement or process
of law, after there was a default or default was imminent on a
lease of such property or on indebtedness that such property
secured;
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for which the related loan or leased property was acquired by
the REIT at a time when the default was not imminent or
anticipated; and
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for which the REIT makes a proper election to treat the property
as foreclosure property.
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A REIT will not be considered to have foreclosed on a property
where the REIT takes control of the property as a
mortgagee-in-possession
and cannot receive any profit or sustain any loss except as a
creditor of the mortgagor. Property generally ceases to be
foreclosure property at the end of the third taxable year
following the taxable year in which the REIT acquired the
property (or longer if an extension is granted by the Secretary
of the U.S. Treasury). This period (as extended, if
applicable) terminates, and foreclosure property ceases to be
foreclosure property on the first day:
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on which a lease is entered into for the property that, by its
terms, will give rise to income that does not qualify for
purposes of the 75% gross income test, or any amount is received
or accrued, directly or indirectly, pursuant to a lease entered
into on or after such day that will give rise to income that
does not qualify for purposes of the 75% gross income test;
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on which any construction takes place on the property, other
than completion of a building, or any other improvement, where
more than 10% of the construction was completed before default
became imminent; or
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which is more than 90 days after the day on which the REIT
acquired the property and the property is used in a trade or
business which is conducted by the REIT, other than through an
independent contractor from whom the REIT itself does not derive
or receive any income.
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Hedging Transactions. From time to time, we or
our subsidiaries may enter into hedging transactions with
respect to one or more of our or our subsidiaries assets
or liabilities. Our or our subsidiaries hedging activities
may include entering into interest rate swaps, caps, and floors,
options to purchase such items, and futures and forward
contracts. For hedging transactions entered into on or before
July 30, 2008, income and gain from hedging
transactions will be excluded from gross income for
purposes of the 95% gross income test, but not the 75% gross
income test. For hedging transactions entered into after
July 30, 2008, income and gain from hedging
transactions will be excluded from gross income for
purposes of both the 75% and 95% gross income tests. A
hedging transaction means either (1) any
transaction entered into in the normal course of our or our
subsidiaries trade or business primarily to manage the
risk of interest rate, price changes, or currency fluctuations
with respect to borrowings made or to be made, or ordinary
obligations incurred or to be incurred, to acquire or carry real
estate assets or (2) for transactions entered into after
July 30, 2008, any transaction entered into primarily to
manage the risk of currency fluctuations with respect to any
item of income or gain that would be qualifying income under the
75% or 95% gross income test (or any property which generates
such income or gain). We are required to clearly
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identify any such hedging transaction before the close of the
day on which it was acquired, originated, or entered into and to
satisfy other identification requirements. We intend to
structure any hedging transactions in a manner that does not
jeopardize our qualification as a REIT; however, no assurance
can be given that our hedging activities will give rise to
income that qualifies for purposes of either or both of the
gross income tests.
Foreign Currency Gain. Certain foreign
currency gains recognized after June 30, 2008 will be
excluded from gross income for purposes of one or both of the
gross income tests. Real estate foreign exchange
gain will be excluded from gross income for purposes of
the 75% and 95% gross income tests. Real estate foreign exchange
gain generally includes foreign currency gain attributable to
any item of income or gain that is qualifying income for
purposes of the 75% gross income test, foreign currency gain
attributable to the acquisition or ownership of (or becoming or
being the obligor under) obligations secured by mortgages on
real property or an interest in real property and certain
foreign currency gain attributable to certain qualified
business units of a REIT. Passive foreign exchange
gain will be excluded from gross income for purposes of
the 95% gross income test. Passive foreign exchange gain
generally includes real estate foreign exchange gain, as
described above, and also includes foreign currency gain
attributable to any item of income or gain that is qualifying
income for purposes of the 95% gross income test and foreign
currency gain attributable to the acquisition or ownership of
(or becoming or being the obligor under) debt obligations. These
exclusions for real estate foreign exchange gain and passive
foreign exchange gain do not apply to any foreign currency gain
that is derived from dealing, or engaging in substantial and
regular trading, in securities. Such gain is treated as
nonqualifying income for purposes of both the 75% and 95% gross
income tests.
Failure to Satisfy Gross Income Tests. If we
fail to satisfy one or both of the gross income tests for any
taxable year, we nevertheless may qualify as a REIT for that
year if we qualify for relief under certain provisions of the
federal income tax laws. Those relief provisions are available
if:
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our failure to meet the applicable test is due to reasonable
cause and not to willful neglect; and
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following such failure for any taxable year, we file a schedule
of the sources of our income with the IRS in accordance with
regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the
U.S. Treasury.
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We cannot predict, however, whether any failure to meet these
tests will qualify for the relief provisions. In addition, as
discussed above in Taxation of Our
Company, even if the relief provisions apply, we would
incur a 100% tax on the gross income attributable to the greater
of (1) the amount by which we fail the 75% gross income
test, or (2) the amount by which we fail the 95% gross
income test, multiplied, in either case, by a fraction intended
to reflect our profitability.
Asset
Tests
To maintain our qualification as a REIT, we also must satisfy
the following asset tests at the end of each quarter of each
taxable year.
First, at least 75% of the value of our total assets, or the
75% asset test, must consist of:
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cash or cash items, including certain receivables;
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government securities;
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interests in real property, including leaseholds and options to
acquire real property and leaseholds;
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interests in mortgage loans secured by real property;
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stock in other REITs; and
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investments in stock or debt instruments during the one-year
period following our receipt of new capital that we raise
through equity offerings or public offerings of debt with at
least a five-year term.
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Second, of our assets that are not qualifying assets for
purposes of the 75% asset test described above, the value of our
interest in any one issuers securities may not exceed 5%
of the value of our total assets, or the 5% asset
test.
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Third, of our assets that are not qualifying assets for purposes
of the 75% asset test described above, we may not own more than
10% of the voting power of any one issuers outstanding
securities, or the 10% vote test, or more than 10%
of the value of any one issuers outstanding securities, or
the 10% value test.
Fourth, no more than 25% of the value of our total assets (or,
prior to our 2009 taxable year, 20% of the value of our total
assets) may consist of the securities of one or more taxable
REIT subsidiaries.
Fifth, no more than 25% of the value of our total assets may
consist of the securities of taxable REIT subsidiaries and other
taxable subsidiaries and other assets that are not qualifying
assets for purposes of the 75% asset test.
For purposes of the 5% asset test, the 10% vote test and the 10%
value test, the term securities does not include
stock in another REIT, equity or debt securities of a qualified
REIT subsidiary or taxable REIT subsidiary, mortgage loans that
constitute real estate assets, or equity interests in a
partnership. The term securities, however, generally
includes debt securities issued by a partnership or another
REIT, except that for purposes of the 10% value test, the term
securities does not include:
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Straight debt securities, which is defined as
a written unconditional promise to pay on demand or on a
specified date a sum certain in money if (1) the debt is
not convertible, directly or indirectly, into equity, and
(2) the interest rate and interest payment dates are not
contingent on profits, the borrowers discretion, or
similar factors. Straight debt securities do not
include any securities issued by a partnership or a corporation
in which we or any controlled taxable REIT subsidiary hold
non-straight debt securities that have an aggregate
value of more than 1% of the issuers outstanding
securities. However, straight debt securities
include debt subject to the following contingencies:
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a contingency relating to the time of payment of interest or
principal, as long as either (1) there is no change to the
effective yield of the debt obligation, other than a change to
the annual yield that does not exceed the greater of 0.25% or 5%
of the annual yield, or (2) neither the aggregate issue
price nor the aggregate face amount of the issuers debt
obligations held by us exceeds $1 million and no more than
12 months of unaccrued interest on the debt obligations can
be required to be prepaid; and
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a contingency relating to the time or amount of payment on a
default or prepayment of a debt obligation, as long as the
contingency is consistent with customary commercial practice.
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Any loan to an individual or an estate.
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Any section 467 rental agreement, other
than an agreement with a related-party tenant.
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Any obligation to pay rents from real property.
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Certain securities issued by governmental entities.
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Any security issued by a REIT.
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Any debt instrument issued by an entity treated as a partnership
for federal income tax purposes in which we are a partner to the
extent of our proportionate interest in the debt and equity
securities of the partnership.
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Any debt instrument issued by an entity treated as a partnership
for federal income tax purposes not described in the preceding
bullet points if at least 75% of the partnerships gross
income, excluding income from prohibited transactions, is
qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test
described above in Gross Income Tests.
