nv2za
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 9, 2011
Securities Act Registration No. 333-175687
Investment Company Act Registration No. 811-22585
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form N-2
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REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 |
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PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 |
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POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. |
and/or
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REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 |
Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc.
11550 Ash Street, Suite 300
Leawood, Kansas 66211
(913) 981-1020
AGENT FOR SERVICE
Terry C. Matlack
11550 Ash Street, Suite 300
Leawood, Kansas 66211
Copies of Communications to:
Steven F. Carman, Esq.
Eric J. Gervais, Esq.
Husch Blackwell LLP
4801 Main Street, Suite 1000
Kansas City, MO 64112
(816) 983-8000
Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering: As soon as practicable after the effective date
of this Registration Statement.
If any of the securities being registered on this form will be offered on a delayed or
continuous basis in reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, other than securities
offered in connection with a dividend reinvestment plan, check the following box. o
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):
o when declared effective pursuant to Section 8(c).
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
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Proposed |
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Proposed Maximum |
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Title of Securities |
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Amount to be |
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Maximum Offering |
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Aggregate |
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Amount of |
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Being Registered |
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Registered |
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Price Per Share |
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Offering Price (1) |
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Registration Fee (2) |
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Common Stock |
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$5,000,000 |
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$580.50 |
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Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o)
under the Securities Act of 1933. In no event will the aggregate initial offering price of all
securities offered from time to time pursuant to the prospectus included as a part of this
Registration Statement exceed $5,000,000. |
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Previously paid. |
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The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be
necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which
specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in
accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement
shall become effective on such dates as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to
said Section 8(a), may determine.
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these
securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is
effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer
to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
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PROSPECTUS
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Subject to Completion
Preliminary Prospectus dated September 9, 2011
Common Shares
Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc.
$25.00 per Share
Investment Objective. Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc. (the Fund, we, us or
our) is a newly organized, non-diversified closed-end management investment company. Our
investment objective is to provide our stockholders a high level of total return, with an emphasis
on current distributions. We cannot assure you that we will achieve our investment objective.
Investment Strategy. We seek to provide stockholders an efficient vehicle to invest in a
portfolio consisting primarily of equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure
companies. We intend to focus primarily on pipeline companies that engage in the business of
transporting natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs), crude oil and refined petroleum products,
and to a lesser extent, on other energy infrastructure companies. Under normal circumstances, we
will invest at least 80% of our Total Assets (as defined on page 1) in equity securities of
pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. Energy infrastructure companies own and operate
a network of asset systems that transport, store, distribute, gather, process, explore, develop,
manage or produce crude oil, refined petroleum products (including biodiesel and ethanol), natural
gas or NGLs or that provide electric power generation (including renewable energy), transmission
and/or distribution. We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or otherwise
restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of listed companies. We
may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in securities of master
limited partnerships (MLPs). We will not invest in privately
held companies. We will also seek to provide current income from gains earned through an option
strategy which will consist of writing (selling) covered call options on equity securities in our
portfolio.
Tax Matters. We intend to elect to be treated, and to qualify each year, as a regulated
investment company (RIC). Assuming that we qualify as a RIC, we generally will not be subject to
U.S. federal income tax on income and gains that we distribute each taxable year to stockholders.
See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.
No Prior History. Prior to this offering, there has been no public or private market for
our common shares. Our common shares are expected to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange under
the trading or ticker symbol TTP.
Investing in our securities involves certain risks. You could lose some or all of your
investment. See Risk Factors beginning on page of this prospectus. You should consider
carefully these risks together with all of the other information contained in this prospectus
before making a decision to purchase our securities.
Shares of closed-end management investment companies frequently trade at prices lower than
their net asset value or initial offering price. This discount risk may be greater for initial
investors expecting to sell shares shortly after the completion of this offering.
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Per Share |
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Total(1) |
Public offering price |
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25.000 |
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Sales load(2) |
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1.125 |
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Proceeds, before expenses, to us(3) |
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23.875 |
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(notes on following page)
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has
approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or
complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
The underwriters expect to deliver the common shares to purchasers on or about , 2011.
The date of this prospectus is , 2011.
(notes from previous page)
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The underwriters named in this prospectus have the option to
purchase up to additional common shares at the public
offering price, less the sales load, within 45 days from the date
of this prospectus to cover over-allotments. If the over-allotment
option is exercised in full, the total public offering price,
sales load and proceeds, before expenses, to us will be $ , $ ,
and $ , respectively. See Underwriters. |
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Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C., our Adviser, has agreed to pay
from its own assets an upfront structuring
fee to in the
amount of $. These fees are not reflected under sales load in the
table above. See UnderwritersAdditional Compensation to be Paid
by Our Adviser. |
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In addition to the sales load, we will pay, and our stockholders
will bear, offering costs of up to $0.05 per share, estimated to
total approximately $ ($ , if the underwriters exercise the
over-allotment option in full), which will reduce the Proceeds,
before expenses, to us. Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. has
agreed to pay all organizational expenses and the amount by which
the aggregate of all of our offering costs (excluding the sales
load, but including a portion of the amount payable to an
affiliate of the Adviser for the marketing of our common stock)
exceeds $0.05 per share. |
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Leverage. The borrowing of money and issuance of preferred stock and debt securities
represent the leveraging of our common stock. We reserve the right at any time to use financial
leverage to the extent permitted by the Investment Company Act of 1940. See Risk FactorsLeverage
Risk.
Investment Adviser. We will be managed by Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. (the Adviser),
a registered investment adviser specializing in managing portfolios of investments in listed energy
infrastructure companies. As of August 31, 2011, our Adviser managed investments of approximately
$6.5 billion in the energy infrastructure sector, including the assets of six publicly traded closed-end funds,
an open-end fund and other accounts. Our Adviser has a 25 person investment team dedicated to the
energy sector.
This prospectus sets forth the information that you should know about the Fund before
investing. You should read this prospectus before deciding whether to invest in our securities. You
should retain this prospectus for future reference. A statement of additional information, dated
, 2011, as supplemented from time to time, containing additional information, has been filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by reference in its entirety
into this prospectus. You may request a free copy of the statement of additional information, the
table of contents of which is on page of this prospectus, request a free copy of our annual,
semi-annual and quarterly reports, request other information or make stockholder inquiries, by
calling toll-free at 1-866-362-9331 or by writing to us at 11550 Ash Street, Suite 300, Leawood,
Kansas 66211. Our annual, semi-annual and quarterly reports and the statement of additional
information also will be available on our Advisers website at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.
Information included on such website does not form part of this prospectus. You can review and copy
documents we have filed at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-5850
for information. The SEC charges a fee for copies. You can get the same information, including
other material incorporated by reference into this prospectus, free from the SECs website
(http://www.sec.gov). You may also e-mail requests for these documents to publicinfo@sec.gov or
make a request in writing to the SECs Public Reference Section, 100 F. Street, N.E., Room 1580,
Washington, D.C. 20549.
Our securities do not represent a deposit or obligation of, and are not guaranteed or endorsed
by, any bank or other insured depository institution and are not federally insured by the Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency.
CAUTIONARY NOTICE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus and the statement of additional information contain forward-looking
statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words may, will, intend,
expect, estimate, continue, plan, anticipate, could, should and similar terms and the
negative of such terms. By their nature, all forward-looking statements involve risks and
uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the
forward-looking statements. Several factors that could materially affect our actual results are the
performance of the portfolio of securities we hold, the time necessary to fully invest the proceeds
of this offering, our covered call strategy, the conditions in the U.S. and international
financial, natural gas, petroleum and other markets, the price at which our shares will trade in
the public markets and other factors.
Although we believe that the expectations expressed in our forward-looking statements are
reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in our
forward-looking statements. Our future financial condition and results of operations, as well as
any forward-looking statements, are subject to change and are subject to inherent risks and
uncertainties, such as those disclosed in the Risk Factors section of this prospectus. All
forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus are made as of
the date of this prospectus. Except for our ongoing obligations under the federal securities laws,
we do not intend, and we undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statement. The
forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus are excluded from the safe harbor
protection provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act).
Currently known risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our
expectations include, but are not limited to, the factors described in the Risk Factors section
of this prospectus. We urge you to review carefully that section for a more detailed discussion of
the risks of an investment in our securities.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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EX-99.N |
EX-99.R.2 |
You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this
prospectus in making your investment decisions. Neither we nor the underwriters have authorized
any other person to provide you with different or inconsistent information. If anyone provides you
with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. This prospectus does not
constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction
where the offer or sale is not permitted. The information appearing in this prospectus is accurate
only as of the date on its cover. Our business, financial condition and prospects may have changed
since such date. We will advise investors of any material changes to the extent required by
applicable law.
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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
The following summary contains basic information about us and our securities. It is not
complete and may not contain all of the information you may want to consider. You should review the
more detailed information contained elsewhere in this prospectus and in the statement of additional
information, especially the information set forth under the heading Risk Factors beginning on
page 22 of this prospectus.
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The Fund
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We are a newly organized closed-end management investment company. Our
investment objective is to provide our stockholders a high level of total
return with an emphasis on current distributions. We seek to provide our
stockholders with an efficient vehicle to invest in a portfolio consisting
primarily of equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure
companies. We cannot assure you that we will achieve our investment
objective. |
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Our Adviser
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We will be managed by Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. (the Adviser), a
registered investment adviser specializing in managing portfolios of
investments in listed energy infrastructure companies. As of August 31,
2011, our Adviser managed investments of approximately $6.5 billion in the
energy sector, including the assets of six publicly traded closed-end
funds, an open-end fund and other accounts. Our Adviser has a 25-person
investment team dedicated to the energy sector. |
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Investment Strategy
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We seek to provide stockholders an efficient vehicle to invest in a
portfolio consisting primarily of equity securities of pipeline and other
energy infrastructure companies. We intend to focus primarily on pipeline
companies that engage in the business of transporting natural gas, natural
gas liquids (NGLs), crude oil and refined products, and, to a lesser
extent, on other energy infrastructure companies. These pipeline
companies own and operate long haul, gathering and local gas distribution
pipelines. |
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Energy infrastructure companies own and operate a network of asset systems
that transport, store, distribute, gather, process, explore, develop,
manage or produce crude oil, refined petroleum products (including
biodiesel and ethanol), natural gas or NGLs, or that provide electric
power generation (including renewable energy), transmission and/or
distributi
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Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our Total
Assets in equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure
companies. We define Total Assets as the value of securities, cash or
other assets held, including securities or assets obtained through
leverage, and interest accrued but not yet received. We will invest in
equity securities that are publicly traded on an exchange or in the
over-the-counter market, primarily consisting of common stock, but also
including, among others, MLP and limited liability company common units. |
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We consider a company to be a pipeline company if at least 50% of its
assets, cash flow or revenue is associated with the operation or ownership
of energy pipelines and complementary assets or it operates in the energy
pipeline industry as defined by the standard industrial classification
(SIC) system. We consider a company to be an energy infrastructure
company if at least 50% of its assets, revenues or cash flows are derived
from energy infrastructure operations or ownership. |
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We may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in securities of MLPs. We may
invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or otherwise
restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities
of listed companies. |
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We will also seek to provide current income from gains earned through an
option strategy. We currently intend to write (sell) call options
on selected equity securities in our portfolio (covered calls). The
notional amount of such calls is expected to initially be approximately
20% of the total value of our portfolio, although this percentage may vary
over time depending on the cash flow requirements of the portfolio and on
our Advisers assessment of market conditions. As the writer of such call
options, in effect, during the term of the option, in exchange for the
premium we receive, we sell the potential appreciation above the exercise
price in the value of the security or securities covered by the options.
Therefore, we may forego part of the potential appreciation for part of our
equity portfolio in exchange for the call premium received. We currently intend to focus our
covered call strategy on other energy infrastructure companies that
our Adviser
believes are integral links in the energy infrastructure value chain for pipeline companies. |
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Listing and Symbol
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Our common shares are expected to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange
(NYSE) under the trading or ticker symbol TTP. |
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Use of Proceeds
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We expect to use the net proceeds from the sale of our common shares to
invest in accordance with our investment objective and policies and for
working capital purposes. We expect to fully invest the net proceeds of
this offering within three to six months after the closing. Pending such
investment, we expect that the net proceeds of this offering will be
invested in money market mutual funds, cash, cash equivalents, securities
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its instrumentalities or
agencies, short-term money market instruments, short-term debt securities,
certificates of deposit, bankers acceptances and other bank obligations,
commercial paper or other liquid debt securities. |
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Market Opportunity
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We believe that pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies that we
will target will provide attractive investment opportunities for the
following reasons: |
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Large and diverse investable universe. We will primarily target the large
and diverse North American pipeline market with an aggregate
capitalization over $380 billion. As a RIC, we may efficiently target
pipeline companies regardless of their underlying structure, as we
generally will not be subject to tax at the fund level. As such, we have
the ability and flexibility to target and access traditional pipeline
corporations alongside MLPs, which we believe have solid business
fundamentals as well as attractive and expanded growth opportunities. This
broad investable universe will allow us to make the structure of our
underlying investments a secondary focus in our investment process. |
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Substantial North American opportunity. Pipeline infrastructure asset
footprints generally expand with growth in energy demand and changes in
geographic areas where energy is produced. North America has an abundant
and accessible natural gas supply located in domestic shale deposits. As a
result of technology improvements, the United States has enough natural
gas to last for approximately 80 to 100 years, according to various
industry sources. Demand has continued to increase for natural gas as a
clean, reliable, domestically produced energy source. Oil supply on
the North America
continent has expanded as a result of oil shale deposits and the Canadian oil
sands. Canadas |
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crude oil reserves are now the second largest in the
world, with the United States importing more oil from Canada than any
other country. |
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Significant capital requirements. Significant new pipeline infrastructure
build-out and the capital to support it is needed to efficiently connect
growing areas of energy demand with new areas of supply. Pipeline and
related infrastructure projects are expected to support growing population
centers and facilitate the transportation of natural gas and crude oil
across North America. For the three years from 2011 through 2014, we expect over $60
billion to be needed to support North American pipeline infrastructure
build-out approximately $40 billion of this is anticipated to be needed
by pipeline corporations. |
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Historically defensive sector. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure
companies have historically demonstrated solid business fundamentals,
which we believe results from their long-lived real assets, relatively
inelastic demand, monopolistic nature with high barriers to entry and
partial inflation protection through regulated rates. As a result,
pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies have historically
produced predictable cash flows and generated increasing demand for an
essential service across business cycles. Projected population growth of
nearly 80 million people is expected to increase energy consumption by 17%
from 2010 to 2035. New pipeline infrastructure will be needed to support
these demographic changes and growth. |
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Targeted Investment
Characteristics
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The majority of our investments will generally have the following targeted
characteristics: |
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Essential infrastructure focus on long-lived, tangible pipeline and
other energy infrastructure assets that are essential to economic
productivity. |
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Defensible operating assets due to regulation, natural monopolies,
availability of land or high costs of new development. |
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Total return potential, including potential for a current cash yield
and dividend or distribution growth. We do not intend to invest in
start-up companies or companies with speculative business plans. |
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Predictable
revenues driven by relatively inelastic demand. |
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Stable operating structures with relatively low maintenance
expenditures, economies of scale, and an appropriate ratio of debt to
equity and payout/coverage ratio relative to dividends or distributions. |
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Operations-focused management teams with successful track records and
knowledge, experience, and focus in their segments of energy
infrastructure. |
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Experience of the Adviser
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Our Adviser has significant experience investing in pipeline and other
energy infrastructure companies including: |
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A Leading Energy Infrastructure Adviser. Our Adviser
formed the first MLP focused closed-end fund and is one of the largest
investment managers dedicated to managing closed-end investment companies
focused on U.S. energy infrastructure MLPs. As of August 31, 2011, our
Adviser had |
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approximately $6.5 billion of assets under management in the
energy sector, including the assets of six publicly traded closed-end
funds, an open-end fund and other accounts. The five members of our
Advisers investment committee have, on average, over 25 years of
experience. |
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Experience Across the Energy Infrastructure Value Chain.
Our Adviser has managed energy infrastructure investments through various
economic cycles through a disciplined investment approach. Through its
in-house research coverage of companies throughout the entire energy
infrastructure value chain, our Advisers investment process uses a
bottom-up, fundamentals-based approach. Through proprietary models,
including risk, valuation and financial models, our Advisers philosophy
places extensive focus on quality. Our Adviser believes its investment
process is a competitive advantage, allowing it to evaluate risk and
reward intelligently across the energy infrastructure universe. |
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Deep Relationships and Access to Deal Flow. We believe
our Advisers history in the energy infrastructure sector, its
long-term
investment strategy and its deep relationships with issuers, underwriters
and sponsors offers competitive advantages in evaluating and managing
investment opportunities. Our Adviser led the first MLP direct placement
and has participated in over 110 direct investments in which it has
invested over $2.5 billion since 2002 through its listed funds and other
specialty vehicles and accounts |
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Capital Markets Innovation. Our Adviser is a leader in
providing investment, financing and structuring opportunities through its
listed funds. Our Adviser formed the first listed, closed-end fund focused
primarily on investing in energy infrastructure MLPs and led the
development of institutional MLP direct placements to fund capital
projects, acquisitions and sponsor liquidity. In addition, our Adviser
established one of the first registered closed-end fund universal shelf
registration statements and completed the first registered direct offering
from a universal shelf registration statement for a closed-end fund. |
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Fees
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Pursuant to our investment advisory agreement, we will pay our Adviser a
fee for its investment management services equal to an annual rate of
1.10% of our average monthly Managed Assets (defined as our Total Assets
minus the sum of accrued liabilities (other than debt entered into for
purposes of leverage and the aggregate liquidation preference of any
outstanding preferred stock)). The Adviser has agreed to a fee waiver of
0.25%, 0.20%, and 0.15% of our average monthly Managed Assets for the
first, second and third years following this offering, respectively. The
fee will be calculated and accrued daily and paid quarterly in arrears.
See Management of the FundCompensation and Expenses. |
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Federal Income Tax Status
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We intend to elect to be treated, and to qualify each year, as a RIC under
the Code. Assuming that we qualify as a RIC, we generally will not be
subject to U.S. federal income tax on income and gains that we distribute
each taxable year to stockholders if we meet certain minimum distribution
requirements. To qualify as a RIC, we will be required to meet asset
diversification tests and to meet and maintain
our RIC status annual qualifying income and
distribution tests. See
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations. |
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Investment Policies
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We have adopted the following non-fundamental investment policies: |
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Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our
Total Assets in equity securities of pipeline and other energy
infrastructure companies; |
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We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in securities of
non-U.S. issuers (including Canadian issuers); |
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We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or
otherwise restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in
securities of listed companies. For purposes of this limitation,
restricted securities include (i) registered securities of public
companies subject to a lock-up period, (ii) unregistered securities of
public companies with registration rights, and (iii) unregistered
securities of public companies that become freely tradable with the
passage of time; |
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We will not invest in privately held companies; |
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We may invest up to 20% of our Total Assets in debt securities,
including those rated below investment grade, commonly referred to as
junk bonds; |
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We will not invest more than 10% of our Total Assets in any single
issuer; and |
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We will not engage in short sales. |
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As a RIC, we may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in securities of
MLPs. |
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The Board of Directors may change our non-fundamental investment policies
without stockholder approval and will provide notice to stockholders of
material changes (including notice through stockholder reports), although
a change in the policy of investing at least 80% of our Total Assets in
equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies
requires at least 60 days prior written notice to stockholders. Unless
otherwise stated, these investment restrictions apply at the time of
purchase. Furthermore, we will not be required to reduce a position due
solely to market value fluctuations. |
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In addition, to comply with federal tax requirements for qualification as
a RIC, our investments will be limited so that at the close of each
quarter of each taxable year (i) at least 50% of the value of our Total
Assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities,
the securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other
securities limited for purposes of such calculation, in respect of any one
issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of our Total Assets
and not more than 10% outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and
(ii) not more than 25% of the value of our Total Assets is invested in the
securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities or the
securities of other RICs), the securities (other than the securities of
other RICs) of any two or more issuers that we control and that are
determined to be engaged in the same business or similar or related trades
or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded
partnerships (which includes MLPs). These tax-related limitations may be
changed by the Board of Directors to the extent appropriate in light of
changes to applicable tax requirements. |
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During the period in which we are investing the net proceeds of this
offering, we may deviate from our investment policies by investing the net
proceeds in money market mutual funds, cash, cash equivalents, securities
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its instrumentalities or
agencies, high quality, short-term money market instruments, short-term
debt securities, certificates of deposit, bankers acceptances and other
bank obligations, commercial paper or other liquid debt securities. Under
adverse market or economic conditions, we may invest 100% of our Total
Assets in these securities. To the extent we invest in these securities on
a temporary basis or for defensive purposes, we may not achieve our
investment objective. |
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Distributions
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We intend to make quarterly cash distributions to our common stockholders.
We expect to declare the initial distribution approximately 45 to 60 days
from the completion of this offering, and to pay such distribution on or
around March 1, 2012, depending upon market conditions. |
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We expect that the source of the cash payments we receive from our
investments will constitute investment company taxable income, as well as
long-term capital gains or return of capital from such investments.
Investment company taxable income includes, among other items, dividends,
operational income from MLPs, interest and net short-term capital gains,
less expenses. Long-term capital gains reflect the realized market price
received in the sale of an investment security in excess of its cost
basis, less net capital losses, including any capital loss carryforwards.
