e497
2,027,678 Shares Issuable Upon Exercise of Rights to Purchase Common Stock
The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc.
Each holder of shares of our preferred and common stock shall receive, at no cost, one
nontransferable right (a Subscription Right) for every
two shares owned as of July 27, 2007 (the
Record Date). We will not issue fractional Subscription Rights. Each Subscription
Right entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of our common stock (the Basic
Subscription Right) at a price equal to the greater of (a) the Funds net asset value per share
(NAV) as determined as of the close of business on the Expiration Date (as defined below) or (b)
95% of the average trade weighted market price of our common stock on the Expiration Date (the
Subscription Price). Exercising stockholders will incur no additional fees or expenses in
connection with the purchase, sale or exercise of Subscription Rights. We must receive your
instructions to exercise your Subscription Rights no later than 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on
August 17, 2007, unless we decide to extend it to some later date (the Expiration Date).
If you elect to purchase the maximum amount of our common stock that you are entitled to purchase
pursuant to your Basic Subscription Right, you will also be entitled, subject to allotment, to
purchase additional shares of our common stock, if any, that are not purchased by our other
stockholders pursuant to their Basic Subscription Right (the Over-Subscription Privilege).
However, we will not issue fractional shares of common stock upon the exercise of your
Over-Subscription Privilege. If you do not fully subscribe for your Basic Subscription Right, you
may own a smaller proportional interest in our voting stock than you owned prior to the offer. See
Risk Factors Dilution of Ownership.
Since
August 21, 1990, our common stock has traded on the NYSE under
the symbol MXE and since January 6, 2006, our preferred
stock has traded on the NYSE under the symbol MXE-Pr.
An investment in the Fund involves risks. See Risk Factors herein.
Neither the SEC 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 Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, as a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company. Our investment objective
is high total return through capital appreciation and current income by investing at least 80% of
the Funds assets in equity and convertible securities issued by Mexican companies and debt
securities of Mexican issuers.
It is the Staffs position that a closed end investment company is prohibited from issuing
more than a single class of common stock. While such an investment company may issue preferred
stock, such preferred stock must adhere to certain conditions of the Investment Company Act of
1940, including the condition that any preferred class of stock have a dividend preference and that
such dividends be cumulative. It is the Staffs position that
the Fund had not initially
issued its preferred stock in accordance with Section 18(a)(2)(E) of the Investment Company Act of
1940. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board of Directors of the
Fund believes that it has
complied at all times with all applicable laws.
This Prospectus sets forth concisely the information about the Fund that a prospective investor
ought to know before investing. Additional information about the Fund has been filed with the SEC
and is available upon written or oral request and without charge by calling our administrator at
(866) 700-6104. Our SEC filings, including annual and semi-annual reports to stockholders, are
also available to the public on the SECs Internet website at http://www.sec.gov and can be
inspected at the offices of the NYSE, 20
Broad Street, New York, NY 10005. We do not have a website. This Prospectus should be retained
for future reference.
You should rely only on the information contained in this Prospectus. We have not authorized any
other person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different or
inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. This Prospectus is not an offer to sell or
issue, or a solicitation of an offer to buy or accept, any securities in any jurisdiction where it
is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation.
For information regarding the offer, contact The Altman Group, the information agent, at
212-400-2605.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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28 |
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29 |
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31 |
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31 |
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34 |
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34 |
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35 |
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41 |
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42 |
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42 |
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43 |
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43 |
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44 |
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44 |
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44 |
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45 |
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45 |
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Prospectus Summary
This summary highlights some of the information in this Prospectus. It may not contain
all of the information that you may want to consider. You should read carefully the more detailed
information set forth under Risk Factors and the other information included in this Prospectus.
The terms we, us, the Fund and our refer to The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc. PAM
or the investment adviser refers to Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V.
The Company
General
We were incorporated in Maryland on May 24, 1990 and commenced investment operations on August
21, 1990. We are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (together with
the rules promulgated thereunder, the 1940 Act), as a closedend, non-diversified management
investment company. Our common and preferred stock are listed and
trade on the NYSE under the trading symbols
MXE and MXE-Pr, respectively
Our Investment Objective
Our investment objective is high total return through capital appreciation and current income.
We seek to achieve our investment objective by investing at least 80% of our assets in equity and
convertible securities issued by Mexican companies and debt securities of Mexican issuers.
Our Adviser
Our investment adviser is Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V., a corporation organized
under the laws of Mexico. PAM is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended (the Advisers Act). Maria Eugenia Pichardo, who owns 99% of PAM, has
acted as the Funds portfolio manager since the inception of the Fund in 1990. Under our
Investment Advisory Agreement, we pay PAM a monthly fee at an annual rate of 0.80% of the value of
our average daily net assets. See Investment Advisory Agreement.
Rights Offering of Common Stock
Each holder of shares of our preferred and common stock shall receive, at no cost, one
nontransferable right (a Subscription Right) for every
two shares owned as of July 27, 2007 (the
Record Date). We will not issue fractional Subscription Rights. Each Subscription
Right entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of our common stock (the Basic
Subscription Right) at a price equal to the greater of (a) the Funds net asset value per share
(NAV) as determined as of the close of business on the Expiration Date (as defined below) or (b)
95% of the average trade weighted market price of our common stock on the Expiration Date (the
Subscription Price). Exercising stockholders will incur no additional fees or expenses in
connection with the purchase, sale or exercise of Subscription Rights. We must receive your
instructions to exercise your Subscription Rights no later than 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on
August 17, 2007, unless we decide to extend it to some later date (the Expiration Date).
If you elect to purchase the maximum amount of our common stock that you are entitled to
purchase pursuant to your Basic Subscription Right, you will also be entitled, subject to
allotment, to purchase additional shares of our common stock, if any, that are not purchased by our
other stockholders pursuant to their Basic Subscription Right (the Over-Subscription Privilege).
However, we will not
issue fractional shares of common stock upon the exercise of your Over-Subscription Privilege.
If you do not fully subscribe for your Basic Subscription Right, you may own a smaller
proportional interest in our voting stock than you owned prior to the offer. See Risk Factors
Dilution of Ownership. The Basic Subscription Right and the Over-Subscription Privilege shall be
collectively referred to herein as the Rights.
How to Subscribe
|
|
Ø |
|
Deliver a completed Subscription Certificate (enclosed) and
payment to the Subscribing Agent at the address below so that it
is received by the Expiration Date (we recommend using an insured
courier), or |
|
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|
Ø |
|
If your shares are held in an account with your broker-dealer,
trust company, bank or other nominee, have your broker-dealer,
trust company, bank or other nominee deliver a Notice of
Guaranteed Delivery to the Subscribing Agent by the Expiration
Date. |
Subscribing Agent
Computershare Trust Company, N.A., 161 Bay State Drive, Braintree, MA 02184 (if by Hand or
Overnight Delivery) or P.O. Box 859208, Braintree, MA 02185-9208 (if by Mail).
Obtaining Subscription Information
If you have questions or requests for assistance, please contact The Altman Group, the information
agent, at 212-400-2605. You may also call your broker for information with respect to this offer.
Important Dates to Remember
|
|
|
Record Date |
|
July 27, 2007 |
Subscription Period |
|
July 27, 2007- August 17, 2007* |
Expiration Date/ Deadline to Purchase Common Stock |
|
August 17, 2007* |
Deadline for Notice of Guaranteed Delivery |
|
August 17, 2007* |
Deadline for Payment to Notice of Guaranteed Delivery |
|
August 24, 2007* |
Confirmation Mailed to Participating Holders |
|
August 29, 2007* |
|
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|
* |
|
Unless the offer is extended. |
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|
A person purchasing common stock pursuant to his or her Rights must deliver either (i) the Subscription Certificate and payment
for the common stock or (ii) a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery by the Expiration Date, unless the offer is extended. |
-2-
The Offering
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Common Stock to be issued by Us
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|
Maximum of 2,027,678 shares of common stock |
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Purpose of the Offering/Use
of Proceeds
|
|
All proceeds of this offering will be
invested in accordance with the Funds
investment objectives and policies as
stated herein. |
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Basic Subscription Right
|
|
Each holder of shares of our preferred and
common stock shall receive, at no cost,
one nontransferable right (a Subscription
Right) for every two shares owned as of
July 27, 2007 (the Record Date). We will not issue fractional
Subscription Rights. Each Subscription
Right entitles the holder thereof to
purchase one share of our common stock
(the Basic Subscription Right) at a
price equal to the greater of (a) the
Funds net asset value per share (NAV)
as determined as of the close of business
on the Expiration Date (as defined below)
or (b) 95% of the average trade weighted
market price of our common stock on the
Expiration Date (the Subscription
Price). Exercising stockholders will
incur no additional fees or expenses in
connection with the purchase, sale or
exercise of Subscription Rights. We must
receive your instructions to exercise your
Subscription Rights no later than 5:00
p.m., New York City time, on August 17,
2007, unless we decide to extend it to
some later date (the Expiration Date). |
|
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Over-Subscription Privilege
|
|
If you elect to purchase the maximum
amount of our common stock that you are
entitled to purchase pursuant to your
Basic Subscription Right, you will also be
entitled to subscribe, subject to
allotment, to purchase additional shares
of our common stock, if any, that are not
purchased by our other stockholders
pursuant to their Basic Subscription Right
as of the Expiration Date (the
Over-Subscription Privilege). See
Common Stock Rights Offering
Over-Subscription Privilege. If you do
not fully subscribe for your Basic
Subscription Right, you may own a smaller
proportional interest in our voting stock
than you owned prior to the offer. See
Risk Factors Dilution of Ownership. |
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Expiration Date
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|
5:00 p.m., New York City time, on August
17, 2007, unless we decide to extend it to
some later date. |
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Fractional Shares
|
|
You need one right to purchase one share
of our common stock at the Subscription
Price. The Fund will not issue fractional
shares. |
|
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|
Risk Factors
|
|
See Risk Factors and the other
information included in this Prospectus
for a discussion of risks that you should
carefully consider about us and about this
offering. |
-3-
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Non-Transferability of the Rights
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|
Your Rights are non-transferable. If you
do not exercise them, you give up any
right to the underlying shares of common
stock. |
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Termination of the Offering
|
|
The Board of Directors may decide to
terminate this offering at any time, on or
before the Expiration Date. If we
terminate the offering, our only
obligation to you will be to return any
payment, without interest. |
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Distribution Arrangements
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|
We do not intend to engage a dealer
manager for the offer. Our officers and
directors may solicit the exercise of
Rights by our stockholders. The offer is
not contingent on any number of Rights
being exercised. We will pay all expenses
incurred in connection with the offer. |
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Listing
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|
Our common stock and preferred stock are
listed for trading on the NYSE under the
symbols MXE and MXE-Pr, respectively. |
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Material United States Federal
Income Tax Consequences
|
|
The receipt and election to purchase
common stock are intended to be nontaxable
events. If you sell shares of our common
stock after purchasing them, you will
recognize gain or loss. You should obtain
specific tax advice from your personal tax
advisor. See Material United States
Federal Income Tax Consequences Taxation
of Stockholders below. |
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Available Information
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|
We are subject to the reporting
requirements of the 1940 Act and are
required to file reports, proxy statements
and other information with the SEC. This
information will be available at the SECs
public reference room at 100 F St. NE,
Washington, D.C. 20549. You may call the
SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for information on
the operation of the Public Reference
Room. Our SEC filings are also available
to the public on the SECs Internet
website at http://www.sec.gov and can be
inspected at the offices of the NYSE, 20
Broad Street, New York, NY 10005. |
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Management Arrangements
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|
Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V.
(PAM) serves as our investment adviser.
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
(Administrator) serves as our
administrator. For a description of PAM
or the Administrator and our contractual
arrangements with these companies, see
Investment Advisory Agreement and
Administration Agreement. |
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Subscribing Agent
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|
Computershare Trust Company, N.A., 161 Bay
State Drive, Braintree, MA 02184. |
|
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Dilution
|
|
As a result of the terms of this offer,
stockholders who do not fully exercise
their Rights will own, upon completion of
this offer, a smaller proportional
interest in our voting stock than they
owned prior to the offer. See Risk
Factors Dilution of Ownership. |
-4-
Fees and Expenses
The following table is intended to assist prospective investors in understanding the
costs and expenses associated with this offering and an investment in the Fund.
Stockholder transaction expenses(1):
|
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|
Total stockholder transaction expenses |
|
$ |
0 |
|
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|
|
|
|
Annual expenses (as a percentage of net assets of the Fund) as of January 31, 2007: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Management fees |
|
|
0.80 |
% |
Interest payments on borrowed funds |
|
|
|
(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
Other expenses |
|
|
0.71 |
% |
Total annual expenses |
|
|
1.51 |
%(3) |
|
Example
The following example demonstrates the projected dollar amount of total cumulative expenses that
would be incurred over various periods with respect to a hypothetical investment in the Fund.
These amounts are based upon payment by an investor of $1,000 as an investment in the Fund and our
payment of annual operating expenses at the levels set forth in the table above which, as indicated
above, does not include leverage or related expenses.
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1 year |
|
3 years |
|
5 years |
|
10 years |
You would pay the following
expenses on a $1,000
investment, assuming a 5%
annual return |
|
$ |
15 |
|
|
$ |
48 |
|
|
$ |
82 |
|
|
$ |
180 |
|
This example and the expenses in the table above should not be considered a representation of our
future expenses, and actual expenses may be greater or less than those shown. Moreover, while the
example assumes, as required by the SEC, a 5% annual return, our performance will vary and may
result in a return greater or less than 5%.
We will not pay any broker or dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other person any
solicitation fee for any common stock purchased pursuant to this offering. No such broker, dealer,
commercial bank, trust company or other person has been authorized to act as our agent for purposes
of this offering.