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For purposes of the 10% value test, our proportionate share of
the assets of a partnership is our proportionate interest in any
securities issued by the partnership, without regard to the
securities described in the preceding two bullet points above.
We believe that the assets that we hold satisfy the foregoing
asset test requirements. However, we will not obtain, nor are we
required to obtain under the federal income tax laws,
independent appraisals to support our conclusions as to the
value of our assets and securities or the real estate collateral
for the mortgage or mezzanine loans that we may acquire.
Moreover, the values of some assets may not be susceptible to a
precise determination.
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As a result, there can be no assurance that the IRS will not
contend that our ownership of securities and other assets
violates one or more of the asset tests applicable to REITs.
As noted above, we may invest opportunistically in loans secured
by interests in real property when we believe our investment
will allow us to acquire control of the related real property.
If the outstanding principal balance of a loan during a taxable
year exceeds the fair market value of the real property securing
such loan as of the date we agreed to originate or acquire the
loan, a portion of such loan likely will not constitute a
qualifying real estate asset under the federal income tax laws.
Although the law on the matter is not entirely clear, it appears
that the nonqualifying portion of such loan will be equal to the
portion of the loan amount that exceeds the value of the
associated real property that serves as security for that loan.
We will monitor the status of our assets for purposes of the
various asset tests and will manage our portfolio in order to
comply at all times with such tests. If we fail to satisfy the
asset tests at the end of a calendar quarter, we would not lose
our REIT status if:
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we satisfied the asset tests at the end of the preceding
calendar quarter; and
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the discrepancy between the value of our assets and the asset
test requirements arose from changes in the market values of our
assets and was not wholly or partly caused by the acquisition of
one or more non-qualifying assets.
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If we did not satisfy the condition described in the second
bullet point immediately above, we still could avoid REIT
disqualification by eliminating any discrepancy within
30 days after the close of the calendar quarter in which
the discrepancy arose.
In the event that we violate the 5% asset test, the 10% vote
test or the 10% value test described above, we will not lose our
REIT status if (1) the failure is de minimis (up to the
lesser of 1% of our assets or $10 million) and (2) we
dispose of assets causing the failure or otherwise comply with
the asset tests within six months after the last day of the
quarter in which we identify such failure. In the event of a
failure of any of such asset tests other than a de minimis
failure, as described in the preceding sentence, we will not
lose our REIT status if (1) the failure was due to
reasonable cause and not to willful neglect, (2) we file a
description of each asset causing the failure with the IRS,
(3) we dispose of assets causing the failure or otherwise
comply with the asset tests within six months after the last day
of the quarter in which we identify the failure, and (4) we
pay a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or 35% of the net
income from the nonqualifying assets during the period in which
we failed to satisfy the asset tests.
Annual
Distribution Requirements
Each taxable year, we must distribute dividends, other than
capital gain dividends and deemed distributions of retained
capital gain, to our stockholders in an aggregate amount at
least equal to:
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90% of our REIT taxable income, computed without
regard to the dividends paid deduction and our net capital gain
or loss, and
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90% of our after-tax net income, if any, from foreclosure
property, minus
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the sum of certain items of non-cash income.
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Generally, we must pay such distributions in the taxable year to
which they relate, or in the following taxable year if either
(1) we declare the distribution before we timely file our
federal income tax return for the year and pay the distribution
on or before the first regular dividend payment date after such
declaration or (2) we declare the distribution in October,
November, or December of the taxable year, payable to
stockholders of record on a specified day in any such month, and
we actually pay the dividend before the end of January of the
following year. In both instances, these distributions relate to
our prior taxable year for purposes of the annual distribution
requirement.
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We will pay federal income tax on taxable income, including net
capital gain, that we do not distribute to stockholders.
Furthermore, if we fail to distribute during a calendar year, or
by the end of January of the following calendar year in the case
of distributions with declaration and record dates falling in
the last three months of the calendar year, at least the sum of:
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85% of our REIT ordinary income for the year,
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95% of our REIT capital gain income for the year, and
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any undistributed taxable income from prior years,
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we will incur a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the excess of
such required distribution over the amounts we actually
distributed.
We may elect to retain and pay federal income tax on the net
long-term capital gain that we receive in a taxable year. If we
so elect, we will be treated as having distributed any such
retained amount for purposes of the 4% nondeductible excise tax
described above. We intend to make timely distributions
sufficient to satisfy the annual distribution requirement and to
avoid corporate income tax and the 4% nondeductible excise tax.
It is possible that, from time to time, we may experience timing
differences between the actual receipt of income and actual
payment of deductible expenses and the inclusion of that income
and deduction of such expenses in arriving at our REIT taxable
income. Further, it is possible that, from time to time, we may
be allocated a share of net capital gain from a partnership (or
an entity treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes) in which we own an interest that is attributable to
the sale of depreciated property that exceeds our allocable
share of cash attributable to that sale. As a result of the
foregoing, we may have less cash than is necessary to make
distributions to our stockholders that are sufficient to avoid
corporate income tax and the 4% nondeductible excise tax imposed
on certain undistributed income or even to meet the annual
distribution requirement. In such a situation, we may need to
borrow funds or issue additional stock or, if possible, pay
taxable dividends in our stock or debt securities.
Under certain circumstances, we may be able to correct a failure
to meet the distribution requirement for a year by paying
deficiency dividends to our stockholders in a later
year. We may include such deficiency dividends in our deduction
for dividends paid for the earlier year. Although we may be able
to avoid income tax on amounts distributed as deficiency
dividends, we will be required to pay interest to the IRS based
on the amount of any deduction we take for deficiency dividends.
The IRS recently issued guidance that permits certain
distributions made by a publicly traded REIT that (i) are
declared on or after January 1, 2008 and on or before
December 31, 2012 with respect to a taxable year ending on
or before December 31, 2011 and (ii) consist of both
cash and its stock to be treated as dividend distributions for
purposes of satisfying the annual distribution requirement
applicable to REITs. Based on that guidance, if we are publicly
traded on an established securities market in the United States
and if we satisfy certain requirements, including the
requirement that at least 10% of the total value of any such
distribution consists of cash, the cash and our stock that we
distribute will be treated as a dividend, to the extent of our
earnings and profits. If we make such a distribution to our
stockholders, each of our stockholders will be required to treat
the total value of the distribution that each stockholder
receives as a dividend, to the extent of each stockholders
pro-rata share of our earnings and profits, regardless of
whether such stockholder receives cash, our stock or a
combination of cash and our stock. For a general discussion of
the federal income tax consequences to our stockholders on the
receipt of dividends, see below, Taxation of
Taxable U.S. Stockholders, Taxation
of Tax-Exempt Stockholders and Taxation
of
Non-U.S. Stockholders.
We advise each of our stockholders that the taxes resulting from
your receipt of a distribution consisting of cash and our stock
may exceed the cash that you receive in the distribution. We
urge each of our stockholders to consult your tax advisor
regarding the specific federal, state, local and foreign income
and other tax consequences of distributions consisting of both
cash and our stock.
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Recordkeeping
Requirements
We must maintain certain records in order to qualify as a REIT.
In addition, to avoid paying a monetary penalty, we must
request, on an annual basis, information from certain of our
stockholders designed to disclose the actual ownership of our
outstanding stock. We intend to comply with these recordkeeping
requirements.
Failure
to Qualify as a REIT
If we fail to satisfy one or more requirements for REIT
qualification, other than the gross income tests and the asset
tests, we could avoid disqualification if our failure is due to
reasonable cause and not to willful neglect and we pay a penalty
of $50,000 for each such failure. In addition, there are relief
provisions for a failure of the gross income tests and asset
tests, as described in Gross Income
Tests and Asset Tests.
If we were to fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, and
no relief provision applied, we would be subject to federal
income tax and any applicable alternative minimum tax on our
taxable income at regular federal corporate income tax rates. In
calculating our taxable income for a year in which we failed to
qualify as a REIT, we would not be able to deduct amounts
distributed to our stockholders. In fact, we would not be
required to distribute any amounts to stockholders for that
year. In such event, to the extent of our current and
accumulated earnings and profits, distributions to stockholders
generally would be taxable to our stockholders as ordinary
income. Subject to certain limitations of the federal income tax
laws, corporate stockholders may be eligible for the dividends
received deduction, and stockholders taxed at individual rates
may be eligible for a reduced federal income tax rate (15%
through 2010) on such dividends. Unless we qualified for
relief under specific statutory provisions, we also would be
disqualified from taxation as a REIT for the four taxable years
following the year during which we ceased to qualify as a REIT.