Since, as a RIC, we may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in MLPs, a
portion of distributions received from our investments may be sourced as
return of capital. This may be due to a variety of factors, including that
the MLP may have significant non-cash deductions, such as accelerated
depreciation. |
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For tax purposes, distributions of investment company taxable income are
generally taxable to stockholders as ordinary income. However, it is
expected that part (but not all) of the distributions to our common
stockholders may be eligible for the qualified dividend income treatment
for individual stockholders and the dividends-received deduction for
corporate stockholders, assuming the stockholder meets certain holding
period requirements with respect to its Fund shares. Any distributions to
you in excess of the Funds investment company taxable income and net
capital gains will be treated by you, first, as a tax-deferred return of
capital, which is applied against and will reduce the adjusted tax basis
of your shares and, after such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, will
generally constitute capital gains. Any long-term capital gain
distributions are taxable to stockholders as long-term capital gains
regardless of the length of time shares have been held. Net capital gains
distributions are not eligible for the qualified dividend income treatment
or the dividends-received deduction. See Certain U.S. Federal Income
Tax Considerations for a discussion regarding federal income tax
requirements as a RIC, as well as the potential tax characterization of
our distributions to stockholders. |
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Various factors will affect the levels of cash we receive from our
investments, as well as the amounts of income represented by such cash,
such as our asset mix and covered call strategy. We may not be able to
make distributions in certain circumstances. To permit us to maintain a
more stable distribution, our Board of Directors may from time to time
cause us to distribute less than the entire amount of income earned in a
particular period. The undistributed |
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income would be available to
supplement future distributions. As a result, the distributions paid by us
for any particular period may be more or less than the amount of income
actually earned by us during that period. Undistributed income will add to
our net asset value, and, correspondingly, distributions from
undistributed income will deduct from our net asset value. See
Distributions and Risk Factors Performance and Distribution Risk. |
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Dividend Reinvestment Plan
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We intend to have a dividend reinvestment plan for our stockholders that
will be effective upon completion of this offering. Our plan will be an
opt out dividend reinvestment plan. Registered holders of our common
stock will automatically be enrolled and entitled to participate in the
plan. As a result, if we declare a distribution after the plan is
effective, a registered holders cash distribution will be automatically
reinvested in additional common shares, unless the registered holder
specifically opts out of the dividend reinvestment plan so as to receive
cash distributions. Stockholders who receive distributions in the form of
common shares will generally be subject to the same federal, state and
local tax consequences as stockholders who elect to receive their
distributions in cash. See Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan and
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations. |
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Leverage
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The borrowing of money and the issuance of preferred stock and debt
securities represent the leveraging of our common stock. The issuance of
additional common stock may enable us to increase the aggregate amount of
our leverage. We reserve the right at any time to use financial leverage
to the extent permitted by the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the 1940
Act) (50% of Total Assets for preferred stock and 33 1/3% of Total Assets
for senior debt securities) or we may elect to reduce the use of leverage
or use no leverage at all. Our Board of Directors has approved a leverage
target of up to 25% of our Total Assets at the time of incurrence and has
also approved a policy permitting temporary increases in the amount of
leverage we may use from 25% of our Total Assets to up to 30% of our Total
Assets at the time of incurrence, provided that (i) such leverage is
consistent with the limits set forth in the 1940 Act, and (ii) we expect
to reduce such increased leverage over time in an orderly fashion. The
timing and terms of any leverage transactions will be determined by our
Board of Directors. In addition, the percentage of our assets attributable
to leverage may vary significantly during periods of extreme market
volatility and will increase during periods of declining market prices of
our portfolio holdings. |
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The use of leverage creates an opportunity for increased income and
capital appreciation for common stockholders, but at the same time creates
special risks that may adversely affect common stockholders. Because our
Advisers fee is based upon a percentage of our Managed Assets, our
Advisers fee is higher when we are leveraged. Therefore, our Adviser has
a financial incentive to use leverage, which will create a conflict of
interest between our Adviser and our common stockholders, who will bear
the costs of our leverage. There can be no assurance that a leveraging
strategy will be successful during any period in which it is used. The use
of leverage involves risks, which can be significant. See Leverage and
Risk FactorsLeverage Risk. |
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Hedging & Risk Management
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In addition to writing covered call options as part of our investment
strategy, the risks of which are described herein, we may utilize
derivative instruments for hedging and risk management purposes. |
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We may utilize hedging techniques such as interest rate transactions to
mitigate potential interest rate risk on a portion of our leverage. Such
interest rate transactions would be used to protect us against higher
costs on our leverage resulting from increases in short-term interest
rates. We anticipate that the majority of such interest rate hedges would
be interest rate swap contracts, interest rate caps and floors purchased
from financial institutions. |
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To a lesser extent, we may, but do not currently intend to, use other
hedging and risk management strategies to seek to manage other market
risks. Such hedging strategies may be utilized to seek to protect against
possible adverse changes in the market value of securities held in our
portfolio, exposure to non-U.S. currencies, or to otherwise protect the
value of our portfolio. As such, we may invest in derivative instruments,
including futures, forward contracts, options, options on such contracts
and interest rate and total return swaps. See LeverageHedging and Risk
Management and Risk FactorsHedging and Derivatives Risk. |
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Conflicts of Interest
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Conflicts of interest may arise from the fact that our Adviser and its
affiliates carry on substantial investment activities for other clients,
in which we have no interest. Our Adviser or its affiliates may have
financial incentives to favor certain of these accounts over us. Any of
their proprietary accounts or other customer accounts may compete with us
for specific trades. Our Adviser or its affiliates may give advice and
recommend securities to, or buy or sell securities for, other accounts and
customers, which advice or securities recommended may differ from advice
given to, or securities recommended or bought or sold for us, even though
their investment objectives may be the same as, or similar to, ours. |
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Situations may occur when we could be disadvantaged because of the
investment activities conducted by our Adviser and its affiliates for
their other accounts. Certain of our Advisers managed funds and accounts
may invest in the equity securities of a particular company, while other
funds and accounts managed by our Adviser may invest in the debt
securities of the same company. Such situations may be based on, among
other things, the following: (1) legal or internal restrictions on the
combined size of positions that may be taken for us or the other accounts,
thereby limiting the size of our position; (2) the difficulty of
liquidating an investment for us or the other accounts where the market
cannot absorb the sale of the combined position; or (3) limits on
co-investing in direct placement securities under the 1940 Act. Our
investment opportunities may be limited by affiliations of our Adviser or
its affiliates with pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies.
See Investment Objective and Principal Investment StrategiesConflicts
of Interest. |
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Advisers Information
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The offices of our Adviser are located at 11550 Ash Street, Suite 300,
Leawood, Kansas 66211. The telephone number for our Adviser is (913)
981-1020 and our Advisers website is www.tortoiseadvisors.com.
Information posted to our Advisers website should not be considered part
of this prospectus. |
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Who May Want to Invest
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Investors should consider their investment goals, time horizons and risk
tolerance before investing in our common shares. We may be an appropriate
investment for investors who are seeking: |
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an efficient investment vehicle for accessing a portfolio of
companies owning and operating essential pipeline and other energy
infrastructure assets; |
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the opportunity for distribution growth, driven by substantial
pipeline infrastructure build-out potential; |
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simplified tax reporting with one 1099 and no unrelated business
taxable income; |
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an investment for retirement and other tax-exempt accounts; |
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potential diversification of their overall investment portfolio;
and |
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professional securities selection and active management by an
experienced adviser who has managed pipeline and other energy
infrastructure assets across various economic cycles. |
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An investment in our common shares involves a high degree of risk.
Investors could lose some or all of their investment. See Risk Factors. |
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Risks
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Investing in our common shares involves risk, including the risk that you
may receive little or no return on your investment, or even that you may
lose part or all of your investment. Our strategy of concentrating in
pipeline and other energy infrastructure investments means that our
performance will be closely tied to the performance of the energy
infrastructure sector, and we will be subject to the risks inherent in
the business of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. These
risks, along with other risks applicable to an investment in our common
shares, are more fully set forth under the heading Risk Factors. Before
investing in our common shares, you should consider carefully all of these
risks. |
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In addition, we are designed primarily as a long-term investment vehicle,
and our common shares are not an appropriate investment for a short-term
trading strategy. An investment in our securities should not constitute a
complete investment program for any investor and involves a high degree of
risk. Due to the uncertainty in all investments, there can be no assurance
that we will achieve our investment objective. |
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9
SUMMARY OF FUND EXPENSES
The following table and example contain information about the costs and expenses that common
stockholders will bear directly or indirectly. In accordance with SEC requirements, the table below
shows our expenses, including leverage costs, as a percentage of our net assets and not as a
percentage of gross assets or Managed Assets. We caution you that the percentages in the table
below indicating annual expenses are estimates and may vary.
Stockholder Transaction Expenses (as a percentage of offering price):
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Sales Load |
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4.50 |
%(1) |
Offering Expenses Borne by the Fund |
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0.20 |
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Dividend Reinvestment Plan Fees |
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None(3) |
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Total Stockholder Transaction Expenses Paid |
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4.70 |
% |
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Annual Expenses (as a percentage of net assets
attributable to common shares)(4): |
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Management Fee(5) |
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1.47 |
% |
Leverage Costs(6) |
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1.21 |
% |
Other Expenses(7) |
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0.36 |
% |
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Total Annual Expenses(8) |
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3.04 |
% |
Less Fee and Expense Reimbursement(9) |
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(0.33 |
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Net Annual Expenses(8) |
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2.71 |
% |
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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 our common
shares. These amounts are based upon assumed offering expenses of 0.20% and our payment of annual
operating expenses at the levels set forth in the table above.
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1 Year |
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3 Years |
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5 Years |
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10 Years |
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You would pay the
following expenses on a
$1,000 investment,
assuming a 5% annual
return. |
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73 |
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$ |
129 |
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$ |
192 |
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$ |
360 |
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The example and the expenses in the tables above are intended to assist you in understanding
the various costs and expenses an investor in our common shares may bear directly or indirectly and
should not be considered a representation of our future expenses. Actual expenses may be greater or
less than those shown. Moreover, while the example assumes, as required by the applicable
rules of the SEC, a 5% annual return, our performance will vary and may result in a return greater
or less than 5%. In addition, while the example assumes reinvestment of all distributions at net
asset value, participants in our dividend reinvestment plan may receive common shares valued at the
market price in effect at that time. This price may be at, above or below net asset value. See
Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan for additional information regarding our dividend
reinvestment plan.
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(1) |
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For a description of the sales load and other compensation paid by us
to the underwriters, see Underwriters. |
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(2) |
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Stockholders will pay offering costs of up to $0.05 per share,
estimated to total approximately $. The Adviser has agreed to pay all
organizational expenses and the amount by which the aggregate of all
of our offering costs (excluding the sales load, but including a
portion of the amount payable to an affiliate of the Adviser for the
marketing of our common stock) exceeds $0.05 per share. |
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(3) |
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The expenses associated with the administration of our dividend
reinvestment plan are included in Other Expenses. The participants
in our dividend reinvestment plan will pay a transaction fee if they
direct the plan agent to sell common shares held in their investment
account and a per share fee with respect to open market purchases, if
any, made by the plan agent under the plan. For more details about the
plan, see Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan. |
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(4) |
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Assumes leverage of approximately $79 million determined using the
assumptions set forth in footnote (6) below. We have not included a
line item for Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses as such expenses are
not anticipated to exceed one basis point. |
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(5) |
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Although our management fee is 1.10% (annualized) of our average
monthly Managed Assets, the table above reflects expenses as a
percentage of net assets. Managed Assets means our Total Assets minus
the sum of accrued liabilities other than (1) debt entered into for
the purpose of leverage and (2) the aggregate liquidation preference
of any outstanding preferred shares. Net assets is defined as Managed
Assets minus debt entered into for the purposes of leverage and the
aggregate liquidation preference of any outstanding preferred shares.
See Management of the FundCompensation and Expenses. |
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We may borrow money or issue debt securities and/or preferred stock to
provide us with additional funds to invest. The borrowing of money and
the issuance of preferred stock and debt securities represent the
leveraging of our common stock. The table above assumes that we borrow
approximately $79 million, which reflects leverage in an amount
representing approximately 25% of our Total Assets assuming an annual
interest rate of 3.63% on the amount borrowed and assuming we issue 10
million common shares. |
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(7) |
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Other Expenses includes our estimated overhead
expenses, including payments to our transfer agent,
administrator, custodian, fund accountant, and legal
and accounting expenses for our first year of
operation assuming we issue 10 million common shares.
The holders of our common shares indirectly bear the
cost associated with such other expenses as well as
all other costs not specifically assumed by our
Adviser and incurred in connection with our
operations. |
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(8) |
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The table presented above estimates what our annual
expenses would be, stated as a percentage of our net
assets attributable to our common shares. The table
presented below, unlike the table presented above,
estimates what our annual expenses would be stated as
a percentage of our Managed Assets. As a result, our
estimated total annual expenses would be as follows: |
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Management Fee |
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1.10 |
% |
Leverage Costs |
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0.91 |
% |
Other Expenses |
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0.27 |
% |
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Total Annual Expenses |
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2.28 |
% |
Less Fee and Expense Reimbursement |
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(0.25 |
)% |
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Net Annual Expenses |
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2.03 |
% |
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(9) |
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The Adviser has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.25%, 0.20% and 0.15% of average monthly Managed
Assets for the first, second and third years following this offering, respectively. |
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As of the date of this prospectus, we have not commenced investment operations. If we issue
fewer common shares, all other things being equal, certain of these percentages would increase. For
additional information with respect to our expenses, see Management of the Fund and Automatic
Dividend Reinvestment Plan.
11
THE FUND
We are a newly organized, non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered
under the 1940 Act. We were organized as a Maryland corporation on July 19, 2011 pursuant to
articles of incorporation. Our fiscal year ends on November 30. We expect our common stock to be
listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading or ticker symbol TTP.
USE OF PROCEEDS
We expect to use the net proceeds from the sale of our common shares to invest in accordance
with our investment objective and policies and for working capital purposes. We expect to fully
invest the net proceeds of this offering within three to six months after the closing. Pending such
investment, we expect that the net proceeds of this offering will be invested in money market
mutual funds, cash, cash equivalents, securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its
instrumentalities or agencies, short-term money market instruments, short-term debt securities,
certificates of deposit, bankers acceptances and other bank obligations, commercial paper or other
liquid debt securities. See Risk FactorsDelay in Use of Proceeds Risk. The three to six month
timeframe associated with the anticipated use of proceeds could lower returns and reduce the amount
of cash available to make distributions.
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INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Investment Objective and Strategy
Our investment objective is to provide our stockholders a high level of total return, with an
emphasis on current distributions. We seek to provide our stockholders with an efficient vehicle to
invest in a portfolio consisting primarily of equity securities of pipeline and other energy
infrastructure companies. We intend to focus primarily on pipeline companies that engage in the
business of transporting natural gas, NGLs, crude oil and refined products through pipelines, and,
to a lesser extent, on other energy infrastructure companies. These pipeline companies own and
operate long haul, gathering and local gas distribution pipelines.
Pipeline & Other Energy Infrastructure Companies
Energy infrastructure companies own and operate a network of asset systems that transport,
store, distribute, gather, process, explore, develop, manage or produce crude oil, refined
petroleum products (including biodiesel and ethanol), natural gas or NGLs, or that provide electric
power generation (including renewable energy), transmission and/or distribution.
Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our Total Assets in equity
securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. We consider a company to be a
pipeline company if 50% of its assets, cash flow or revenue is associated with the operation or
ownership of energy pipelines and complementary assets or it operates in the energy pipeline
industry as defined by the standard industrial classification (SIC) system. We consider a
company to be an energy infrastructure company if at least 50% of its assets, revenues or cash
flows are derived from energy infrastructure operations or ownership.
We may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in securities of MLPs. We may invest up to 30% of
our Total Assets in unregistered or otherwise restricted securities, primarily through direct
investments in securities of listed companies.
Investment Process and Risk Management
Our Adviser seeks to invest in securities that offer a combination of quality, growth and
yield intended to result in superior total returns over the long run. Our Advisers investment
process utilizes fundamental analysis and a comparison of quantitative, qualitative, and relative
value factors.
Our Advisers investment decisions are driven by proprietary financial, risk, and valuation
models developed and maintained by our Adviser which assist in the evaluation of investment
decisions and risk. Financial models, based on business drivers with historical and multi-year
operational and financial projections, quantify growth, facilitate sensitivity and credit analysis,
and aid in peer comparisons. The risk models assess a companys asset quality, management, and
stability of cash flows. Valuation models are multiple stage dividend growth models based on a
discounted cash flow framework. Our Adviser also uses traditional valuation metrics such as cash
flow multiples and current yield in its investment process.
Our Advisers investment committee is responsible for approving investment decisions and
monitoring our investments. In conducting due diligence, our Adviser relies on first-hand sources
of information, such as company filings, meetings and conference calls with management, site
visits, government information, etc. Although our Adviser intends to use research provided by
broker-dealers and investment firms, primary emphasis will be placed on proprietary analysis and
valuation models conducted and maintained by our Advisers in-house investment analysts. To
determine whether a company meets its investment criteria, our Adviser will generally look for the
targeted investment characteristics as described herein. All decisions to invest in a company must
be approved by the unanimous decision of our investment committee.
The due diligence process followed by our Adviser is comprehensive and includes:
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review of historical and prospective financial information; |
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diligence of quarterly updates and conference calls; |
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analysis of financial models and projections; |
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meetings with management and key employees; |
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on-site visits; and |
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screening of relevant partnership and other key documents. |
Market Opportunity
We believe that pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies we will target will provide
attractive investment opportunities for the following reasons:
Large and diverse investable universe. We will primarily target the large and diverse North
American pipeline market with an aggregate capitalization over $380 billion. As a RIC, we may
efficiently target pipeline companies regardless of their underlying structure, as we generally
will not be subject to tax at the fund level. As such, we have the ability and flexibility to
target and access traditional pipeline corporations alongside MLPs, which we believe have solid
business fundamentals as well as attractive and expanded growth opportunities. This broad
investable universe will allow us to make the structure of our underlying investments a secondary
focus in our investment process.
Substantial North American opportunity. Pipeline infrastructure asset footprints generally expand
with growth in energy demand and changes in geographic areas where energy is produced. North
America has an abundant and accessible natural gas supply located in domestic shale deposits. As a
result of technology improvements, the United States has enough natural gas to last for
approximately 80 to 100 years, according to various industry sources. Demand has continued to
increase for natural gas as a clean, reliable, domestically produced energy source. Oil supply on
the North American continent has expanded as a result of oil shale deposits and the Canadian oil sands. Canadas
crude oil reserves are now the second largest in the world, with the United States importing more
oil from Canada than any other country.
Significant capital requirements. Significant new pipeline infrastructure
build-out and the capital to support it is needed to efficiently connect
growing areas of energy demand with new areas of supply. Pipeline and
related infrastructure projects are expected to support growing population
centers and facilitate the transportation of natural gas and crude oil
across North America. For the three years from 2011 through 2014, we expect over $60
billion to be needed to support North American pipeline infrastructure
build-out approximately $40 billion of this is anticipated to be needed
by pipeline corporations.
Historically defensive sector. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies have
historically demonstrated solid business fundamentals, which we believe results from their
long-lived real assets, relatively inelastic demand, monopolistic nature with high barriers to
entry and partial inflation protection through regulated rates. As a result, pipeline and other
energy infrastructure companies have historically produced predictable cash flows and generated
increasing demand for an essential service across business cycles. Projected population growth of
nearly 80 million people is expected to increase energy consumption by 17% from 2010 to 2035. New
pipeline infrastructure will be needed to support these demographic changes and growth.
Targeted Investment Characteristics
The majority of our investments will generally have the following targeted characteristics:
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Essential infrastructure focus on long-lived, tangible pipeline and
other energy infrastructure assets that are essential to economic productivity. |
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Defensible operating assets due to regulation, natural monopolies,
availability of land or high costs of new development. |
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Total return potential, including potential for a current cash yield
and dividend or distribution growth. We do not intend to invest in start-up
companies or companies with speculative business plans. |
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Predictable revenues driven by relatively inelastic
demand. |
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Stable operating structures with relatively low maintenance expenditures,
economies of scale, and an appropriate ratio of debt to equity and payout/coverage
ratio relative to dividends or distributions. |
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Operations-focused management teams with successful track records and
knowledge, experience, and focus in their segments of energy infrastructure. |
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Investment Policies
We have adopted the following non-fundamental investment policies:
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Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our Total Assets in
equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies; |
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We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers
(including Canadian issuers), which may include securities issued by companies
organized and/or having securities traded on an exchange outside the U.S. or may be
securities of U.S. companies that are denominated in the currency of a different
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We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or otherwise restricted
securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of listed companies. For
purposes of this limitation, restricted securities include (i) registered securities
of public companies subject to a lock-up period, (ii) unregistered securities of public
companies with registration rights, and (iii) unregistered securities of public
companies that become freely tradable with the passage of time; |
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We will not invest in privately held companies; |
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We may invest up to 20% of our Total Assets in debt securities, including those
rated below investment grade, commonly referred to as junk bonds; |
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We will not invest more than 10% of our Total Assets in any single issuer; and |
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We will not engage in short sales. |
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As a RIC, we may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in securities of MLPs. |
The Board of Directors may change our non-fundamental investment policies without stockholder
approval and will provide notice to stockholders of material changes (including notice through
stockholder reports), although a change in the policy of investing at least 80% of our Total Assets
in equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies requires at least 60
days prior written notice to stockholders. Unless otherwise stated, these investment restrictions
apply at the time of purchase. Furthermore, we will not be required to reduce a position due solely
to market value fluctuations.
During the period in which we are investing the net proceeds of this offering, we may deviate
from our investment policies by investing the net proceeds in money market mutual funds, cash, cash
equivalents, securities
15
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its instrumentalities or agencies, high
quality, short-term money market instruments, short-term debt securities, certificates of deposit,
bankers acceptances and other bank obligations, commercial paper or other liquid debt securities.
Under adverse market or economic conditions, we may invest 100% of our Total Assets in these
securities. To the extent we invest in these securities on a temporary basis or for defensive
purposes, we may not achieve our investment objective.
Investment Securities
The types of securities in which we may invest include, but are not limited to, the following:
Equity Securities. Equity investments generally represent an equity ownership interest, or the
right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide
different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of an issuers bankruptcy. An
adverse event, such as unfavorable earnings report, may depress the value of a particular equity
investment that we hold. In addition, prices of equity investments are sensitive to general
movements in the stock market, and a drop in the stock market may depress the price of equity
investments we own. Equity investment prices fluctuate for several reasons, including changes in
investors perceptions of the financial condition of an issuer or rising interest rates, which
increases borrowing costs and the costs of capital. We expect that such equity investments will
generally include the following:
Common Stock. Common stock represents an ownership interest in the profits and losses of a
corporation, after payment of amounts owed to bondholders, other debt holders, and holders of
preferred stock. Holders of common stock generally have voting rights, but we do not generally
expect to have voting control in any of the companies in which we invest.
Common units of MLPs. As a RIC, we may invest no more than 25% of our Total Assets in
securities of MLPs. An MLP is a publicly traded company organized as a limited partnership or LLC
and treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes. MLP common units represent an equity
ownership interest in a partnership and provide limited voting rights. MLP common unit holders have
a limited role in the partnerships operations and management. Some energy infrastructure companies
in which we may invest have been organized as LLCs, which are treated in the same manner as MLPs
for federal income tax purposes. Common units of an LLC represent an equity ownership in an LLC.
Interests in common units of an MLP or LLC entitle the holder to a share of the companys success
through distributions and/or capital appreciation. Unlike MLPs, LLC common unit holders typically
have voting rights.
Equity Securities of MLP Affiliates. In addition to securities of MLPs, we may also invest in
equity securities issued by MLP affiliates, such as MLP I-Shares and common shares of corporations
that own MLP general partner interests. I-Shares represent an indirect ownership interest in MLP
common units issued by an MLP affiliate, which is typically a publicly traded LLC. The I-Share
issuers assets consist exclusively of I-units. I-Shares differ from MLP common units primarily in
that instead of receiving cash distributions, holders of I-Shares receive distributions in the form
of additional I-Shares. Issuers of MLP I-Shares are corporations and not partnerships for tax
purposes; however, the MLP does not allocate income or loss to the I-Share issuer. Because the
issuers of MLP I-Shares are not partnerships for tax purposes, MLP I-Shares are not subject to the
25% limitation regarding investments in MLPs and other entities treated as qualified publicly
traded partnerships. MLP affiliates also include the publicly traded equity securities of LLCs
that own, directly or indirectly, general partner interests of MLPs. General partner interests
often confer direct board participation rights and in many cases, operating control, over the MLP.