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
We will pay all transaction expenses
incurred in connection with this offering. |
|
|
|
2 |
|
We do not plan to incur any indebtedness,
or to pay interest in respect thereof, during the term after this offering. |
|
|
|
3 |
|
These expenses do not include the dividend paid on our
outstanding shares of preferred stock, which was paid on
January 26, 2007 and which amounted to an aggregate of
$4,335,262 (3.69%, as a percentage of net assets of the Fund as of
January 31, 2007). |
|
-5-
Financial Highlights
For a
Common
Share Outstanding Throughout Each Year
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For Six |
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Months |
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For Year |
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For Year |
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|
For Year |
|
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For Year |
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|
For Year |
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|
For Year |
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|
For Year |
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|
For Year |
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|
For Year |
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|
For Year |
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|
|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
|
|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
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|
Ended |
|
|
Ended |
|
|
Ended |
|
|
|
January 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
July 31, |
|
|
|
2007
(Unaudited) |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
2004 |
|
|
2003 |
|
|
2002 |
|
|
2001 |
|
|
2000 |
|
|
1999 |
|
|
1998 |
|
|
1997 |
|
Per Share
Operating Performance |
|
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|
Net asset value, beginning of year |
|
$ |
22.18 |
|
|
$ |
21.27 |
|
|
$ |
13.66 |
|
|
$ |
10.15 |
|
|
$ |
8.74 |
|
|
$ |
10.19 |
|
|
$ |
11.36 |
|
|
$ |
8.64 |
|
|
$ |
10.16 |
|
|
$ |
16.83 |
|
|
$ |
11.96 |
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income (loss) |
|
|
(0.13 |
) |
|
|
0.14 |
|
|
|
0.01 |
|
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
0.00 |
(2) |
|
|
(0.03 |
) |
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
|
|
|
0.23 |
|
|
|
0.43 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) on investments and foreign
currency transactions |
|
|
9.94 |
|
|
|
6.54 |
|
|
|
7.60 |
|
|
|
3.55 |
|
|
|
1.41 |
|
|
|
(1.42 |
) |
|
|
(0.64 |
) |
|
|
2.62 |
|
|
|
(0.87 |
) |
|
|
(3.34 |
) |
|
|
5.55 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net increase (decrease) from investment
operations |
|
|
9.81 |
|
|
|
6.68 |
|
|
|
7.61 |
|
|
|
3.53 |
|
|
|
1.41 |
|
|
|
(1.45 |
) |
|
|
(0.66 |
) |
|
|
2.65 |
|
|
|
(0.65 |
) |
|
|
(3.11 |
) |
|
|
5.98 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less: Distributions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends from net investment income |
|
|
(0.13 |
) |
|
|
(0.16 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.01 |
) |
|
|
(0.12 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.19 |
) |
|
|
(0.44 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Distributions from net realized gains |
|
|
(2.90 |
) |
|
|
(4.41 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.60 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.93 |
) |
|
|
(3.37 |
) |
|
|
(0.67 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return of capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.01 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total dividends and distributions |
|
|
(3.03 |
) |
|
|
(4.57 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.02 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.62 |
) |
|
|
(0.12 |
) |
|
|
(0.93 |
) |
|
|
(3.56 |
) |
|
|
(1.11 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital share transactions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anti-dilutive effect of Tender Offer |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.04 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dilutive effect of Preferred Share
Issuance |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.20 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dilutive effect of Share Issuance |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.18 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Anti-dilutive effect of Share
Repurchase Program |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
0.19 |
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total capital share transactions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.20 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.11 |
|
|
|
0.19 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net asset value, end of year |
|
$ |
28.96 |
|
|
$ |
22.18 |
|
|
$ |
21.27 |
|
|
$ |
13.66 |
|
|
$ |
10.15 |
|
|
$ |
8.74 |
|
|
$ |
10.19 |
|
|
$ |
11.36 |
|
|
$ |
8.64 |
|
|
$ |
10.16 |
|
|
$ |
16.83 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per share market value, end of year |
|
$ |
26.40 |
|
|
$ |
19.40 |
|
|
$ |
18.82 |
|
|
$ |
11.73 |
|
|
$ |
9.10 |
|
|
$ |
7.95 |
|
|
$ |
9.11 |
|
|
$ |
10.69 |
|
|
$ |
7.06 |
|
|
$ |
7.75 |
|
|
$ |
14.125 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Investment
Return Based on
Market Value, end
of year(1) |
|
|
51.26 |
%(5) |
|
|
37.62 |
% |
|
|
60.44 |
% |
|
|
29.10 |
% |
|
|
14.47 |
% |
|
|
(12.73 |
)% |
|
|
(8.64 |
)% |
|
|
53.36 |
% |
|
|
7.24 |
% |
|
|
(26.23 |
)% |
|
|
62.52 |
% |
-6-
Financial
Highlights (continued)
For a Common Share Outstanding Throughout Each Year
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For Six |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Months |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
For the Year |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
For Year |
|
|
January 31, |
|
July 31, |
|
July 31, |
|
July 31, |
|
July 31, |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
Ended |
|
|
2007
(Unaudited) |
|
2006 |
|
2005 |
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
July 31, 2002 |
|
July 31, 2001 |
|
July 31, 2000 |
|
July 31, 1999 |
|
July 31, 1998 |
|
July 31, 1997 |
Ratios/Supplemental
Data |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net assets, end of
year (in 000s) |
|
$ |
76,036 |
|
|
$ |
54,872 |
|
|
$ |
52,621 |
|
|
$ |
33,779 |
|
|
$ |
25,104 |
|
|
$ |
21,629 |
|
|
$ |
87,620 |
|
|
$ |
114,112 |
|
|
$ |
97,150 |
|
|
$ |
120,148 |
|
|
$ |
199,066 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratios of expenses
to average net
assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Before expense
Reimbursement |
|
|
1.51 |
%(4) |
|
|
1.90 |
% |
|
|
1.77 |
% |
|
|
2.09 |
% |
|
|
2.64 |
% |
|
|
1.81 |
% |
|
|
1.90 |
% |
|
|
2.03 |
% |
|
|
1.88 |
% |
|
|
1.46 |
% |
|
|
1.49 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
After expense
Reimbursement |
|
|
1.51 |
%(4) |
|
|
1.90 |
% |
|
|
1.77 |
% |
|
|
2.08 |
% |
|
|
2.62 |
% |
|
|
1.81 |
% |
|
|
1.90 |
% |
|
|
2.03 |
% |
|
|
1.88 |
% |
|
|
1.46 |
% |
|
|
1.49 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratios of net
investment income
(loss) to average
net assets: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Before expense
Reimbursement |
|
|
(1.04 |
)%(4) |
|
|
0.24 |
% |
|
|
0.03 |
% |
|
|
(0.15 |
)% |
|
|
0.02 |
% |
|
|
(0.14 |
)% |
|
|
(0.16 |
)% |
|
|
0.27 |
% |
|
|
2.72 |
% |
|
|
1.65 |
% |
|
|
3.29 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
After expense
Reimbursement |
|
|
(1.04 |
)%(4) |
|
|
0.24 |
% |
|
|
0.03 |
% |
|
|
(0.14 |
)% |
|
|
0.04 |
% |
|
|
(0.14 |
)% |
|
|
(0.16 |
)% |
|
|
0.27 |
% |
|
|
2.72 |
% |
|
|
1.65 |
% |
|
|
3.29 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Portfolio turnover |
|
|
72.66 |
%(5) |
|
|
179.85 |
%(5) |
|
|
259.60 |
% |
|
|
234.42 |
% |
|
|
180.67 |
% |
|
|
189.05 |
% |
|
|
220.85 |
% |
|
|
249.28 |
% |
|
|
163.23 |
% |
|
|
88.85 |
% |
|
|
127.44 |
% |
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of common stock at the current
market price on the first day and a sale at the current market price on the last day of
each period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for purposes of
this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained under the Funds dividend reinvestment
plan. Total investment return does not reflect brokerage commissions. |
|
(2) |
|
The amount listed is less than $0.005 per share. |
|
(3) |
|
Not annualized. |
|
(4) |
|
Annualized. |
|
(5) |
|
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole without distinguishing between shares issued. |
-7-
Financial
Highlights (concluded)
For a Preferred Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Six | |
|
|
|
|
Months Ended | |
|
For the Period | |
|
|
January 31, | |
|
January 6, 2006 | |
|
|
2007 | |
|
through July 31, | |
|
|
(Unaudited) | |
|
2006 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Per Share Operating Performance
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net asset value, beginning of period
|
|
$ |
22.18 |
|
|
$ |
21.25 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net investment income (loss)
|
|
|
(0.13 |
) |
|
|
0.13 |
|
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments and foreign
currency transactions
|
|
|
9.94 |
|
|
|
0.80 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net increase from investment operations
|
|
|
9.81 |
|
|
|
0.93 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less: Distributions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends from net investment income
|
|
|
(0.13 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Distributions from net realized gains
|
|
|
(2.90 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total dividends and distributions
|
|
|
(3.03 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset Value, end of period
|
|
$ |
28.96 |
|
|
$ |
22.18 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per share market value, end of period
|
|
$ |
23.78 |
|
|
$ |
19.00 |
|
Total Investment Return Based on Market Value, end of
period(1)
|
|
|
40.01 |
%(2) |
|
|
2.70 |
%(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratios/ Supplemental Data
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net assets, end of period (000s)
|
|
$ |
41,386 |
|
|
$ |
31,708 |
|
Ratios of expenses to average net assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Before expense reimbursement
|
|
|
1.51 |
%(3) |
|
|
1.97 |
%(3) |
|
After expense reimbursement
|
|
|
1.51 |
%(3) |
|
|
1.97 |
%(3) |
Ratios of net investment income (loss) to average net
assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Before expense reimbursement
|
|
|
(1.04) |
%(3) |
|
|
0.37 |
%(3) |
|
After expense reimbursement
|
|
|
(1.04) |
%(3) |
|
|
0.37 |
%(3) |
Portfolio turnover rate
|
|
|
72.66 |
%(4) |
|
|
179.85 |
%(4) |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of
common stock at the current market price on the first day and a
sale at the current market price on the last day of each period
reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are assumed for
purposes of this calculation to be reinvested at prices obtained
under the Funds dividend reinvestment plan. Total
investment does not reflect brokerage commissions. |
|
(2) |
|
Not Annualized. |
|
(3) |
|
Annualized. |
|
(4) |
|
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole without
distinguishing between shares issued. |
|
-8-
Risk Factors
An investment in the Fund involves risks. You should carefully consider these risk
factors, together with all of the other information included in this Prospectus. If any of the
following adverse events and circumstances described in the risk factors occur, our business,
financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected, and our NAV
and the trading price of our common stock could decline.
RISKS RELATED TO THIS OFFERING
Decline in Common Stock Trading Price: After you purchase our common stock, the public
trading price of our common stock may decline. If our trading price declines below the
Subscription Price, you will suffer an immediate unrealized loss.
No Revocation: Once you elect to purchase common stock, you may not revoke the election, even
if you later learn information about us that you consider to be unfavorable.
Value versus Subscription Price: The Subscription Price was not determined based on
established criteria for valuation, such as expected future operations, cash flows or financial
condition. You should not rely on the Subscription Price to bear a relationship to those criteria
or to be a guaranty of the value of the Fund or of our common stock.
Termination of Offering: Our Board of Directors may terminate the offering at any time. If
we decide to terminate the offering, we have no obligation to you except to return, without
interest, your subscription payments.
Discount to Net Asset Value: The Funds shares of common stock have historically traded on the
NYSE at a discount to the Funds NAV per share, and the discount has at times exceeded 20%.
Although the common stock is currently trading at a premium to NAV, there is no assurance that our
common stock will continue to trade at such a premium, and, prior to exercising their Subscription
Rights, stockholders may wish to confirm that the Funds shares are still trading at a premium.
Dilution of Ownership: As a result of the terms of this offer, stockholders who do not fully
exercise their Rights will own, upon completion of this offer, a smaller proportional interest in
our voting stock than they owned prior to the offer. Such dilution is not currently determinable
because it is not known how many shares of common stock will be subscribed for, what the market
price of our common stock will be on the Expiration Date or what the Subscription Price will be.
Such dilution will disproportionately affect non-exercising stockholders.
RISKS RELATED TO THE FUNDS INVESTMENTS
Investments in Foreign Securities Risks: We invest substantially all of our assets in foreign
securities of Mexican issuers. Investing in the Mexican financial market presents political,
regulatory and economic risks which are significant and which may differ in kind and degree from
the risks presented by investing in the U.S. financial markets. Some of these risks may include
changes in foreign currency exchange rates or controls, greater price volatility, differences in
accounting standards and policies, and in the type and nature of disclosures required to be
provided by Mexican issuers, substantially less liquidity, controls on foreign investment, and
limitations on repatriation of invested capital. Our exposure to developing country financial
markets may involve greater risk than a portfolio that invests only in developed country financial
markets. Some of these risks are detailed below:
-9-
Market Illiquidity, Volatility. Although one of the largest in Latin America by
market capitalization, the Bolsa Mexicana de Valores, S.A. de C.V. (the Mexican Stock
Exchange or Bolsa) is substantially smaller, less liquid and more volatile than the major
securities markets in the United States. In addition, trading on the Mexican Stock Exchange
is concentrated. Approximately 80% of the total traded volume of the Mexican Stock Exchange
in 2006 was produced by twenty-two (22) issuers as of December 31, 2006. At such date, the
stock of America Movil, S.A. de C.V. (AMX) and its affiliates accounted for approximately
20% of the aggregate market capitalization of the Mexican Stock Exchange, while no single
stock issue accounted for more than 1.7% of the aggregate market capitalization of the
NASDAQ and the NYSE. Thus, the performance of the Mexican Stock Exchange, as further
described below, is highly dependent on the performance of a few issuers. Additionally,
prices of equity securities traded on the Mexican Stock Exchange are generally more volatile
than prices of equity securities traded on the NYSE. The combination of price volatility
and the relatively limited liquidity of the Mexican Stock Exchange may have an adverse
impact on the investment performance of the Fund.
Market Corrections. Although less so in recent times, the Mexican securities market
has been subject to periodic severe market corrections. In the two months following the
general destabilization of the Mexican economy in December 1994, the Bolsas Index declined
36.3% in nominal peso terms and 58.0% in dollar terms from December 20, 1994 to February 27,
1995 before beginning to recover. Due to the high concentration of investors, issuers and
intermediaries in the Mexican securities market and the general high volatility of the
Mexican economy, the Mexican securities market may be subject to severe market corrections
than more broadly based markets. As is the case with investing in any securities market,
there can be no assurance that market corrections will not occur again.
The Mexican Economy. The Mexican economy is currently stable as a result of
initiatives implemented in the last few years, successful free trade agreements with other
countries, economic and fiscal discipline and stable political and social conditions.
Nevertheless, in the past the Mexican economy has experienced peso devaluations, significant
rises in inflation and domestic interest rates and other economic instability and there can
be no assurance that the economy will remain stable. In addition, although Mexico has
exhibited in recent times positive market indicators in terms of GDP growth, long-term
interest rates, current account deficits, exports, and foreign investment, there is no
assurance that these trends will continue. Overt unemployment continues to exist at levels
of over 4% and more than one million new jobs will be required annually according to
economic estimates. The economy has recently witnessed significant increases in energy,
transportation and telecommunications costs and there is significant pressure to increase
wage and energy productivity.