We cannot predict whether in all circumstances we would qualify
for such statutory relief.
Taxation
of Taxable U.S. Stockholders
For purposes of our discussion, the term
U.S. stockholder means a holder of our common
stock, senior common stock or preferred stock that, for federal
income tax purposes, is:
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a citizen or resident of the United States;
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a corporation (including an entity treated as a corporation for
federal income tax purposes) created or organized under the laws
of the United States, any of its states or the District of
Columbia;
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an estate whose income is subject to federal income taxation
regardless of its source; or
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any trust if (1) a U.S. court is able to exercise
primary supervision over the administration of such trust and
one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all
substantial decisions of the trust or (2) it has a valid
election in place to be treated as a U.S. person.
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If a partnership, entity or arrangement treated as a partnership
for federal income tax purposes holds our stock, the federal
income tax treatment of a partner in the partnership generally
will depend on the status of the partner and the activities of
the partnership. If you are a partner in a partnership holding
our stock, you should consult your tax advisor regarding the
consequences of the ownership and disposition of our stock by
the partnership.
Distributions. As long as we qualify as a
REIT, distributions made out of our current or accumulated
earnings and profits that we do not designate as capital gain
dividends or retained long-term capital gains will be dividend
income to taxable U.S. stockholders. A corporate
U.S. stockholder will not qualify for the
dividends-received deduction generally available to
corporations. Dividends paid to a U.S. stockholder
generally will not qualify for the tax rates applicable to
qualified dividend income. Legislation enacted in
2003 and 2006 reduced the maximum tax rate for qualified
dividend income to 15% for tax years 2003 through 2010. Without
future congressional action, the maximum tax rate on qualified
dividend income will increase to 39.6% in 2011. Qualified
dividend income generally includes dividends paid by domestic C
corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations to
U.S. stockholders that are taxed at individual rates.
Because we are not generally subject to federal income tax on
the portion of our REIT taxable income that we distribute to our
stockholders, our dividends generally will not constitute
qualified dividend income. As a result, our REIT dividends
generally will be taxed at the higher tax rates applicable to
ordinary income. The highest marginal individual income tax rate
on ordinary
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income is 35% through 2010. Without future congressional action,
the maximum individual income tax rate on ordinary income will
increase to 39.6% in 2011. The federal income tax rates
applicable to qualified dividend income will apply, however, to
our ordinary REIT dividends, if any, that are
(1) attributable to qualified dividends received by us in
2010 from non-REIT corporations, such as any taxable REIT
subsidiaries, or (2) attributable to income on which we
have paid federal corporate income tax (e.g., to the extent that
we distribute less than 100% of our taxable income). In general,
to qualify for the reduced federal income tax rate on qualified
dividend income under such circumstances, a
U.S. stockholder must hold our stock for more than
60 days during the
121-day
period beginning on the date that is 60 days before the
date on which our stock becomes ex-dividend. In addition, for
taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, dividends
paid to certain individuals, estates or trusts will be subject
to a 3.8% Medicare tax.
Any distribution we declare in October, November, or December of
any year that is payable to a U.S. stockholder of record on
a specified date in any of those months will be treated as paid
by us and received by the U.S. stockholder on December 31
of that year, provided we actually pay the distribution during
January of the following calendar year.
Distributions to a U.S. stockholder which we designate as
capital gain dividends generally will be treated as long-term
capital gain, without regard to the period for which the
U.S. stockholder has held our stock. See
Capital Gains and Losses below. A
corporate U.S. stockholder may be required to treat up to
20% of certain capital gain dividends as ordinary income.
We may elect to retain and pay income tax on the net long-term
capital gain that we receive in a taxable year. In that case, to
the extent that we designate such amount in a timely notice to
our stockholders, a U.S. stockholder would be taxed on its
proportionate share of our undistributed long-term capital gain.
The U.S. stockholder would receive a credit or refund for
its proportionate share of the tax we paid. The
U.S. stockholder would increase its basis in our stock by
the amount of its proportionate share of our undistributed
long-term capital gain, minus its share of the tax we paid.
A U.S. stockholder will not incur tax on a distribution in
excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits if
the distribution does not exceed the
U.S. stockholders adjusted basis in our stock.
Instead, the distribution will reduce the
U.S. stockholders adjusted basis in such stock, and
any amount in excess of both our current and accumulated
earnings and profits and the adjusted basis will be treated as
capital gain, long-term if the stock has been held for more than
one year, provided the stock is a capital asset in the hands of
the U.S. stockholder.
U.S. stockholders may not include in their individual
income tax returns any of our net operating losses or capital
losses. Instead, these losses are generally carried over by us
for potential offset against our future income. Taxable
distributions from us and gain from the disposition of our stock
will not be treated as passive activity income; and, therefore,
U.S. stockholders generally will not be able to apply any
passive activity losses, such as, for example,
losses from certain types of limited partnerships in which the
U.S. stockholder is a limited partner, against such income.
In addition, taxable distributions from us and gain from the
disposition of our stock generally will be treated as investment
income for purposes of the investment interest limitations. We
will notify U.S. stockholders after the close of our
taxable year as to the portions of the distributions
attributable to that year that constitute ordinary income,
return of capital and capital gain.
Dispositions. A U.S. stockholder who is
not a dealer in securities generally must treat any gain or loss
realized on a taxable disposition of our stock as long-term
capital gain or loss if the U.S. stockholder has held such
stock for more than one year, and otherwise as short-term
capital gain or loss. In general, a U.S. stockholder will
realize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference
between the sum of the fair market value of any property and the
amount of cash received in such disposition and the
U.S. stockholders adjusted tax basis. A
U.S. stockholders adjusted tax basis generally will
equal the U.S. stockholders acquisition cost,
increased by the excess of undistributed net capital gains
deemed distributed to the U.S. stockholder over the tax
deemed paid by the U.S. stockholder on such gains and
reduced by any returns of capital. However, a
U.S. stockholder must treat any loss on a sale or exchange
of our stock held by such stockholder for six months or less as
a long-term capital loss to the extent of capital gain dividends
and any other actual or deemed distributions from us that such
U.S. stockholder treats as long-term capital gain. All or a
portion of any loss that a U.S. stockholder realizes on a
taxable disposition
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of shares of our stock may be disallowed if the
U.S. stockholder purchases other shares of our stock within
30 days before or after the disposition.
Capital Gains and Losses. The tax-rate
differential between capital gain and ordinary income for
non-corporate taxpayers may be significant. A taxpayer generally
must hold a capital asset for more than one year for gain or
loss derived from its sale or exchange to be treated as
long-term capital gain or loss. The highest marginal individual
income tax rate currently is 35% (which rate, absent
congressional action, will increase to 39.6% in 2011). The
maximum tax rate on long-term capital gain applicable to
U.S. stockholders taxed at individual rates currently is
15% (which rate, absent congressional action, will increase to
20% in 2011). The maximum tax rate on long-term capital gain
from the sale or exchange of section 1250
property (i.e., generally, depreciable real property) is
25% to the extent the gain would have been treated as ordinary
income if the property were section 1245
property (i.e., generally, depreciable personal property).
We generally may designate whether a distribution that we
designate as capital gain dividends (and any retained capital
gain that we are deemed to distribute) is attributable to the
sale or exchange of section 1250 property. The
characterization of income as capital gain or ordinary income
may affect the deductibility of capital losses. A non-corporate
taxpayer may deduct capital losses not offset by capital gains
against its ordinary income only up to a maximum annual amount
of $3,000. A non-corporate taxpayer may carry forward unused
capital losses indefinitely. A corporate taxpayer must pay tax
on its net capital gain at federal corporate income tax rates. A
corporate taxpayer may deduct capital losses only to the extent
of capital gains, with unused losses carried back three years
and forward five years.