Other Equity Securities. We may also invest in all types of publicly traded equity
securities, including but not limited to, preferred equity, convertible securities, depository
receipts, limited partner interests, rights and warrants of underlying equity securities, exchange
traded funds, limited liability companies and REITs.
Non-U.S. Securities. We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in securities issued by
non-U.S. issuers (including Canadian issuers). These securities may be issued by companies
organized and/or having securities traded on an exchange outside the U.S. or may be securities of
U.S. companies that are denominated in the currency of a different country.
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Restricted Securities. We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or
otherwise restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of listed
companies. For purposes of this limitation, restricted securities include (i) registered
securities of public companies subject to a lock-up period, (ii) unregistered securities of public
companies with registration rights, and (iii) unregistered securities of public companies that
become freely tradable with the passage of time. For purposes of the foregoing, a registered
security subject to such a lock-up period will no longer be considered a restricted security upon
expiration of the lock-up period, an unregistered security of a public company with registration
rights will no longer be considered a restricted security when such securities become registered,
and an unregistered security of a public company that becomes freely tradable with the passage of
time will no longer be considered a restricted security upon the elapse of the requisite time
period.
An issuer may be willing to offer the purchaser more attractive features with respect to
securities issued in direct investments because it has avoided the expense and delay involved in a
public offering of securities. Adverse conditions in the public securities markets also may
preclude a public offering of securities.
Restricted securities obtained by means of direct investments are less liquid than securities
traded in the open market because of statutory and contractual restrictions on resale. Such
securities are, therefore, unlike securities that are traded in the open market, which can be
expected to be sold immediately if the market is adequate. This lack of liquidity creates special
risks for us. However, we could sell such securities in private transactions with a limited number
of purchasers or in public offerings under the 1933 Act.
Debt Securities. We may invest up to 20% of our Total Assets in debt securities, including
securities rated below investment grade, commonly referred to as junk bonds. Our debt securities
may have fixed or variable principal payments and various types of interest rate and reset terms,
including fixed rate, floating rate, adjustable rate, zero coupon, contingent, deferred and payment
in kind features, and may include securities that are or are not exchange traded. To the extent
that we invest in below investment grade debt securities, such securities will be rated, at the
time of investment, at least B- by S&P or B3 by Moodys or a comparable rating by at least one
other rating agency or, if unrated, determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality. If a
security satisfies our minimum rating criteria at the time of purchase and is subsequently
downgraded below such rating, we will not be required to dispose of such security. If a downgrade
occurs, the Adviser will consider what action, including the sale of such security, is in the best
interest of us and our stockholders.
Temporary Investments and Defensive Investments. Pending investment of the proceeds of this
offering (which we expect may take up to approximately three to six months following the closing of
this offering), we may invest offering proceeds in money market mutual funds, cash, cash
equivalents, securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its instrumentalities or
agencies, short-term money market instruments, short-term debt securities, certificates of deposit,
bankers acceptances and other bank obligations, commercial paper or other liquid debt securities.
We may also invest in these instruments on a temporary basis to meet working capital needs,
including, but not limited to, for collateral in connection with certain investment techniques, to
hold a reserve pending payment of distributions, and to facilitate the payment of expenses and
settlement of trades.
Under adverse market or economic conditions, we may invest 100% of our Total Assets in these
securities. The yield on these securities may be lower than the returns on pipeline and other
energy infrastructure companies or yields on lower rated fixed income securities. To the extent we
invest in these securities on a temporary basis or for defensive purposes, we may not achieve our
investment objective.
Covered Call Options Strategy
We will also seek to provide current income from gains earned through an option strategy. We
currently intend to write (sell) call options on selected equity
securities in our portfolio and to only write call options on securities we hold in our portfolio (covered
calls). The notional amount of such calls is expected to initially be approximately 20% of the
total value of our portfolio, although this percentage may vary depending on the cash flow
requirements of the portfolio and on our Advisers assessment of market conditions.
We currently intend to focus our covered call strategy on other
energy infrastructure companies that our Adviser believes are integral links in the energy infrastructure value chain for pipeline
companies, although we may write
options on other securities in our portfolio or indices in certain market environments.
A call option on a security is a contract that gives the holder of such call option the right
to buy the security underlying the call option from the writer of such call option at a specified
price (exercise price) at any time during
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the term of the option. At the time the call option is sold, the writer of a call option
receives a premium from the buyer of such call option.
If we write a call option on a security or basket of securities, we have the obligation upon
exercise of such call option to deliver the underlying security or securities upon payment of the
exercise price. As the writer of such call options, in effect, during the term of the option, in
exchange for the premium received by us, we sell the potential appreciation above the exercise
price in the value of securities covered by the options. Therefore, we forgo part of the potential
appreciation for part of our equity portfolio in exchange for the call premium received, but retain
the risk of potential decline in those securities below the price which is equal to the excess of
the exercise price of the call option over the premium per share received on the call option.
If we write a call option, we may terminate our obligation by effecting a closing purchase
transaction. This is accomplished by purchasing a call option with the same terms as the option
previously written. However, once we have been assigned an exercise notice, we will be unable to
effect a closing purchase transaction. There can be no assurance that a closing purchase
transaction can be effected when we so desire.
Other principal factors affecting the market value of an option include supply and demand,
interest rates, the current market price and price volatility of the underlying security and the
time remaining until the expiration date of the option. Gains and losses on investments in options
depend, in part, on the ability of our Adviser to predict correctly the effect of these factors.
When we write a call option, an amount equal to the premium received by us will be recorded as
a liability and will be subsequently adjusted to the current fair value of the option written.
Premiums received from writing options that expire unexercised are treated by us as realized gains
from investments on the expiration date. If we repurchase a written call option prior to its
exercise, the difference between the premium received and the amount paid to repurchase the option
is treated as a realized gain or realized loss. If a call option is exercised, the premium is added
to the proceeds from the sale of the underlying security in determining whether we have realized a
gain or loss.
Although our Adviser will attempt to take appropriate measures to minimize the risks relating
to writing covered call options, there can be no assurance that we will succeed in any
option-writing program we undertake.
Portfolio Turnover
Our annual portfolio turnover rate may vary greatly from year to year. We may, but under
normal market conditions, do not intend to, engage in frequent and active trading of portfolio
securities. Although we cannot accurately predict our portfolio turnover rate, we expect to
maintain relatively low (e.g., less than 30% under normal market
conditions) turnover of our core equity
portfolio under normal market conditions, not including purchases and sales of equity securities
and call options in connection with our covered call option program. As such, on an overall basis,
our annual turnover rate may exceed 100%. A high turnover rate involves greater trading costs to us
and may result in greater realization of taxable capital gains.
Conflicts of Interest
Conflicts of interest may arise from the fact that our Adviser and its affiliates carry on
substantial investment activities for other clients in which we have no interest, some of which may
have investment strategies similar to ours. Our Adviser or its affiliates may have financial
incentives to favor certain of such accounts over us. For example, our Adviser and its affiliates
may have an incentive to allocate potentially more favorable investment opportunities to other
funds and clients that pay our Adviser and its affiliates an incentive or performance fee.
Performance and incentive fees also create the incentive to allocate potentially riskier, but
potentially better performing, investments to such funds and other clients in an effort to increase
the incentive fee. Our Adviser also may have an incentive to make investments in one fund, having
the effect of increasing the value of a security in the same issuer held by another fund, which, in
turn, may result in an incentive fee being paid to our Adviser by that other fund. Any of the
Advisers or its affiliates proprietary accounts and other customer accounts may compete with us
for specific trades. Our Adviser or its affiliates may give advice and recommend securities to, or
buy or sell
18
securities for us, which advice or securities may differ from advice given to, or securities
recommended or bought or sold for, other accounts and customers, although their investment
objectives may be the same as, or similar to our objectives. Our Adviser has written allocation
policies and procedures designed to address potential conflicts of interest. For instance, when two
or more clients advised by our Adviser seek to purchase or sell the same publicly traded
securities, the securities actually purchased or sold will be allocated among the clients on a good
faith equitable basis by our Adviser in its discretion and in accordance with the clients various
investment objectives and our Advisers procedures. In some cases, this system may adversely affect
the price or size of the position we may obtain. In other cases, the ability to participate in
volume transactions may produce better execution for us. When possible, our Adviser combines all of
the trade orders into one or more block orders, and each account participates at the average unit
or share price obtained in a block order. When block orders are only partially filled, our Adviser
considers a number of factors in determining how allocations are made, with the overall goal to
allocate in a manner so that accounts are not preferred or disadvantaged over time. Our Adviser
also has allocation policies for transactions involving private placement securities, which are
designed to result in a fair and equitable participation in offerings or sales for each
participating client.
Our Adviser also serves as investment adviser for six other publicly traded closed-end
management investment companies, an open-end management investment company and other accounts. See
Management of the Fund.
Our Adviser will evaluate a variety of factors in determining whether a particular investment
opportunity or strategy is appropriate and feasible for the relevant account at a particular time,
including, but not limited to, the following: (1) the nature of the investment opportunity taken in
the context of the other investments at the time; (2) the liquidity of the investment relative to
the needs of the particular entity or account; (3) the availability of the opportunity (i.e., size
of obtainable position); (4) the transaction costs involved; and (5) the investment or regulatory
limitations applicable to the particular entity or account. Because these considerations may differ
when applied to us and relevant accounts under management in the context of any particular
investment opportunity, our investment activities, on the one hand, and other managed accounts, on
the other hand, may differ considerably from time to time. In addition, our fees and expenses will
differ from those of the other managed accounts. Accordingly, stockholders should be aware that our
future performance and the future performance of the other accounts of our Adviser may vary.
Situations may occur when we could be disadvantaged because of the investment activities
conducted by our Adviser and its affiliates for their other funds or accounts. Certain of our
Advisers managed funds and accounts may invest in the equity securities of a particular company,
while other funds and accounts managed by our Adviser may invest in the debt securities of the same
company. Such situations may be based on, among other things, the following: (1) legal or internal
restrictions on the combined size of positions that may be taken for us or the other accounts,
thereby limiting the size of our position; or (2) the difficulty of liquidating an investment for
us or the other accounts where the market cannot absorb the sale of the combined position, or (3)
limits on co-investing in negotiated transactions under the 1940 Act, as discussed further below.
Under the 1940 Act, we may be precluded from co-investing in negotiated private placements of
securities with our affiliates, including other funds managed by our Adviser. Except as permitted
by law, our Adviser will not co-invest its other clients assets in negotiated private transactions
in which we invest.
Our Adviser will observe a policy for allocating negotiated private placement opportunities
among its clients that takes into account the amount of each clients available cash and its
investment objectives. To the extent we are precluded from co-investing, our Adviser will allocate
private investment opportunities among its clients, including but not limited to us and our
affiliated companies, based on allocation policies that take into account several suitability
factors, including the size of the investment opportunity, the amount each client has available for
investment and the clients investment objectives. These allocation policies may result in the
allocation of investment opportunities to an affiliated company rather than to us.
To the extent that our Adviser sources and structures private investments, certain employees
of our Adviser may become aware of actions planned, such as acquisitions that may not be announced
to the public. It is possible that we could be precluded from investing in or selling securities of
companies about which our Adviser has material, non-public information; however, it is our
Advisers intention to ensure that any material, non-public
19
information available to certain employees of our Adviser are not shared with those employees
responsible for the purchase and sale of publicly traded securities or to confirm prior to receipt
of any material non-public information that the information will shortly be made public.
Our Adviser and its principals, officers, employees, and affiliates may buy and sell
securities or other investments for their own accounts and may have actual or potential conflicts
of interest with respect to investments made on our behalf. As a result of differing trading and
investment strategies or constraints, positions may be taken by principals, officers, employees,
and affiliates of our Adviser that are the same as, different from, or made at a different time
than positions taken for us. Furthermore, our Adviser may at some time in the future manage other
investment funds with the same investment objective as ours.
LEVERAGE
Use of Leverage
The borrowing of money and the issuance of preferred stock and debt securities represents the
leveraging of our common stock. The issuance of additional common stock may enable us to increase
the aggregate amount of our leverage or to maintain any existing leverage. We reserve the right at
any time to use financial leverage to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act (50% of Total Assets for
preferred stock and 331/3% of Total Assets for senior debt securities) or we may
elect to reduce the use of leverage or use no leverage at all. Our Board of Directors has approved
a leverage target of up to 25% of our Total Assets at the time of incurrence and has also approved
a policy permitting temporary increases in the amount of leverage we may use from 25% of our Total
Assets to up to 30% of our Total Assets at the time of incurrence, provided (i) that such leverage
is consistent with the limits set forth in the 1940 Act, and (ii) that we expect to reduce such
increased leverage over time in an orderly fashion. We generally will not use leverage unless we
believe that leverage will serve the best interests of our stockholders. The principal factor used
in making this determination is whether the potential return is likely to exceed the cost of
leverage. We will not issue additional leverage where the estimated costs of issuing such leverage
and the on-going cost of servicing the payment obligations on such leverage exceed the estimated
return on the proceeds of such leverage. We note, however, that in making the determination of
whether to issue leverage, we must rely on estimates of leverage costs and expected returns. Actual
costs of leverage vary over time depending on interest rates and other factors. In addition, the
percentage of our assets attributable to leverage may vary significantly during periods of extreme
market volatility and will increase during periods of declining market prices of our portfolio
holdings. Actual returns vary depending on many factors. The Board of Directors also will consider
other factors, including whether the current investment opportunities will help us achieve our
investment objective and strategies.
Under the 1940 Act, we are not permitted to issue preferred stock unless immediately after
such issuance, the value of our Total Assets (including the proceeds of such issuance) less all
liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities is at least equal to 200% of the
total of the aggregate amount of senior securities representing indebtedness plus the aggregate
liquidation value of any outstanding preferred stock. Stated another way, we may not issue
preferred stock that, together with outstanding preferred stock and debt securities, has a total
aggregate liquidation value and outstanding principal amount of more than 50% of the value of our
Total Assets, including the proceeds of such issuance, less liabilities and indebtedness not
represented by senior securities. In addition, we are not permitted to declare any distribution on
our common stock, or purchase any of our shares of common stock (through tender offers or
otherwise) unless we would satisfy this 200% asset coverage requirement test after deducting the
amount of such distribution or share price, as the case may be. We may, as a result of market
conditions or otherwise, be required to purchase or redeem preferred stock, or sell a portion of
our investments when it may be disadvantageous to do so, in order to maintain the required asset
coverage. Common stockholders would bear the costs of issuing additional preferred stock, which may
include offering expenses and the ongoing payment of distributions. Under the 1940 Act, we may only
issue one class of preferred stock.
Under the 1940 Act, we are not permitted to issue debt securities or incur other indebtedness
constituting senior securities unless immediately thereafter, the value of our Total Assets
(including the proceeds of the indebtedness) less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented
by senior securities is at least equal to 300% of the amount of the outstanding indebtedness.
Stated another way, we may not issue debt securities or incur other indebtedness with an aggregate
principal amount of more than 33-1/3% of the value of our Total Assets, including the amount
borrowed, less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities. We also must
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maintain this 300% asset coverage for as long as the indebtedness is outstanding. The 1940
Act provides that we may not declare any distribution with respect to any class of shares of our
stock, or purchase any of our shares of stock (through tender offers or otherwise), unless we would
satisfy this 300% asset coverage requirement test after deducting the amount of the distribution or
share purchase price, as the case may be, except that distributions may be declared upon any
preferred stock if such senior security representing indebtedness has an asset coverage of at least
200% at the time of declaration of such distribution and after deducting the amount of such
distribution. If the asset coverage for indebtedness declines to less than 300% as a result of
market fluctuations or otherwise, we may be required to redeem debt securities, or sell a portion
of our investments when it may be disadvantageous to do so. Under the 1940 Act, we may only issue
one class of senior securities representing indebtedness.
Hedging and Risk Management
In addition to writing covered call options as part of our investment strategy, the risks of
which are described herein, we may utilize certain other derivative instruments for hedging or risk
management purposes.
In an attempt to reduce the interest rate risk arising from our leveraged capital structure,
we may, but are not obligated to, use interest rate transactions intended to reduce our interest
rate risk with respect to our interest and distribution payment obligations under our outstanding
leverage. Such interest rate transactions would be used to protect us against higher costs on our
leverage resulting from increases in short-term interest rates. We anticipate that the majority of
such interest rate hedges would be interest rate swap contracts and interest rate caps and floors
purchased from financial institutions. There is no assurance that the interest rate hedging
transactions into which we may enter will be effective in reducing our exposure to interest rate
risk. Hedging transactions are subject to correlation risk, which is the risk that payment on our
hedging transactions may not correlate exactly with our payment obligations on senior securities.
The use of interest rate transactions is a highly specialized activity that involves investment
techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio security transactions.
In an interest rate swap, we would agree to pay to the other party to the interest rate swap (known
as the counterparty) a fixed rate payment in exchange for the counterparty agreeing to pay to us
a variable rate payment intended to approximate our variable rate payment obligations on
outstanding leverage. The payment obligations would be based on the notional amount of the swap. In
an interest rate cap, we would pay a premium to the counterparty up to the interest rate cap and,
to the extent that a specified variable rate index exceeds a predetermined fixed rate of interest,
would receive from the counterparty payments equal to the difference based on the notional amount
of such cap. In an interest rate floor, we would be entitled to receive, to the extent that a
specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, payments of interest on a notional
principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. Depending on the state of interest
rates in general, our use of interest rate transactions could affect our ability to make required
interest or distribution payments on our outstanding leverage. To the extent there is a decline in
interest rates, the value of the interest rate transactions could decline. If the counterparty to
an interest rate transaction defaults, we would not be able to use the anticipated net receipts
under the interest rate transaction to offset our cost of financial leverage.
To a lesser extent, we may, but do not currently intend to, use other hedging and risk
management strategies to seek to manage other market risks. Such hedging strategies may be utilized
to seek to protect against possible adverse changes in the market value of securities held in our
portfolio or to otherwise protect the value of our portfolio. We may, but do not currently intend
to, enter into currency exchange transactions to hedge our exposure to foreign currency exchange
rate risk to the extent we invest in non-U.S. dollar denominated securities of non-U.S. issuers.
Our currency transactions will generally be limited to portfolio hedging involving portfolio
positions. Portfolio hedging is the use of a forward contract with respect to a portfolio security
position denominated or quoted in a particular currency. A forward contract is an agreement to
purchase or sell a specified currency at a specified future date (or within a specified time
period) and price set at the time of the contract. Forward contracts are usually entered into with
banks, foreign exchange dealers or broker-dealers, are not exchange-traded, and are usually for
less than one year. The Fund may also purchase and sell other derivative investments such as
exchange-listed and over-the-counter options on securities or indices, futures contracts and
options thereon. The Fund also may purchase derivative investments that combine features of these
instruments.
For a further discussion of such derivative instruments, see Risk FactorsHedging and
Derivatives Risk in this prospectus and Investment Objective and Principal Investment Strategies
Our Investments Hedging and Risk Management in the statement of additional information.
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Effects of Leverage
The following table is designed to illustrate the effect of leverage on the return to a common
stockholder, assuming hypothetical annual returns (net of expenses) of our portfolio of (10)% to
10%. As the table shows, the leverage generally increases the return to common stockholders when
portfolio return is positive or greater than the cost of leverage and decreases the return when the
portfolio return is negative or less than the cost of leverage. The figures appearing in the table
are hypothetical, and actual returns may be greater or less than those appearing in the table.
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Assumed Portfolio Return |
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(Net of Expenses) |
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(10)% |
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(5)% |
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0% |
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5% |
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10% |
Corresponding Common Share Return |
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(15.29 |
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(8.93 |
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(2.58 |
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3.77 |
% |
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10.13 |
% |
If we use leverage, the amount of the fees paid to our Adviser for investment advisory and
management services will be higher than if we do not use leverage because the fees paid are
calculated based on our Managed Assets, which include assets purchased with leverage. Therefore,
our Adviser has a financial incentive to use leverage, which creates a conflict of interest between
our Adviser and our common stockholders. Because payments on any leverage would be paid by us at a
specified rate, only our common stockholders would bear management fees and other expenses we
incur.
We cannot fully achieve the benefits of leverage until we have invested the proceeds resulting
from the use of leverage in accordance with our investment objective and policies. For further
information about leverage, see Risk FactorsLeverage Risk.
RISK FACTORS
Investing in our common shares involves risk, including the risk that you may receive little
or no return on your investment or even that you may lose part or all of your investment.
Therefore, before investing in our common shares you should consider carefully the following risks.
General. We are a newly organized closed-end management investment company and have no
operating history or history of public trading of our common shares. We are designed primarily as a
long-term investment vehicle and not as a trading tool. An investment in our securities should not
constitute a complete investment program for any investor and involves a high degree of risk. Due
to the uncertainty in all investments, there can be no assurance that we will achieve our
investment objective. The value of an investment in our common shares could decline substantially
and cause you to lose some or all of your investment.