Smaller Capitalization Risks: We may invest in securities without regard to market
capitalization. Investments in securities of smaller companies may be subject to more abrupt or
erratic market movements then larger, more established companies, because these securities
typically are traded in lower volume and issuers are more typically subject to changes in earnings
and future earnings prospects.
Borrowing Risks: Although we do not plan to incur any indebtedness or pay interest in respect
thereof during the term after this offering, we are not restricted from borrowing money from banks
or other financial institutions to purchase securities, commonly referred to as leveraging. In
the event we do engage in such borrowing activities, our exposure to fluctuations in the prices of
these securities is increased in relation to our capital. Our borrowing activities will exaggerate
any increase or decrease in our net asset value. In addition, the interest which we must pay on
borrowed money, together with any
-10-
additional fees to maintain a line of credit or any minimum average balances required to be
maintained, are additional costs which will reduce or eliminate any net investment profits. Unless
profits on assets acquired with borrowed funds exceed the costs of borrowing, the use of borrowing
will diminish our investment performance compared with what it would have been without borrowing.
High Portfolio Turnover Rate Risk: Our portfolio management may result in high turnover rates
which may increase our short-term capital appreciation and increase brokerage commission costs. If
we have a higher portfolio turnover rate, then our performance could be negatively impacted due to
the increased expenses incurred as a result of the higher brokerage commissions. Rapid portfolio
turnover also exposes stockholders to a higher current realization of capital gains and this could
cause you to pay higher taxes. As of June 30, 2007, and since August 1, 2006, the portfolio
turnover rate was 131.836%.
Credit Risk: Debt obligations are generally subject to the risk that the issuer may be unable
to make principal and interest payments when they are due. There is also the risk that the
securities could lose value because of a loss of confidence in the ability of the borrower to pay
back debt. Non-investment grade debt also known as high-yield bonds and junk bonds have
a higher risk of default and tend to be less liquid than higher-rated securities.
Interest Rate Risk: Fixed income securities are subject to the risk that the securities could
lose value because of interest rate changes. For example, bonds tend to decrease in value if
interest rates rise. Debt obligations with longer maturities sometimes offer higher yields, but
are subject to greater price shifts as a result of interest rate changes than debt obligations with
shorter maturities.
Initial Public Offerings Risks: We may purchase securities of companies in initial public
offerings. Special risks associated with these securities may include a limited number of shares
available for trading, unseasoned trading, lack of investor knowledge of the company and limited
operating history. These factors may contribute to substantial price volatility for the shares of
these companies. The limited number of shares available for trading in some initial public
offerings may make it more difficult for the U.S. to buy or sell significant amounts of shares
without unfavorable impact on prevailing market prices. Some companies in initial public offerings
are involved in relatively new industries or lines of business, which may not be widely understood
by investors. Some of these companies may be undercapitalized or regarded as developmental stage
companies without revenues or operating income, or the near-term prospects of achieving them.
Restricted Securities Risks: We may invest in securities that are subject to restrictions on
resale, such as Rule 144A securities. Rule 144A securities are securities that have been privately
placed but are eligible for purchase and sale by certain qualified institutional buyers under Rule
144A under the Securities Act of 1933. Under the supervision of the Board of Directors, we will
determine whether securities purchased under Rule 144A are illiquid. Our ability to invest in
illiquid securities is limited to 15% of our total assets. If it is determined that qualified
institutional buyers are unwilling to purchase these securities, the percent of our assets invested
in illiquid securities would increase.
Shares of Other Investment Companies: We may invest in shares of other investment companies as
a means to pursue our investment objective. As a result of this policy, your cost of investing
will generally be higher than the cost of investing directly in the underlying investment company
shares. You will indirectly bear fees and expenses charged by the underlying investment companies
in addition to our direct fees and expenses. Furthermore, the use of this strategy could affect
the timing, amount and character of distributions to you and therefore may increase the amount of
taxes payable by you.
Market Disruption by Terrorist Attacks: Terrorist attacks and related events have led to
increased short-term market volatility. Moreover, the ongoing U.S. military and related action in
Iraq and
-11-
other events in the Middle East could have significant adverse effects on the U.S. and world
economies and markets. The Fund does not know how long the securities markets will continue to be
affected by these and other geopolitical events and cannot predict the effects of military action
or similar events in the future on the U.S. economy and securities markets. A disruption of the
U.S. or world financial markets could affect interest rates, secondary trading, ratings, credit
risk, inflation and other factors relating to the Funds common stock.
-12-
Common Stock Rights Offering
Purpose of Offering/Use of Proceeds
All proceeds of this offering will be invested in accordance with the Funds investment
objectives and policies as stated herein. It is anticipated that such proceeds will be invested in
equity and convertible securities issued by Mexican companies and securities of Mexican issuers.
Basic Subscription Right
Each holder of shares of our preferred and common stock shall receive, at no cost, one
nontransferable right (a Subscription Right) for every
two shares owned as of July 27, 2007 (the
Record Date). We will not issue fractional Subscription Rights. Each Subscription
Right entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of our common stock (the Basic
Subscription Right) at a price equal to the greater of (a) the Funds net asset value per share
(NAV) as determined as of the close of business on the Expiration Date (as defined below) or (b)
95% of the average trade weighted market price of our common stock on the Expiration Date (the
Subscription Price). Exercising stockholders will incur no additional fees or expenses in
connection with the purchase, sale or exercise of Subscription Rights. We must receive your
instructions to exercise your Subscription Rights no later than 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on
August 17, 2007, unless we decide to extend it to some later date (the Expiration Date).
The Fund announced the
offer at the end of trading on the NYSE on
July 18, 2007. The
NAV per share of our common stock at the close of business on
July 17, 2007 (the last trading date
on which the Fund publicly reported its NAV prior to the
announcement) was $39.75, and the last
reported sales price of a share of our common stock on the NYSE on
such date was $47.46.
Because we will not determine the actual Subscription Price until the Expiration Date,
stockholders who wish to purchase common stock pursuant to their Rights will not know the
Subscription Price per share at the time they elect to purchase the common stock. As a result, we
are requiring that stockholders deliver an estimated Subscription
Price of $40.05 per share. If
the actual Subscription Price is lower, excess payments will be refunded without interest, and if
the actual Subscription Price is higher, stockholders purchasing common stock must make an
additional payment within five (5) business days of the Expiration Date to get the full number of
shares.
The purpose of setting the determination of the Subscription Price upon the expiration of the
offer is to attract the maximum participation of stockholders in the offer, with minimum dilution
to nonparticipating stockholders.
All questions as to the validity, form, eligibility (including time of receipt), payment and
acceptance for payment of any common stock will be determined by us, in our sole discretion, which
determination shall be final and binding. We reserve the absolute right to reject any and all
requests for participation in this offering and to issue a lower number of shares of common stock,
with our only obligation being to return any excess payment without interest. We shall be under no
duty to give notification of any defects or irregularities in any request for participation in this
offering, nor shall we incur any liability for failure to give any such notification.
Over-Subscription Privilege
If you elect to purchase the maximum amount of our common stock that you are entitled to
purchase pursuant to your Basic Subscription Right, you will also be entitled to subscribe, subject
to
-13-
allotment, to purchase additional shares of our common stock, if any, that are not purchased
by our other stockholders pursuant to their Basic Subscription Right as of the Expiration Date (the
Over-Subscription Privilege). If the number of shares of our common stock available for sale
pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege is not sufficient to satisfy in full all subscriptions
submitted for additional shares, we will allocate any available shares pro rata among stockholders
who exercise their Over-Subscription Privilege in proportion to the number of shares each
stockholder subscribing for additional shares was entitled to and elected to purchase under his or
her Basic Subscription Right; up to the number of additional shares that the stockholder subscribed
for pursuant to the exercise of his or her Over-Subscription Privilege, rounded down to the nearest
whole share.
Banks, brokers, trustees and other nominee holders of Rights will be required to certify to
the Subscribing Agent, before any Over-Subscription Privilege may be exercised with respect to any
particular beneficial owner, as to the aggregate number of Subscription Rights exercised and the
number of common stock subscribed for pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege by such
beneficial owner and that such beneficial owners Basic Subscription Right was exercised in full.
A Notice of Guaranteed Delivery form will be distributed to banks, brokers, trustees and other
nominee holders with the Subscription Certificate.
We have been advised that the directors who own or control shares of our common stock intend
to exercise all of the Rights initially issued to them. If additional shares of common stock
remain after all over-subscriptions exercised by stockholders other than the directors are honored
in full, the directors may, on the Expiration Date, purchase all or any of the remaining shares of
common stock on the same terms offered to all stockholders.
No Fractional Shares
We will not issue fractional shares of our common stock upon the exercise of Rights. The
number of Rights issued to Record Date stockholders will be rounded down to the nearest whole
number of Rights.
Non-Transferability of Rights
The Rights granted in this offer are non-transferable. If you do not exercise them, you give
up any right to the underlying shares of common stock.
Expiration Date of the Offering
You may elect to purchase common stock pursuant to your Basic Subscription Right and/or
Over-Subscription Privilege at any time before 5:00 p.m., New York
City time, on August 17, 2007
(the Expiration Date). The Board of Directors reserves the right to extend the date upon which
the Rights expire. If you do not elect to purchase common stock pursuant to your Rights before the
time they expire, then your Rights will be null and void. We will not be obligated to honor your
election to purchase common stock if we receive the documents relating to your purchase of common
stock or collect your payment after the time they expire, regardless of when you transmitted the
documents. See Receipt of Payment below.
Any extension of the offer will be followed as promptly as practicable by announcement
thereof, and in no event later than 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the next business day
following the previously scheduled Expiration Date. Without limiting the manner in which the Fund
may choose to make such announcement, the Fund will not, unless otherwise required by law, have any
obligation to
-14-
publish, advertise or otherwise communicate any such announcement other than by making a
release to the Dow Jones News Service or such other means of announcement as the Fund deems
appropriate.
Although we have no present intention to do so, we may, in the future and in our discretion,
choose to make additional offerings from time to time for a number of shares and on terms which may
or may not be similar to this offer. Any such future offering will be made in accordance with the
1940 Act.
Distribution Arrangements
We do not intend to engage a dealer manager for the offer. Our officers and directors may
solicit the exercise of Rights by our stockholders. The offer is not contingent on any number of
Rights being exercised, and we will pay all expenses incurred in connection with the offer.
Description of Common Stock
All shares of our common stock have equal rights as to earnings, assets, dividends and voting
privileges and, when they are issued, will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable. Distributions may be paid to the holders of our common stock if, as and when
authorized by our Board of Directors and declared by us out of funds legally available for such
distributions. Shares of our common stock have no preemptive, conversion or redemption rights and
are freely transferable, except where their transfer is restricted by federal and state securities
laws or by contract. In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, each share would
be entitled to share ratably in all of our assets that are legally available for distribution after
we pay all debts and other liabilities. Each of our shares of common stock is entitled to one vote
on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election of directors. Except as
provided with respect to any other class or series of stock, the holders of the Funds common stock
will possess exclusive voting power. There is no cumulative voting in the election of directors,
which means that holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock will elect all of
our directors (other than those elected by our preferred stockholders), and holders of less than a
majority of such shares will be unable to elect any director.
Election to Purchase Common Stock
You may elect to purchase common stock by delivering the following to the Subscribing Agent at
or before the Expiration Date:
|
|
|
your properly completed and signed Subscription Certificate, with any required
signature guarantees, evidencing those rights with any other supplemental
documentation; and |
|
|
|
|
your payment in full of the Subscription Price for each share of our common stock
that you choose to subscribe for under your Basic Subscription Right and your
Over-Subscription Privilege. |
Method of Payment
Your payment of the Subscription Price must be made by either:
|
|
|
check or bank draft drawn upon a U.S. bank or postal, telegraphic or express money
order payable to: The Mexico Equity and Income Fund, Inc.; or |
|
|
|
|
|
wire transfer of immediately available funds to the account maintained by the
Subscribing Agent for such purpose at: Bank of America, ABA# 026009593, DDA# |
|
-15-
|
|
|
|
9429037341, Account Name: Computershare Shareholder Services Inc., Ref: Mexico
Equity Rights Offering. |
|
|
|
|
If you hold our common stock through a nominee holder, you will need to have your
broker, custodian bank or other nominee act for you. To indicate your decision with
respect to your Rights, you should have your broker, custodian bank or other nominee
deliver a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery to the Subscribing Agent by the Expiration
Date. |
Receipt of Payment
Your payment of the Subscription Price will be deemed to have been received by us only upon:
|
|
|
clearance of any uncertified check; |
|
|
|
|
receipt by us of any certified check or bank draft drawn upon a U.S. bank or any
postal, telegraphic or express money order; or |
|
|
|
|
receipt of collected funds in our account designated above. |
Clearance of Uncertified Checks
You should note that funds paid by uncertified personal checks may take 5 business days or
more to clear. If you wish to pay the Subscription Price by an uncertified personal check, we
recommend that you make payment at least 10 days in advance of the Expiration Date to ensure that
your payment is received and clears by that time. If your check does not clear before the
Expiration Date, you will not receive any shares of common stock, and our only obligation will be
to return your subscription payment, without interest. It is safer to use a certified or cashiers
check, money order or wire transfer of funds to avoid missing the opportunity to purchase common
stock.
Delivery of Subscription Materials and Payment
You should deliver the Subscription Certificate and payment of the Subscription Price, as well
as any other subscription documentation as follows:
|
|
|
If by Hand or Overnight Delivery, to: |
|
If by Mail: |
Computershare Trust Company, N.A. |
|
Computershare Trust Company, N.A. |
161 Bay State Drive |
|
P.O. Box 859208 |
Braintree, MA 02184 |
|
Braintree, MA 02185-9208 |
Calculation of Common Stock Purchased
If you do not indicate the number of shares of common stock being subscribed for, or do not
forward full payment of the aggregate Subscription Price for the number of shares of common stock
that you indicate are subscribed for, then you will be deemed to have purchased the maximum number
of shares of the common stock that may be purchased for the payment that you delivered to our
Subscribing Agent.
-16-
Funds Will Be Held by our Subscribing Agent until Shares of Common Stock Are Issued
Our Subscribing Agent will hold your payment in a segregated account with other payments
received from stockholders until we issue to you your shares of our common stock.