Adjustments to Conversion Rate. We may issue
stock of a class that is senior to our common stock with respect
to rights as to nonliquidating distributions and rights upon our
liquidation, dissolution or winding up as compared to our common
stock. Such stock may be convertible into common stock at our
option, at the option of the stockholder, on a specific date
and/or on a
specified occurrence, any such stock referred to as
convertible stock. The conversion rate of
convertible stock that we issue may be subject to adjustment
under specified circumstances. In certain circumstances,
U.S. stockholders who hold certain of our convertible stock
that is subject to adjustment may be deemed to have received a
distribution if and to the extent that the conversion rate is
adjusted, resulting in ordinary income to the extent of our
current and accumulated earnings and profits. In addition, the
failure to provide for such an adjustment also may result in a
deemed distribution to U.S. stockholders who hold such
convertible stock. Adjustments to the conversion rate made
pursuant to a bona fide reasonable adjustment formula which has
the effect of preventing the dilution of the interest of the
holders of such convertible stock generally will not be deemed
to result in a constructive distribution. Certain potential
adjustments (including, without limitation, adjustments in
respect of taxable dividends to our stockholders) will not
qualify as being made pursuant to a bona fide reasonable
adjustment formula. If such adjustments are made, a holder of
such convertible stock will be deemed to have received
constructive distributions from us, even though such stockholder
has not received any cash or property as a result of such
adjustments. The tax consequences of the receipt of a
distribution from us, whether an actual or constructive
distribution, are described in
Distributions above.
Redemption or Repurchase. A redemption or
repurchase of our stock will be treated for federal income tax
purposes as a distribution taxable as a dividend to the extent
of our current and accumulated earnings and profits at ordinary
income rates unless the redemption or repurchase satisfies one
of the tests set forth in the Code and is therefore treated as a
sale or exchange of the redeemed or repurchased stock. The
redemption or repurchase will be treated as a sale or exchange
if it:
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is substantially disproportionate with respect to
the U.S. stockholder;
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results in a complete termination of the
U.S. stockholders stock interest in us; or
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is not essentially equivalent to a dividend with
respect to the U.S. stockholder,
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all within the meaning of the federal income tax laws.
In determining whether any of these tests has been met, stock
considered to be owned by the U.S. stockholder by reason of
certain constructive ownership rules in the federal income tax
laws, as well as stock actually owned by the
U.S. stockholder, generally must be taken into account. To
the extent that one or more classes of our stock are widely held
and publicly traded at any time that we repurchase our stock,
such repurchase generally will be treated as a sale or exchange
if it results in a proportionate reduction of a non-controlling
U.S. stockholders right to vote, to
39
participate in current earnings and accumulated surplus or to
share in our net assets on liquidation. However, because the
determination as to whether any of the alternative tests
described above will be satisfied with respect to the
U.S. stockholder depends upon the facts and circumstances
at the time that the determination must be made,
U.S. stockholders are advised to consult their tax advisors
to determine such tax treatment.
If a redemption or repurchase of our stock is treated as a
distribution taxable as a dividend, the amount of the
distribution will be measured by the amount of cash and the fair
market value of any property received. See
Distributions above. A
U.S. stockholders adjusted basis in the redeemed or
repurchased stock for tax purposes will be transferred to its
remaining stock, if any. If a U.S. stockholder disposes of
its entire interest in our stock, such basis may, under certain
circumstances, be transferred to a related person or it may be
lost entirely.
If a redemption or repurchase of our stock is not treated as a
distribution taxable as a dividend, it will be treated as a
taxable sale or exchange in the manner described under
Dispositions above.
In addition, under certain circumstances, we may redeem or
repurchase certain convertible stock for an amount greater than
its issue price. We intend to take the position that any such
convertible stock will not be issued with a redemption premium
as a result of such rights and that any payments of such
additional amounts will be taxable to a holder of convertible
stock as described above. However, the IRS may take a contrary
position from that described above, which could affect the
timing and character of a holders income on such
convertible stock.
Conversion of Convertible Stock into Common
Stock. Except as provided below, a
U.S. stockholder generally will not recognize gain or loss
upon the conversion of any of our convertible stock into our
common stock. Except as provided below, a
U.S. stockholders basis and holding period in our
common stock received upon conversion generally will be the same
as those of such convertible stock (but the basis will be
reduced by the portion of adjusted tax basis allocated to any
fractional share of common stock exchanged for cash). Although
not entirely free from doubt, we intend to take the position
that any cash payment that a U.S. stockholder makes to us
in connection with a conversion of our convertible stock should
be added to such U.S. stockholders basis in our
common stock that such U.S. stockholder receives upon
conversion. You should consult your tax advisor regarding the
treatment of any such payment for federal income tax purposes,
including your basis and holding period of our common stock
acquired upon conversion.
Cash received upon conversion in lieu of a fractional share of
our common stock generally will be treated as a payment in a
taxable exchange for such fractional share, and a
U.S. stockholder will recognize gain or loss on the receipt
of cash in an amount equal to the difference between the amount
of cash received and the adjusted tax basis allocable to the
fractional share deemed exchanged. Any such gain or loss will be
long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. stockholder has
held the convertible stock for more than one year. See
Dispositions above.
Taxation
of Tax-Exempt Stockholders
Tax-exempt entities, including qualified employee pension and
profit sharing trusts and individual retirement accounts and
annuities, generally are exempt from federal income taxation.
However, they are subject to taxation on their unrelated
business taxable income. Although many investments in real
estate generate unrelated business taxable income, the IRS has
issued a ruling that dividend distributions from a REIT to an
exempt employee pension trust do not constitute unrelated
business taxable income so long as the exempt employee pension
trust does not otherwise use the stock or shares of beneficial
interest of the REIT in an unrelated trade or business of the
pension trust. Based on that ruling, amounts that we distribute
to tax-exempt stockholders generally should not constitute
unrelated business taxable income. However, if a tax-exempt
stockholder were to finance its acquisition of stock with debt,
a portion of the income that it received from us would
constitute unrelated business taxable income pursuant to the
debt-financed property rules. Furthermore, social
clubs, voluntary employee benefit associations, supplemental
unemployment benefit trusts, and qualified group legal services
plans that are exempt from taxation under special provisions of
the federal income tax laws are subject to different unrelated
business taxable income rules, which generally will require them
to characterize distributions that they receive from us as
unrelated business taxable income. Finally, in certain
circumstances, a qualified employee pension or profit-sharing
trust that owns more than 10% of the value of our stock (by
value) must treat a percentage of the dividends that it receives
from us as unrelated business taxable income. Such percentage is
equal to the gross income we derive from an unrelated trade
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or business, determined as if we were a pension trust, divided
by our total gross income for the year in which we pay the
dividends. Such rule applies to a pension trust holding more
than 10% of the value of our stock only if:
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the percentage of our dividends that the tax-exempt trust must
treat as unrelated business taxable income is at least 5%;
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we qualify as a REIT by reason of the modification of the rule
requiring that no more than 50% of our stock be owned by five or
fewer individuals that allows the beneficiaries of the pension
trust to be treated as holding our stock in proportion to their
actuarial interests in the pension trust; and
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either:
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one pension trust owns more than 25% of the value of our
stock; or
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a group of pension trusts, of which each pension trust holds
more than 10% of the value of our stock, collectively owns more
than 50% of the value of our stock.
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As a result of limitations included in our charter on the
transfer and ownership of our stock, we do not expect to be
classified as a pension-held REIT, and, therefore,
the tax treatment described in this paragraph should be
inapplicable to our stockholders. However, because certain
classes of our stock are publicly traded, we cannot guarantee
that this will always be the case.
Taxation
of Non-U.S.
Stockholders
For purposes of our discussion, the term
non-U.S. stockholder
means a holder of our common stock, senior common stock or
preferred stock that is not a U.S. stockholder, a
partnership (or an entity treated as a partnership for federal
income tax purposes) or a tax-exempt stockholder. The rules
governing federal income taxation of
non-U.S. stockholders,
including nonresident alien individuals, foreign corporations,
foreign partnerships, and other foreign stockholders, are
complex. This section is only a summary of certain of those
rules.
We urge
non-U.S. stockholders
to consult their own tax advisors to determine the impact of
federal, state, local and foreign income tax laws on the
acquisition, ownership and disposition of our common stock,
senior common stock and preferred stock, including any reporting
requirements.