Concentration Risk. Our strategy of concentrating in pipeline and other energy infrastructure
investments means that our performance will be closely tied to the performance of the energy
infrastructure sector. Our concentration in these investments may present more risk than if we were
broadly diversified over numerous industries and sectors of the economy. A downturn in these
investments would have a greater impact on us than on a fund that does not concentrate in such
investments. At times, the performance of these investments may lag the performance of other
industries or the market as a whole. Risks inherent in the business of pipeline and other energy
infrastructure companies include:
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Supply and Demand Risk. A decrease in the production of natural gas, NGLs, crude
oil, coal, refined petroleum products or other energy commodities, or a decrease in the
volume of such commodities available for transporting, storing, gathering, processing,
distributing, exploring, developing, managing or producing may adversely impact the
financial performance and profitability of pipeline and other energy infrastructure
companies. Production declines and volume decreases could be caused by various factors,
including depletion of resources, declines in estimates of proved reserves, labor
difficulties, political events, OPEC actions, changes in commodity prices, declines in
production from existing facilities, environmental proceedings, increased regulations,
equipment failures and unexpected maintenance problems, failure to obtain necessary
permits, unscheduled outages, |
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unanticipated expenses, inability to successfully carry out new construction or
acquisitions, import supply disruption, increased competition from alternative energy
sources or related commodity prices and other events. Alternatively, a sustained decline
in or varying demand for such commodities could also adversely affect the financial
performance of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. Factors that could
lead to a decline in demand include economic recession or other adverse economic
conditions, higher fuel taxes or governmental regulations, increases in fuel economy,
consumer shifts to the use of alternative fuel sources, changes in commodity prices or
weather. |
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Operating Risk. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies are subject to
many operating risks, including: equipment failure causing outages; structural,
maintenance, impairment and safety problems; transmission or transportation
constraints, inoperability or inefficiencies; dependence on a specified fuel source,
including the transportation of fuel; changes in electricity and fuel usage;
availability of competitively priced alternative energy sources; changes in generation
efficiency and market heat rates; lack of sufficient capital to maintain facilities;
significant capital expenditures to keep older assets operating efficiently;
seasonality; changes in supply and demand for energy commodities; catastrophic and/or
weather-related events such as fires, explosions, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes and
similar occurrences; storage, handling, disposal and decommissioning costs; and
environmental compliance. Breakdown or failure of a pipeline or other energy
infrastructure companys assets may prevent the company from performing under
applicable sales agreements, which in certain situations, could result in termination
of the agreement or incurring a liability for liquidated damages. A companys ability
to successfully and timely complete capital improvements to existing or other capital
projects is contingent upon many variables. Should any such efforts be unsuccessful, a
pipeline or other energy infrastructure company could be subject to additional costs
and / or the write-off of its investment in the project or improvement. As a result of
the above risks and other potential hazards associated with pipeline and other energy
infrastructure companies, certain companies may become exposed to significant
liabilities for which they may not have adequate insurance coverage. Any of the
aforementioned risks or related regulatory and environmental risks could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial
condition, results of operations and cash flows of pipeline and other energy
infrastructure companies. |
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Regulatory Risk. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure issuers are subject to
regulation by various governmental authorities in various jurisdictions and may be
adversely affected by the imposition of special tariffs and changes in tax laws,
regulatory policies and accounting standards. Regulation exists in multiple aspects of
their operations, including how facilities are constructed, maintained and operated,
environmental and safety controls, and the prices they may charge for the products and
services they provide. Various governmental authorities have the power to enforce
compliance with these regulations and the permits issued under them, and violators are
subject to administrative, civil and criminal penalties, including fines, injunctions
or both. Stricter laws, regulations or enforcement policies could be enacted in the
future which may increase compliance costs and may adversely affect the financial
performance of energy infrastructure companies. Pipeline companies engaged in
interstate pipeline transportation of natural gas, refined petroleum products and other
products are subject to regulation by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
with respect to tariff rates these companies may charge for pipeline transportation
services. An adverse determination by the FERC with respect to the tariff rates of a
pipeline or other energy infrastructure company could have a material adverse effect on
its business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and its ability
to make cash distributions to its equity owners. Prices for certain electric power
companies are regulated in the U.S. with the intention of protecting the public while
ensuring that the rate of return earned by such companies is sufficient to attract
growth capital and to provide appropriate services but do not provide any assurance as
to achievement of earnings levels. We could become subject to the FERCs jurisdiction
if we are deemed to be a holding company of a public utility company or of a holding
company of a public utility company, and we may be required to aggregate securities
held by us or other funds and accounts managed by the Adviser and its affiliates, or be
prohibited from buying certain securities or be forced to divest certain securities. |
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Environmental Risk. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure company activities
are subject to stringent environmental laws and regulation by many federal, state and
local authorities, international
treaties and foreign governmental authorities. Failure to comply with such laws and
regulations or to |
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obtain any necessary environmental permits pursuant to such laws and
regulations could result in fines or other sanctions. Congress and other domestic and
foreign governmental authorities have either considered or implemented various laws and
regulations to restrict or tax certain emissions, particularly those involving air and
water emissions. Existing environmental regulations could be revised or reinterpreted,
new laws and regulations could be adopted or become applicable, and future changes in
environmental laws and regulations could occur, which could impose additional costs on
the operation of power plants. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies have
made and will likely continue to make significant capital and other expenditures to
comply with these and other environmental laws and regulations. Changes in, or new,
environmental restrictions may force energy infrastructure companies to incur
significant expenses or expenses that may exceed their estimates. There can be no
assurance that such companies would be able to recover all or any increased
environmental costs from their customers or that their business, financial condition or
results of operations would not be materially and adversely affected by such
expenditures or any changes in domestic or foreign environmental laws and regulations,
in which case the value of these companies securities in our portfolio could be
adversely affected. In addition, a pipeline or other energy infrastructure company may
be responsible for any on-site liabilities associated with the environmental condition
of facilities that it has acquired, leased or developed, regardless of when the
liabilities arose and whether they are known or unknown. |
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Price Volatility Risk. The volatility of energy commodity prices can affect
certain pipeline or other energy infrastructure companies due to the impact of prices
on the volume of commodities transported, stored, gathered, processed, distributed,
developed or produced. Most pipeline companies are not subject to direct commodity
price exposure because they do not own the underlying energy commodity. Nonetheless,
the price of a pipeline company security can be adversely affected by the perception
that the performance of all such entities is directly tied to commodity prices.
However, the operations, cash flows and financial performance of other energy
infrastructure companies in which we will invest may be more directly affected by
energy commodity prices, especially those energy companies owning the underlying energy
commodity. |
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Commodity prices fluctuate for several reasons, including changes in global and domestic
market and economic conditions, the impact of weather on demand, levels of domestic
production and imported commodities, energy conservation, domestic and foreign
governmental regulation, political instability, conservation efforts, and taxation
and the availability of local, intrastate and interstate transportation systems. |
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Volatility of commodity prices may also make it more difficult for energy companies to
raise capital to the extent the market perceives that their performance may be directly
or indirectly tied to commodity prices. Historically, energy commodity prices have been
cyclical and exhibited significant volatility which may adversely impact other energy
infrastructure companies in which we invest. |
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Terrorism Risk. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies, and the market
for their securities, are subject to disruption as a result of terrorist activities,
such as the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001; war,
such as the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and their aftermaths; and other geopolitical
events, including upheaval in the Middle East or other energy producing regions. The
U.S. government has issued warnings that energy assets, specifically those related to
pipeline and other energy infrastructure, production facilities, and transmission and
distribution facilities, might be specific targets of terrorist activity. Such events
have led, and in the future may lead, to short-term market volatility and may have
long-term effects on companies in the pipeline and other energy infrastructure industry
and markets. Such events may also adversely affect our business and financial
condition. |
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Natural Disaster Risk. Natural risks, such as earthquakes, flood, lightning,
hurricanes and wind, are inherent risks in infrastructure company operations. For
example, extreme weather patterns, such as Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and Hurricanes
Katrina and Rita in 2005, or the threat thereof, could result in
substantial damage to the facilities of certain companies located in the affected areas
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volatility in the supply of energy and could adversely impact the prices
of the securities in which we invest. This volatility may create fluctuations in
commodity prices and earnings of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. |
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Climate Change Regulation Risk. Climate change regulation could result in increased
operations and capital costs for the companies in which we invest. Voluntary
initiatives and mandatory controls have been adopted or are being discussed both in the
United States and worldwide to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon
dioxide, a by-product of burning fossil fuels, which some scientists and policymakers
believe contribute to global climate change. These measures and future measures could
result in increased costs to certain companies in which the Fund invests to operate and
maintain facilities and administer and manage a greenhouse gas emissions program and
may reduce demand for fuels that generate greenhouse gases and that are managed or
produced by companies in which we invest. |
Industry Specific Risk. Pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies are subject to
specific risks, including:
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Pipeline companies are subject to varying demand for crude oil, natural gas, NGLs or
refined products in the markets served by the pipeline; changes in the availability of
products for transporting, gathering, processing or sale due to natural declines in
reserves and production in the supply areas serviced by the companys facilities; sharp
decreases in crude oil or natural gas prices that cause producers to curtail production
or reduce capital spending for exploration activities; and environmental regulation.
Specifically, demand for gasoline, which accounts for a substantial portion of refined
product transportation, depends on price, prevailing economic conditions in the markets
served, and demographic and seasonal factors. |
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Processing companies are subject to declines in production of natural gas fields,
which utilize the processing facilities as a way to market the gas, prolonged
depression in the price of natural gas, which curtails production due to lack of
drilling activity and declines in the prices of NGL products and natural gas prices,
resulting in lower processing margins. |
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Integrated and independent energy companies are impacted by declines in the demand for and
prices of natural gas, crude oil and refined petroleum products. Reductions in prices
for natural gas and crude oil can cause a given reservoir to become uneconomic for
continued production earlier than it would if prices were higher. The operating margins
and cash flows of integrated and independent energy companies may fluctuate widely in
response to a variety of factors, including global and domestic economic conditions,
weather conditions, natural disasters, the supply and price of imported energy
commodities, change in the level and relationship in crude oil and
refined petroleum product pricing, political instability, conservation efforts and governmental regulation.
The accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of available data,
the accuracy of assumptions regarding future commodity prices and costs, and
engineering and geological interpretations and judgments. Due to natural declines in
reserves and production, exploitation and production companies must economically find
or acquire and develop additional reserves in order to maintain and grow their revenues
and distributions. Integrated and independent energy companies are also
subject to risks related to operations (such as fires and explosions)
as well as the potential environmental and regulatory risks of such
events, which may adversely impact their business and financial
condition. |
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Propane companies are subject to earnings variability based upon weather patterns in
the locations where the company operates and the wholesale cost of propane sold to end
customers. Propane company share prices are based on safety in distribution coverage
ratios, interest rate environment and, to a lesser extent, dividend or distribution
growth. |
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Power infrastructure companies are subject to many risks, including earnings
variability based upon weather patterns in the locations where the company operates,
the change in the demand for electricity, the cost to produce power, and the regulatory
environment. Furthermore, share prices are partly based on the interest rate
environment, the sustainability and potential growth of the dividend, and the outcome
of various rate cases undertaken by the company or a regulatory body. |
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MLP Risks. An investment in MLP securities involves some risks that differ from the risks
involved in an investment in the common stock of a corporation. Holders of MLP units have limited
control and voting rights on matters affecting the partnership. Holders of units issued by an MLP
are exposed to a remote possibility of liability for all of the obligations of that MLP in the
event that a court determines that the rights of the holders of MLP units to vote to remove or
replace the general partner of that MLP, to approve amendments to that MLPs partnership agreement,
or to take other action under the partnership agreement of that MLP would constitute control of
the business of that MLP, or a court or governmental agency determines that the MLP is conducting
business in a state without complying with the partnership statute of that state.
Holders of MLP units are also exposed to the risk that they will be required to repay amounts
to the MLP that are wrongfully distributed to them. In addition, the value of our investment in an
MLP will depend largely on the MLPs treatment as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. If an MLP does not meet current legal requirements to maintain partnership status, or if
it is unable to do so because of tax law changes, it would be treated as a corporation for U.S.
federal income tax purposes. In that case, the MLP would be obligated to pay income tax at the
entity level and distributions received by us generally would be taxed as dividend income. As a
result, there could be a material reduction in our cash flow and there could be a material decrease
in the value of our common shares.
Equity Securities Risk. Equity securities can be affected by macroeconomic and other factors
affecting the stock market in general, expectations about changes in interest rates, investor
sentiment toward such entities, changes in a particular issuers financial condition, or
unfavorable or unanticipated poor performance of a particular issuer. Prices of equity securities
of individual entities also can be affected by fundamentals unique to the company or partnership,
including size, earnings power, coverage ratio and characteristics and features of different
classes of securities. Equity securities are susceptible to general stock market fluctuations and
to volatile increases and decreases in value. The equity securities held by the Fund may experience
sudden, unpredictable drops in value or long periods of decline in value. In addition, by writing
covered call options, capital appreciation potential will be limited on a portion of our investment
portfolio.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers (including Canadian
issuers) involve risks not ordinarily associated with investments in securities and instruments of
U.S. issuers. For example, non-U.S. companies are not generally subject to uniform accounting,
auditing and financial standards and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies.
Non-U.S. securities exchanges, brokers and companies may be subject to less government supervision
and regulation than exists in the U.S. Dividend and interest income may be subject to withholding
and other non-U.S. taxes, which may adversely affect the net return on such investments. Because we
intend to limit our investments to no more than 30% of our Total Assets in securities issued by
non-U.S. issuers (including Canadian issuers), we not be able to pass through to our stockholders
any foreign income tax credits as a result of any foreign income taxes we pay. There may be
difficulty in obtaining or enforcing a court judgment abroad. In addition, it may be difficult to
effect repatriation of capital invested in certain countries. With respect to certain countries,
there are also risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, political or social instability or
diplomatic developments that could affect the Funds assets held in non-U.S. countries. There may
be less publicly available information about a non-U.S. company than there is regarding a U.S.
company. Non-U.S. securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities
markets and some non-U.S. company securities are less liquid than securities of otherwise
comparable U.S. companies. Non-U.S. markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures
that could cause the Fund to encounter difficulties in purchasing and selling securities on such
markets and may result in the Fund missing attractive investment opportunities or experiencing a
loss. In addition, a portfolio that includes securities issued by non-U.S. issuers can expect to
have a higher expense ratio because of the increased transaction costs in non-U.S. markets and the
increased costs of maintaining the custody of such non-U.S. securities. When investing in
securities issued by non-U.S. issuers, there is also the risk that the value of such an investment,
measured in U.S. dollars, will decrease because of unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates.
We may, but do not currently intend to, hedge our exposure to non-U.S. currencies.
Capital Markets Risk. Global financial markets and economic conditions have been, and may
continue to be, volatile due to a variety of factors, including significant write-offs in the
financial services sector. Despite more stabilized economic activity, if the volatility continues,
the cost of raising capital in the debt and equity capital markets, and the ability to raise
capital, may be impacted. In particular, concerns about the general stability of
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financial markets and specifically the solvency of lending counterparties, may impact the cost of
raising capital from the credit markets through increased interest rates, tighter lending
standards, difficulties in refinancing debt on existing terms or at all and reduced, or in some
cases ceasing to provide, funding to borrowers. In addition, lending counterparties under existing
revolving credit facilities and other debt instruments may be unwilling or unable to meet their
funding obligations. As a result of any of the foregoing, we or the companies in which we invest
may be unable to obtain new debt or equity financing on acceptable terms. If funding is not
available when needed, or is available only on unfavorable terms, we or the companies in which we
invest may not be able to meet obligations as they come due. Moreover, without adequate funding,
pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies may be unable to execute their growth
strategies, complete future acquisitions, take advantage of other business opportunities or respond
to competitive pressures, any of which could have a material adverse effect on their revenues and
results of operations.
Rising interest rates could limit the capital appreciation of equity units of pipeline and
other energy infrastructure companies as a result of the increased availability of alternative
investments at competitive yields. Rising interest rates may increase the cost of capital for
companies operating in this sector. A higher cost of capital or an inflationary period may lead to
inadequate funding, which could limit growth from acquisition or expansion projects, the ability of
such entities to make or grow dividends or distributions or meet debt obligations, the ability to
respond to competitive pressures, all of which could adversely affect the prices of their
securities.
The recent instability in the financial markets has led the U.S. government and foreign
governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial
institutions and segments of the financial markets that have experienced extreme volatility, and in
some cases a lack of liquidity. U.S. federal and state governments and foreign governments, their
regulatory agencies or self regulatory organizations may take additional actions that affect the
regulation of the securities in which we invest, or the issuers of such securities, in ways that
are unforeseeable and on an emergency basis with little or no notice, with the consequence that
some market participants ability to continue to implement certain strategies or manage the risk of
their outstanding positions has been suddenly and/or substantially eliminated or otherwise
negatively impacted. Given the complexities of the global financial markets and the limited
timeframe within which governments have been able to take action, these interventions have
sometimes been unclear in scope and application, resulting in confusion and uncertainty, which in
itself has been materially detrimental to the efficient functioning of such markets as well as
previously successful investment strategies. Decisions made by government policy makers could
exacerbate the current economic difficulties in the U.S. and other countries.
Liquidity Risk. We may invest in securities of any market capitalization and may be exposed
to liquidity risk when trading volume, lack of a market maker, or legal restrictions impair our
ability to sell particular securities or close call option positions at an advantageous price or a
timely manner. We may invest in mid-cap and small-cap companies, which may not have the management
experience, financial resources, product diversification and competitive strengths of large-cap
companies. Analysts and other investors may follow these companies less actively and therefore
information about these companies may not be as readily available as that for large-cap companies.
Therefore, their securities may be more volatile and less liquid than the securities of larger,
more established companies. In the event certain securities experience limited trading volumes,
the prices of such securities may display abrupt or erratic movements at times. In addition, it may
be more difficult for us to buy and sell significant amounts of such securities without an
unfavorable impact on prevailing market prices. As a result, these securities may be difficult to
sell at a favorable price at the times when we believe it is desirable to do so. Investment of our
capital in securities that are less actively traded (or over time experience decreased trading
volume) may restrict our ability to take advantage of other market opportunities or to sell those
securities. This also may affect adversely our ability to make required interest payments on our
debt securities and distributions on any of our preferred stock, to redeem such securities, or to
meet asset coverage requirements.
Covered Call Risks. We cannot guarantee that our covered call option strategy will be
effective. There are several risks associated with transactions in options on securities,
including:
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There are significant differences between the securities and options markets that
could result in an imperfect correlation between these markets, causing a given covered
call option transaction not to achieve its objectives. A decision as to whether, when
and how to use covered calls (or other options) |
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involves the exercise of skill and judgment, and even a well-conceived transaction may
be unsuccessful because of market behavior or unexpected events. |
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The use of options may require us to sell portfolio securities at inopportune times
or for prices other than current market values, may limit the amount of appreciation we
can realize on an investment, or may cause us to hold a security we might otherwise
sell. As the writer of a covered call option, we forego, during the options life, the
opportunity to profit from increases in the market value of the security covering the
call option above the exercise price of the call option, but retain the risk of loss
should the price of the underlying security decline. Although such loss would be offset
in part by the option premium received, in a situation in which the price of a
particular stock on which we have written a covered call option declines rapidly and
materially or in which prices in general on all or a substantial portion of the stocks
on which we have written covered call options decline rapidly and materially, we could
sustain material depreciation or loss to the extent we do not sell the underlying
securities (which may require it to terminate, offset or otherwise cover our option
position as well). |
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There can be no assurance that a liquid market will exist when we seek to close out
an option position. If we were unable to close out a covered call option that we had
written on a security, we would not be able to sell the underlying security unless the
option expired without exercise. Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market
for exchange-traded options may include, but are not limited to, the following: (i)
there may be insufficient trading interest; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an
exchange on opening transactions or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts,
suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or
series of options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal
operations on an exchange; (v) the trading facilities may not be adequate to handle
current trading volume; or (vi) the relevant exchange could discontinue the trading of
options. In addition, our ability to terminate over-the-counter options may be more
limited than with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that counterparties
participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations. |
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The principal factors affecting the market value of an option include supply and
demand, interest rates, the current market price of the underlying security in relation
to the exercise price of the option, the dividend or distribution yield of the
underlying security, the actual or perceived volatility of the underlying security and
the time remaining until the expiration date. Any of the foregoing could impact or
cause to vary over time the amount of income we are able to generate through our
covered call option strategy. |
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The number of covered call options we can write is limited by the number of shares
of the corresponding common stock we hold. Furthermore, our covered call option
transactions may be subject to limitations established by each of the exchanges, boards
of trade or other trading facilities on which such options are traded. |
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If we fail to maintain any required asset coverage ratios in connection with any use
by us of leverage, we may be required to redeem or prepay some or all of our leverage
instruments. Such redemption or prepayment would likely result in our seeking to
terminate early all or a portion of any option transaction. Early termination of an
option could result in a termination payment by or to us. |
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Performance and Distribution Risk. We may not be able to achieve operating results that will
allow us to make distributions at a specific level or to increase the amount of these distributions
from time to time. We cannot assure you that you will receive distributions at a particular level
or at all. Dividends and distributions on equity securities are not fixed but are declared at the
discretion of the issuers board of directors. If stock market volatility declines, the level of
premiums from writing covered call options will likely decrease as well. Payments to close-out
written call options will reduce amounts available for distribution from gains earned in respect of
call option expiration or close out. The equity securities in which we invest may not appreciate
or may decline in value. Net realized and unrealized gains on the securities investments will be
determined primarily by the direction and movement of the applicable securities markets and the
Funds holdings. Any gains that we do realize on the disposition of any securities may not be
sufficient to offset losses on other securities or option transactions. A
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significant decline in the value of the securities in which we invest may negatively impact
our ability to pay distributions or cause you to lose all or a part of your investment.
In addition, the 1940 Act may limit our ability to make distributions in certain
circumstances. Restrictions and provisions in any future credit facilities and our debt securities
may also limit our ability to make distributions. For federal income tax purposes, we are required
to distribute substantially all of our net investment income each year both to reduce our federal
income tax liability and to avoid a potential excise tax. If our ability to make distributions on
our common shares is limited, such limitations could, under certain circumstances, impair our
ability to maintain our qualification for taxation as a RIC, which would have adverse consequences
for our stockholders. See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.
Quarterly Results Risk. We could experience fluctuations in our operating results due to a
number of factors, including the return on our investments, the level of our expenses, variations
in and the timing of the recognition of realized and unrealized gains or losses on our investments
and written call options, the level of call premium we receive by writing covered calls, the degree
to which we encounter competition in our markets and general economic conditions. As a result of
these factors, results for any period should not be relied upon as being indicative of performance
in future periods.
Delay in Use of Proceeds Risk. Although we expect to fully invest the net proceeds of this
offering within three to six months after the closing of this offering, such investments may be
delayed if suitable investments are unavailable at the time, if market conditions and volumes of
securities are not favorable at the time or for other reasons. As a result, the proceeds may be
invested in money market mutual funds, cash, cash equivalents, securities issued or guaranteed by
the U.S. Government or its instrumentalities or agencies, high quality, short-term money market
instruments, short-term debt securities, certificates or deposit, bankers acceptances and other
bank obligations, commercial paper or other liquid debt securities. The three to six month
timeframe associated with the anticipated use of proceeds could lower returns and lower our yield
in the first year after the issuance of the common shares.
Restricted Securities Risk. We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or
otherwise restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of listed
companies. Restricted securities (including Rule 144A securities) are less liquid than securities
traded in the open market because of statutory and contractual restrictions on resale. Such
securities are, therefore, unlike securities that are traded in the open market, which can be
expected to be sold immediately if the market is adequate. This lack of liquidity may create
special risks for us. However, we could sell such securities in private transactions with a limited
number of purchasers or in public offerings under the 1933 Act.
Restricted securities are subject to statutory and contractual restrictions on their public
resale, which may make it more difficult to value them, may limit our ability to dispose of them
and may lower the amount we could realize upon their sale. To enable us to sell our holdings of a
restricted security not registered under the 1933 Act, we may have to cause those securities to be
registered. The expenses of registering restricted securities may be determined at the time we buy
the securities. When we must arrange registration because we wish to sell the security, a
considerable period may elapse between the time the decision is made to sell the security and the
time the security is registered so that we could sell it. We would bear the risks of any downward
price fluctuation during that period.