Notice to Nominee Holders
If you are a broker, a trustee or a depositary for securities who holds shares of our common
stock for the account of others as of the Record Date, you should notify the respective beneficial
owners of the shares about the rights offering as soon as possible to find out their intentions.
You should obtain instructions from the beneficial owner with respect to the rights by using the
instructions that we have provided to you for your distribution to beneficial owners. If the
beneficial owner so instructs, you should complete the appropriate Subscription Certificate and
Notice of Guaranteed Delivery, if applicable, and submit them to our Subscribing Agent with the
proper payment.
Notice to Beneficial Owners Whose Shares are Held by a Broker or Nominee
If you are a beneficial owner of shares of our common stock or rights that you hold through a
nominee holder, we will ask your broker, custodian bank or other nominee to notify you of this
offering. If you wish to purchase common stock, you will need to have your broker, custodian bank
or other nominee act for you. To indicate your decision with respect to your rights, you should
complete and return to your broker, custodian bank or other nominee the Subscription Certificate.
You should receive this form from your broker, custodian bank or other nominee with the other
rights offering materials. We suggest that you contact your broker or other nominee to be sure
that they are sending you the election form without delay. If you are giving instructions to your
nominee, you should act promptly to allow a sufficient amount of time to ensure that the nominee
can act to follow your instructions in time.
Notice of NAV Decline
The Fund, as required by the SECs registration form, will suspend the offer until it amends
this Prospectus if, subsequent to the date of this Prospectus, the Funds NAV declines more than
10% from its NAV as of that date. Accordingly, the Expiration Date would be extended and the Fund
would notify Record Date stockholders of the decline and permit stockholders to cancel their
exercise of Rights.
Mailing of Confirmation
On a date within eight (8) business days following the Expiration Date (Confirmation Date),
the Subscribing Agent will send to each exercising Rights holder (or, if shares of common stock are
held by a nominee, to such nominee) a confirmation showing (i) the number of shares of common stock
purchased pursuant to the Basic Subscription Right; (ii) the number of shares, if any, acquired
pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege (for Record Date stockholders who are exercising all of
the Rights originally issued to them); (iii) the per share and total Subscription Price for the
shares and (iv) any additional amount payable to the Fund by the Rights holder or any excess to be
refunded by the Fund to the Rights holder, in each case based on the Subscription Price as
determined on the Expiration Date. If any Rights holder, if eligible, exercises his right to
acquire shares of common stock pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege, any excess payment
which would otherwise be refunded to him will be applied by the Fund toward payment for shares
acquired pursuant to the exercise of the Over-Subscription Privilege. Any additional payment
required from a Rights holder must be received by the Subscribing Agent within ten (10) business
days after the Confirmation Date. Any excess payment to be refunded by the Fund to a Rights holder
will be mailed by the Subscribing Agent to the Rights holder as promptly as practicable. All
payments by an exercising Rights holder must be in U.S. dollars by money order or check drawn on a
-17-
bank or branch located in the United States and payable to The Mexico Equity and Income Fund,
Inc. or by wire transfer to an account maintained by the Subscribing Agent as more specifically
set forth under Method of Payment.
Determinations Regarding the Election to Purchase Common Stock
We will decide all questions concerning the timeliness, validity, form and eligibility of your
election to purchase common stock. Our decisions will be final and binding. We, in our sole
discretion, may waive any defect or irregularity, or permit a defect or irregularity to be
corrected within such time as we may determine. We may reject the election to purchase common
stock because of any defect or irregularity. Your election will not be deemed to have been
received or accepted until all irregularities have been waived by us or cured by you within such
time as we decide, in our sole discretion.
Neither we nor our Subscribing Agent will be under any duty to notify you of a defect or
irregularity. We will not be liable for failing to give you any such notice. We reserve the right
to reject your election to purchase common stock if your election is not in accordance with the
terms of the offering or in proper form. We will also not accept your election to purchase common
stock if our issuance of shares of our common stock upon your election could be deemed unlawful or
materially burdensome.
Termination
We may terminate this offering at any time prior to the Expiration Date. If we terminate the
offering, our only obligation to you will be to return your subscription payment to you, without
interest.
Effects of this Offer on the Fund Adviser
Our investment adviser will benefit from this offer because a portion of the investment
management fee we pay to the investment adviser is based on our gross assets. See Investment
Advisory Agreement. It is not possible to state precisely the amount of additional compensation
the investment adviser will receive as a result of this offer because it is not known how many
shares of common stock will be subscribed for. However, assuming (i) all Rights are exercised, and
(ii) the Subscription Price is $40.05 per share, and after giving effect to expenses related to
this offer, the investment adviser would receive additional annualized advisory fees of
approximately $600,000 and the amount of the administrative fee received would be an additional fee
of approximately $85,000. Maria Eugenia Pichardo, President of the Fund, is also an officer and
owner of our investment adviser. None of our directors who approved this offer are affiliated with
the investment adviser.
No Recommendations to Holders
WE MAKE NO RECOMMENDATION TO ANY PERSON TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS OFFERING, AND WE HAVE NOT
AUTHORIZED ANY PERSON TO MAKE ANY SUCH RECOMMENDATION. POTENTIAL HOLDERS ARE URGED TO EVALUATE
CAREFULLY ALL INFORMATION IN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, CONSULT THEIR OWN INVESTMENT AND TAX
ADVISORS AND MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS WHETHER OR NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS OFFERING.
Material United States Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following discussion is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax
consequences to a typical U.S. holder (defined below) that receives Rights pursuant to this
offering and that either
-18-
(i) exercises such Rights, (ii) allows such Rights to expire, or (iii) sells, exchanges, redeems
or otherwise disposes of such Rights.
This discussion is based on current provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, which we refer to as the Code, applicable current, temporary and proposed Treasury
regulations promulgated thereunder, which we refer to as the Treasury Regulations, the
legislative history of the Code and publicly available administrative and judicial interpretations
thereof, all as in effect of the date of this prospectus and all of which are subject to change,
possibly with retroactive effect, or to different interpretations. In addition, the administrative
interpretations and practices of the Internal Revenue Service include its practices and policies as
expressed in private letter rulings which are not binding on the Internal Revenue Service, except
with respect to the particular taxpayers who requested and received these rulings. This discussion
is included for general information purposes only and does not purport to be a complete technical
analysis or listing of all potential tax considerations that may be relevant to U.S. holders in
light of their particular circumstances. This discussion does not address any state, local or
foreign tax consequences or any non-income tax consequences (such as estate or gift tax
consequences). This discussion applies only to U.S. holders that hold shares of our common stock
as capital assets and that will hold the Rights distributed pursuant to this offering as capital
assets (and, in the event such rights are exercised, will hold newly acquired shares of our common
stock as capital assets), in each case, within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. This
discussion also does not address the United States federal income tax consequences to a U.S. holder
that is one of our affiliates or that is subject to special rules under the Code, including but not
limited to:
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A financial institution, insurance company, or regulated investment company; |
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Persons who are subject to alternative minimum tax; |
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A tax-exempt organization, retirement plan, or mutual fund; |
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A dealer, broker, or trader in securities; |
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Non-U.S. holders (as defined below); |
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An entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes; |
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A stockholder that owns its shares of our common stock indirectly through an entity
treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes, or a trust or
estate; |
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Persons deemed to sell their shares of common stock under the constructive sale
provisions of the Code; |
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A stockholder that holds its shares of our common stock as part of a hedge,
appreciated financial position, straddle or conversion transaction; or |
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A stockholder that acquired our common stock pursuant to the exercise of
compensatory stock options or otherwise as compensation. |
We will not seek a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, with respect to the
rights offering. The IRS could take positions concerning the tax consequences of this offering
that are different from those described in this discussion, and, if litigated, a court could
sustain any such positions taken by the IRS.
-19-
For purposes of this discussion, the term U.S. holder means a holder of shares of our common
or preferred stock that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is:
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A citizen or resident of the U.S.; |
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A corporation or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax
purposes created or organized in the U.S. or under U.S. laws or the laws of any state
or political subdivision thereof; |
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An estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless
of its source; or |
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A trust (i) if, in general, a court within the U.S. is able to exercise primary
jurisdiction over its administration and one or more U.S. persons have authority to
control all of its substantial decisions or (ii) that has a valid election in effect
under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. |
A non-U.S. holder is a holder other than a U.S. holder. If a holder of our common or preferred stock is
a non-U.S. holder, the tax consequences of the rights offering to such holder will depend upon a
variety of factors, including whether such person conducts a trade or business in the U.S.
Non-U.S. holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax consequences
associated with the rights offering.
Holders
of our common or preferred stock are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the specific tax
consequences associated with the rights offering, including the applicability and effect of any
state, local, foreign, or other tax laws as well as changes in applicable tax laws.
Distribution of Rights
We believe that pursuant to Section 305 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations issued
thereunder, a U.S. holder that receives Rights pursuant to this offering should not be required to
recognize taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the receipt of such Rights.
We intend to report this offering accordingly. However, if our intended treatment of the
Rights were challenged by the IRS and if such challenge were ultimately upheld, the U.S. federal
income tax consequences to a U.S. holder that receives Rights pursuant to this offering may differ
from the consequences described herein, and it is possible that a U.S. holders receipt of Rights
or a portion thereof pursuant to this offering may be taxable.
Basis and Holding Period of Rights
If, in accordance with Section 307 of the Code, the fair market value of the Rights which we
distribute to a U.S. holder is less than 15% of the fair market value of such U.S. holders shares of
our common or preferred stock, as applicable, with respect to which such Rights were distributed, such U.S. holders basis in
the Rights distributed generally will be zero. A U.S. holder may elect, however, to allocate its
basis in the shares between such shares and the Rights received in proportion to the
fair market value of such shares and such Rights. This election may be made pursuant to
Section 307 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder and will be irrevocable once made.
If the fair market value of the Rights which we distribute to a U.S. holder is 15% or more of
the fair market value of such U.S. holders shares with respect to which such
Rights
-20-
were
distributed, such U.S. holder will be required to allocate its basis
between such shares and such Rights in proportion to their relative fair market values.
In either case,
a U.S. holders holding period for the Rights that we distribute will include
the holding period of such U.S. holders shares with respect to which such
Rights were distributed.
Exercise of Rights; Basis and Holding Period of Acquired Shares; Sale, Exchange, Redemption or
Other Disposition of Acquired Shares
A U.S. holder will not recognize gain or loss upon the exercise of the Rights. A U.S.
holders basis in our common stock acquired through exercise of the Rights generally will equal the
sum of (i) the Subscription Price paid by such U.S. holder to acquire such stock and (ii) such U.S.
holders basis, if any, in the Rights exercised. A U.S. holders holding period in shares of our
common stock acquired through the exercise of Rights will begin on the day such U.S. holder
exercises the Rights.
Upon the sale, exchange, redemption or other disposition of the common stock acquired upon the
exercise of Rights, a U.S. holder generally will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference
between the amount realized and such U.S. holders basis in such common stock. Such gain or loss
will be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if a U.S. holders holding
period exceeds one year at the time of the sale, exchange or other disposition. The deductibility
of capital losses is subject to limitations.
Expiration of Rights
If a U.S. holder
receives Rights pursuant to this offering, and such U.S. holders basis in
our common or preferred stock, as applicable, is not allocated
between such shares and the Rights received and such U.S.
holders Rights expire unexercised, then such U.S. holder will not recognize taxable loss upon
expiration of the Rights. In addition, such U.S. holders basis in its shares will not be affected by
this offering and such U.S. holders decision to allow its Rights to expire
and will remain the same as before this offering.
If a U.S. holder
receives Rights pursuant to this offering, and such U.S. holders basis in
its shares is allocated between such shares and the Rights received and such U.S.
holders Rights expire unexercised, then such U.S. holder will recognize a taxable loss upon the
expiration of the Rights equal to the basis that was allocated to the Rights. Such loss will be a
capital loss.
Backup Withholding
A U.S. holder
that sells, exchanges, redeems or otherwise disposes shares of our common stock
acquired upon the exercise of Rights or that sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes of Rights may
be subject to backup withholding on the proceeds received, unless such U.S. holder:
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Is a corporation or other exempt recipient and, when required, establishes this
exemption; or |
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Provides a correct taxpayer identification number, certifies that it is not
currently subject to backup withholding, and otherwise complies with the applicable
requirements of the backup withholding rules. |
-21-
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amount withheld under the backup withholding
rules will generally be creditable against the United States federal income tax liability of a
U.S. holder if appropriate information is provided to the IRS. If a U.S. holder does not provide
the appropriate party with the correct taxpayer identification number or any other proper document
or certification required by the IRS (generally a Form W-9 in the case of a U.S. holder), such U.S.
holder may be subject to penalties imposed by the IRS.
THE FOREGOING DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE A COMPLETE ANALYSIS OF THE POTENTIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS
RELATING TO THIS OFFERING AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. THEREFORE, HOLDERS OF OUR COMMON STOCK ARE URGED
TO CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THIS OFFERING,
INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY OF FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN AND OTHER TAX LAWS.
Use of Proceeds
All proceeds of the offering will be invested in accordance with the Funds investment
objectives and policies as stated herein. It is anticipated that such proceeds will be invested in
equity and convertible securities issued by Mexican companies and debt securities of Mexican
issuers.