Distributions. A
non-U.S. stockholder
that receives a distribution that is not attributable to gain
from our sale or exchange of a United States real property
interest, or a USRPI (discussed below), and that we do not
designate as a capital gain dividend or retained long-term
capital gain will recognize ordinary income to the extent that
we pay such distribution out of our current or accumulated
earnings and profits. A withholding tax equal to 30% of the
gross amount of the distribution ordinarily will apply unless an
applicable tax treaty reduces or eliminates the tax. However, a
non-U.S. stockholder
generally will be subject to federal income tax at graduated
rates on any distribution treated as effectively connected with
the
non-U.S. stockholders
conduct of a U.S. trade or business, in the same manner as
U.S. stockholders are taxed on distributions. A corporate
non-U.S. stockholder
may, in addition, be subject to the 30% branch profits tax with
respect to any such distribution. We plan to withhold federal
income tax at the rate of 30% on the gross amount of any
distribution paid to a
non-U.S. stockholder
unless either:
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a lower treaty rate applies and the
non-U.S. stockholder
submits an IRS Form
W-8BEN to us
evidencing eligibility for that reduced rate;
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the
non-U.S. stockholder
submits an IRS
Form W-8ECI
to us claiming that the distribution is effectively connected
income; or
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the distribution is treated as attributable to a sale of a USRPI
under FIRPTA (discussed below).
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A
non-U.S. stockholder
will not incur tax on a distribution in excess of our current
and accumulated earnings and profits if the excess portion of
such distribution does not exceed such
non-U.S. stockholders
adjusted basis in our stock. Instead, the excess portion of such
distribution will reduce the
non-U.S. stockholders
adjusted basis in our stock. A
non-U.S. stockholder
will be subject to tax on a distribution that exceeds both our
current and accumulated earnings and profits and the
non-U.S. stockholders
adjusted basis in our stock, if the
non-U.S. stockholder
otherwise would be subject to tax on gain from the sale or
disposition of stock, as described
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below. See Dispositions below. Under
FIRPTA (discussed below), we may be required to withhold 10% of
any distribution that exceeds our current and accumulated
earnings and profits. Although we intend to withhold at a rate
of 30% on the entire amount of any distribution (other than a
distribution attributable to a sale of a USRPI), to the extent
that we do not do so, we may withhold at a rate of 10% on any
portion of a distribution not subject to withholding at a rate
of 30%. Because we generally cannot determine at the time we
make a distribution whether the distribution will exceed our
current and accumulated earnings and profits, we may withhold
tax on the entire amount of any distribution. However, a
non-U.S. stockholder
may obtain a refund of amounts that we withhold if we later
determine that a distribution in fact exceeded our current and
accumulated earnings and profits.
For any year in which we qualify as a REIT, the Foreign
Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, or FIRPTA, may
apply to our sale or exchange of a USRPI. A USRPI includes
certain interests in real property and stock in corporations at
least 50% of whose assets consist of interests in real property.
Under FIRPTA, a
non-U.S. stockholder
is taxed on distributions attributable to gain from sales of
USRPIs as if such gain were effectively connected with the
conduct of a U.S. trade or business of the
non-U.S. stockholder.
A
non-U.S. stockholder
thus would be taxed on such a distribution at the normal capital
gains rates applicable to U.S. stockholders, subject to
applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative
minimum tax in the case of a nonresident alien individual. A
non-U.S. corporate
stockholder not entitled to treaty relief or exemption also may
be subject to the 30% branch profits tax on such a distribution.
If a class of our stock is regularly traded on an established
securities market in the United States (any such class of our
stock referred to as a publicly traded class),
capital gain distributions to a
non-U.S. stockholder
in respect of stock of such publicly traded class that is
attributable to our sale of real property will be treated as
ordinary dividends rather than as gain from the sale of a USRPI,
as long as such
non-U.S. stockholder
did not own more than 5% of the outstanding stock of such
publicly traded class at any time during the one-year period
preceding the distribution. As a result,
non-U.S. stockholders
owning 5% or less of the outstanding stock of such publicly
traded class generally would be subject to withholding tax on
such capital gain distributions in the same manner as they are
subject to withholding tax on other distributions. If a
non-U.S. stockholder
owned more than 5% of the outstanding stock of a publicly traded
class at any time during the one-year period preceding the
distribution, capital gain distributions to such
non-U.S. stockholder
in respect of the stock of such publicly traded class that are
attributable to our sale of real property would be subject to
tax under FIRPTA, as described above. Additionally, capital gain
distributions to a
non-U.S. stockholder
in respect of stock of a class that is not a publicly traded
class that are attributable to our sale of real property would
be subject to tax under FIRPTA, as described above.
If a distribution is subject to FIRPTA, we must withhold 35% of
such distribution that we could designate as a capital gain
dividend. A
non-U.S. stockholder
may receive a credit against its tax liability for the amount we
withhold. Moreover, if a
non-U.S. stockholder
disposes of our stock during the
30-day
period preceding a dividend payment, and such
non-U.S. stockholder
(or a person related to such
non-U.S. stockholder)
acquires or enters into a contract or option to acquire our
stock within 61 days of the first day of the
30-day
period described above, and any portion of such dividend payment
would, but for the disposition, be treated as a USRPI capital
gain to such
non-U.S. stockholder,
then such
non-U.S. stockholder
will be treated as having USRPI capital gain in an amount that,
but for the disposition, would have been treated as USRPI
capital gain.
Dispositions. Non-U.S. stockholders
may incur tax under FIRPTA with respect to gain realized on a
disposition of our stock since our stock will constitute a USRPI
unless one of the applicable exceptions, as described below,
applies. Any gain subject to tax under FIRPTA will be treated in
the same manner as it would be in the hands of
U.S. stockholders subject to alternative minimum tax, but
under a special alternative minimum tax in the case of
nonresident alien individuals.
Non-U.S. stockholders
generally will not incur tax under FIRPTA with respect to gain
on a sale of our stock, however, as long as, at all times we are
domestically controlled, i.e.,
non-U.S. persons
hold, directly or indirectly, less than 50% in value of our
outstanding stock. We cannot assure you that we will be
domestically controlled. In addition, even if we are not
domestically controlled, a
non-U.S. stockholder
that owned, actually or constructively, 5% or less of the
outstanding stock of a publicly traded class at all times during
a specified testing period will not incur tax under FIRPTA on
gain from a sale of such stock.
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Even if stock of a non-publicly traded class would otherwise
constitute a USRPI, gain arising from the sale or other taxable
disposition of such stock by a
non-U.S. stockholder
will not be subject to tax under FIRPTA as a sale of a USRPI if
we have a publicly traded class and the applicable
non-U.S. stockholder
has not, at the time it acquires the stock of a non-publicly
traded class, and at certain other times described in the
applicable Treasury Regulations, directly or indirectly held
stock of a non-publicly traded class (and in certain cases other
direct or indirect interests in our stock) that had a fair
market value in excess of 5% of the fair market value of our
publicly traded class with the lowest fair market value. In
addition, stock of a non-publicly traded class that is
convertible into a stock of a publicly traded class and that is
owned by a
non-U.S. stockholder
would not be considered a USRPI if, on the acquisition date,
such stock had a fair market value that did not exceed the fair
market value on such date of 5% of the total outstanding stock
of the publicly traded class into which the stock of the
non-publicly traded class is convertible.
A
non-U.S. stockholder
generally will incur tax on gain from a disposition of our stock
not subject to FIRPTA if:
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the gain is effectively connected with the conduct of the
non-U.S. stockholders
U.S. trade or business, in which case the
non-U.S. stockholder
will be subject to the same treatment as U.S. stockholders
with respect to such gain; or
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the
non-U.S. stockholder
is a nonresident alien individual who was present in the
U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year and
has a tax home in the United States, in which case
the
non-U.S. stockholder
will incur a 30% tax on its capital gains.
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Conversion of Convertible Stock into Common
Stock. Except as provided below, a
non-U.S. stockholder
generally will not recognize gain or loss upon the conversion of
any of our convertible stock into our common stock, provided
that such convertible stock does not constitute a USRPI. Even if
such convertible stock does constitute a USRPI, provided that
our common stock also constitutes a USRPI, a
non-U.S. stockholder
generally will not recognize gain or loss upon a conversion of
such convertible stock into our common stock. Except as provided
below, a
non-U.S. stockholders
basis and holding period in the common stock received upon
conversion will be the same as those of the converted stock (but
the basis will be reduced by the portion of adjusted tax basis
allocated to any fractional share of common stock exchanged for
cash). Although not entirely free from doubt, we intend to take
the position that any payment that a
non-U.S. stockholder
makes to us in connection with a conversion of any such
convertible stock should be added to such
non-U.S. stockholders
basis in our common stock that such
non-U.S. stockholder
receives upon conversion. You should consult your tax advisor
regarding the treatment of any such payment for federal income
tax purposes.