Portfolio Turnover Risk. We may, but under normal market conditions do not intend to, engage
in frequent and active trading of portfolio securities to achieve our investment objective.
However, annual portfolio turnover as a result of our purchases and sales of equity securities and
call options in connection with our covered call option strategy may exceed 100%, which is higher
than many other investment companies and would involve greater trading costs to us and may result
in greater realization of taxable capital gains.
Leverage Risk. Our use of leverage through the issuance of preferred stock or debt
securities, and any borrowings or other transactions involving indebtedness (other than for
temporary or emergency purposes) would be considered senior securities for purposes of the 1940
Act and create risks. Leverage is a speculative technique that may adversely affect common
stockholders. If the return on securities acquired with borrowed funds or other leverage proceeds
does not exceed the cost of the leverage, the use of leverage could cause us to lose money.
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Successful use of leverage depends on our Advisers ability to predict or hedge correctly
interest rates and market movements, and there is no assurance that the use of a leveraging
strategy will be successful during any period in which it is used. Because the fee paid to our
Adviser will be calculated on the basis of Managed Assets, the fees will increase when leverage is
utilized, giving our Adviser an incentive to utilize leverage.
Our issuance of senior securities involves offering expenses and other costs, including
interest payments, which are borne indirectly by our common stockholders. Fluctuations in interest
rates could increase interest or distribution payments on our senior securities, and could reduce
cash available for distributions on common stock. Increased operating costs, including the
financing cost associated with any leverage, may reduce our total return to common stockholders.
The 1940 Act and/or the rating agency guidelines applicable to senior securities impose asset
coverage requirements, distribution limitations, voting right requirements (in the case of the
senior equity securities), and restrictions on our portfolio composition and our use of certain
investment techniques and strategies. The terms of any senior securities or other borrowings may
impose additional requirements, restrictions and limitations that are more stringent than those
currently required by the 1940 Act, and the guidelines of the rating agencies that rate outstanding
senior securities. These requirements may have an adverse effect on us and may affect our ability
to pay distributions on common stock and preferred stock. To the extent necessary, we currently
intend to redeem any senior securities to maintain the required asset coverage. Doing so may
require that we liquidate portfolio securities at a time when it would not otherwise be desirable
to do so.
Hedging and Derivatives Risk. In addition to writing call options as part of the investment
strategy, we may invest in derivative instruments for hedging or risk management purposes. Our use
of derivatives could enhance or decrease the cash available to us for payment of distributions or
interest, as the case may be. Derivatives can be illiquid, may disproportionately increase losses
and have a potentially large negative impact on our performance. Derivative transactions, including
options on securities and securities indices and other transactions in which we may engage (such as
forward currency transactions, futures contracts and options thereon, and total return swaps), may
subject us to increased risk of principal loss due to unexpected movements in stock prices, changes
in stock volatility levels, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates and imperfect
correlations between our securities holdings and indices upon which derivative transactions are
based. We also will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties to any
over-the-counter derivatives contracts we purchased. If a counterparty becomes bankrupt or
otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a derivative contract, we may experience
significant delays in obtaining any recovery under the derivative contract in a bankruptcy or other
reorganization proceeding. We may obtain only a limited recovery or may obtain no recovery in such
circumstances. In addition, if the counterparty to a derivative transaction defaults, we would not
be able to use the anticipated net receipts under the derivative to offset our cost of financial
leverage.
Interest rate transactions will expose us to certain risks that differ from the risks
associated with our portfolio holdings. There are economic costs of hedging reflected in the price
of interest rate swaps, floors, caps and similar techniques, the costs of which can be significant,
particularly when long-term interest rates are substantially above short-term rates. In addition,
our success in using hedging instruments is subject to our Advisers ability to predict correctly
changes in the relationships of such hedging instruments to our leverage risk, and there can be no
assurance that our Advisers judgment in this respect will be accurate. Consequently, the use of
hedging transactions might result in a poorer overall performance, whether or not adjusted for
risk, than if we had not engaged in such transactions. There is no assurance that the interest
rate hedging transactions into which we enter will be effective in reducing our exposure to
interest rate risk. Hedging transactions are subject to correlation risk, which is the risk that
payment on our hedging transactions may not correlate exactly with our payment obligations on
senior securities. To the extent there is a decline in interest rates, the value of certain
derivatives could decline, and result in a decline in our net assets
Tax Risk. We intend to elect to be treated, and to qualify each year, as a regulated
investment company under the Code. To maintain our qualification for federal income tax purposes
as a RIC under the Code, we must meet certain source-of-income, asset diversification and annual
distribution requirements. If for any taxable year we fail to qualify for the special federal
income tax treatment afforded to regulated investment companies, all of our taxable income will be
subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates (without any deduction for distributions
to our stockholders) and our income available for distribution will be reduced. For additional
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information on the requirements imposed on RICs and the consequences of a failure to qualify,
see Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations below.
Anti-Takeover Provisions Risks. Maryland law and our Charter and Bylaws include provisions
that could delay, defer or prevent other entities or persons from acquiring control of us, causing
us to engage in certain transactions or modifying our structure. These provisions may be regarded
as anti-takeover provisions. Such provisions could limit the ability of common stockholders to
sell their shares at a premium over the then-current market prices by discouraging a third party
from seeking to obtain control of us. See Certain Provisions in Our Charter and Bylaws.
Management Risk. To the extent that our Advisers assets under management continue to grow,
our Adviser may have to hire additional personnel and, to the extent they are unable to hire or
retain qualified individuals, our operations may be adversely affected. There can be no guarantee
that the Advisers application of investment techniques, call option strategy and risk analyses in
making investment decisions for us will produce the desired results.
Market Discount Risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a
discount from NAV but in some cases have traded above NAV. Continued development of alternatives as
a vehicle for investing in listed energy infrastructure securities may contribute to reducing or
eliminating any premium or may result in our shares trading at a discount. The risk of the shares
of common stock trading at a discount is a risk separate from the risk of a decline in our NAV as a
result of investment activities. Our NAV will be reduced immediately following an offering of our
common or preferred stock due to the offering costs for such stock, which are borne entirely by us.
Although we also bear the offering costs of debt securities, such costs are amortized over time and
therefore do not impact our NAV immediately following an offering.
Whether stockholders will realize a gain or loss for federal income tax purposes upon the sale
of our common stock depends upon whether the market value of the common shares at the time of sale
is above or below the stockholders basis in such shares, taking into account transaction costs,
and it is not directly dependent upon our NAV. Because the market value of our common stock will be
determined by factors such as the relative demand for and supply of the shares in the market,
general market conditions and other factors beyond our control, we cannot predict whether our
common stock will trade at, below or above NAV, or at, below or above the public offering price for
our common stock.
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
Directors and Officers
Our business and affairs are managed under the direction of our Board of Directors.
Accordingly, our Board of Directors provides broad supervision over our affairs, including
supervision of the duties performed by our Adviser. Our officers are responsible for our day-to-day
operations. Each director and officer will hold office until his successor is duly elected and
qualifies, or until he resigns or is removed in the manner provided by law. Unless otherwise
indicated, the address of each director and officer is 11550 Ash Street, Suite 300, Leawood, Kansas
66211. Additional information regarding our Board and its committees, and our officers, is set
forth under Management in our SAI. Our Board of Directors consists of a majority of directors who
are not interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of our Adviser or its affiliates.
Investment Adviser
We have entered into an investment advisory agreement with Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C.,
a registered investment adviser, pursuant to which it will serve as our investment adviser (the
Advisory Agreement).
Our Adviser is located at 11550 Ash Street, Suite 300, Leawood, Kansas 66211. Our Adviser
specializes in managing portfolios of investments in listed energy infrastructure companies. Our
Adviser was formed in 2002 to provide portfolio management services to institutional and high-net
worth investors seeking professional management of their MLP investments. As of August 31, 2011,
our Adviser had approximately $6.5 billion of assets
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under management in six publicly traded closed-end management investment companies, an
open-end management investment company and other managed accounts.
Our Adviser also serves as investment adviser to Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corporation
(TYG), Tortoise Energy Capital Corporation (TYY), Tortoise North American Energy Corporation
(TYN), Tortoise Power and Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (TPZ), and Tortoise MLP Fund, Inc.
(NTG), which are publicly traded closed-end investment management companies that invest in MLPs
and other energy infrastructure companies. Our Adviser also serves as investment adviser to
Tortoise Capital Resources Corporation (TTO), a publicly traded closed-end management investment
company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the 1940 Act but
intends to withdraw such election and focus on real property investments in the energy
infrastructure sector, and an open-end investment management company that invests in MLPs and
pipeline companies.
Our Adviser is wholly-owned by Tortoise Holdings, LLC, a holding company. Montage Investments,
LLC (Montage Investments), a registered investment adviser, owns a majority interest in Tortoise
Holdings, LLC, with the remaining interests held by the Advisers five Managing Directors and
certain other senior employees of our Adviser. In September 2009, our Advisers five Managing
Directors entered into employment agreements with our Adviser.
Investment Committee
Subject to the supervision of the Board of Directors, and pursuant to the Advisory Agreement,
the Advisers investment committee is responsible for management of our investments. The
investment committee determines which portfolio securities will be purchased or sold, arranges for
the placing of orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities, manages our covered call
option strategy, selects brokers or dealers to place those orders, maintains books and records with
respect to our securities transactions, manages the Funds business and financial affairs and
provides certain clerical, bookkeeping and other administrative services and reports to the Board
of Directors on our investments and performance.
The investment committees members are H. Kevin Birzer, Zachary Hamel, Kenneth Malvey, Terry
Matlack and Dave Schulte, all of whom share responsibility for management of our investments. It is
the policy of the investment committee that any portfolio investment decision must be approved by
their unanimous vote. The members of the investment committee have the following years of
experience: Mr. Birzer 30 years; Mr. Hamel 22 years; Mr. Malvey 23 years; Mr. Matlack 29
years; and Mr. Schulte 22 years.
H. Kevin Birzer, CFA. Mr. Birzer has been a Managing Director of our Adviser since
2002. Mr. Birzer has also served as a Director of ours since inception and of each of TYG, TYY,
TYN, TPZ, TTO and NTG since inception. Mr. Birzer, who was a member in Fountain Capital Management,
L.L.C. (Fountain Capital), a registered investment adviser, from 1990 to May 2009, has 30 years
of investment experience. Mr. Birzer began his career with Peat Marwick. His subsequent experience
includes three years working as a Vice President for F. Martin Koenig & Co., focusing on equity and
option investments, and three years at Drexel Burnham Lambert, where he was a Vice President in the
Corporate Finance Department. Mr. Birzer graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration
degree from the University of Notre Dame and holds a Master of Business Administration degree from
New York University. He earned his CFA designation in 1988.
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Zachary Hamel, CFA. Mr. Hamel is a co-founder and has been a Managing Director of our
Adviser since 2002 and also is a Partner with Fountain Capital. Mr. Hamel has served as our
President since our inception, as President of NTG since 2010 and of each of TYG, TYY and TPZ since
May 2011, as Senior Vice President of TTO since inception, of TYY and TPZ from inception to May
2011, of TYG from April 2007 to May 2011 and of TYN since April 2007. Mr. Hamel also served as
Secretary of each of TYG, TYY, TYN and TTO from their inception to April 2007. Mr. Hamel joined
Fountain Capital in 1997, where he covered the energy, chemicals and utilities sectors. Prior to
joining Fountain Capital, Mr. Hamel worked for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
for eight years as a Bank Examiner and a Regional Capital Markets Specialist. Mr. Hamel graduated
from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He also
attained a Master of Business Administration from the University of Kansas School of Business.
Kenneth Malvey, CFA. Mr. Malvey is a co-founder and has been a Managing Director of
the Adviser since 2002 and is also a Partner with Fountain Capital. He has served as our Senior
Vice President and Treasurer since our inception. Mr. Malvey has served as the Treasurer of TYG,
TYY, TYN and TTO since 2005 and of TPZ and NTG since inception, as the Senior Vice President of
each of TYY, TTO, TPZ and NTG since inception and of TYG and TYN since 2007, and as Assistant
Treasurer of each of TYG, TYY and TYN from its inception to November 2005. Prior to joining
Fountain Capital in 2002, Mr. Malvey was one of three members of the Global Office of Investments
for GE Capitals Employers Reinsurance Corporation. Most recently, he was the Global Investment
Risk Manager for a portfolio of approximately $24 billion of fixed-income, public equity and
alternative investment assets. Before joining GE Capital in 1996, he was a Bank Examiner and
Regional Capital Markets Specialist with the FDIC for nine years. Mr. Malvey graduated with a
Bachelor of Science in Finance from Winona State University, Winona, Minn.
Terry Matlack, CFA. Mr. Matlack is co-founder and has been a Managing Director of our
Adviser since 2002 and has also served as our Chief Executive Officer since our inception; as Chief
Executive Officer of NTG since 2010, and of each of TYG, TYY, TYN and TPZ since May 2011; as Chief
Financial Officer of TTO since inception and of each of TYG, TYY, TYN and TPZ from its inception to
May 2011; as Director from inception until September 15, 2009 of each of TYG, TYY, TYN, TPZ, and
TTO. From 2001 to 2002, Mr. Matlack was a full-time Managing Director of Kansas City Equity
Partners LC (KCEP). Prior to joining KCEP, from 1998 to 2001, Mr. Matlack was President of
GreenStreet Capital and its affiliates in the telecommunications service industry. Mr. Matlack
served as Assistant Treasurer of TYG, TYY, and TYN from November 2005 to April 2008 and of TTO from
inception to April 2008. Prior to 1995, he was Executive Vice President and a member of the board
of directors of W.K. Communications, Inc., a cable television acquisition company, and Chief
Operating Officer of W.K. Cellular, a cellular rural service area operator. He also has served as a
specialist in corporate finance with George K. Baum & Company, and as Executive Vice President of
Corporate Finance at B.C. Christopher Securities Company. Mr. Matlack graduated with a Bachelor of
Science in Business Administration from Kansas State University and holds a Masters of Business
Administration and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Kansas.
David Schulte, CFA. Mr. Schulte has been a Managing Director of our Adviser since
2002. Mr. Schulte has been Senior Vice President of each of TYG, TYY, TYN and TPZ since May 2011
and of NTG since 2010; and served as Chief Executive Officer and President of each of TYG, TYY and
TPZ from its inception to May 2011; as Chief Executive Officer of TYN from 2005 to May 2011 and
President of TYN from 2005 to September 2008; as Chief Executive Officer of TTO since 2005 and as
President of TTO from 2005 to April 2007. From 1993 to 2002, Mr. Schulte was a full-time Managing
Director of KCEP. While a Managing Director of KCEP, he led private financing for two growth MLPs
in the energy infrastructure sector. Since February 2004, Mr. Schulte has been an employee of the
Adviser. Prior to joining KCEP in 1993, Mr. Schulte had over five years of experience completing
acquisition and public equity financings as an investment banker at the predecessor of Oppenheimer
& Co, Inc. From 1986 to 1989, he was a securities law attorney. Mr. Schulte holds a Bachelor of
Science degree in Business Administration from Drake University and a Juris Doctorate degree from
the University of Iowa. He passed the CPA examination in 1983 and earned his CFA designation in
1992.
The Statement of Additional Information provides additional information about the compensation
structure of, the other accounts managed by, and the ownership of our securities by the investment
committee members listed above.
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The Adviser has hired 440 Investment Group, LLC (440 Investment Group) to provide research
assistance and option market analysis for its covered call option strategy. 440 Investment Group, an affiliate
of the Adviser owned by Montage Investments, LLC, is a registered investment adviser that
specializes in alternative investments, including option strategies. Its founders have over a decade
of alternative investment experience, including managing commodity, agriculture and index option
investment strategies.
Compensation and Expenses
Under the Advisory Agreement, we pay the Adviser quarterly, as compensation for the services
rendered by it, a fee equal on an annual basis to 1.10% of our average monthly Managed Assets.
Managed Assets means our Total Assets minus accrued liabilities other than debt representing
financial leverage and the aggregate liquidation preference of any outstanding preferred stock. The
Adviser has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.25%, 0.20%, and 0.15% of average monthly Managed Assets for
the first, second and third years following this offering, respectively. Because the fee paid to
the Adviser is determined on the basis of our Managed Assets, the Advisers interest in determining
whether we should incur additional leverage will conflict with our interests.
Our average monthly Managed Assets are determined for the purpose of calculating the
management fee by taking the average of the monthly determinations of Managed Assets during a given
calendar quarter. The fees are payable for each calendar quarter within five days after the end of
that quarter.
We bear all expenses not specifically assumed by our Adviser incurred in our operations and
will bear the expenses of all future offerings. Expenses we bear include, but are not limited to,
the following: (1) expenses of maintaining and continuing our existence and related overhead,
including, to the extent services are provided by personnel of the Adviser or its affiliates,
office space and facilities, training and benefits; (2) commissions, spreads, fees and other
expenses connected with the acquisition, holding and disposition of securities and other
investments, including placement and similar fees in connection with direct placements in which we
participate; (3) auditing, accounting, tax and legal service expenses; (4) taxes and interest; (5)
governmental fees; (6) expenses of listing our shares with a stock exchange, and expenses of the
issue, sale, repurchase and redemption (if any) of our shares, including expenses of conducting
tender offers for the purpose of repurchasing our shares; (7) expenses of registering and
qualifying us and our securities under federal and state securities laws and of preparing and
filing registration statements and amendments for such purposes; (8) expenses of communicating with
stockholders, including website expenses and the expenses of preparing, printing and mailing press
releases, reports and other notices to stockholders and of meetings of stockholders and proxy
solicitations therefor; (9) expenses of reports to governmental officers and commissions; (10)
insurance expenses; (11) association membership dues; (12) fees, expenses and disbursements of
custodians and subcustodians for all services to us (including without limitation safekeeping of
funds, securities and other investments, keeping of books, accounts and records, and determination
of NAV); (13) fees, expenses and disbursements of transfer agents, dividend paying agents,
stockholder servicing agents, registrars and administrator for all services to us; (14)
compensation and expenses of our directors who are not members of the Advisers organization; (15)
pricing, valuation, and other consulting or analytical services employed by us; (16) all expenses
incurred in connection with leveraging of our assets through a line of credit, or issuing and
maintaining notes or preferred stock; (17) all expenses incurred in connection with the offerings
of our common and preferred stock and debt securities; and (18) such non-recurring items as may
arise, including expenses incurred in connection with litigation, proceedings and claims and our
obligation to indemnify our directors, officers and stockholders with respect thereto.
Duration and Termination
The Advisory Agreement was approved by our Board of Directors on September , 2011. The
basis for the Board of Directors initial approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement will be
provided in our initial annual report to stockholders. The Advisory Agreement will become effective
as of the close of this offering. Unless terminated earlier as described below, it will continue in
effect for a period of two years from the effective date and 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, and, in either case, upon approval by a
majority of our directors who are not interested persons or parties to the Advisory Agreement.
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The Advisory Agreement provides that it may be terminated by us at any time, without the
payment of any penalty, by our Board of Directors or by the vote of the holders of a majority of
the outstanding shares of the Fund on 60 days written notice to the Adviser. The Advisory Agreement
provides that it may be terminated by the Adviser at any time, without the payment of any penalty,
upon 60 days written notice to the Fund. The Advisory Agreement also provides that it will
automatically terminate in the event of an assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act).
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
We compute the NAV of our common stock as of the close of trading of the NYSE (normally 4:00
p.m. Eastern time) no less frequently than the last business day of each calendar month and at such
other times as the Board of Directors may determine. When considering an offering of common stock,
we calculate our NAV on a more frequent basis, generally daily, to the extent necessary to comply
with the provisions of the 1940 Act. We currently intend to make our NAV available for publication
weekly on our Advisers website. Our NAV equals the value of our Total Assets less: (i) all of our
liabilities (including accrued expenses); (ii) accumulated and unpaid dividends on any outstanding
preferred stock; (iii) the aggregate liquidation preference of any outstanding preferred stock;
(iv) accrued and unpaid interest payments on any outstanding indebtedness; (v) the aggregate
principal amount of any outstanding indebtedness; and (vi) any distributions payable on our common
stock.
We will determine the value of our assets and liabilities in accordance with valuation
procedures adopted by our Board of Directors. Securities for which market quotations are readily
available shall be valued at market value. If a market value cannot be obtained or if our Adviser
determines that the value of a security as so obtained does not represent value as of the
measurement date (due to a significant development subsequent to the time its price is determined
or otherwise), value for the security shall be determined pursuant to the methodologies established
by our Board of Directors.
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The value for equity securities and equity-related securities is determined by using
readily available market quotations from the principal market. For equity and
equity-related securities that are freely tradable and listed on a securities exchange
or over the counter market, value is determined using the last sale price on that
exchange or over-the-counter market on the measurement date. If the security is listed
on more than one exchange, we will use the price of the exchange that we consider to be
the principal exchange on which the security is traded. Securities listed on the
NASDAQ will be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may not necessarily
represent the last sale price. If a security is traded on the measurement date, then
the last reported sale price on the exchange or over-the-counter (OTC) market on
which the security is principally traded, up to the time of valuation, is used. If
there were no reported sales on the securitys principal exchange or OTC market on the
measurement date, then the average between the last bid price and last asked price, as
reported by the pricing service, shall be used. We will obtain direct written
broker-dealer quotations if a security is not traded on an exchange or quotations are
not available from an approved pricing service. Exchange-traded options will be valued
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An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a private placement
transaction without registration is subject to restrictions on resale that can affect
the securitys liquidity and value. Such securities that are convertible into publicly
traded common shares or securities that may be sold pursuant to Rule 144 will
generally be valued based on the value of the freely tradable common share counterpart
less an applicable discount. Generally, the discount will initially be equal to the
discount at which we purchased the securities. To the extent that such securities are
convertible or otherwise become freely tradable within a time frame that may be
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Fixed income securities (other than the short-term securities as described below)
are valued by (i) using readily available market quotations based upon the last updated
sale price or a market value from an approved pricing service generated by a pricing
matrix based upon yield data for securities with
similar characteristics or (ii) by obtaining a direct written broker-dealer quotation
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A fixed income security acquired in a private placement transaction without
registration is subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the securitys
liquidity and value. Among the various factors that can affect the value of a privately
placed security are (i) whether the issuing company has freely trading fixed income
securities of the same maturity and interest rate (either through an initial public
offering or otherwise); (ii) whether the company has an effective registration
statement in place for the securities; and (iii) whether a market is made in the
securities. The securities normally will be valued at amortized cost unless the
portfolio companys condition or other factors lead to a determination of value at a
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Short-term securities, including bonds, notes, debentures and other fixed
income securities, and money market instruments such as certificates of deposit,
commercial paper, bankers acceptances and obligations of domestic and foreign banks,
with remaining maturities of 60 days or less, for which reliable market quotations are
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Other assets will be valued at market value pursuant to written valuation procedures
adopted by our Board of Directors, or if a market value cannot be obtained or if our
Adviser determines that the value of a security as so obtained does not represent value
as of the measurement date (due to a significant development subsequent to the time its
price is determined or otherwise), value shall be determined pursuant to the
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Valuations of public company securities determined pursuant to fair value methodologies will
be presented to our Board of Directors or a designated committee thereof for approval at the next
regularly scheduled board meeting. See Investment Objective and Principal Investment Strategies
Conflicts of Interest.