Price Range of Common Stock
Our common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol MXE. The following table lists the
high and low closing sales prices for our common stock, and the closing sales price as a percentage
of NAV:
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Closing Sales |
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Price |
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Premium/Discount |
|
Premium/Discount |
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|
of High Sales |
|
of Low Sales |
|
Declared |
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|
NAV |
|
High |
|
Low |
|
Price to NAV |
|
Price to NAV |
|
Dividends |
Year ended July 31, 2004 |
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
First Quarter |
|
$ |
11.17 |
|
|
$ |
9.35 |
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|
$ |
8.36 |
|
|
|
(16.29 |
)% |
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|
(25.16 |
)% |
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|
Second Quarter |
|
|
12.96 |
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|
10.96 |
|
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|
9.44 |
|
|
|
(15.43 |
)% |
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|
(27.16 |
)% |
|
|
.02 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
|
13.29 |
|
|
|
13.03 |
|
|
|
11.05 |
|
|
|
(1.96 |
)% |
|
|
(16.85 |
)% |
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|
|
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
|
13.66 |
|
|
|
11.57 |
|
|
|
10.01 |
|
|
|
(15.30 |
)% |
|
|
(26.72 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Year ended July 31, 2005 |
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|
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|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
$ |
15.78 |
|
|
$ |
12.98 |
|
|
$ |
10.86 |
|
|
|
(17.74 |
)% |
|
|
(31.18 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Second Quarter |
|
|
18.45 |
|
|
|
16.67 |
|
|
|
12.93 |
|
|
|
(9.65 |
)% |
|
|
(29.92 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
|
17.76 |
|
|
|
18.09 |
|
|
|
13.55 |
|
|
|
(1.86 |
)% |
|
|
(23.70 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
|
21.27 |
|
|
|
17.77 |
|
|
|
14.43 |
|
|
|
(16.46 |
)% |
|
|
(32.16 |
)% |
|
|
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|
Year ending July 31, 2006 |
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|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
$ |
22.79 |
|
|
$ |
19.46 |
|
|
$ |
16.76 |
|
|
|
(14.61 |
)% |
|
|
(26.46 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Second Quarter |
|
$ |
21.17 |
|
|
$ |
20.73 |
|
|
$ |
16.12 |
|
|
|
(2.08 |
)% |
|
|
(23.85 |
)% |
|
|
4.57 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
$ |
22.40 |
|
|
$ |
19.70 |
|
|
$ |
18.15 |
|
|
|
(12.05 |
)% |
|
|
(18.97 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
$ |
22.18 |
|
|
$ |
21.20 |
|
|
$ |
16.10 |
|
|
|
(4.42 |
)% |
|
|
(27.41 |
)% |
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|
Year ending July 31, 2007 |
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|
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
$ |
26.54 |
|
|
$ |
25.09 |
|
|
$ |
19.08 |
|
|
|
(5.46 |
)% |
|
|
(28.11 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Second Quarter |
|
$ |
28.96 |
|
|
$ |
30.15 |
|
|
$ |
23.45 |
|
|
|
4.11 |
% |
|
|
(19.03 |
)% |
|
|
3.03 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
$ |
32.99 |
|
|
$ |
38.40 |
|
|
$ |
24.85 |
|
|
|
16.40 |
% |
|
|
(24.67 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter (through June 30, 2007) |
|
$ |
37.78 |
|
|
$ |
39.45 |
|
|
$ |
34.24 |
|
|
|
4.42 |
% |
|
|
(9.37 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
Price
Range of Preferred Stock
Our
preferred stock is traded under the symbol MXE-Pr. The following table lists the
high and low closing sales prices for our preferred stock, and the closing price as a percentage
of NAV:
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|
Closing Sales |
|
Premium/Discount |
|
Premium/Discount |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Price |
|
of High Sales |
|
of Low Sales |
|
Declared |
|
|
NAV |
|
High |
|
Low |
|
Price to NAV |
|
Price to NAV |
|
Dividends |
For
the period January 6, 2006 through July 31, 2006 |
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|
Second
Quarter (from January 6, 2006) |
|
$ |
21.17 |
|
|
$ |
19.30 |
|
|
$ |
18.35 |
|
|
|
-8.83 |
% |
|
|
-13.32 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Third Quarter |
|
$ |
22.40 |
|
|
$ |
19.50 |
|
|
$ |
18.00 |
|
|
|
-12.95 |
% |
|
|
-19.64 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Fourth Quarter |
|
$ |
22.18 |
|
|
$ |
20.90 |
|
|
$ |
16.05 |
|
|
|
-5.77 |
% |
|
|
-27.64 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Year
ended July 31, 2007 |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First Quarter |
|
$ |
26.54 |
|
|
$ |
23.40 |
|
|
$ |
19.00 |
|
|
|
-11.83 |
% |
|
|
-28.41 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Second Quarter |
|
$ |
28.96 |
|
|
$ |
28.60 |
|
|
$ |
23.25 |
|
|
|
-1.24 |
% |
|
|
-19.72 |
% |
|
|
3.03 |
|
Third Quarter |
|
$ |
32.99 |
|
|
$ |
33.40 |
|
|
$ |
24.86 |
|
|
|
1.24 |
% |
|
|
-24.64 |
% |
|
|
|
|
Fourth
Quarter (through June 30, 2007) |
|
$ |
37.78 |
|
|
$ |
35.50 |
|
|
$ |
32.00 |
|
|
|
-6.03 |
% |
|
|
-15.30 |
% |
|
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|
-22-
Distributions
We make annual distributions to our stockholders of at least 90% of our ordinary income
and short-term capital gains. We will distribute during each calendar year an amount equal to the
sum of (1) at least 98% of our ordinary income for the calendar year, (2) at least 98% of the
Funds capital gains in excess of capital losses for the one-year period ending on October 31 of
the calendar year and (3) any ordinary income and net capital gains for the preceding year that
were not distributed during such year, in order to avoid excise taxes imposed on registered
investment companies that do not make these distributions. In addition, although we currently
intend to distribute net realized long-term capital gains at least annually, we may in the future
decide to retain such capital gains for investment in accordance with our investment objective. In
such event, the consequences of our retention of ordinary income and net realized capital gains
could result in a large required distribution, as described in more detail under Material United
States Federal Income Tax Consequences. No stockholder should assume that there will be a
distribution.
Business of the Fund
Our investment objective is a high total return through capital appreciation and current
income by investing at least 80% of our assets in equity and convertible securities issued by
Mexican companies and debt securities of Mexican issuers.
Our investment activities are managed by Pichardo Asset Management, S.A. de C.V. (PAM). PAM
is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act. Under PAMs investment advisory
agreement with us, we have agreed to pay PAM a monthly fee at an annual rate of 0.80% of the value
of our average daily net assets.
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (Administrator) serves as our administrator pursuant to an
administrative agreement with the Fund. Administrator is located at 615 East Michigan Avenue,
Milwaukee, WI 53202.
Fundamental Investment Policies
The Fund has adopted certain fundamental investment restrictions that may not be changed
without the prior approval of the holders of a majority of the Funds outstanding voting
securities. For purposes of the restrictions listed below, all percentage limitations apply
immediately after a purchase or initial investment, and any subsequent change in any applicable
percentage resulting from market fluctuations does not require elimination of any security from the
Funds portfolio. Fund policies which are not fundamental may be modified by the Directors if, in
the reasonable exercise of the Directors business judgment, modification is determined to be
necessary or appropriate to carry out the Funds objectives. Under its fundamental restrictions,
the Fund may not:
1. invest 25% or more of the total value of its assets in a particular industry; this
restriction does not apply to investments in U.S. Government securities but does apply to
investments in Mexican Government securities;
2. issue senior securities, borrow or pledge its assets, except that the Fund may borrow from
a bank to make distributions required for the Fund to maintain its qualification as a regulated
investment company under U.S. tax law, for temporary or emergency purposes or for the clearance of
transactions in amounts not exceeding 10% (taken at the lower of cost or current value) of its
total assets (not including the amount borrowed) and may also pledge its assets to secure such borrowings. Additional
investments will not be made when borrowings exceed 5% of the Funds assets;
-23-
3. lend money to other persons except through the purchase of debt obligations and the
entering into of repurchase agreements in the United States or Mexico consistent with the Funds
investment objective and policies;
4. make short sales of securities or maintain a short position in any security except for
short sales against the box as a form of hedging;
5. purchase securities on margin, except such short-term credit as may be necessary or routine
for the clearance or settlement of transactions and the maintenance of margin with respect to
forward contracts or other hedging transactions;
6. underwrite securities of other issuers, except insofar as the Fund may be deemed an
underwriter under the Securities Act, in selling portfolio securities;
7. purchase or sell commodities or real estate, except that the Fund may invest in securities
secured by real estate or interests in real estate or in securities issued by companies, including
real estate investment trusts, that invest in real estate or interests in real estate, and may
purchase and sell forward contracts on foreign currencies to the extent permitted under applicable
law; or
8. make investments for the purpose of exercising control over, or management of, the issuers
of any securities.
Employees
Gerald Hellerman, our Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, is our only
employee. The officers of the Fund, except for Mr. Hellerman, are employees of our investment
adviser. Our day-to-day investment operations are managed by our investment adviser.
Legal Proceedings
Although we may, from time to time, be involved in litigation arising out of our operations in
the normal course of business, we are not currently a party to any pending material legal
proceedings.
Management
Our business and affairs are managed under the direction of our Board of Directors. The
Board of Directors currently consists of five members, four of whom are not interested persons as
that term is defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act. We refer to these individuals as our
independent directors. Our Board of Directors elects our officers, who serve at the discretion of
the Board of Directors. The officers of the Fund, except for Mr. Hellerman, are employees of our
investment adviser.
Directors and Executive Officers
Our directors and executive officers, their positions, year born and principal occupation are
set forth below. The address for each director and executive officer is c/o U.S. Bancorp Fund
Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202.
-24-
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
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Other |
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Position(s) |
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Principal Occupation(s) |
|
Directorships |
Name and |
|
Held with the |
|
Held Office |
|
During |
|
Held by |
Date of Birth |
|
Fund |
|
Since |
|
Past 5 Years |
|
Director |
Glenn Goodstein
(1963)
|
|
Class I Director
|
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|
2001 |
|
|
Registered investment
adviser; Managing
Member of the General
Partner of Mercury
Partners LP (an
investment
partnership)
|
|
None |
|
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|
|
Phillip Goldstein
(1945)
|
|
Class I Director
(Chairman)
|
|
|
2000 |
|
|
President, Kimball &
Winthrop, Inc. (an
investment advisory
firm); and general
partner of Opportunity
Partners L.P. (an
investment
partnership)
|
|
Director of
Brantley Capital
Corporation (a
business
development
company); The
Emerging Markets
Telecommunications
Fund (a registered
closed-end
investment
company); and First
Israel Funds (a
registered
closed-end
investment Company) |
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|
Rajeev Das (1968)
|
|
Class II Director
|
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|
2001 |
|
|
Senior Analyst,
Kimball & Winthrop,
Inc. (an investment
advisory firm) and
Managing Member of the
general partner of
Opportunity Income
Plus L.P.
|
|
None |
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|
Andrew Dakos (1966)
|
|
Class II Director
|
|
|
2001 |
|
|
Managing Member of the
general partner of
Full Value Partners
L.P. (an investment
partnership);
President of Elmhurst
Capital, Inc. (an
investment advisory
firm)
|
|
Director, Brantley
Capital Corporation
(a business
development
company) |
INTERESTED DIRECTOR
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Other |
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Position(s) |
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Principal Occupation(s) |
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Directorships |
Name and |
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Held with the |
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Held Office |
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During |
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Held by |
Date of Birth |
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Fund |
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Since |
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Past 5 Years |
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Director |
Gerald Hellerman
(1937)*
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Class III Director,
Chief Financial
Officer and Chief
Compliance Officer
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2001 |
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Principal, Hellerman
Associates, (a
financial and
corporate consulting
firm);
Manager/Investment
Advisor, U.S.
Department of Justice
Settlement Trust
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Director, Brantley
Capital Corporation
(a business
development
company); MVC
Capital, Inc. (a
business
development
company); and
AirNet Systems,
Inc. (a specialty
air courier) |
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* |
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Mr. Hellerman is only deemed an interested director because he is an executive officer. |
Our Board of Directors is divided into three classes with each class serving a staggered three year
term ending on the date of our annual meeting as follows: Class I directors terms expire in the
year 2008; Class II directors terms expire in 2009; and Class III directors terms expire in 2007.
The Funds Articles Supplementary provide that the holders of the Funds preferred stock shall
have the right to vote
-25-
separately as a single class to elect at least two directors. Messr. Rajeev
Das was elected by the holders of the Funds preferred stock at the last annual meeting of
stockholders. In the event that there are still shares of preferred stock outstanding prior to the
next annual meeting of stockholders, a second director will be presented to the holders of
preferred stock for election at such meeting.
OFFICERS
In addition to Mr. Hellerman, our only other current executive officers are:
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Directorships |
Name and |
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Position(s) Held |
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Held Office |
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Principal Occupation(s) |
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Held by |
Date of Birth |
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with the Fund |
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Since |
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During Past 5 Years |
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Officer |
Maria Eugenia Pichardo
(1950)
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President
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2004 |
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Portfolio manager of
the Fund since the
Funds inception in
1990; President and
General Partner of
Pichardo Asset
Management, S.A. de
C.V., the Funds
registered investment
adviser.
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None |
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Francisco Lopez (1971)
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Secretary
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2005 |
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Portfolio manager at
Pichardo Asset
Management, S.A. de
C.V., the Funds
registered investment
adviser since January
2003; portfolio
manager assistant to
the Fund at
Acciworldwide, S. A.
de C. V., a wholly
owned subsidiary of
Acciones y Valores de
Mexico, S. A. de C.
V., the Funds
registered investment
advisor prior to 2003.
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None |
Each officers term of office is one year and until their respective successors are chosen and
qualified. The officers of the Fund serve without compensation, except that Mr. Hellerman received
an annual fee of $24,000 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2006 for serving as Chief Compliance
Officer.
Board of Directors
Under our Certificate of Incorporation, our directors are divided into three classes: Class I,
Class II and Class III, each class having a term of three years. Each year the term of office of
one Class expires. The effect of these staggered terms is to limit the ability of other entities
or persons to acquire control of us by delaying the replacement of a majority of the Board of
Directors. Messrs. Goodstein and Goldsteins term will expire in 2008, the terms of Messrs. Das
and Dakos will expire in 2009, and Mr. Hellermans term will expire in 2007. At each annual
meeting of our stockholders, the successors to the class of directors whose terms expire at such
meeting will be elected to hold office for a term expiring at the annual meeting of stockholders
held in the third year following the year of their election.
The Funds Articles Supplementary provide that the holders of the Funds preferred stock shall
have the right to vote separately as a single class to elect at least two directors. Messr. Rajeev
Das was elected by the holders of the Funds preferred stock at the last annual meeting of
stockholders. In the event that there are still shares of preferred stock outstanding prior to the
next annual meeting of
stockholders, a second director will be presented to the holders of preferred stock for
election at such meeting.
-26-
Committees of the Board Of Directors
Audit Committee
The members of the Audit Committee are Messrs. Das, Dakos and Goldstein, each of whom is an
independent director. The Audit Committee is responsible for
approving our independent registered public accounting firm,
reviewing with our independent registered public accounting firm the plans and results of the audit engagement, approving
professional services provided by our independent registered public accounting firm, reviewing the independence of our
independent registered public accounting firm and reviewing the adequacy of our internal accounting controls. In addition,
the Audit Committee members have been designated the Qualified Legal Compliance Committee for
attorney and employee reporting purposes. During the last fiscal year, the Audit Committee
conducted one meeting.
Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee is comprised of all of the directors who are non-interested, namely,
Messrs. Goodstein, Goldstein, Dakos and Das. The Nominating Committee is responsible for seeking
and reviewing candidates for consideration as nominees for directors as is from time to time
considered necessary or appropriate. During the last fiscal year, the Nominating Committee
conducted no meetings.
It is the policy of the Nominating Committee to consider nominees recommended by stockholders
of the Fund so long as the stockholders properly submit their recommendations in accordance with
the following: A stockholder wishing to recommend to the Nominating Committee a candidate for
election as director must submit the recommendation in writing, addressed to the Committee care of
our Secretary c/o U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 Michigan St., 2nd Floor,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202. Submissions recommending candidates for election at an annual meeting
of stockholders must be received no later than 120 calendar days prior to the first anniversary of
the date of the proxy statement for the prior annual meeting of stockholders. In the event that
the date of the next annual meeting of stockholders is more than 30 days following or preceding the
first anniversary date of the annual meeting of stockholders for the prior year, the submission
must be made a reasonable time in advance of the mailing of our next annual proxy statement. The
written recommendation should include information concerning the stockholder or group of
stockholders making the recommendation, the proposed nominee, relationships between the
recommending stockholder and the proposed nominee and the qualifications of the proposed nominee to
serve as director, describing the contributions that the nominee would be expected to make to the
Board of Directors. The recommendation must also be accompanied by the consent of the proposed
nominee to serve if nominated and the agreement of the nominee to be interviewed by the Nominating
Committee, if the Nominating Committee decides in its discretion to do so.
Valuation Committee
The members of the Valuation Committee are all of the directors who are non-interested,
namely, Messrs. Goodstein, Goldstein, Dakos and Das. The Valuation Committee is responsible for
reviewing and approving the fair value determinations provided by the adviser with respect to any
securities for which market quotations are not readily available. During the last fiscal year, the
Valuation Committee conducted no meetings.
-27-
Compensation of Directors
The following table shows information regarding the compensation expected to be received
by the directors for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2007.
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Total Compensation |
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from Fund Expected to be Paid during the Period Ended |
Name of Director |
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July 31, 2007 |
Glenn Goodstein |
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$ |
17,000 |
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Phillip Goldstein |
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$ |
17,500 |
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Andrew Dakos |
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$ |
17,500 |
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Gerald Hellerman |
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$ |
41,000 |
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Rajeev Das |
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$ |
17,000 |
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The directors will receive an annual fee of $12,000 plus $1,000 for each Board of Directors
Meeting attended in person and $500 for each special telephonic meeting attended. We pay the
members of the Audit Committee $500 per meeting attended. Of the compensation paid to Mr.
Hellerman during the fiscal year ended July 31, 2006, $24,000 was in consideration for his services
as Chief Compliance Officer.
Investment Advisory Agreement
Management Services/Portfolio Manager
PAM serves as our investment adviser. PAM is a registered investment adviser under the
Advisers Act. Subject to the overall supervision of our Board of Directors, PAM manages our
day-to-day operations and provides us with investment advisory services. Under the terms of an
Investment Advisory Agreement, PAM will conduct all investment research and supervision and is
responsible for the purchase and sale of our investment portfolio securities, subject to the
supervision and direction of the Board of Directors. PAM also provides us with advice, supervises
our management and investment programs and provides investment advisory facilities and executive
and supervisory personnel for managing the investments and effectuating portfolio transactions.
PAM also furnishes, at its own expense, all necessary administrative services, office space,
equipment and clerical personnel for servicing our investments. In addition, PAM will pay the
salaries and fees of all of our officers who are affiliated with PAM.
PAMs services under the Investment Advisory Agreement are not exclusive, and it is free to
furnish similar services to other entities so long as its services to us are not impaired.
Management Fees
We pay PAM a monthly fee at an annual rate of 0.80% of the value of our average daily net
assets for the investment management and research services provided. In addition, PAM has
voluntarily agreed to reimburse us for certain fees and expenses on an annual basis. These expense
reimbursements may be terminated at any time.
-28-
Payment of Expenses
The Investment Advisory Agreement provides that we will be responsible for all of our expenses
and liabilities, except that PAM is responsible for the expense in connection with maintaining a
staff within its organization to furnish the above services to us.
Duration and Termination
The Investment Advisory Agreement was approved by our Board of Directors on June 18, 2003, and
by our stockholders on November 19, 2003. It will remain in effect from year to year thereafter if
approved annually by our Board of Directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority
of our outstanding voting securities, including, in either case, approval by a majority of our
Directors who are not interested persons. The Investment Advisory Agreement will automatically
terminate in the event of its assignment. The Investment Advisory Agreement may be terminated by
either party without penalty upon not more than 60 days written notice to the other.
Organization of the Investment Adviser
PAM is organized as a corporation under the laws of Mexico and is registered as an investment
adviser under the Advisers Act. PAMs principal office is located at Teopanzolco Avenue #408,
3rd Floor, Cuernavaca 62260, Morelos, Mexico. Maria Eugenia Pichardo is the President
and Chief Executive Officer of PAM. Ms. Pichardo owns 99% of the total outstanding shares of
common stock of PAM and has acted as the Funds portfolio manager since the Funds inception.
Factors in Approving the Investment Advisory Agreement
The Funds Board of Directors, including the directors who are not interested persons of any
party to the Investment Advisory Agreement or its affiliates, approved the Investment Advisory
Agreement at a meeting of the Board of Directors held on June 29, 2004, with legal counsel in
attendance. A discussion regarding the Boards basis for approving the Investment Advisory
Agreement is available in the Funds shareholder reports.
Administration Agreement
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services LLC serves as our administrator pursuant to an Administration
Agreement dated July 21, 2001. Pursuant to the Administration Agreement, Administrator provides us
with, but is not limited to the following types of services, general fund management, compliance
oversight, financial reporting oversight and tax reporting. For the fiscal year ended July 31,
2006, the Fund paid Administrator $12,000. In addition, we reimbursed Administrator for certain
expenses and fees incurred on our behalf.
Control Persons and Principal Stockholders
The following table sets forth certain ownership information with respect to our common
stock and/or preferred stock for those persons who directly or indirectly own, control or hold with
the power to vote, 5% or more of our outstanding common stock and/or preferred stock and all
officers and directors, as a group.
-29-
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Immediately |
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prior to this |
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offering |
Name and Address of Beneficial |
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Type of |
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Amount of Shares |
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Owner |
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ownership |
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Class of Stock |
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Beneficially Owned |
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% of Class |
Richard J. Shaker |
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d/b/a Shaker Financial Services |
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1094 Magothy Circle
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Record and |
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Annapolis, MD 21401
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beneficial
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Preferred
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129,223 |
(1) |
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9.04 |
% |
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QVT Financial LP |
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527 Madison Avenue, 8th Floor
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Record and |
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New York, New York 10022
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beneficial
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Preferred
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300,000 |
(2) |
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20.99 |
% |
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Deutsche Bank AG (3) |
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Taunusanlage 12, D-60325 |
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Frankfurt am Main
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Record and
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Common
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236,050 |
(3) |
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9.54 |
% |
Federal Republic of Germany
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beneficial
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Preferred
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184,204 |
(4) |
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9.92 |
% |
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City of London Investment Group PLC |
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City of London Investment Management |
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Company Limited |
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10 Eastcheap |
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London EC3M 1LX
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Record and
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Common
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503,500 |
(5) |
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20.36 |
% |
England
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beneficial
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Preferred
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466,500 |
(6) |
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32.64 |
% |
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All officers and directors as a group
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Record and
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Common
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1 |
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* |
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(8 persons) (7)
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beneficial
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Preferred
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141,343 |
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9.89 |
% |
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* |
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The officers and directors collectively as a group own less than 1% of the outstanding shares
of the Funds common stock. |
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(1) |
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Based solely upon information presented in a Schedule 13G/A, dated June 30, 2006,
filed by Richard J. Shaker, d/b/a Shaker Financial Services. |
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(2) |
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Based solely upon information presented in a Schedule 13G, dated January 11, 2006,
filed by Financial LP (QVT Financial). QVT Financial is the investment manager for QVT
Associates LP (QVT Associates), QVT Overseas Ltd. (QVT Overseas) and for a separate
discretionary account managed for Deutsche Bank AG. QVT Financial has the power to direct the
vote and disposition of the Funds preferred stock held by each of QVT Associates and QVT
Overseas and such separate account. Accordingly, QVT Financial may be deemed to be the
beneficial owners of an aggregate amount of 300,000 shares of the Funds preferred stock,
consisting of 21,996 shares of the Funds preferred stock owned by QVT Associates, 42,800
shares of the Funds preferred stock owned by QVT Overseas and 235,204 shares of the Funds
preferred stock held in such separate account. |
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(3) |
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Based solely upon information presented in a Form 4, dated December 4, 2006, filed by
Deutsche Bank AG. |
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(4) |
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Based solely upon information presented in a Schedule 13G, dated April 9, 2007, filed
by Deutsche Bank AG, reflecting the securities beneficially owned by the Corporate and
Investment Banking business group and the Corporate Investments business group of Deutsche
Bank AG and its subsidiaries and affiliates. |
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(5) |
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Based solely upon information presented in a Schedule 13G, dated June 30, 2006, filed
by City of London Investment Group PLC, a company incorporated under the laws of England and
Wales (CLIG) and City of London Investment Management Company Limited, a company
incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (CLIM). CLIG is the parent holding company
for companies, including CLIM. CLIM is an |
-30-
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investment manager for various funds which directly own 503,500 shares of the Funds common
stock. CLIG and CLIM may be deemed the beneficial owners of 503,500 shares of the Funds
common stock, consisting of shares held by various funds managed by CLIM. |
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(6) |
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Based solely upon information presented in a Schedule 13G, dated February 27, 2007,
filed by CLIG and CLIM. CLIG is the parent holding company for companies, including CLIM.
CLIM is an investment manager for various funds which directly own 466,500 shares of the
Funds preferred stock. CLIG and CLIM may be deemed the beneficial owners of 466,500 shares
of the Funds preferred stock, consisting of shares held by various funds managed by CLIM. |
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(7) |
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The address for all officers and directors is c/o U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 East
Michigan Street, 2nd Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53202. |
Outstanding Securities
The following table sets forth certain information regarding our authorized shares and shares
outstanding as of June 30, 2007 for our common stock and preferred stock.
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(3) |
(1) |
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(2) |
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Amount Issued and |
Title of Class |
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Amount Authorized |
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Outstanding |
Common Stock |
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98,144,872 |
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2,626,019 |
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Preferred Stock |
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1,855,128 |
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1,429,336 |
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Determination of Net Asset Value
The NAV per share of our outstanding shares of common stock is determined daily, by
dividing the value of total assets minus liabilities by the total number of shares outstanding at
the date as of which such determination is made.
All securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at the last sales
price prior to the time of determination of net asset value, or, if no sales price is available at
that time, at the closing price last quoted for the securities (but if bid and asked quotations are
available, at the mean between the current bid and asked prices, rather than the quoted closing
price). Securities that are traded over-the-counter are valued (if bid and asked quotations are
available) at the mean between the current bid and asked prices. Investments in short-term debt
securities having a maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost if their term to
maturity from the date of purchase was less than 60 days, or by amortizing their value on the
61st day prior to maturity if their term to maturity from the date of purchase when
acquired by us was more than 60 days. Securities for which market values are not readily
ascertainable are carried at fair value as determined in good faith by, or under the supervision
of, the Board of Directors. It is possible that the estimated value may differ significantly from
the amount that might ultimately be realized in the near term, and the difference could be
material.
Description of our Capital Stock
Capital Stock
Our 100,000,000 shares of authorized capital stock consists of 98,144,872 shares of common
stock, par value $0.001 per share, and 1,855,128 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.001 per
share, of which 2,626,019 shares of common stock and 1,429,336 shares of preferred stock are issued
and outstanding. Our common stock trades on the NYSE under the symbol MXE. Our preferred stock
-31-
trades on the NYSE under the symbol MXE-Pr. No stock
has been authorized for issuance under any
equity compensation plans. Under Maryland law, our stockholders generally are not personally
liable for our debts or obligations.
As permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law, our charter provides that the Board of
Directors, without any action by our stockholders, may amend the charter from time to time to
increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares of stock or the number of shares of stock of
any class or series that the Fund have authority to issue. In addition, our charter provides that
the Board of Directors, by majority vote, may reclassify any unissued shares of our capital stock
into one or more additional or other classes or series of stock with such designations,
preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends
and qualifications as determined by the Board of Directors.
Common Stock
All shares of our common stock have equal rights as to earnings, assets, dividends and voting
privileges and, when they are issued, will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable. Distributions may be paid to the holders of our common stock if, as and when
authorized by our Board of Directors and declared by us out of funds legally available for such
distributions. Shares of our common stock have no preemptive, conversion or redemption rights and
are freely transferable, except where their transfer is restricted by federal and state securities
laws or by contract. In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, each share would
be entitled to share ratably in all of our assets that are legally available for distribution after
we pay all debts and other liabilities. Each of our shares of common stock is entitled to one vote
on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election of directors. Except as
provided with respect to any other class or series of stock, the holders of the Funds common stock
will possess exclusive voting power. There is no cumulative voting in the election of directors,
which means that holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock will elect all of
our directors, and holders of less than a majority of such shares will be unable to elect any
director.