Cash received upon conversion in lieu of a fractional share of
our common stock generally will be treated as a payment in a
taxable exchange for such fractional share. See
Dispositions above.
Information
Reporting Requirements, Backup Withholding and Other Required
Withholding
We will report to our stockholders and to the IRS the amount of
distributions that we pay during each calendar year, and the
amount of tax that we withhold, if any. Under the backup
withholding rules, a stockholder may be subject to backup
withholding at a rate of 28% with respect to distributions
unless the stockholder:
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is a corporation or qualifies for certain other exempt
categories and, when required, demonstrates this fact; or
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provides a taxpayer identification number, certifies as to no
loss of exemption from backup withholding, and otherwise
complies with the applicable requirements of the backup
withholding rules.
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A stockholder who does not provide us with its correct taxpayer
identification number also may be subject to penalties imposed
by the IRS. Any amount paid as backup withholding will be
creditable against the stockholders income tax liability.
In addition, we may be required to withhold a portion of capital
gain distributions to any stockholders who fail to certify their
non-foreign status to us.
Backup withholding generally will not apply to payments of
dividends made by us or our paying agents, in their capacities
as such, to a
non-U.S. stockholder
provided that such
non-U.S. stockholder
furnishes to us or our paying agent the required certification
as to its
non-U.S. status,
such as providing a valid IRS
Form W-8BEN
or W-8ECI,
or certain other requirements are met. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, backup withholding may apply if
43
either we or our paying agent has actual knowledge, or reason to
know, that the holder is a U.S. person that is
not an exempt recipient. Payments of the proceeds from a
disposition or a redemption of our stock that occurs outside the
U.S. by a
non-U.S. stockholder
made by or through a foreign office of a broker generally will
not be subject to information reporting or backup withholding.
However, information reporting (but not backup withholding)
generally will apply to such a payment if the broker has certain
connections with the U.S. unless the broker has documentary
evidence in its records that demonstrates that the beneficial
owner is a
non-U.S. stockholder
and specified conditions are met or an exemption is otherwise
established. Payment of the proceeds from a disposition of our
stock by a
non-U.S. stockholder
made by or through the U.S. office of a broker generally is
subject to information reporting and backup withholding unless
the
non-U.S. stockholder
certifies under penalties of perjury that it is not a
U.S. person and satisfies certain other requirements, or
otherwise establishes an exemption from information reporting
and backup withholding.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts
withheld under the backup withholding rules may be refunded or
credited against the stockholders federal income tax
liability if certain required information is furnished to the
IRS. Stockholders should consult their own tax advisors
regarding application of backup withholding to them and the
availability of, and procedure for obtaining an exemption from,
backup withholding.
For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, a
U.S. withholding tax at a 30% rate will be imposed on
dividends and proceeds of sale in respect of our stock received
by (i) U.S. stockholders that own their stock through
foreign accounts or foreign intermediaries and (ii) certain
non-U.S. stockholders
if, in either case, certain disclosure requirements related to
U.S. accounts or ownership are not satisfied. If payment of
withholding taxes is required,
non-U.S. stockholders
that are otherwise eligible for an exemption from, or reduction
of, U.S. withholding taxes with respect to such dividends
and proceeds will be required to seek a refund from the IRS to
obtain the benefit of such exemption or reduction. We will not
pay any additional amounts in respect of any amounts withheld.
Tax
Aspects of Our Investments in Our Operating Partnership and
Subsidiary Partnerships
We currently hold, directly and indirectly, all of the ownership
interests in our Operating Partnership and our other
subsidiaries; therefore, our Operating Partnership and our other
subsidiaries (other than any taxable REIT subsidiaries)
currently are disregarded for federal income tax purposes. See
Requirements for Qualification as a
REIT Qualified REIT Subsidiaries and
Requirements for Qualification as a
REIT Other Disregarded Entities and
Partnerships above. If additional partners or members are
admitted to our Operating Partnership or any of our other
subsidiaries, as applicable, we intend for such noncorporate
entity to be treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes. The following discussion summarizes certain federal
income tax considerations that would be applicable if our
Operating Partnership or other subsidiaries were treated as
partnerships for federal income tax purposes, each individually
referred to as a Partnership and, collectively, as
the Partnerships. The following discussion does not
address state or local tax laws or any federal tax laws other
than income tax laws.
Classification
as Partnerships
We are required to include in our income our distributive share
of each Partnerships income and to deduct our distributive
share of each Partnerships losses but only if such
Partnership is classified for federal income tax purposes as a
partnership, rather than as a corporation or an association
taxable as a corporation. An unincorporated entity with at least
two owners or members, as determined for federal income tax
purposes, will be classified as a partnership, rather than as a
corporation, for federal income tax purposes if it:
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is treated as a partnership under the Treasury regulations
relating to entity classification, or the
check-the-box
regulations; and
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is not a publicly traded partnership.
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Under the
check-the-box
regulations, an unincorporated entity with at least two owners
or members may elect to be classified either as an association
taxable as a corporation or as a partnership. If such an entity
does not make an election, it generally will be treated as a
partnership for federal income tax purposes.
A publicly traded partnership is a partnership whose interests
are traded on an established securities market or are readily
tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent
thereof. A publicly traded partnership
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generally is treated as a corporation for federal income tax
purposes, but will not be so treated if, for each taxable year
beginning after December 31, 1987 in which it was
classified as a publicly traded partnership, at least 90% of the
partnerships gross income consisted of specified passive
income, including real property rents, gains from the sale or
other disposition of real property, interest, and dividends, or
the 90% passive income exception. The
U.S. Treasury Regulations provide limited safe harbors from
treatment as a publicly traded partnership. Pursuant to one of
those safe harbors, interests in a partnership will not be
treated as readily tradable on a secondary market or the
substantial equivalent thereof if (1) all interests in the
partnership were issued in a transaction or transactions that
were not required to be registered under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, and (2) the partnership does not have
more than 100 partners at any time during the partnerships
taxable year. In determining the number of partners in a
partnership, a person owning an interest in a partnership,
grantor trust, or S corporation that owns an interest in
the partnership is treated as a partner in such partnership only
if (1) substantially all of the value of the owners
interest in the entity is attributable to the entitys
direct or indirect interest in the partnership and (2) a
principal purpose of the use of the entity is to permit the
partnership to satisfy the 100-partner limitation. If any
Partnership does not qualify for any safe harbor and is treated
as a publicly traded partnership, we believe that such
Partnership would have sufficient qualifying income to satisfy
the 90% passive income exception and, therefore, would not be
treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes.
We have not requested, and do not intend to request, a ruling
from the IRS that any of the Partnerships is or will be
classified as partnership for federal income tax purposes. If,
for any reason, a Partnership were taxable as a corporation,
rather than as a partnership, for federal income tax purposes,
we may not be able to qualify as a REIT, unless we qualify for
certain relief provisions. See Gross Income
Tests and Asset Tests. In
addition, any change in a Partnerships status for tax
purposes might be treated as a taxable event, in which case we
might incur tax liability without any related cash distribution.
See Annual Distribution Requirements.
Further, items of income and deduction of such Partnership would
not pass through to us, and we would be treated as a stockholder
for federal income tax purposes. Consequently, such Partnership
would be required to pay income tax at corporate rates on its
net income, and distributions to us would constitute dividends
that would not be deductible in computing such
Partnerships taxable income.
Income
Taxation of the Partnerships and Their Partners
Partners, Not the Partnerships, Subject to
Tax. A partnership is not a taxable entity for
federal income tax purposes. Rather, we are required to take
into account our allocable share of each Partnerships
income, gains, losses, deductions, and credits for each taxable
year of the Partnership ending with or within our taxable year,
even if we receive no distribution from the Partnership for that
year or a distribution that is less than our share of taxable
income. Similarly, even if we receive a distribution, it may not
be taxable if the distribution does not exceed our adjusted tax
basis in our interest in the Partnership.
Partnership Allocations. Although a
partnership agreement generally will determine the allocation of
income and losses among partners, such allocations will be
disregarded for tax purposes if they do not comply with the
provisions of the federal income tax laws governing partnership
allocations. If an allocation is not recognized for federal
income tax purposes, the item subject to the allocation will be
reallocated in accordance with the partners interests in
the partnership, which will be determined by taking into account
all of the facts and circumstances relating to the economic
arrangement of the partners with respect to such item.