DISTRIBUTIONS
We intend to make quarterly cash distributions to our common stockholders. We expect to
declare the initial distribution approximately 45 to 60 days, and to pay such distribution on or
around March 1, 2012, from the completion of this offering, depending upon market conditions.
We expect that the source of the cash payments we receive from our investments will constitute
investment company taxable income, as well as long-term capital gains or return of capital from
such investments. Investment company taxable income includes, among other items, dividends,
operational income from MLPs, interest and net short-term capital gains, less expenses. Long-term
capital gains reflect the realized market price received in the sale of an investment security in
excess of its cost basis, less net capital losses, including any capital loss carryforwards. Since,
as a RIC, we may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in MLPs, a portion of distributions received
from our investments may be sourced as return of capital. This may be due to a variety of factors,
including that the MLP may have significant non-cash deductions, such as accelerated depreciation.
The 1940 Act generally limits our long-term capital gain distributions to one per year, except
for certain permitted distributions related to our qualification as a RIC. This limitation does not
apply to that portion of our distributions that is not characterized as long-term capital gain. We
expect to obtain the benefit of a prior exemption obtained by our Adviser from Section 19(b) of the
1940 Act and Rule 19b-1 thereunder permitting us to make periodic distributions of long-term
capital gains, provided that our distribution policy with respect to our common stock calls for
periodic (e.g., quarterly) distributions in an amount equal to a fixed percentage of our average
net asset value over a specified period of time or market price per common share at or about the
time of distribution or pay-out of a level dollar amount. We cannot assure you that we will obtain
the benefit of the exemption.
Various factors will affect the levels of cash that we receive from our investments, as well
as the amounts of income represented by such cash, such as our asset mix and covered call strategy.
We may not be able to make distributions in certain circumstances. To permit us to maintain a more
stable distribution, our Board of Directors may from time to time cause us to distribute less than
the entire amount of income earned in a particular period. The
undistributed income would be available to supplement future distributions. As a result, the
distributions paid by us for any particular period may be more or less than the amount of income
actually earned by us during that period.
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Undistributed income will add to our net asset value,
and, correspondingly, distributions from undistributed income will deduct from our net asset value.
See Risk Factors Performance and Distribution Risk.
We intend to elect to be treated as, and to qualify each year for the special tax treatment
afforded, a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. Our policy is to distribute to stockholders
substantially all of our net investment company taxable income and any net realized long-term
capital gains for each fiscal year in a manner that complies with the distribution requirements of
the Code, so that we will not be subject to any federal income or excise taxes based on net income.
See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for discussion regarding federal income tax
requirements as a RIC.
For tax purposes, distributions of investment company taxable income are generally taxable to
stockholders as ordinary income. However, it is expected that part (but not all) of the
distributions to our common stockholders of the Fund may be eligible for the qualified dividend
income treatment for individual stockholders and the dividends-received deduction for corporate
stockholders, assuming the stockholder meets certain holding period requirements with respect to
its Fund shares. Any distributions to you in excess of the Funds investment company taxable
income and net capital gains will be treated by you, first, as a tax-deferred return of capital,
which is applied against and will reduce the adjusted tax basis of your shares and, after such
adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, will generally constitute capital gains. Any long-term
capital gain distributions are taxable to stockholders as long-term capital gains regardless of the
length of time shares have been held. Net capital gains distributions are not eligible for the
qualified dividend income treatment or the dividends-received deduction. See Certain U.S. Federal
Income Tax Considerations for discussion regarding the potential tax characterization of our
distributions to stockholders.
AUTOMATIC DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN
General
Our Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the Plan) will allow participating common
stockholders to reinvest distributions in additional shares of our common stock. Shares of common
stock will be issued by us under the Plan when our common stock is trading at a premium to NAV. If
our common stock is trading at a discount to NAV, shares issued under the Plan will be purchased on
the open market. Shares of common stock issued directly from us under the Plan will be acquired at
the greater of (1) NAV at the close of business on the payment date of the distribution, or (2) 95%
of the market price per common share on the payment date. Common stock issued under the Plan when
shares are trading at a discount to NAV will be purchased in the market at market price or a
negotiated price determined by the Plan Agent, Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (the Plan
Agent).
Automatic Dividend Reinvestment
If a stockholders shares are registered directly with us or with a brokerage firm that
participates in our Plan through the facilities of The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation
(DTC) and such stockholders account is coded dividend reinvestment by such brokerage firm, all
distributions are automatically reinvested for stockholders by the Plan Agent, in additional shares
of our common stock (unless a stockholder is ineligible or elects otherwise). If a stockholders
shares are registered with a brokerage firm that participates in the Plan through the facilities of
DTC, but such stockholders account is not coded dividend reinvestment by such brokerage firm or if
a stockholders shares are registered with a brokerage firm that does not participate in the Plan
through the facilities of DTC, a stockholder will need to ask its investment executive what
arrangements can be made to set up their account to participate in the Plan. In either case, until
such arrangements are made, a stockholder will receive distributions in cash.
Stockholders who elect not to participate in the Plan will receive all distributions payable
in cash paid by check mailed directly to the stockholder of record (or, if the shares are held in
street or other nominee name, then to such nominee) by the Plan Agent, as dividend paying agent.
Participation in the Plan is completely voluntary and may be terminated or resumed at any time
without penalty by giving written, telephone or internet instructions to the
Plan Agent; such termination will be effective with respect to a particular distribution if
notice is received prior to the record date for such distribution.
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Whenever we declare a distribution payable either in shares or in cash, non-participants in
the Plan will receive cash, and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in shares of
common stock. The shares are acquired by the Plan Agent for the participants account, depending
upon the circumstances described below, either (i) through receipt of additional shares of common
stock from us (Additional Common Stock) or (ii) by purchase of outstanding common stock on the
open market (open-market purchases) on the NYSE or elsewhere. If, on the payment date, the NAV
per share of our common stock is equal to or less than the market price per share of our common
stock plus estimated brokerage commissions (such condition being referred to herein as market
premium), the Plan Agent will receive Additional Common Stock from us for each participants
account. The number of shares of Additional Common Stock to be credited to the participants
account will be determined by dividing the dollar amount of the dividend or distribution by the
greater of (i) the NAV per share of common stock on the payment date, or (ii) 95% of the market
price per share of common stock on the payment date.
If, on the payment date, the NAV per share of common stock exceeds the market price plus
estimated brokerage commissions (such condition being referred to herein as market discount), the
Plan Agent will invest the distribution amount in shares acquired in open-market purchases as soon
as practicable but not later than 30 days following the payment date. We expect to declare and pay
quarterly distributions. The weighted average price (including brokerage commissions) of all common
stock purchased by the Plan Agent as Plan Agent will be the price per share of common stock
allocable to each participant.
The Plan Agent maintains all stockholders accounts in the Plan and furnishes written
confirmation of each acquisition made for the participants account as soon as practicable, but in
no event later than 60 days after the date thereof. Shares in the account of each Plan participant
will be held by the Plan Agent in non-certificated form in the Plan Agents name or that of its
nominee, and each stockholders proxy will include those shares purchased or received pursuant to
the Plan. The Plan Agent will forward all proxy solicitation materials to participants and vote
proxies for shares held pursuant to the Plan first in accordance with the instructions of the
participants, and then with respect to any proxies not returned by such participant, in the same
proportion as the Plan Agent votes the proxies returned by the participants.
There will be no brokerage charges with respect to shares issued directly by us as a result of
distributions payable either in shares or in cash. However, each participant will pay a per share
fee (currently $0.05) with respect to the Plan Agents open-market purchases in connection with the
reinvestment of distributions. If a participant elects to have the Plan Agent sell part or all of
his or her shares of common stock and remit the proceeds, such participant will be charged his or
her pro rata share of brokerage commissions on the shares sold plus a $15.00 transaction fee.
The automatic reinvestment of distributions will not relieve participants of any federal,
state or local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such distributions.
See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations.
Stockholders participating in the Plan may receive benefits not available to stockholders not
participating in the Plan. If the market price plus commissions of our shares of common stock is
higher than the NAV, participants in the Plan will receive shares of our common stock at less than
they could otherwise purchase such shares and will have shares with a cash value greater than the
value of any cash distribution they would have received on their shares. If the market price plus
commissions is below the NAV, participants will receive distributions of shares of common stock
with a NAV greater than the value of any cash distribution they would have received on their
shares. However, there may be insufficient shares available in the market to make distributions in
shares at prices below the NAV. In addition, because we do not redeem our shares, the price on
resale may be more or less than the NAV. See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for a
discussion of tax consequences of the Plan.
Experience under the Plan may indicate that changes are desirable. Accordingly, we reserve the
right to amend or terminate the Plan if in the judgment of the Board of Directors such a change is
warranted. The Plan may be terminated by the Plan Agent or by us upon notice in writing mailed to
each participant at least 60 days prior to the effective date of the termination. Upon any
termination, the Plan Agent will cause a certificate or certificates to
be issued for the full shares held by each participant under the Plan and cash adjustment for
any fraction of a share of common stock at the then-current market value of the common stock to be
delivered to him or her. If preferred, a participant may request the sale of all of the shares of
common stock held by the Plan Agent in his or her Plan
38
account in order to terminate participation
in the Plan. If such participant elects in advance of such termination to have the Plan Agent sell
part or all of his or her shares, the Plan Agent is authorized to deduct from the proceeds a $15.00
fee plus a $0.05 fee per share for the transaction. If a participant has terminated his or her
participation in the Plan but continues to have shares of common stock registered in his or her
name, he or she may re-enroll in the Plan at any time by notifying the Plan Agent in writing at the
address below. The terms and conditions of the Plan may be amended by the Plan Agent or by us at
any time. Any such amendments to the Plan may be made by mailing to each participant appropriate
written notice at least 30 days prior to the effective date of the amendment, except when necessary
or appropriate to comply with applicable law or the rules or policies of the SEC or any other
regulatory authority, such prior notice does not apply. The amendment shall be deemed to be
accepted by each participant unless, prior to the effective date thereof, the Plan Agent receives
notice of the termination of the participants account under the Plan. Any such amendment may
include an appointment by the Plan Agent of a successor Plan Agent, subject to the prior written
approval of the successor Plan Agent by us. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be
directed to Computershare Trust Company, N.A., P.O. Box 43078, Providence, Rhode Island 02940.
Cash Purchase Option
In the future, we may amend the Plan to implement a cash purchase option, whereby participants
in the Plan may elect to purchase additional shares of common stock through optional cash
investments in limited amounts on a monthly or other periodic basis. If and when we implement the
cash purchase option under the Plan, common stockholders will receive notice 60 days prior to its
implementation and further details, including information on the offering price and other terms,
the frequency of offerings and how to participate in the cash purchase option.
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES
The information contained under this heading is only a summary and is subject to the
provisions contained in our Charter and Bylaws and the laws of the State of Maryland.
Common Stock
General. Our Charter authorizes us to issue up to 100,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.001
par value per share. The Board of Directors may, without any action by the stockholders, amend our
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 we have authority to issue under our Charter
and the 1940 Act. In addition, our Charter authorizes our Board of Directors, without any action by
our stockholders, to classify and reclassify any unissued common stock and preferred stock into
other classes or series of stock from time to time by setting or changing the terms, preferences,
conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to distributions,
qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption for each class or series. Although we have no
present intention of doing so, we could issue a class or series of stock that could delay, defer or
prevent a transaction or a change in control of us that might otherwise be in the stockholders
best interests. Under Maryland law, stockholders generally are not liable for our debts or
obligations.
All common stock offered pursuant to this prospectus will be, upon issuance, duly authorized,
fully paid and nonassessable. All outstanding common stock offered pursuant to this prospectus will
be of the same class and will have identical rights, as described below. Holders of shares of
common stock are entitled to receive distributions when authorized by the Board of Directors and
declared by us out of assets legally available for the payment of distributions. Holders of common
stock have no preference, conversion, exchange, sinking fund, redemption or appraisal rights and
have no preemptive rights to subscribe for any of our securities. All shares of common stock have
equal distribution, liquidation and other rights.
Limitations on Distributions. If any shares of preferred stock are outstanding, holders of
shares of common stock will not be entitled to receive any distributions from us unless we have
paid all accumulated distributions on preferred stock, and unless asset coverage (as defined in the
1940 Act) with respect to preferred stock would be at least 200% after giving effect to such
distributions. See Leverage.
If any senior securities representing indebtedness are outstanding, holders of shares of
common stock will not be entitled to receive any distributions from us unless we have paid all
accrued interest on such senior
39
indebtedness and unless asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act)
with respect to any outstanding senior indebtedness would be at least 300% after giving effect to
such distributions. See Leverage.
Liquidation Rights. Common stockholders are entitled to share ratably in the assets legally
available for distribution to stockholders in the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up,
after payment of or adequate provision for all known debts and liabilities, including any
outstanding debt securities or other borrowings and any interest accrued thereon. These rights are
subject to the preferential rights of any other class or series of our stock, including any
preferred stock. The rights of common stockholders upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up
would be subordinated to the rights of holders of any preferred stock or senior securities
representing indebtedness.
Voting Rights. Each outstanding share of common stock entitles the holder to one vote on all
matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election of directors. The presence of
the holders of shares of stock entitled to cast a majority of the votes entitled to be cast
(without regard to class) shall constitute a quorum at a meeting of stockholders. Our Charter
provides that, except as otherwise provided in the Bylaws, directors shall be elected by the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of stock outstanding and entitled to
vote thereon. The Bylaws provide that directors are elected by a plurality of all the votes cast at
a meeting of stockholders duly called and at which a quorum is present. There is no cumulative
voting in the election of directors. Consequently, at each annual meeting of stockholders, the
holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote will be able to elect all
of the successors of the class of directors whose terms expire at that meeting. Pursuant to the
1940 Act, holders of preferred stock will have the right to elect two directors at all times.
Pursuant to our Charter and Bylaws, the Board of Directors may amend the Bylaws to alter the vote
required to elect directors.
Under the rules of the NYSE applicable to listed companies, we normally will be required to
hold an annual meeting of stockholders in each fiscal year. If we are converted to an open-end
company or if for any other reason the shares are no longer listed on the NYSE (or any other
national securities exchange the rules of which require annual meetings of stockholders), we may
amend our Bylaws so that we are not otherwise required to hold annual meetings of stockholders.
Market. Our common stock is expected to trade on the NYSE under the ticker symbol TTP.
Transfer Agent, Dividend Paying Agent and Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan Agent.
Computershare Trust Company, N.A., P.O. Box 43078, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, will serve as
the transfer agent and agent for the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan for our common stock and
the dividend paying agent for our common stock.
Preferred Stock
General. Our Charter authorizes the issuance of up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock,
$0.001 par value per share, with preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers,
restrictions, limitations as to distributions, qualifications and terms and conditions of
redemption as determined by the Board of Directors.
Our Board of Directors may, without any action by our stockholders, amend our 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 we have authority to issue under our Charter and under
the 1940 Act. In addition, our Charter authorizes the Board of Directors, without any action by the
stockholders, to classify and reclassify any unissued preferred stock into other classes or series
of stock from time to time by setting or changing the terms, preferences, conversion or other
rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to distributions, qualifications and terms and
conditions of redemption for each class or series.
Distributions. Holders of any preferred stock will be entitled to receive cash distributions,
when, as and if authorized by the Board of Directors and declared by us, out of funds legally
available therefor. The prospectus for any preferred stock will describe the distribution payment
provisions for those shares. Distributions so declared and payable shall be paid to the extent
permitted under Maryland law and to the extent available and in preference to and
priority over any distribution declared and payable on the common stock. Because we may invest
up to 25% of our Total Assets in MLPs, which are expected to generate cash in excess of the taxable
income allocated to holders, it is
40
possible that distributions payable on preferred stock could
exceed our current and accumulated earnings and profits, which would be treated for federal income
tax purposes as a tax-deferred return of capital to the extent of the basis of the shares on which
the distribution is paid and thereafter as gain from the sale or exchange of the preferred stock.
Limitations on Distributions. If we have senior securities representing indebtedness
outstanding, holders of preferred stock will not be entitled to receive any distributions from us
unless asset coverage (as defined in the 1940 Act) with respect to outstanding debt securities and
preferred stock would be at least 200% after giving effect to such distributions. See Leverage.
Liquidation Rights. In the event of any voluntary or our involuntary liquidation, dissolution
or winding up, the holders of preferred stock would be entitled to receive a preferential
liquidating distribution, which is expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus
accumulated and unpaid distributions, whether or not declared, before any distribution of assets is
made to holders of common stock. After payment of the full amount of the liquidating distribution
to which they are entitled, the holders of preferred stock will not be entitled to any further
participation in any distribution of our assets. Preferred stock ranks junior to our debt
securities upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up.
Voting Rights. Except as otherwise indicated in our Charter or Bylaws, or as otherwise
required by applicable law, holders of any preferred stock will have one vote per share and vote
together with holders of common stock as a single class.
The 1940 Act requires that 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 will be
elected by holders of common stock and preferred stock, voting together as a single class. In
addition, subject to the prior rights, if any, of the holders of any other class of senior
securities outstanding, the holders of any shares of preferred stock have the right to elect a
majority of the directors at any time two years accumulated distributions on any preferred stock
are unpaid. The 1940 Act also requires that, in addition to any approval by stockholders that might
otherwise be required, the approval of the holders of a majority of shares of any outstanding
preferred stock, voting separately as a class, would be required to (i) adopt any plan of
reorganization that would adversely affect the preferred stock, and (ii) take any action requiring
a vote of security holders under Section 13(a) of the 1940 Act, including, among other things,
changes in our subclassification as a closed-end investment company or changes in our fundamental
investment restrictions. See Certain Provisions in Our Charter and Bylaws. As a result of these
voting rights, our ability to take any such actions may be impeded to the extent that any shares of
our preferred stock are outstanding.
The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of any outstanding preferred stock, voting
as a separate class, will be required to amend, alter or repeal any of the preferences, rights or
powers of holders of preferred stock so as to affect materially and adversely such preferences,
rights or powers. The class vote of holders of preferred stock described above will in each case be
in addition to any other vote required to authorize the action in question.
CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN OUR CHARTER AND BYLAWS
The following description of certain provisions of our Charter and Bylaws is only a summary.
For a complete description, please refer to our Charter and Bylaws, which have been filed as
exhibits to our registration statement on Form N-2, of which this prospectus forms a part.
Our Charter and Bylaws include provisions that could delay, defer or prevent other entities or
persons from acquiring control of us, causing us to engage in certain transactions or modifying our
structure. Furthermore, these provisions can have the effect of depriving stockholders of the
opportunity to sell their shares at a premium over prevailing market prices by discouraging third
parties from seeking to obtain control of us. These provisions, all of which are summarized below,
may be regarded as anti-takeover provisions.
Classification of the Board of Directors; Election of Directors
Our Charter provides that the number of directors may be established only by the Board of
Directors pursuant to the Bylaws, but may not be less than one. The Bylaws provide that the number
of directors may not be
41
greater than nine. Subject to any applicable limitations of the 1940 Act,
any vacancy may be filled, at any regular meeting or at any special meeting called for that
purpose, only by a majority of the remaining directors, even if those remaining directors do not
constitute a quorum. Pursuant to our Charter, the Board of Directors is divided into three classes:
Class I, Class II and Class III. Upon the expiration of their current terms, which expire in 2012,
2013 and 2014, respectively, directors of each class will be elected to serve for three-year terms
and until their successors are duly elected and qualify. Each year only one class of directors will
be elected by the stockholders. The classification of the Board of Directors should help to assure
the continuity and stability of our strategies and policies as determined by the Board of
Directors.
The classified Board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent
directors more time-consuming and difficult. At least two annual meetings of stockholders, instead
of one, will generally be required to effect a change in a majority of the Board of Directors.
Thus, the classified Board provision could increase the likelihood that incumbent directors will
retain their positions. The staggered terms of directors may delay, defer or prevent a change in
control of the Board of Directors, even though a change in control might be in the best interests
of the stockholders.
Removal of Directors
Our Charter provides that, subject to the rights of holders of one or more classes of
preferred stock, a director may be removed only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of at
least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast in the election of directors. This provision,
when coupled with the provision in the Bylaws authorizing only the Board of Directors to fill
vacant directorships, precludes stockholders from removing incumbent directors, except for cause
and by a substantial affirmative vote, and filling the vacancies created by the removal with
nominees of stockholders.
Approval of Extraordinary Corporate Action; Amendment of Charter and Bylaws
Under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation generally cannot dissolve, amend its charter,
merge, sell all or substantially all of its assets, engage in a share exchange or engage in similar
transactions outside the ordinary course of business, unless declared advisable by the Board of
Directors and approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast at least two-thirds
of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. However, a Maryland corporation may provide in its
charter for stockholder approval of these matters by a lesser percentage, but not less than a
majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Subject to certain exceptions
described below, our Charter provides for approval of Charter amendments by the stockholders
entitled to cast at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Our charter
provides that (1) our liquidation or dissolution, or any merger, consolidation, share exchange or
sale or exchange of all or substantially all of our assets that requires the approval of our
stockholders under the Maryland General Corporation Law, (2) certain transactions between us and
any person or group of persons acting together and any person controlling, controlled by or under
common control with any such person or member of such group, that may exercise or direct the
exercise of 10% or more of our voting power in the election of directors, (3) any amendment to our
charter that would convert us from a closed-end investment company to an open-end investment
company or otherwise make our common stock a redeemable security and (4) any amendment to certain
provisions of our charter, including the provisions relating to the number, qualifications,
classification, election and removal of directors, requires the approval of the stockholders
entitled to cast at least 80% of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter. If such a proposal
is approved by at least two-thirds of our Continuing Directors (defined below), in addition to
approval by the full Board, such proposal may be approved by the stockholders entitled to cast a
majority of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter or, in the case of transactions with a
group described above, by the vote, if any, of the stockholders required by applicable law. The
Continuing Directors are defined in our Charter as (i) our current directors, (ii) those
directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders or whose election by the directors to
fill vacancies is approved by a majority of Continuing Directors then on the Board and (iii) any
successor directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders or whose election by the
directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the Continuing Directors then in office.
This provision could make it more difficult for certain extraordinary transactions to be approved
if they are opposed by the Continuing Directors, and discourage proxy contests for control of the
Board by persons wishing to cause such transactions to take place.
42
Our Charter and Bylaws provide that the Board of Directors has the exclusive power to make,
alter, amend or repeal any provision of our Bylaws.