Preferred Stock
Our preferred stock was issued in connection with a rights offering in November 2005. See
Preferred Stock Rights Offering. The preferred stock has identical rights and qualifications of
our common stock, except as set forth in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d) below:
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(a) |
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Liquidation Preference: In the event of any voluntary or involuntary
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund, the holders of preferred stock will
be entitled to receive preferential liquidating distribution at the then current net
asset value per share of preferred stock, before any distribution of assets is made to
the holders of our common stock. After payment of the full amount of the liquidating
distribution to which they are entitled, the holders of shares of preferred stock will
not be entitled to any further participation in any distribution of assets by the Fund. |
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(b) |
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Voting Rights: So long as the Fund is subject to the 1940 Act, the
holders of any preferred stock, voting separately as a single class, have the right to
elect at least two directors at all times. The remaining directors are elected by
holders of common stock. So long as the Fund is subject to the 1940 Act, in addition
to any approval by stockholders that might otherwise be required, the approval of the
holders of a majority of any outstanding preferred stock voting separately as a class,
are required to (1) adopt any plan of reorganization that would adversely affect the
preferred stock, and (2) take any action requiring a vote of security holders under
Section 13(a) of the 1940 Act, including, among other things, changes in the Funds
subclassification as a closed-end |
-32-
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investment company or changes in its fundamental
investment restrictions. As a result of
these voting rights, the Funds ability to take any such actions may be impeded to
the extent that there is any preferred stock outstanding. Except as otherwise
required by applicable law or the Funds Articles of Incorporation or bylaws,
holders of preferred stock have equal voting rights with holders of our common stock
(one vote per share, unless otherwise required by the 1940 Act) and vote together
with such holders of common stock as a single class. |
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(c) |
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Repurchase. On a semi-annual basis, on dates to be determined by the
Board of Directors and so long as shares of the Funds preferred stock remain
outstanding, the Fund plans to conduct special tender offers (each, a Tender Offer)
for preferred stock. |
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(d) |
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Automatic Conversion. If the Put Warrant Program is approved by the
SEC, the preferred stock will automatically convert into common stock on a one-for-one
basis upon the anticipated issuance of put warrants by the Fund and, shortly
thereafter, stockholders will receive put warrants. Holders of the preferred stock
will have no other conversion rights. |
So long as the Fund is subject to the 1940 Act, (i) the Fund shall have an asset coverage of
at least 200 percent, (ii) the Fund will be prohibited from declaring any dividend (except a
dividend payable in our common stock) or any other distribution upon our common stock, unless the
preferred stock has at the time of any such declaration an asset coverage of at least 200 percent
after deducting the amount of such dividend or distribution, as the case may be, (iii) holders of
preferred stock will be entitled, voting as a class, to the voting rights outlined in (b) above,
and (iv) holders of preferred stock will have the liquidation preference outlined in (a) above.
At the Annual Shareholders meeting held on November 15, 2006, the Fund obtained the required
vote of each of the common and preferred classes to ratify the prior issuance of the preferred
stock. The Fund sought this ratification because the offering of preferred stock may have
inadvertently contravened one of the Funds fundamental investment restrictions, prohibiting the
issuance of senior securities without stockholder approval to change such fundamental investment
restriction as required by Section 13a of the 1940 Act.
On February 14, 2003, the Fund obtained stockholder approval for the creation, issuance and
registration of put warrants, pursuant to a put warrant program, which are designed to afford
stockholders a series of opportunities to realize NAV for their shares. As initially conceived,
the put warrants would entitle a holder thereof to surrender to the Fund one share of the Funds
common stock for each put warrant held once each calendar quarter, in exchange for cash equal to
NAV per share.
A registration statement covering the issuance of the proposed put warrants and certain
no-action and exemptive relief requested by the Fund with respect thereto is currently under review
by the staff of the Division of Investment Management (IM) and the staff of the Division of
Corporate Finance (Corp Fin) of the SEC. In April 2007, the staff of IM provided comments to the
request for exemptive relief and we expect that, once such comments are addressed, exemptive relief
will be granted pending approval by the SEC. The staff of Corp Fin has not indicated that the
Funds no-action request will be granted or that the staff will provide any comments to the
no-action request. Therefore, there can be no assurance that no-action relief will be granted in
the near future. In addition to the SECs review, the NYSE has informally indicated that, if the
put warrants are approved by the SEC, the put warrants should be eligible to be listed on the NYSE.
-33-
If the put warrants are approved by the SEC and become listed on the NYSE, each outstanding
share of preferred stock would automatically convert to one share of the Funds common stock. In
such an
event, no shares of preferred stock would be outstanding and, therefore, the Fund would not
conduct any Tender Offers for such shares. There can, however, be no assurance that the Fund will
be able to register the put warrants in the near future.
Limitation on Liability of Directors and Officers; Indemnification and Advancement of
Expenses
Maryland law permits a Maryland corporation to include in its charter a provision
limiting the liability of its directors and officers to the corporation and its stockholders for
money damages except for liability resulting from (a) actual receipt of an improper benefit or
profit in money, property or services or (b) active and deliberate dishonesty established by a
final judgment and which is material to the cause of action. Our charter contains such a provision
which eliminates directors and officers liability to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland
law, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act.
Our bylaws obligate us, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law and subject to the
requirements of the 1940 Act, to indemnify any director, officer, employees or agents of the Fund
against any judgments, fines, settlements or expenses.
Maryland law requires a corporation (unless its charter provides otherwise, which our charter
does not) to indemnify a director or officer who has been successful in the defense of any
proceeding to which he or she is made a party by reason of his or her service in that capacity.
Maryland law permits a corporation to indemnify its present and former directors and officers,
among others, against judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and reasonable expenses actually
incurred by them in connection with any proceeding to which they may be made a party by reason of
their service in those or other capacities unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of
the director or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and (1) was
committed in bad faith or (2) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) the director
or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in
the case of any criminal proceeding, the director or officer had reasonable cause to believe that
the act or omission was unlawful. However, under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation may not
indemnify for an adverse judgment in a suit by or in the right of the corporation or for a judgment
of liability on the basis that a personal benefit was improperly received, unless in either case a
court orders indemnification, and then only for expenses. In addition, Maryland law permits a
corporation to advance reasonable expenses to a director or officer upon the corporations receipt
of (a) a written affirmation by the director or officer of his or her good faith belief that he or
she has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the corporation and (b) a
written undertaking by him or her or on his or her behalf to repay the amount paid or reimbursed by
the corporation if it is ultimately determined that the standard of conduct was not met.
Provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law and our Charter and Bylaws
The Maryland General Corporation Law and our charter and bylaws contain provisions that could
make it more difficult for a potential acquiror to acquire us by means of a tender offer, proxy
contest or otherwise. These provisions are expected to discourage certain coercive takeover
practices and inadequate takeover bids and to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of us to
negotiate first with our Board of Directors. We believe that the benefits of these provisions
outweigh the potential disadvantages of discouraging any such acquisition proposals because, among
other things, the negotiation of such proposals may improve their terms.
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Classified Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is divided into three classes of directors serving staggered three-year
terms. A classified board of directors may render a change in control of us or removal of our
incumbent management more difficult. We believe, however, that the longer time required to elect a
majority of a classified board of directors will help to ensure the continuity and stability of our
management and policies.
Action by Stockholders
The Maryland General Corporation Law provides that stockholder action can be taken only at an
annual or special meeting of stockholders or by unanimous written consent in lieu of a meeting.
These provisions, combined with the requirements of our bylaws regarding the calling of a
stockholder-requested special meeting of stockholders discussed below, may have the effect of
delaying consideration of a stockholder proposal until the next annual meeting.
Ability of Stockholders to call a Special Meeting of Stockholders
Our bylaws only allow our stockholders to call a Special Meeting of Stockholders if such
request is made to the Secretary of the Fund in writing signed by stockholders having at least 50%
of the issued and outstanding shares of voting stock.
Regulation
We intend to continue to be regulated as a registered management investment company under
the 1940 Act and as a registered investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue
Code. The 1940 Act contains prohibitions and restrictions relating to transactions between
registered investment companies and their affiliates (including any investment advisers or
sub-advisers), principal underwriters and affiliates of those affiliates or underwriters and
requires that a majority of the directors be persons other than interested persons, as that term
is defined in the 1940 Act.
Temporary Investments
We may take temporary defensive positions in cash or in high quality, short-term debt
securities or other money market instruments in response to adverse market, economic, political or
other conditions.
Code of Ethics
The Fund and PAM have each adopted a code of ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act
that establishes procedures for personal investments and restricts certain personal securities
transactions. Personnel subject to each code may invest in securities for their personal
investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by us, so long as such
investments are made pursuant to the codes requirements. For information on how to obtain a copy
of each code of ethics, see Available Information.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
The Proxy Voting Policies and Guidelines contained in this document summarize our positions on
various issues of concern to our stockholders. These Guidelines give general indication as to how
our investment adviser will vote our portfolio securities on each issue listed. However, this
listing does not address all potential voting issues or the intricacies that may surround
individual proxy votes. For that
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reason there may be instances in which votes may vary from the guidelines presented here. We
endeavor to vote our shares in accordance with our investment objectives and strategies.
The Fund will vote NO on any proposals that would limit or restrict a stockholders rights.
I. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
A. Board of Directors and Governance Issues
1. Board of Director/Trustee Composition
The Board of Directors is responsible for the overall governance of the corporation.
The Fund adviser will oppose slates without at least a majority of independent directors
(1/3 of directors who are outsiders to the corporation).
The Fund adviser will vote for shareholder proposals that request that the board of
directors audit, compensation and/or nominating committees include independent directors
exclusively.
2. Increase Authorized Common Stock
The Fund adviser will generally support the authorization of additional common stock
necessary to facilitate a stock split.
The Fund adviser will generally support the authorization of additional common stock, if
the company already has a large amount of stock authorized but not issued or reserved for its stock
option plans. In this latter instance, there is a concern that the authorized but unissued shares
will be used as a poison pill or other takeover defense, which will be opposed. In
addition, the Fund will require the company to provide a specific purpose for any request to
increase shares by more than 100 percent of the current authorization.
3. Blank Check Preferred Stock
Blank check preferred is stock with a fixed dividend and a preferential claim on company assets
relative to common shares. The terms of the stock (voting dividend and conversion rights) are set
by the Board of Directors at a future date without further shareholder action. While such an issue
can in theory have legitimate corporate purposes, most often it has been used as a takeover defense
since the stock has terms that make the entire company less attractive.
The Fund adviser will generally oppose the creation of blank check preferred stock.
4. Classified or Staggered Board of Directors
On a classified (or staggered) board of directors, directors are divided into separate classes
(usually three) with directors in each class elected to overlapping three-year terms. Companies
argue that such boards of directors offer continuity in direction which promotes long-term
planning. However, in some instances they may serve to deter unwanted takeovers since a potential
buyer would have to wait at least two years to gain a majority of board of directors seats.
The Fund adviser will vote no on proposals involving classified boards of directors.
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5. Supermajority Vote Requirements
Supermajority vote requirements in a companys charter or bylaws require a level of voting approval
in excess of a simple majority. Generally, supermajority provisions require at least 2/3
affirmative vote for passage of issues.
The Fund adviser will vote no on proposals involving supermajority voting.
6. Restrictions on Stockholders to Act by Written Consent
Written consent allows stockholders to initiate and carry out a shareholder action without waiting
until the annual meeting or by calling a special meeting. It permits action to be taken by the
written consent of the same percentage of outstanding shares that would be required to effect the
proposed action at a shareholder meeting.
The Fund adviser will vote no on proposals to limit or eliminate the right of stockholders
to act by written consent.
7. Restrictions on Stockholders to Call Meetings
The Fund adviser will generally oppose such a restriction as it limits the right of the
stockholder.
8. Limitations, Director Liability and Indemnification
Because of increased litigation brought against directors of corporations and the increased costs
of directors liability insurance, many states have passed laws limiting director liability for
those acting in good faith. Stockholders however must opt into such statutes. In addition, many
companies are seeking to add indemnification of directors to corporate bylaws.
The Fund adviser will generally support director liability and indemnification resolutions
because it is important for companies to be able to attract the most qualified individuals to their
Boards of Directors. Note: Those directors acting fraudulently would remain liable for their
actions irrespective of this resolution.
9. Reincorporation
Corporations are in general bound by the laws of the state in which they are incorporated.
Companies reincorporate for a variety of reasons including shifting incorporation to a state where
the company has its most active operations or corporate headquarters, or shifting incorporation to
take advantage of state corporate takeover laws.
While each reincorporation proposal will be evaluated based on its own merits, the Fund adviser
will generally support reincorporation resolutions for valid business reasons (such as
reincorporating in the same state as the corporate headquarters).
10. Cumulative Voting
Cumulative voting allows stockholders to stack their votes behind one or a few director nominees
running for the Board of Directors, thereby helping a minority of stockholders to win board of
directors representation. Cumulative voting gives minority stockholders a voice in corporate
affairs proportionate to their actual strength in voting shares.
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The Fund adviser will generally support proposals calling for cumulative voting in the
election of directors.
11. Dual Classes of Stock
In order to maintain corporate control in the hands of a certain group of stockholders, companies
may seek to create multiple classes of stock with differing rights pertaining to voting and
dividends.
The Fund adviser will generally oppose dual classes of stock. However, the advisor will
support classes of stock offering different dividend rights (such as one class which pays
cash dividends and a second which pays stock dividends) depending on the circumstances.
12. Limit Directors Tenure
In general corporate directors may stand for re-election indefinitely. Opponents of this practice
suggest that limited tenure would inject new perspectives into the boardroom as well as possibly
creating room for directors from diverse backgrounds; however, continuity is important to corporate
leadership and in some instances alternative means may be explored for injecting new ideas or
members from diverse backgrounds into corporate boardrooms.
Accordingly,
the Fund adviser will vote on a case-by-case basis on attempts to limit director tenure.
13. Minimum Director Stock Ownership
The director share ownership proposal requires that all corporate directors own a minimum number of
shares in the corporation. The purpose of this resolution is to encourage directors to have the
same interest as other stockholders.
The Fund adviser will support resolutions that require corporate directors to own shares in
the company.
14. Selection of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Annual election of the outside accountants is standard practice. While it is recognized that the
company is in the best position to evaluate the competence of the outside accountants, we believe
that outside accountants must ultimately be accountable to stockholders. Furthermore, audit
committees have been the subject of a report released by the Blue Ribbon Commission on Improving
the Effectiveness of Corporate Audit Committees in conjunction with the NYSE and the National
Association of Securities Dealers. The Blue Ribbon Commission concluded that audit committees must
improve their current level of oversight of independent accountants. Given the rash of accounting
irregularities that were not detected by audit panels or auditors, shareholder ratification is an
essential step in restoring investor confidence.
The Fund adviser will oppose the resolutions seeking ratification of the auditor when fees
for financial systems design and implementation exceed audit and all other fees, as this can
compromise the independence of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
The Fund adviser will oppose the election of the audit committee chair if the audit
committee recommends an auditors whose fees for financial systems design and implementation exceed
audit and all other fees, as this can compromise the independence of the Independent Registered
Public Accounting Firm.
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B. Executive Compensation
1. Disclosure of President, Executive Officers, Board of Directors and Management Compensation
On a case-by-case basis, the Fund adviser will support shareholder resolutions requesting
companies to disclose the salaries of top management and the Board of Directors.
2. Compensation for President, Executive Officers, Board of Directors and Management
The Fund adviser will oppose an executive compensation proposal if we believe the
compensation does not reflect the economic and social circumstances of the company (i.e. at times
of layoffs, downsizing, employee wage freezes, etc.).