Tax Allocations With Respect to Contributed
Properties. Income, gain, loss, and deduction
attributable to appreciated or depreciated property that is
contributed to a partnership in exchange for an interest in the
partnership must be allocated for federal income tax purposes in
a manner such that the contributing partner is charged with, or
benefits from, respectively, the unrealized gain or unrealized
loss associated with the property at the time of the
contribution (the 704(c) Allocations). The amount of
such unrealized gain or unrealized loss, referred to as
built-in gain or built-in loss, at the
time of contribution is generally equal to the difference
between the fair market value of the contributed property at the
time of contribution and the adjusted tax basis of such property
at that time, referred to as a book-tax difference. A book-tax
difference attributable to depreciable property generally is
decreased on an annual basis as a result of the allocation of
depreciation deductions to the contributing partner for book
purposes, but not for tax purposes. The 704(c) Allocations are
solely for federal income tax purposes and do not affect the
book capital accounts or other economic or legal arrangements
among the partners. The U.S. Treasury
45
Department has issued regulations requiring partnerships to use
a reasonable method for allocating items with
respect to which there is a book-tax difference and outlining
several reasonable allocation methods.
If our Operating Partnership were to admit additional partners
and therefore be treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes, the properties owned by the Operating Partnership
would be deemed to have been contributed to a partnership for
federal income tax purposes, which could result in future 704(c)
Allocations to us. In addition, the carryover basis of any
properties actually contributed to our Operating Partnership by
an additional partner, under certain reasonable methods
available to us, including the traditional method,
(i) would cause us to be allocated lower amounts of
depreciation deductions for tax purposes than would be allocated
to us if all contributed properties were to have a tax basis
equal to their fair market value at the time of the contribution
and (ii) in the event of a sale of such properties, could
cause us to be allocated taxable gain in excess of the economic
or book gain allocated to us as a result of such sale, with a
corresponding tax benefit to the contributing partners. An
allocation described in (ii) above might cause us to
recognize taxable income in excess of cash proceeds in the event
of a sale or other disposition of property, which might
adversely affect our ability to comply with the REIT
distribution requirements and may result in a greater portion of
our distributions being taxed as dividends.
Basis in Partnership Interest. Our adjusted
tax basis in any partnership interest we own generally will be:
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the amount of cash and the basis of any other property we
contribute to the partnership;
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increased by our allocable share of the partnerships
income (including tax-exempt income) and any increase in our
allocable share of indebtedness of the partnership; and
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reduced, but not below zero, by our allocable share of the
partnerships loss (excluding any non-deductible items),
the amount of cash and the basis of property distributed to us,
and any reduction in our allocable share of indebtedness of the
partnership.
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Loss allocated to us in excess of our basis in a partnership
interest will not be taken into account for federal income tax
purposes until we again have basis sufficient to absorb the
loss. A reduction of our share of partnership indebtedness will
be treated as a constructive cash distribution to us, and will
reduce our adjusted tax basis. Distributions, including
constructive distributions, in excess of the basis of our
partnership interest will constitute taxable income to us. Such
distributions and constructive distributions normally will be
characterized as long-term capital gain.
Sale of a Partnerships
Property. Generally, any gain realized by a
Partnership on the sale of property held for more than one year
will be long-term capital gain, except for any portion of the
gain treated as depreciation or cost recovery recapture. Our
share of any Partnerships gain from the sale of inventory
or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the
ordinary course of the Partnerships trade or business will
be treated as income from a prohibited transaction subject to a
100% tax. Income from a prohibited transaction may have an
adverse effect on our ability to satisfy the gross income tests
for REIT status. See Gross Income Tests.
We presently do not intend to acquire or hold, or to allow any
Partnership to acquire or hold, any property that is likely to
be treated as inventory or property held primarily for sale to
customers in the ordinary course of our, or any
Partnerships, trade or business.
Sunset of
Reduced Tax Rate Provisions
Several of the tax considerations described herein are subject
to a sunset provision. The sunset provision generally provides
that for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010,
certain provisions that currently are in the Code will revert
back to an earlier version of those provisions. Those provisions
include provisions related to the reduced federal income tax
rates for taxpayers taxed at individual rates as to ordinary
income, long-term capital gains and qualified dividend income,
and certain other tax rate provisions described herein. The
impact of this sunset is not discussed herein. Consequently,
prospective stockholders should consult their own tax advisors
regarding the effect of sunset provisions on an investment in
our stock.
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State and
Local Taxes
We and/or
you may be subject to taxation by various states and localities,
including those in which we or a stockholder transacts business,
owns property or resides. The state and local tax treatment may
differ from the federal income tax treatment described above.
Consequently, you should consult your own tax advisors regarding
the effect of state and local tax laws on an investment in our
stock.
PLAN OF
DISTRIBUTION
Offering
and Sale of Securities
We may sell the securities being offered hereby, from time to
time, in one or more offerings, on a continuous or delayed
basis, by one or more of the following methods:
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to or through underwriting syndicates represented by managing
underwriters;
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through one or more underwriters without a syndicate for them to
offer and sell to the public;
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to or through dealers, brokers, placement agents or other
agents; and
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to investors directly in negotiated sales or in competitively
bid transactions.
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One or more prospectus supplements will describe the terms of
the offering of the securities, including:
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the name or names of any underwriters, dealers or agents, if any;
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the purchase price of the securities and the proceeds we will
receive from the sale;
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any over-allotment options under which underwriters may purchase
additional securities from us;
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any agency fees or underwriting discounts and other items
constituting agents or underwriters compensation;
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any public offering price;
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any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to
dealers; and
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any securities exchange or market on which the securities may be
listed.
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The distribution of the securities may be effected from time to
time in one or more transactions:
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at fixed prices which may be changed;
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at market prices prevailing at the time of the sale;
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at varying prices determined at the time of sale; or
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at negotiated prices.
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Each prospectus supplement will set forth the manner and terms
of an offering of securities including:
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the number and terms of the securities to which such prospectus
relates;
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the name or names of any underwriters or agents with whom we
have entered into arrangements with respect to the sale of such
securities;
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the rules and procedures for any auction or bidding process, if
used; and
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the public offering or purchase price of such securities and the
net proceeds we will receive from such sale.
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We may enter into derivative transactions with third parties or
sell securities not covered by this prospectus to third parties
in privately negotiated transactions. If the related prospectus
supplement so indicates, in connection with those derivatives,
the third parties may sell securities covered by this prospectus
and the related prospectus supplement, including in short sale
transactions. If so, the third party may use securities pledged
by us or borrowed from us or others to settle those sales or to
close out any related open borrowings of stock and may use
securities
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received from us in settlement of those derivatives to close out
any related open borrowings of stock. The third party in such
sale transactions will be an underwriter and, if not identified
in this prospectus, will be identified in the related prospectus
supplement (or a post-effective amendment).
Sales
Through Underwriters
If underwriters are used in the sale, they will acquire the
securities for their own account and may resell them from time
to time in one or more transactions at a fixed public offering
price. The obligations of the underwriters to purchase the
securities will be subject to the conditions set forth in the
applicable underwriting agreement. We may offer the securities
to the public through underwriting syndicates represented by
managing underwriters or by underwriters without a syndicate.
Subject to certain conditions, the underwriters will be
obligated to purchase all of the securities of the series
offered by the prospectus supplement. Any public offering price
and any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to
dealers may change from time to time. We may use underwriters
with whom we have a material relationship. We will describe in
the prospectus supplement, naming the underwriter, the nature of
any such relationship.
Sales
Through Agents
We may sell securities directly or through agents that we
designate from time to time. We will name any agent involved in
the offering and sale of securities, and we will describe any
commissions that we will pay the agent in the prospectus
supplement. Unless the prospectus supplement states otherwise,
our agent will act on a best-efforts basis for the period of its
appointment.
Securities bought in accordance with a redemption or repayment
under their terms also may be offered and sold, if so indicated
in the accompanying prospectus supplement, in connection with a
remarketing by one or more firms acting as principals for their
own accounts or as agents for us. Any remarketing firm will be
identified, and the terms of its agreement, if any, with us and
its compensation will be described in the prospectus supplement.