Advance Notice of Director Nominations and New Business
The Bylaws provide that, with respect to an annual meeting of stockholders, nominations of
persons for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of business to be considered by
stockholders may be made only (1) pursuant to notice of the meeting, (2) by or at the direction of
the Board of Directors, or (3) by a stockholder who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has
complied with the advance notice procedures of the Bylaws. With respect to special meetings of
stockholders, only the business specified in the Companys notice of the meeting may be brought
before the meeting. Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors at a special
meeting may be made only (1) pursuant to our notice of the meeting, (2) by or at the direction of
the Board of Directors, or (3) provided that the Board of Directors has determined that directors
will be elected at the meeting, by a stockholder who is entitled to vote at the meeting and who has
complied with the advance notice provisions of the Bylaws.
Stockholder-Requested Special Meetings
Our Bylaws provide that special meetings of stockholders may be called by the Board of
Directors and certain of our officers. In addition, our Charter and Bylaws provide that, subject to
the satisfaction of certain procedural and informational requirements by the stockholders
requesting the meeting, a special meeting of stockholders will be called by the secretary of the
Company upon the written request of stockholders entitled to cast not less than a majority of all
the votes entitled to be cast at such meeting.
Action by Stockholders
Under Maryland law, stockholder action can be taken only at an annual or special meeting of
stockholders or, unless the charter provides for stockholder action by less than unanimous written
consent (which is not the case for our Charter), by unanimous written consent in lieu of a meeting.
CLOSED END COMPANY STRUCTURE
We are a non-diversified closed-end investment company and as such our stockholders will not
have the right to cause us to redeem their shares. Instead, our common stock trades in the open
market at a price that will be a function of several factors, including distribution levels (which
are in turn affected by expenses), NAV, distribution stability, portfolio credit quality, relative
demand for and supply of such shares in the market, general market and economic conditions and
other factors.
Shares of closed-end management investment companies frequently trade at a discount to their
NAV. This characteristic of shares of closed-end management investment companies is a risk separate
and distinct from the risk that our NAV may decrease as a result of investment activities. To the
extent our common shares do trade at a discount, the Board of Directors may from time to time
engage in open-market repurchases or tender offers for shares after balancing the benefit to
stockholders of the increase in the NAV per share resulting from such purchases against the
decrease in our assets, the potential increase in the ratio of our expenses to our assets and the
decrease in asset coverage with respect to any outstanding preferred stock. Any such purchase or
tender offers may result in the temporary narrowing of any discount but will not necessarily have
any long-term effect on the level of any discount. There is no guarantee or assurance that the
Board of Directors will decide to engage in any of these actions. Nor is there any guarantee or
assurance that such actions, if undertaken, would result in the shares trading at a price equal or
close to NAV per share. Any share repurchase or tender offers will be made in accordance with
requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act), the 1940 Act and the
principal stock exchange on which the common shares are traded.
Conversion to an open-end mutual fund is extremely unlikely in light of our investment
objective and policies and would require approval of our Board of Directors and stockholder
approval to amend our Charter. If we converted to an open-end mutual fund, we would be required to
redeem all senior notes and preferred shares then
43
outstanding (requiring us, in turn, to liquidate a significant portion of our investment
portfolio), and our common stock would no longer be listed on the NYSE or any other exchange. In
contrast to a closed-end investment company, shareholders of an open-end investment company require
a fund to redeem its shares of common stock at any time (except in certain circumstances as
authorized by the 1940 Act or the rules thereunder) at their NAV, without the discount commonly
associated with closed-end investment companies. Open-end investment companies engage in a
continuous offering of their shares and may maintain large cash positions or be required to
liquidate favorable investments to meet redemptions. Open-end investment companies are thus subject
to periodic asset in-flows and out-flows that can complicate portfolio management. In addition,
certain of our investment policies and restrictions may be incompatible with the requirements
applicable to an open-end investment company. Accordingly, conversion to an open-end investment
company may require material changes to our investment policies.
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations
affecting the Fund and its stockholders. The discussion reflects applicable U.S. federal income tax
laws of the U.S. as of the date of this prospectus, which tax laws may be changed or subject to new
interpretations by the courts or the Internal Revenue Service (the IRS), possibly with
retroactive effect. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of all U.S. federal
income, estate or gift, or state, local or foreign tax concerns affecting the Fund and its
stockholders (including stockholders owning large positions in the Fund). The discussion set forth
herein does not constitute tax advice. Investors are urged to consult their own tax advisers to
determine the tax consequences to them of investing in the Fund.
In addition, no attempt is made to address tax concerns applicable to an investor with a
special tax status, such as a financial institution, real estate investment trust, insurance
company, RIC, individual retirement account, other tax-exempt entity, dealer in securities or
non-U.S. investor. Furthermore, this discussion does not reflect possible application of the
alternative minimum tax. Unless otherwise noted, this discussion assumes the Funds stock is held
by U.S. persons and that such shares are held as capital assets.
A U.S. holder is a beneficial owner that is for U.S. federal income tax purposes:
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a citizen or individual resident of the United States (including certain former
citizens and former long-term residents); |
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a corporation or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state
thereof or the District of Columbia; |
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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 with respect to which a court within the United States is able to exercise
primary supervision over its administration and one or more U.S. stockholders have the
authority to control all of its substantial decisions or the trust has made a valid
election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S.
person. |
A Non-U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of shares of the Fund that is an individual,
corporation, trust, or estate and is not a U.S. holder. If a partnership (including any entity
treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds shares of the Fund, the tax
treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and
the activities of the partnership.
Taxation as a RIC
The Fund intends to elect to be treated as, and to qualify each year for the special tax
treatment afforded, a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. As long as the Fund meets certain
requirements that govern the Funds source
of income, diversification of assets and distribution of earnings to stockholders, the Fund
will not be subject to U.S.
44
federal income tax on income distributed (or treated as distributed, as
described below) to its stockholders. With respect to the source of income requirement, the Fund
must derive in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income (including tax-exempt interest)
from (i) dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities loans, and gains from the
sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including
but not limited to gains from options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to its
business of investing in such shares, securities or currencies and (ii) net income derived from
interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships. A qualified publicly traded partnership is
generally defined as a publicly traded partnership under Section 7704 of the Code, but does not
include a publicly traded partnership if 90% or more of its income is described in (i) above. For
purposes of the income test, the Fund will be treated as receiving directly its share of the income
of any partnership that is not a qualified publicly traded partnership.
With respect to the diversification of assets requirement, the Fund must diversify its
holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of each taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the value of
the Funds Total Assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities, the
securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited for purposes of
such calculation, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of
the Funds Total Assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer
and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of the Funds Total Assets is invested in the securities of
any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities or the securities of other RICs), the
securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of any two or more issuers that the Fund
controls and that are determined to be engaged in the same, similar or related trades or
businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships.
If the Fund qualifies as a RIC and distributes to its stockholders at least 90% of the sum of
(i) its investment company taxable income, as that term is defined in the Code (which includes,
among other items, dividends, taxable interest, and the excess of any net short-term capital gains
over net long-term capital losses, as reduced by certain deductible expenses) without regard to the
deduction for dividends paid and (ii) the excess of its gross tax-exempt interest, if any, over
certain deductions attributable to such interest that are otherwise disallowed, the Fund will be
relieved of U.S. federal income tax on any income of the Fund, including long-term capital gains,
distributed to stockholders. However, if the Fund retains any investment company taxable income or
net capital gain (i.e., the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital
loss), it will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate federal income tax rates
(currently at a maximum rate of 35%) on the amount retained. The Fund intends to distribute at
least annually substantially all of its investment company taxable income, net tax-exempt interest,
and net capital gain. Under the Code, the Fund will generally be subject to a nondeductible 4%
federal excise tax on the undistributed portion of its ordinary income and capital gains if it
fails to meet certain distribution requirements with respect to each calendar year. In order to
avoid the 4% federal excise tax, the required minimum distribution is generally equal to the sum of
(1) 98% of the Funds ordinary income (computed on a calendar year basis), (2) 98.2% of the Funds
capital gain net income (generally computed for the one-year period ending on October 31), and (3)
certain amounts from previous years to the extent such amounts have not been treated as distributed
or been subject to tax under Subchapter M of the Code. The Fund generally intends to make
distributions in a timely manner in an amount at least equal to the required minimum distribution
and therefore, under normal market conditions, does not currently expect to be subject to this
excise tax.
The Fund intends to invest a portion of its assets in MLPs. Net income derived from an
interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership, which generally includes MLPs, is included in
the sources of income from which a RIC must derive 90% of its gross income. However, not more than
25% of the value of a RICs Total Assets can be invested in the securities of qualified publicly
traded partnerships. The Fund intends to invest only in MLPs that will constitute qualified
publicly traded partnerships for purposes of the RIC rules, and not more than 25% of the value of
the Funds Total Assets will be invested in the securities of publicly traded partnerships.
Federal Income Taxation of MLPs
MLPs are similar to corporations in many respects, but differ in others, especially in the way
they are taxed for federal income tax purposes. A corporation is a distinct legal entity, separate
from its stockholders and employees and is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax
purposes as well. Like individual taxpayers, a corporation must pay a federal income tax on its
income. To the extent the corporation distributes its income to its
stockholders in the form of dividends, the stockholders must pay federal income tax on the
dividends they receive. For this reason, it is said that corporate income is double-taxed, or taxed
at two levels.
45
An MLP that satisfies the Qualifying Income rules described below, and does not elect
otherwise, is treated for federal income tax purposes as a pass-through entity. No federal income
tax is paid at the partnership level. A partnerships income is considered earned by all the
partners; it is allocated among all the partners in proportion to their interests in the
partnership (generally as provided in the partnership agreement), and each partner pays tax on his,
her or its share of the partnerships income. All the other items that go into determining taxable
income and tax owed are passed through to the partners as well capital gains and losses,
deductions, credits, etc. Partnership income is thus said to be single-taxed or taxed only at one
level that of the partner.
The Code generally requires publicly traded partnerships to be treated as corporations for
federal income tax purposes. However, if the publicly traded partnership satisfies certain
requirements and does not elect otherwise, the publicly traded partnership will be taxed as a
partnership for federal income tax purposes, referred to herein as an MLP. Under these
requirements, an MLP must derive each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income from Qualifying
Income.
Qualifying Income for MLPs includes interest, dividends, real estate rents, gain from the sale
or disposition of real property, certain income and gain from commodities or commodity futures, and
income and gain from certain mineral or natural resources activities. Mineral or natural resources
activities that generate Qualifying Income include income and gains from the exploration,
development, mining or production, processing, refining, transportation (including pipelines
transporting gas, oil or products thereof), or the marketing of any mineral or natural resource
(including fertilizer, geothermal energy, and timber). Most MLPs today are in energy, timber, or
real estate related businesses.
Because the MLP itself does not pay federal income tax, its income or loss is allocated to its
investors, irrespective of whether the investors receive any cash payment from the MLP. MLPs
generally make quarterly cash distributions. Although they resemble corporate dividends, MLP
distributions are treated differently. The MLP distribution is treated as a return of capital to
the extent of the investors basis in his MLP interest and, to the extent the distribution exceeds
the investors basis in the MLP interest, capital gain. The investors original basis is the price
paid for the units. The basis is adjusted downward with each distribution and allocation of
deductions (such as depreciation) and losses, and upwards with each allocation of income.
When the units are sold, the difference between the sales price and the investors adjusted
basis is the gain or loss for federal income tax purposes. The partner generally will not be taxed
on distributions until (1) he sells his MLP units and pays tax on his gain, which gain is increased
resulting from the basis decrease resulting from prior distributions; or (2) his basis reaches
zero.
Failure to Qualify as a RIC
If the Fund is unable to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement or otherwise fails to
qualify as a RIC in any year, it will be taxed in the same manner as an ordinary corporation and
distributions to the Funds stockholders will not be deductible by the Fund in computing its
taxable income. In such event, the Funds distributions, to the extent derived from the Funds
current or accumulated earnings and profits, would constitute dividends, which would generally be
eligible for the dividends received deduction available to corporate stockholders, and
non-corporate stockholders would generally be able to treat such distributions as qualified
dividend income eligible for reduced rates of U.S. federal income taxation in taxable years
beginning on or before December 31, 2012, provided in each case that certain holding period and
other requirements are satisfied. Distributions in excess of the Funds current and accumulated
earnings and profits would be treated first as a return of capital to the extent of the
stockholders tax basis in their Fund shares, and any remaining distributions would be treated as a
capital gain. Earnings and profits are generally treated, for federal income tax purposes, as
first being used to pay distributions on preferred stock, and then to the extent remaining, if any,
to pay distributions on the common stock. To qualify as a RIC in a subsequent taxable year, the
Fund would be required to satisfy the source-of-income, the asset diversification, and the annual
distribution requirements for that year and dispose of any earnings and profits from any year in
which the Fund failed to qualify for tax treatment as a RIC. Subject to a limited exception
applicable to RICs that qualified as such under the Code for at least one year prior to
disqualification and that requalify as a RIC
no later than the second year following the nonqualifying year, the Fund would be subject to
tax on any unrealized built-in gains in the assets held by it during the period in which the Fund
failed to qualify for tax treatment as a RIC
46
that are recognized within the subsequent 10 years,
unless the Fund made a special election to pay corporate-level tax on such built-in gain at the
time of its requalification as a RIC.
Taxation for U.S. Stockholders
Assuming the Fund qualifies as a RIC, distributions paid to you by the Fund from its
investment company taxable income will generally be taxable to you as ordinary income to the extent
of the Funds earnings and profits, whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. A
portion of such distributions (if designated by the Fund) may qualify (i) in the case of corporate
stockholders, for the dividends received deduction under Section 243 of the Code to the extent that
the Funds income consists of dividend income from U.S. corporations, excluding distributions from
certain entities, including REITs, or (ii) in the case of individual stockholders for taxable years
beginning on or prior to December 31, 2012, as qualified dividend income eligible to be taxed at
reduced rates under Section 1(h)(11) of the Code (which generally provides for a maximum rate of
15%) to the extent that the Fund receives qualified dividend income, and provided in each case that
certain holding period and other requirements are met. Qualified dividend income is, in general,
dividend income from taxable domestic corporations and qualified foreign corporations (e.g.,
generally, if the issuer is incorporated in a possession of the United States or in a country with
a qualified comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States, or if the stock with respect to
which such dividend is paid is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United
States). To be treated as qualified dividend income, the stockholder must hold the shares paying
otherwise qualifying dividend income more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days
before the ex-dividend date. A stockholders holding period may be reduced for purposes of this
rule if the stockholder engages in certain risk reduction transactions with respect to the stock. A
qualified foreign corporation generally excludes any foreign corporation that, for the taxable year
of the corporation in which the dividend was paid or the preceding taxable year, is a passive
foreign investment company. Distributions made to you from an excess of net long-term capital gain
over net short-term capital losses (capital gain dividends), including capital gain dividends
credited to you but retained by the Fund, will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain if they
have been properly designated by the Fund, regardless of the length of time you have owned our
shares. The maximum tax rate on capital gain dividends received by individuals is generally 15% for
such gain realized before January 1, 2013.
Distributions in excess of the Funds earnings and profits will be treated by you, first, as a
tax-free return of capital, which is applied against and will reduce the adjusted tax basis of your
shares and, after such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, will generally constitute capital
gain to you. Under current law, the maximum 15% tax rate on long-term capital gains and qualified
dividend income will cease to apply for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012; beginning
in 2013, the maximum rate on long-term capital gains is scheduled to increase to 20%, and all
ordinary dividends (including amounts treated as qualified dividends under the law currently in
effect) will be taxed as ordinary income. Generally, not later than 60 days after the close of its
taxable year, the Fund will provide you with a written notice designating the amount of any
qualified dividend income or capital gain dividends and other distributions.
As a RIC, the Fund will be subject to the AMT, but any items that are treated differently for
AMT purposes must be apportioned between the Fund and the stockholders and this may affect the
stockholders AMT liabilities. The Fund intends in general to apportion these items in the same
proportion that dividends paid to each shareholder bear to the Funds taxable income (determined
without regard to the dividends paid deduction).
Sales and other dispositions of the Funds shares generally are taxable events. You should
consult your own tax adviser with reference to your individual circumstances to determine whether
any particular transaction in the Funds shares is properly treated as a sale or exchange for
federal income tax purposes and the tax treatment of any gains or losses recognized in such
transactions. The sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund will generally result in capital
gain or loss to you equal to the difference between the amount realized and your adjusted tax basis
in the shares sold or exchanged, and will be long-term capital gain or loss if your holding period
for the shares is more than one year at the time of sale. Any loss upon the sale or exchange of
shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of any
capital gain dividends you received (including amounts credited as an undistributed capital gain
dividend) with respect to such shares. A loss you realize on a sale or exchange of shares of the
Fund generally will be disallowed if you acquire other substantially identical shares within
a 61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date that you dispose of
the shares. In such case, the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the
disallowed loss. Present law taxes both long-
47
term and short-term capital gain of corporations at
the rates applicable to ordinary income of corporations. For non-corporate taxpayers, short-term
capital gain will currently be taxed at the rate applicable to ordinary income, currently a maximum
rate of 35%, while long-term capital gain realized before January 1, 2013 generally will be taxed
at a maximum rate of 15%. Capital losses are subject to certain limitations.
For purpose of determining (i) whether the annual distribution requirement is satisfied for
any year and (ii) the amount of capital gain dividends paid for that year, the Fund may, under
certain circumstances, elect to treat a distribution that is paid during the following taxable year
as if it had been paid during the taxable year in question. If the Fund makes such an election,
the U.S. shareholder will still be treated as receiving the distribution in the taxable year in
which the distribution is made. However, if the Fund pays you a distribution in January that was
declared in the previous October, November or December to stockholders of record on a specified
date in one of such months, then such distribution will be treated for tax purposes as being paid
by the Fund and received by you on December 31 of the year in which the distribution was declared.
A stockholder may elect not to have all distributions automatically reinvested in Fund shares
pursuant to the Plan. If a stockholder elects not to participate in the Plan, such stockholder will
receive distributions in cash. For taxpayers subject to U.S. federal income tax, all distributions
will generally be taxable, as discussed above, regardless of whether a stockholder takes them in
cash or they are reinvested pursuant to the Plan in additional shares of the Fund.
If a stockholders distributions are automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan, for U.S.
federal income tax purposes, the stockholder will generally be treated as having received a taxable
distribution in the amount of the cash dividend that the stockholder would have received if the
stockholder had elected to receive cash. Under certain circumstances, however, if a stockholders
distributions are automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan and the Plan Agent invests the
distribution in newly issued shares of the Fund, the stockholder may be treated as receiving a
taxable distribution equal to the fair market value of the stock the stockholder receives.
The Fund intends to distribute substantially all realized capital gains, if any, at least
annually. If, however, the Fund were to retain any net capital gain, the Fund may designate the
retained amount as undistributed capital gains in a notice to stockholders who, if subject to U.S.
federal income tax on long-term capital gains, (i) will be required to include in income as
long-term capital gain, their proportionate shares of such undistributed amount and (ii) will be
entitled to credit their proportionate shares of the federal income tax paid by the Fund on the
undistributed amount against their U.S. federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim
refunds to the extent the credit exceeds such liabilities. If such an event occurs, the tax basis
of shares owned by a stockholder of the Fund will, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, generally
be increased by the difference between the amount of undistributed net capital gain included in the
stockholders gross income and the tax deemed paid by the stockholders.
Call Options
The Funds covered call options generally will be treated as options governed by Code Section
1234. Pursuant to Code Section 1234, if a written option expires unexercised, the premium received
is short-term capital gain to the Fund. If the Fund enters into a closing transaction, the
difference between the amount paid to close out its position and the premium received for writing
the option is short-term capital gain or loss. If a call option written by the Fund is cash
settled, any resulting gain or loss will generally be short-term capital gain or loss.
The Code contains special rules that apply to straddles, defined generally as the holding of
offsetting positions with respect to personal property. For example, the straddle rules normally
apply when a taxpayer holds stock and an offsetting option with respect to such stock or
substantially identical stock or securities. In general, investment positions will be offsetting if
there is a substantial diminution in the risk of loss from holding one position by reason of
holding one or more other positions. If two or more positions constitute a straddle, recognition of
a realized loss from one position must generally be deferred to the extent of unrecognized gain in
an offsetting position. In addition, long-term capital gain may be recharacterized as short-term
capital gain, or short-term capital loss as long-term capital loss. Interest and other carrying
charges allocable to personal property that is part of a straddle are not currently deductible but
must instead be capitalized. Similarly, wash sale rules apply to prevent the recognition of loss
by the Fund from the disposition of stock or securities at a loss in a case in which identical or
substantially identical stock or securities (or an option to acquire such property) is or has
been acquired within a prescribed period.
48
To the extent that any of the Funds positions constitute tax straddles which do not qualify
as a qualified covered call under Section 1092(c)(4), the impact upon the Funds income taxes
will include: dividends received on the long common stock leg of the straddle may not be eligible
for distributions that qualify as qualified dividend income or for the corporate dividends
received deduction, the Fund will generally realize short-term gain or loss on the long common
stock leg of the straddle (to the extent losses are not otherwise deferred) and, realized losses on
either the long common stock or the written (short) option legs of the straddle may be deferred for
tax purposes to the extent that both legs of the straddle are not closed within the same tax year.
In general, a qualified covered call option is an option that is written (sold) with respect
to stock that is held or acquired by a taxpayer in connection with granting the option which meets
certain requirements, including: the option is exchange-traded or, if over-the-counter, meets
certain IRS requirements, is granted more than 30 days prior to expiration, is not
deep-in-the-money (within the meaning of Section 1092), is not granted by an options dealer
(within the meaning of Section 1256(g)(8)) in connection with the option dealers activity of
dealing in options, and gain or loss with respect to such option is not ordinary income or loss.
Provided the Funds covered calls meet the definition of qualified covered calls and are not part
of a larger straddle, the general tax straddle holding period termination rules will not apply. As
a result, dividend income received with respect to the long common stock leg of the straddle may be
eligible for qualified dividend income and corporate dividends received deduction treatment
(assuming all other relevant requirements are met). In addition, the general tax straddle rules
requiring loss deferral and the capitalization of certain interest expense and carrying charges
will not apply. Qualified covered call option positions are, however, subject to special rules in
the case of options which are in-the-money (but still not deep-in-the-money) or for positions
which are closed near year end (and not within the same year end).
The Fund may enter into transactions that would be treated as Section 1256 Contracts under
the Code. In general, the Fund would be required to treat any Section 1256 Contracts as if they
were sold for their fair market value at the end of the Funds taxable year, and would be required
to recognize gain or loss on such deemed sale for federal income tax purposes even though the Fund
did not actually sell the contract and receive cash. Forty percent of such gain or loss would be
treated as short-term capital gain or loss and sixty percent of such gain or loss would be treated
as long-term capital gain or loss.