3. Formation and Independence of Compensation Review Committee
The Fund adviser will support stockholder resolutions requesting the formation of a
committee of independent directors to review and examine executive compensation.
4. Stock Options for Board of Directors and Executives
The Fund adviser will generally oppose stock option plans that in total offer greater than
15% of shares outstanding because of voting and earnings dilution.
The Fund adviser will generally oppose option programs that allow the repricing of
underwater options. (Repricing divides stockholder and employee interests. Stockholders cannot
reprice their stock and, therefore, optionees should not be treated differently).
The Fund adviser will generally oppose stock option plans that have option exercise prices
below the marketplace on the day of the grant.
The Fund adviser will generally support options programs for outside directors subject to
the same constraints previously described.
5. Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOPs)
The Fund adviser will support ESOPs created to promote active employee ownership. However,
they will oppose any ESOP whose purpose is to prevent a corporate takeover.
6. Pay Equity
The Fund adviser will support stockholder resolutions that request that management provide
a race and/or gender pay equity report.
7. Changes to Charter or ByLaws
The Fund adviser will conduct a case-by-case review of the proposed changes with the voting
decision resting on whether the proposed changes are in stockholders best interests.
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8. Confidential Voting
Typically, proxy voting differs from voting in political elections in that the company is made
aware of shareholder votes as they are cast. This enables management to contact dissenting
stockholders in an attempt to get them to change their votes.
The Fund adviser will support confidential voting because the voting process should be free
of coercion.
9. Equal Access to Proxy
Equal access proposals ask companies to give stockholders access to proxy materials to state their
views on contested issues, including director nominations. In some cases, they would actually
allow stockholders to nominate directors. Companies suggest that such proposals would make an
increasingly complex process even more burdensome.
In general, the Fund adviser will oppose resolutions for equal access proposals.
10. Golden Parachutes
Golden parachutes are severance payments to top executives who are terminated or demoted pursuant
to a takeover. Companies argue that such provisions are necessary to keep executives from jumping
ship during potential takeover attempts.
The Fund adviser will support the right of stockholders to vote on golden parachutes
because they go above and beyond ordinary compensation practices. In evaluating a particular
golden parachute, we will examine total management compensation, the employees covered by the plan,
and the quality of management.
C. Mergers and Acquisitions
1. Considering the Non-Financial Effects of a Merger Proposal
Such a proposal allows or requires the Board of Directors to consider the impact of merger
decisions on various stakeholders, such as employees, communities, customers and business
partners. This proposal gives the Board of Directors the right to reject a tender offer on the
grounds that it would adversely affect the Funds stakeholders.
The Fund adviser will support stockholder resolutions that consider non-financial impacts
of mergers.
2. Mergers, Restructuring and Spin-offs
A merger, restructuring, or spin-off in some way affects a change in control of the Funds assets.
In evaluating the merit of each issue, we will consider the terms of each proposal. This will
include an analysis of the potential long-term value of the investment.
The Fund adviser will support management proposals for merger or restructuring if the
transaction appears to offer fair value and other proxy voting policies stated are not violated.
For example, the adviser may oppose restructuring resolutions which include in it significant
takeover defenses and may again oppose the merger of a non-nuclear and a nuclear utility if it
poses potential liabilities.
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3. Poison Pills
Poison pills (or stockholder rights plans) are triggered by an unwanted takeover attempt and cause
a variety of events to occur which may make the company financially less attractive to the suitor.
Typically, directors have enacted these plans without stockholder approval. Most poison pill
resolutions deal with putting poison pills up for a vote or repealing them altogether.
The Fund adviser will support proposals to put rights plans up for a stockholder vote. In
general, poison pills will be opposed unless management is able to present a convincing
case fur such a plan.
4. Opt-Out of State Anti-Takeover Law
A strategy for dealing with anti-takeover issues has been a stockholder resolution asking for a
company to opt-out of a particular states anti-takeover laws.
The Fund adviser will generally support bylaws changes requiring a company to opt-out of
state anti-takeover laws. However, resolutions requiring companies to opt-into state anti-takeover
statutes will be opposed.
Share Repurchases
Stockholders of a closed-end management investment company generally do not have the
right to cause it to repurchase its shares. Generally, a closed-end management company may
repurchase its shares under the 1940 Act: (1) on a securities exchange or such other open market
as may be designated by the SEC (provided that it has, in any such case, informed holders of the
class of stock involved within the preceding six months of its intention to repurchase such stock),
(2) by a tender offer open to all holders of the class of shares involved or (3) as otherwise
permitted by the SEC. If the Fund intends to repurchase its shares other than on a securities
exchange, in the open market or by making a tender offer, a rule adopted by the SEC under the 1940
Act provides that the closed-end fund must meet certain conditions regarding the distribution of
our net income, the identity of the seller, the price paid, any brokerage commissions, prior notice
to holders of the class of shares involved of an intention to purchase such shares and that the
purchase is not being made in a manner or on a basis which discriminates unfairly against the other
holders of such class.
While we are not required to repurchase our shares, we have done so in the past and may
continue to do so if the Board of Directors believes that such repurchase is in our best interests
and of our stockholders.
At a meeting of the Board of Directors held on December 13, 2001, the Board of Directors
approved a tender offer (the Tender). The Tender allowed us to purchase up to 100% of each
stockholders shares of common stock, not to exceed 80% of the total outstanding shares of our
common stock, for cash at a price equal to 100% of our net asset value per share as of the closing
date. The Tender commenced on February 19, 2002 and expired on March 20, 2002. In connection with
the Tender, the Fund purchased 6,122,069 shares of capital stock at a total cost of $68,444,728.
There were no gains or losses to the Fund because the repurchase of tendered shares was executed at
100% of the Funds NAV as calculated on the expiration date of
the Tender.
At a special meeting of the Board of Directors held on October 11, 1999, the Board of
Directors approved a share repurchase program. Pursuant to the share repurchase program, we were
authorized to commence a two phase share repurchase program for up to 2,800,000 shares, or
approximately 25% of
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our then outstanding shares of common stock, through a combination of share purchases and
tender offers.
During the years ended July 31, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006, we made no repurchases
pursuant to the program. Pursuant to the share repurchase program, during the year ended July 31,
2001, we purchased 174,000 shares of capital stock in the open market at a total cost of
$1,703,552. The weighted average discount of these purchases comparing the purchase price to the
net asset value at the time of purchase was 9.01%. During the fiscal year ended July 31, 2000, we
purchased 1,199,700 shares of capital stock in the open market at a total cost of $10,573,159. The
weighted average discount of these purchases comparing the purchase prices to the net asset value
at the time of purchase was 16.40%.
The Fund expects to conduct a series of Tender Offers for its preferred stock only on a
semi-annual basis, on dates to be determined by the Board of
Directors, in which up to 25% of the issued
and outstanding preferred stock may be tendered to the Fund. Each stockholder participating in a Tender Offer may have his or
her tendered shares of preferred stock repurchased by the Fund in kind for portfolio securities
having a value equal to 99% of NAV as determined, with respect to each Tender Offer, on a date
designated by the Board of Directors.
Preferred Stock Rights Offering
Each of our stockholders as of November 30, 2005 (the Preferred Stock Record Date)
received, at no cost, 0.75 nontransferable rights (each whole right, a Preferred Stock
Subscription Right) to purchase one share of preferred stock for each share of our common stock
such stockholder owned as of the Preferred Stock Record Date (the Basic Preferred Stock
Subscription Right). We did not issue fractional shares upon the exercise of the Basic Preferred
Stock Subscription Right or Preferred Stock Over-Subscription Privilege (as defined below). We
offered shares of Preferred Stock to these stockholders for a price equal to the greater of (a) 90%
of the Funds net asset value per share as determined on the Preferred Stock Expiration
Date (as defined below) or (b) the average closing price of our common stock over the four
consecutive trading days ending on the Preferred Stock Expiration Date. The offer to purchase
preferred stock expired at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on December 28, 2005, (the Preferred
Stock Expiration Date).
Stockholders who elected to purchase the maximum amount of our preferred stock to which they
were entitled pursuant to the Basic Preferred Stock Subscription Right, were entitled to subscribe,
subject to allotment, to purchase additional shares of our preferred stock, that were not purchased
by our other stockholders pursuant to their Basic Preferred Stock Subscription Right as of the
Preferred Stock Expiration Date (the Preferred Stock Over-Subscription Privilege).
Stockholders who did not fully exercise their Basic Preferred Stock Subscription Rights owned,
upon completion of this offer, a smaller proportional interest in our voting stock than they owned
prior to the offer. In addition, because the subscription price for
the preferred was less than NAV per share, the
offer resulted in an immediate dilution of NAV per share for all of our stockholders. Such
dilution disproportionately affected non-exercising stockholders.
Custodian, Transfer and Dividend Paying Agent and Registrar
Our portfolio securities are held under a custody agreement by U.S. Bank, N.A. The
address of the custodian is: 425 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Our assets are held under
bank custodianship in compliance with the 1940 Act. Computershare Trust Company, N.A. acts as our
transfer agent, dividend paying agent and registrar (as well as Subscribing Agent in connection
with this offering). The principal business address of the transfer
agent is 161 Bay State Drive, Braintree MA 02184.
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Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices
Subject to the supervision of the directors, decisions to buy and sell securities for the
Fund are made by the adviser. The adviser is authorized by the directors to allocate the orders
placed by them on behalf of the Fund to brokers and dealers who may, but need not, provide research
or statistical material or other services to the Fund or the adviser for the Funds use. Such
allocation is to be in such amounts and proportions as the adviser may determine.
In selecting a broker or dealer to execute each particular transaction, the adviser will take
the following into consideration: (i) best net price available; (ii) the reliability, integrity and
financial condition of the broker or dealer; (iii) the size of and difficulty in executing the
order; and (iv) the value of the expected contribution of the broker or dealer to the investment
performance of the Fund on a continuing basis.
Brokers or dealers executing a portfolio transaction on behalf of the Fund may receive a
commission in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for
executing the transaction if the adviser determines in good faith that such commission is
reasonable in relation to the value of brokerage, research and other services provided to the Fund.
In allocating portfolio brokerage, the adviser may select brokers or dealers who also provide
brokerage, research and other services to other accounts over which the adviser exercise investment
discretion. Some of the services received as the result of the Funds transactions may primarily
benefit accounts other than the Funds, while services received as the result of portfolio
transactions effected on behalf of those other accounts may primarily benefit the Fund.
Privacy Policy
We have adopted the following privacy policy in order to safeguard the personal
information of its consumers and customers in accordance with SEC Regulation S-P, 17 CFR 284.30:
Commitment to Consumer Privacy. The Fund recognizes and respects the privacy expectations of
each of our customers and believes that the confidentiality and protection of consumer information
is one of our fundamental responsibilities. The Fund is committed to maintaining the
confidentiality, integrity and security of the customers personal information and will handle
personal consumer and customer information only in accordance with Regulation S-P and any other
applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Fund will ensure: (a) the security and confidentiality
of customer records and information; (b) that customer records and information are protected from
any anticipated threats and hazards; and (c) that unauthorized access to, or use of, customer
records or information is protected against.
Collection and Disclosure of Shareholder Information. Consumer information collected by, or
on behalf of, the Fund, generally consists of the following:
|
|
|
Information received from consumers or customers on or in applications or other
forms, correspondence, or conversations, including, but not limited to, their name,
address, phone number, social security number, assets, income and date of birth; and |
|
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Information about transactions with us, our affiliates, or others, including, but
not limited to, shareholder account numbers and balance, payments history, parties to
transactions, cost basis information, and other financial information. |
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The Fund does not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our current or former
consumers or customers to nonaffiliated third parties, except as permitted by law. For example, as
the Fund has no employees, it conducts its business affairs through third parties that provide
services pursuant to agreements with the Fund (as well as through its officers and directors).
Security of Consumer and Customer Information. The Fund will determine whether the policies
and procedures of its affiliates and service providers and reasonably designed to safeguard
customer information and require only appropriate and authorized access to, and use of, customer
information through the application of appropriate administrative, technical, physical, and
procedural safeguards that comply with applicable federal standards and regulations. The Fund
directs each of its service providers to adhere to the Funds privacy policy and to their
respective privacy policies with respect to all customer information of the Fund and to take all
actions reasonably necessary so that the Fund is in compliance with the provisions of 17 CFR
248.30, including, as applicable, the development and delivery of initial and annual
privacy notices and maintenance of appropriate and adequate records. The Fund will require its
service providers to confirm to the Fund, in writing, that they are restricting access to nonpublic
personal information about customers to those employees who need to know that information to
provide products or services to customers.
The Fund requires its service providers to provide periodic reports, no less frequently than
annually, to the Board of Directors outlining their privacy policies and implementation and
promptly report to the Fund any material changes to their privacy policy before, or promptly after,
their adoption.
Legal Matters
Legal matters regarding the securities offered by this Prospectus and of the Fund in
general will be passed upon for the Fund by Blank Rome LLP, New York, New York.
Experts
The financial statements included in this Prospectus and in the Registration Statement
have been audited by Tait, Weller & Baker LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, to
the extent and for the periods set forth in their report appearing elsewhere herein and in the
Registration Statement, and are included in reliance upon such report given upon the authority of
said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
Available Information
We will file with or submit to the SEC reports, proxy statements and other information
meeting the informational requirements of the 1940 Act and the Exchange Act. You may inspect and
copy these reports, proxy statements and other information at the Public Reference Room of the SEC
at 100 F St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for information on
the operation of the Public Reference Room. Our SEC filings are also available to the public on the
SECs Internet website at http://www.sec.gov and can be inspected at the offices of the NYSE, 20
Broad Street, New York, NY 10005. Copies of these reports, proxy and information statements and
other information may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the
following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section,
100 F St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102.
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Forward-Looking Statements
This Prospectus contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Securities
Act, that involve risks and uncertainties. We use words such as anticipates, believes,
expects, objectives, future, intends, will, may, should, and similar expressions to
identify forward-looking statements. Our actual results could differ materially from those
projected in the forward-looking statements because of various risks and uncertainties, including
the factors set forth in Risk Factors and elsewhere in this Prospectus.
We have based the forward-looking statements included in this Prospectus on information
available to us on the date of this Prospectus, and we assume no obligation to update any such
forward-looking statements. Although we undertake no obligation to revise or update any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you
are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through
reports, if any, that we in the future may file with the SEC, including an annual or semi-annual
report on Form N-CSR.
Financial Statements
The Fund hereby incorporates its Annual Report to Stockholders dated July 31, 2006 and
the Semi-Annual Report to Stockholders dated January 31, 2007 each of which was filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
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