Remarketing firms may be deemed to be underwriters in connection
with the securities remarketed by them. If so indicated in the
applicable prospectus supplement, we may authorize agents,
underwriters or dealers to solicit offers by certain specified
institutions to purchase securities at a price set forth in the
prospectus supplement pursuant to delayed delivery contracts
providing for payment and delivery on a future date specified in
the prospectus supplement. These contracts will be subject only
to those conditions set forth in the accompanying prospectus
supplement, and the prospectus supplement will set forth the
commissions payable for solicitation of these contracts.
Direct
Sales
We may authorize agents or underwriters to solicit offers by
certain types of institutional investors to purchase securities
from us at the public offering price set forth in the prospectus
supplement pursuant to delayed delivery contracts providing for
payment and delivery on a specified date in the future. We will
describe the conditions to these contracts and the commissions
that we must pay for solicitation of these contracts in the
prospectus supplement.
General
Information
We will file a supplement to this prospectus, if required,
pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act, if we
enter into any material arrangement with a broker, dealer, agent
or underwriter for the sale of securities through a block trade,
special offering, exchange distribution or secondary
distribution or a purchase by a broker or dealer. Such
prospectus supplement will disclose:
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the name of any participating broker, dealer, agent or
underwriter;
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the number and type of securities involved;
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the price at which such securities were sold;
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any securities exchanges on which such securities may be listed;
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the commissions paid or discounts or concessions allowed to any
such broker, dealer, agent or underwriter where
applicable; and
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other facts material to the transaction.
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We may provide agents and underwriters with indemnification
against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under
the Securities Act, or contribution with respect to payments
that the agents or underwriters may make with respect to such
liabilities. Agents and underwriters may engage in transactions
with, or perform services for, us in the ordinary course of
business.
Our common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under
the symbol GOOD. Our 7.75% Series A Cumulative
Redeemable Preferred Stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select
Market under the symbol GOOD.P and our 7.50%
Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock trades on
the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol
GOOD.O. Our senior common stock is not listed on an
exchange. All securities that we offer, other than common stock
or senior common stock, and other than securities issued upon a
reopening of a previous series, will be new issues of securities
with no established trading market. Any underwriters may make a
market in these securities but will not be obligated to do so
and may discontinue any market making at any time without
notice. We cannot guarantee the liquidity of the trading markets
for any securities.
Any underwriter may engage in over-allotment, stabilizing
transactions, short covering transactions and penalty bids in
accordance with Regulation M under the Exchange Act.
Over-allotment involves sales in excess of the offering size
which create a short position. Stabilizing transactions permit
bids to purchase the underlying security so long as the
stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum price. Short
covering transactions involve purchases of the securities in the
open market after the distribution is completed to cover short
positions. Penalty bids permit the underwriters to reclaim a
selling concession from a dealer when the securities originally
sold by the dealer are purchased in a covering transaction to
cover short positions. Those activities may cause the price of
the securities to be higher than it would otherwise be. If
commenced, the underwriters may discontinue any of the
activities at any time.
Any underwriters who are qualified market makers on the NASDAQ
Global Select Market may engage in passive market making
transactions in the securities on the NASDAQ Global Select
Market in accordance with Rule 103 of Regulation M
under the Exchange Act during the business day prior to the
pricing of the offering and before the commencement of offers or
sales of the securities. Passive market makers must comply with
applicable volume and price limitations and must be identified
as passive market makers. In general, a passive market maker
must display its bid at a price not in excess of the highest
independent bid for such security; if all independent bids are
lowered below the passive market makers bid, however, the
passive market makers bid must then be lowered when
certain purchase limits are exceeded.
Some of the underwriters, dealers and agents and their
affiliates may engage in transactions with or perform services
for us and our affiliates in the ordinary course of business.
Underwriters have from time to time in the past provided, and
may from time to time in the future provide, investment banking
services to us for which they have in the past received, and in
the future may receive, customary fees.
LEGAL
MATTERS
Certain legal matters regarding the shares of common stock
offered hereby will be passed upon for us by
Bass, Berry & Sims PLC, Memphis, Tennessee, and
certain matters with respect to Maryland law will be passed upon
by Venable LLP.
EXPERTS
The financial statements and managements assessment of the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting
(which is included in Managements Report on Internal
Control over Financial Reporting) incorporated in this
prospectus by reference to the Annual Report on
Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2009 have been so
incorporated in reliance on the report(s) of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public
accounting firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts
in auditing and accounting.
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WHERE YOU
CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We are a public company and file annual, quarterly and current
reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC.
You may read and copy any document that we file at the
SECs public reference room at 100 F Street, NE,
Washington, D.C. 20549. You may request copies of these
documents by writing to the SEC and paying a fee for the copying
cost. Please call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330
for more information about the operation of the public reference
room. Our SEC filings are also available to the public at the
SECs website at
http://www.sec.gov.
We also make available free of charge through our website our
Annual Reports on
Form 10-K,
Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q,
Current Reports on
Form 8-K
and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to
Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as well as our
definitive proxy statement and Section 16 reports on
Forms 3, 4 and 5. Our website address is
http://www.GladstoneCommercial.com.
However, the information located on, or accessible from, our
website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, except as
described below, a part of this prospectus or any accompanying
prospectus supplement or incorporated into any other filings
that we make with the SEC.
This prospectus comprises only part of a registration statement
on
Form S-3
that we have filed with the SEC under the Securities Act and,
therefore, omits some of the information contained in the
registration statement. We have also filed exhibits and
schedules to the registration statement which are excluded from
this prospectus, and you should refer to the applicable exhibit
or schedule for a complete description of any statement
referring to any contract or other document. You may inspect or
obtain a copy of the registration statement, including the
exhibits and schedules, as described in the previous paragraph.
INCORPORATION
OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we have
filed with the SEC. The SEC allows us to incorporate by
reference the information that we file with it which means
that we can disclose important information to you by referring
you to those documents. The information incorporated by
reference is considered to comprise a part of this prospectus
from the date we file that document. Any reports filed by us
with the SEC after the date of this prospectus and before the
date that the offering of the securities by means of this
prospectus is terminated will automatically update and, where
applicable, supersede any information contained in this
prospectus or incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
We previously filed the following documents with the SEC, and
such filings are incorporated by reference into this prospectus.
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Annual Report on
Form 10-K
for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009, filed
February 24, 2010 (including portions of our definitive
Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders
incorporated therein by reference);
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Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q
for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2010, filed
May 3, 2010;
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Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q
for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2010, filed
August 3, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed March 19, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed April 29, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed May 7, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed June 10, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed July 8, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed July 26, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed August 11, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed August 16, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed August 27, 2010;
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Current Report on
Form 8-K
filed September 9, 2010;
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The description of our common stock contained in our
Registration Statement on
Form 8-A
filed August 12, 2003, as updated through subsequently
filed reports;
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The description of our 7.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable
Preferred Stock contained in our Registration Statement on
Form 8-A
filed January 19, 2006, as updated through subsequently
filed reports; and
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The description of our 7.50% Series B Cumulative Redeemable
Preferred Stock contained in our Registration Statement on
Form 8-A
filed October 19, 2006, as amended in our Registration
Statement on
Form 8-A/A
filed on October 23, 2006, as updated through subsequently
filed reports.
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We also incorporate by reference into this prospectus additional
documents that we may file with the SEC under
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, from
the date of this prospectus until all of the securities offered
by this prospectus have been sold or we otherwise terminate the
offering of these securities, including all filings made after
the date of the initial filing of the registration statement of
which this prospectus is a part and prior to the effectiveness
of the registration statement; provided, however, that
information furnished under Item 2.02 or
Item 7.01 of
Form 8-K
or other information furnished to the SEC which is
not deemed filed is not incorporated by reference in this
prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement.
Information that we subsequently file with the SEC will
automatically update and may supersede information in this
prospectus, any accompanying prospectus supplement and
information previously filed with the SEC.
You may request a copy of these filings (other than exhibits,
unless the exhibits are specifically incorporated by reference
into these documents) at no cost by writing or calling Investor
Relations at the following address and telephone number:
Investor Relations
Gladstone Commercial Corporation
1521 Westbranch Drive, Suite 200
McLean, Virginia 22102
(703) 287-5893
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FTC&H, Inc.
Grand Rapids, Michigan |
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HMB Foods, Inc,
Newburyport, Massachusetts |
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Corning, Inc.
Horseheads, New York |
3,000,000 Shares in Primary Offering
500,000 Shares Pursuant to Distribution Reinvestment Plan
Senior Common Stock
Prospectus Supplement
GLADSTONE SECURITIES, LLC
March 28, 2011