The Code allows a taxpayer to elect to offset gains and losses from positions that are part of
a mixed straddle. A mixed straddle is any straddle in which one or more but not all positions
are section 1256 contracts. The Fund may be eligible to elect to establish one or more mixed
straddle accounts for certain of its mixed straddle trading positions. The mixed straddle account
rules require a daily marking to market of all open positions in the account and a daily netting
of gains and losses from all positions in the account. At the end of a taxable year, the annual net
gains or losses from the mixed straddle account are recognized for tax purposes. The net capital
gain or loss is treated as 60 percent long-term and 40 percent short-term capital gain or loss if
attributable to the section 1256 contract positions, or all short-term capital gain or loss if
attributable to the non-section 1256 contract positions.
The Funds transactions in options will be subject to special provisions of the Code that,
among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by the Fund (i.e., may
affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital, or short-term or long-term), may accelerate
recognition of income to the Fund and may defer Fund losses. These rules could, therefore, affect
the character, amount and timing of distributions to stockholders. These provisions also (a) will
require the Fund to mark-to- market certain types of the positions in its portfolio (i.e., treat
them as if they were closed out), and (b) may cause the Fund to recognize income without receiving
cash with which to make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the distribution requirement
for qualifying to be taxed as a RIC and the distribution requirement for avoiding excise taxes. The
Fund will monitor its transactions, will make the appropriate tax elections and will make the
appropriate entries in its books and records in order to mitigate the effect of these rules and
prevent disqualification of the Fund from being taxed as a RIC.
Withholding and Other
Further, certain of the Funds investment practices are subject to special and complex federal
income tax provisions that may, among other things, (i) convert distributions that would otherwise
constitute qualified dividend income into short-term capital gain or ordinary income taxed at the
higher rate applicable to ordinary income, (ii)
49
treat distributions that would otherwise be
eligible for the corporate dividends received deduction as ineligible for such treatment, (iii)
disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or deductions, (iv) convert
long-term capital gain into short-term capital gain or ordinary income, (v) convert an ordinary
loss or deduction into a capital loss (the deductibility of which is more limited), (vi) cause the
Fund to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of cash, (vii) adversely affect
the time as to when a purchase or sale of stock or securities is deemed to occur, (viii) adversely
alter the characterization of certain complex financial transactions, and (ix) produce income that
will not qualify as good income for purposes of the 90% annual gross income requirement described
above. While it may not always be successful in doing so, the Fund will seek to avoid or minimize
any adverse tax consequences of its investment practices.
The Fund may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries, including
taxes on interest, dividends and capital gains with respect to its investments in those countries,
which would, if imposed, reduce the yield on or return from those investments. Tax treaties between
certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes in some cases. The Fund
does not expect to satisfy the requirements for passing through to its stockholders their pro rata
shares of qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund, with the result that stockholders will not be
entitled to a tax deduction or credit for such taxes on their own US federal income tax returns,
although the Funds payment of such taxes will remain eligible for a foreign tax credit or a
deduction in computing the Funds taxable income.
The Fund is required in certain circumstances to backup withhold at a current rate of 28%
(which is scheduled to increase to 31% after 2012) on taxable distributions and certain other
payments paid to certain holders of the Funds shares who do not furnish the Fund with their
correct taxpayer identification number (in the case of individuals, their social security number)
and certain certifications, or who are otherwise subject to backup withholding. Backup withholding
is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld from payments made to you may be refunded or
credited against your U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, provided that the required
information is furnished to the IRS.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for Non-U.S. Stockholders
The following discussion is a general summary of the material U.S. federal income tax
considerations applicable to a Non-U.S. holder of our stock (a Non-U.S. Stockholder).
This summary does not purport to be a complete description of the income tax considerations
for a Non-U.S. Stockholder. For example, the following does not describe income tax consequences
that are assumed to be generally known by investors or certain considerations that may be relevant
to certain types of holders subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws. This
summary does not discuss any aspects of U.S. estate or gift tax or state or local tax. In addition,
this summary does not address (i) any Non-U.S. Stockholder that holds, at any time, more than 5
percent of the Funds stock, directly or under ownership attribution rules applicable for purposes
of Section 897 of the Code, or (ii) any Non-U.S. Stockholder whose ownership of shares of the Fund
is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States.
As indicated above, the Fund intends to elect to be treated, and to qualify each year, as a
RIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This summary is based on the assumption that the Fund
will qualify as a RIC in each of its taxable years. Distributions of the Funds investment company
taxable income to Non-U.S. Stockholders will, except as discussed below, be subject to withholding
of U.S. federal income tax at a 30% rate (or lower rate provided by an applicable income tax
treaty) to the extent of the Funds current and accumulated earnings and profits. In order to
obtain a reduced rate of withholding, a Non-U.S. Stockholder will be required to provide an
Internal Revenue Service Form W-8BEN certifying its entitlement to benefits under a treaty.
Distributions made out of qualified interest income or net short-term capital gain in any taxable
year of the Fund beginning before January 1, 2012 will generally not be subject to this withholding
tax. If, however, a Non-U.S. Stockholder who is an individual has been present in the United States
for 183 days or more during the taxable year and meets certain other conditions, any such
distribution of net short-term capital gain will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at a rate of
30% (or lower rate provided by an applicable income tax treaty).
Actual or deemed distributions of the Funds net capital gains to a Non-U.S. Stockholder, and
gains realized by a Non-U.S. Stockholder upon the sale of the Funds stock, will not be subject to
withholding of U.S.
50
federal income tax and generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax
unless the Non-U.S. Stockholder is an individual, has been present in the United States for 183
days or more during the taxable year, and certain other conditions are satisfied.
If the Fund distributes its net capital gains in the form of deemed rather than actual
distributions (which the Fund may do in the future), a Non-U.S. Stockholder may be entitled to a
federal income tax credit or tax refund equal to the stockholders allocable share of the tax the
Fund paid on the capital gains deemed to have been distributed. In order to obtain the refund, the
Non-U.S. Stockholder must obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number and file a federal income
tax return even if the Non-U.S. Stockholder would not otherwise be required to obtain a U.S.
taxpayer identification number or file a federal income tax return.
A Non-U.S. Stockholder who is a non-resident alien individual, and who is otherwise subject to
withholding of federal income tax, may be subject to information reporting and backup withholding
of federal income tax on dividends unless the Non-U.S. Stockholder provides us or the dividend
paying agent with an IRS Form W-8BEN (or an acceptable substitute form) or otherwise meets
documentary evidence requirements for establishing that it is a Non-U.S. Stockholder or otherwise
establishes an exemption from backup withholding. The amount of any backup withholding from a
payment to a Non-U.S. Stockholder will be allowed as a credit against such Non-U.S. Stockholders
United States federal income tax liability and may entitle such holder to a refund, provided that
the required information is furnished to the Internal Revenue Service.
Non-U.S. persons should consult their own tax advisers with respect to the U.S. federal income
tax and withholding tax, and state, local and foreign tax consequences of an investment in the
shares.
Medicare Tax
For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, recently enacted legislation will
generally impose a 3.8 percent tax on the net investment income of certain individuals with a
modified adjusted gross income of over $200,000 ($250,000 in the case of joint filers) and on the
undistributed net investment income of certain estates and trusts. For these purposes, net
investment income will generally include interest, dividends, annuities, royalties, rent, net gain
attributable to the disposition of property not held in a trade or business (including net gain
from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of shares of our stock) and certain other
income, but will be reduced by any deductions properly allocable to such income or net gain. Thus,
certain of our taxable distributions to stockholders may be subject to the additional tax.
Recently Enacted Legislation
Beginning with payments of dividends or interest made on or after January 1, 2014, and
payments of gross proceeds made after January 1, 2015, recently enacted legislation will generally
impose a 30% withholding tax on distributions paid with respect to our stock and the gross proceeds
from a disposition of our stock paid to (i) a foreign financial institution (as defined in Section
1471(d)(4) of the Code) unless the foreign financial institution enters into an agreement with the
U.S. Treasury Department to collect and disclose information regarding its U.S. account holders
(including certain account holders that are foreign entities that have U.S. owners) and satisfies
certain other requirements, and (ii) certain other non-U.S. entities unless the entity provides the
payor with certain information regarding direct and indirect U.S. owners of the entity, or
certifies that it has no such U.S. owners, and complies with certain other requirements. You are
encouraged to consult with your own tax adviser regarding the possible implications of this
recently enacted legislation on your investment in our stock.
The foregoing is a general and abbreviated summary of the provisions of the Code and the
treasury regulations in effect as they directly govern the taxation of the Fund and its
stockholders. These provisions are subject to change by legislative and administrative action, and
any such change may be retroactive. Stockholders are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding
specific questions as to U.S. federal, foreign, state, local income or other taxes.
51
UNDERWRITERS
Under the terms and subject to the conditions of an underwriting agreement dated as of the
date of this prospectus, the underwriters named below (the
Underwriters), for whom [ _____ ] and [ ______ ] are acting as representatives (the Representatives), have
severally agreed to purchase, and we have agreed to sell to them, severally, the number of shares
indicated below:
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Common Shares |
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The Underwriters are offering the shares of common stock subject to their acceptance of the
shares from us and subject to prior sale. The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations
of the Underwriters to pay for and accept delivery of the shares of common stock offered by this
prospectus are subject to the approval of certain legal matters by their counsel and to certain
other conditions. The Underwriters are obligated to take and pay for all of the shares of common
stock offered by this prospectus if any such shares are taken. However, the Underwriters are not
required to take or pay for the shares covered by the Underwriters over-allotment option described
below.
The Underwriters initially propose to offer part of the shares of common stock directly to the
public at the offering price listed on the cover page of this prospectus and part of the shares to
certain dealers at a price that represents a concession not in excess of $________ per share of
common stock under the initial offering price. After the initial offering of the shares of common
stock, the offering price and other selling terms may from time to time be varied by the
Representatives. The underwriting discounts and commissions (sales load) of $1.125 per common share
are equal to 4.5% of the initial offering price. Investors must pay for any common shares purchased
on or before , 2011.
We have granted to the Underwriters an option, exercisable for 45 days from the date of this
prospectus, to purchase up to an aggregate of shares
of common stock at the public
offering price listed on the cover page of this prospectus, less underwriting discounts and
commissions. The Underwriters may exercise this option solely for the purpose of covering
over-allotments, if any, made in connection with the offering of the shares of common stock offered
by this prospectus. To the extent the option is exercised, each Underwriter will become obligated,
subject to certain conditions, to purchase approximately the same percentage of the additional
shares of common stock as the number listed next to the Underwriters name in the preceding table
bears to the total number of shares of common stock listed next to the names of all Underwriters in
the preceding table. If the Underwriters over-allotment option is exercised in full, the total
price to the public would be $ the total Underwriters discount and commissions (sales load) would
be $ , and the total proceeds to us would be $ .
The following table summarizes the estimated expenses and compensation that we will pay
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Per Common Share |
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Total |
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Without Over- |
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With Over- |
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Without Over- |
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With Over- |
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allotment |
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allotment |
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allotment |
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allotment |
Public offering price |
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$ |
25.00 |
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$ |
25.00 |
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$ |
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$ |
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Sales load |
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$ |
1.125 |
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$ |
1.125 |
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$ |
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$ |
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Proceeds, before expenses, to the Fund |
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$ |
23.875 |
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$ |
23.875 |
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$ |
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$ |
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52
The fees described below under Additional Compensation to be Paid by Our Adviser are not
reimbursable to the Adviser by us, and are therefore not reflected in expenses payable by us in the
table above.
Offering expenses paid by us (excluding the sales load, but including a portion of the amount
payable to an affiliate of the Adviser for the marketing of our common stock) will not exceed $0.05
per share of common stock sold by us in this offering. If the offering expenses referred to in the
preceding sentence exceed this amount, the Adviser will pay the excess and will also pay all
organizational expenses. The aggregate offering expenses (excluding sales load) are estimated to be
$ in total, $ of which will be borne by us (or $ if the Underwriters exercise their over-allotment
option in full). See Summary of Company Expenses.
The Underwriters have informed us that they do not intend sales to discretionary accounts to
exceed five percent of the total number of common shares offered by them.
In order to meet requirements for listing the common shares on the New York Stock Exchange,
the Underwriters have undertaken to sell lots of 100 or more shares to a minimum of 400 beneficial
owners in the United States. The minimum investment requirement is 100 common shares ($2,500).
Our common stock is expected to be approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange under
the trading symbol TTP.
We and all directors and officers and the holders of all of our outstanding stock have agreed
that, without the prior written consent of on behalf of the
Underwriters, we and they will not, during the period ending 180 days after the date of this
prospectus:
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offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase,
purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to
purchase, lend or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares
of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for
shares of common stock; |
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file any registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating
to the offering of any shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for common stock; or |
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enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in
part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of the common stock; |
whether any such transaction described above is to be settled by delivery of common stock or such
other securities, in cash or otherwise. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (i) during the last 17
days of the 180-day restricted period, we issue an earnings release or announce material news or a
material event relating to the Company; or (ii) prior to the expiration of the 180-day restricted
period, we announce that we will release earnings results during the 16-day period beginning on the
last day of the 180-day restricted period, the restrictions described above shall continue to apply
until the expiration of the 18-day period beginning on the date of the earnings release or the
announcement of the material news or material event. These lock-up agreements will not apply to the
shares of common stock to be sold pursuant to the underwriting agreement or any shares of common
stock issued pursuant to our Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan or any preferred share issuance,
if any.
In order to facilitate the offering of the common stock, the Underwriters may engage in
transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the common stock.
Specifically, the Underwriters may sell more shares than they are obligated to purchase under the
underwriting agreement, creating a short position. A short sale is covered if the short position is
no greater than the number of shares available for purchase by the Underwriters under the
over-allotment option (exercisable for 45 days from the date of this prospectus). The Underwriters
can close out a covered short sale by exercising the over-allotment option or purchasing shares in
the open market. In determining the source of shares to close out a covered short sale, the
Underwriters will consider, among other
53
things, the open market price of shares compared to the price available under the
over-allotment option. The Underwriters may also sell shares of common stock in excess of the
over-allotment option, creating a naked short position. The Underwriters must close out any naked
short position by purchasing shares of common stock in the open market. A naked short position is
more likely to be created if the Underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on
the price of the common stock in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect
investors who purchase in this offering. As an additional means of facilitating this offering, the
Underwriters may bid for, and purchase, shares of common stock in the open market to stabilize the
price of the common stock. Finally, the underwriting syndicate may also reclaim selling concessions
allowed to an Underwriter or a dealer for distributing the shares of common stock in the offering,
if the syndicate repurchases previously distributed common shares in transactions to cover
syndicate short positions or to stabilize the price of the common shares. Any of these activities
may raise or maintain the market price of the common stock above independent market levels or
prevent or retard a decline in the market price of the common stock. The Underwriters are not
required to engage in these activities and may end any of these activities at any time.
Prior to this offering, there has been no public or private market for the common shares or
any other of our securities. Consequently, the offering price for the common shares was determined
by negotiation among us, our Adviser and the Representatives. There can be no assurance, however,
that the price at which the shares of common stock trade after this offering will not be lower than
the price at which they are sold by the Underwriters or that an active trading market in the common
shares will develop and continue after this offering.
We anticipate that the Representatives and certain other Underwriters may from time to time
act as brokers and dealers in connection with the execution of its portfolio transactions after
they have ceased to be Underwriters and, subject to certain restrictions, may act as such brokers
while they are Underwriters.
In connection with this offering, certain of the Underwriters or selected dealers may
distribute prospectuses electronically. We, the Adviser and the Underwriters have agreed to
indemnify each other against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
Prior to the public offering of common shares, our Adviser purchased common shares from us in
an amount satisfying the net worth requirements of Section 14(a) of the 1940 Act. As of the date of
this prospectus, our Adviser owned 100% of the outstanding common shares. Our Adviser may be deemed
to control us until such time as it owns less than 25% of the outstanding shares of common stock,
which is expected to occur as of the completion of the offering of shares of common stock.
The
principal business address of [ ] is [ ].
The Underwriters and their respective affiliates are full service financial institutions
engaged in various activities, which may include securities trading, commercial and investment
banking, financial advisory, investment management, principal investment, hedging, financing and
brokerage activities. Certain of the Underwriters or their respective affiliates from time to time
have provided in the past, and may provide in the future, investment banking, securities trading,
hedging, brokerage activities, commercial lending and financial advisory services to us, certain of
our executive officers and our affiliates and the Adviser and its affiliates in the ordinary course
of business, for which they have received, and may receive, customary fees and expenses.
No action has been taken in any jurisdiction (except in the United States) that would permit a
public offering of the common shares, or the possession, circulation or distribution of this
prospectus or any other material relating to us or the shares of common stock in any jurisdiction
where action for that purpose is required. Accordingly, the shares of common stock may not be
offered or sold, directly or indirectly, and neither this prospectus nor any other offering
material or advertisements in connection with the shares of common stock may be distributed or
published, in or from any country or jurisdiction except in compliance with the applicable rules
and regulations of any such country or jurisdiction.
Certain marketing or sales related support will be provided by Montage Investments and certain
of its affiliates. Montage Investments is the indirect majority owner of Tortoise Capital Advisors,
the Adviser to the Fund. Our Adviser has entered into an agreement with Montage Securities, LLC, a
registered broker/dealer and an affiliate of our Adviser and Montage Investments, which
contemplates the delivery of marketing support to our Adviser
54
during the course of this offering. Subject to the $0.05 per share limitation on offering
costs borne by the Fund, the Fund may pay a portion of the compensation due pursuant to this
agreement and the remainder will be paid exclusively by our Adviser.
Additional Compensation to be Paid by Our Adviser
Our Adviser (and not us) has agreed to pay, from its own assets, upfront marketing and
structuring fees to [ ______ ]in the amount of $ . In contrast to the
underwriting discounts and commissions (earned under the underwriting agreement by the underwriting
syndicate as a group), the marketing and structuring fees will be paid by our Adviser for advice to
our Adviser relating to the structure, design and organization of the Fund. These services are
unrelated to our Advisers function of advising us as to its investments in securities or use of
investment strategies and investment techniques.
As part of the payment of our offering expenses, we have agreed to pay expenses related to the
reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel to the Underwriters in connection with the review by
the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA) of the terms of the sale of the common
shares, the filing fees incident to the filing of marketing materials with FINRA and the
transportation and other expenses incurred by the Underwriters in connection with presentations to
prospective purchasers of the common shares. Such expenses will not exceed $ in the aggregate.
Total underwriting compensation determined in accordance with FINRA rules is summarized as
follows. The sales load that we will pay of $1.125 per share is equal to 4.5% of gross proceeds. We
have agreed to reimburse the Underwriters the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel to the
Underwriters in connection with the review by FINRA of the terms of the sale of the shares of
common stock, the filing fees incident to the filing of marketing materials with FINRA and the
transportation and other expenses incurred by the Underwriters in connection with presentations to
prospective purchasers of the shares of common stock, in an amount not to exceed $ in the
aggregate, which amount will not exceed % of gross proceeds. Our Adviser
(and not us) will
pay marketing and structuring fees as described above. Total compensation to the Underwriters will
not exceed 8.0% of gross proceeds.
ADMINISTRATOR, CUSTODIAN & FUND ACCOUNTANT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202, will
serve as our administrator and provide certain back-office support such as oversight and
supervision of the payment of expenses and preparation of financial statements and related
schedules. We will pay the administrator a monthly fee computed at an annual rate of % of the
first $ of our assets, % on the next $ of our assets and % on the balance of our assets.
U.S. Bank National Association, 1555 N. River Center Dr., Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212, will
serve as our custodian.
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202, will
serve as our fund accountant.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters in connection with the securities offered hereby will be passed upon for
us by Husch Blackwell LLP (HB), Kansas City, Missouri. HB may rely as to certain matters of
Maryland law on the opinion of Venable LLP, Baltimore, Maryland. Certain legal matters in
connection with the offering will be passed upon for the underwriters by Andrews Kurth LLP, New
York, New York.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
We will be subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act and the 1940 Act and
will be required to file reports, including annual and semi-annual reports, proxy statements and
other information with the
55
SEC. We intend to voluntarily file quarterly stockholder reports. These
documents will be available on the SECs EDGAR system and can be inspected and copied for a fee at
the SECs public reference room, 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549. Additional
information about the operation of the public reference room facilities may be obtained by calling
the SEC at (202) 551-5850.
This prospectus does not contain all of the information in our registration statement,
including amendments, exhibits, and schedules. Statements in this prospectus about the contents of
any contract or other document are not necessarily complete and in each instance reference is made
to the copy of the contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement,
each such statement being qualified in all respects by this reference.
Additional information about us can be found in our Registration Statement (including
amendments, exhibits and schedules) on Form N-2 filed with the SEC. The SEC maintains a web site
(http://www.sec.gov) that contains our Registration Statement, other documents incorporated by
reference, and other information we have filed electronically with the SEC.
56
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF
THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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S-22 |
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57
Subject to Completion, Dated September 9, 2011
The information in this statement of additional information is not complete and may be
changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This statement of additional information is not an
offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any
state where an offer or sale is not permitted.
TORTOISE PIPELINE & ENERGY FUND, INC.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the Fund, we, us, or
our), is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company.
This statement of additional information relates to an offering of our common shares and does
not constitute a prospectus, but should be read in conjunction with our prospectus relating thereto
dated , 2011. This statement of additional information does not include all
information that a prospective investor should consider before purchasing any of our common shares.
You should obtain and read our prospectus prior to purchasing any of our common shares. A copy of
our prospectus may be obtained without charge from us by calling 1-866-362-9331. You also may
obtain a copy of our prospectus on the SECs web site (http://www.sec.gov). Capitalized terms used
but not defined in this statement of additional information have the meanings ascribed to them in
the prospectus.
This statement of additional information is dated , 2011.
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF
THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
This section supplements the disclosure in the prospectus and provides additional information
on our investment limitations. Investment limitations identified as fundamental may only be changed
with the approval of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities (which for this
purpose and under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act) means the lesser
of (1) 67% of the voting shares represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the outstanding
voting shares are represented or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting shares).
Investment limitations stated as a maximum percentage of our assets are only applied
immediately after, and because of, an investment or a transaction by us to which the limitation is
applicable (other than the limitations on borrowing). Accordingly, any later increase or decrease
resulting from a change in values, net assets or other circumstances will not be considered in
determining whether the investment complies with our investment limitations. All limitations are
based on a percentage of our Total Assets. We define Total Assets as the value of securities,
cash or other assets held, including securities or assets obtained through leverage, and interest
accrued but not yet received.
Fundamental Investment Limitations
The following are our fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety. We may
not:
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issue senior securities, except as permitted by the 1940 Act and the rules and
interpretive positions of the SEC thereunder; |
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(2) |
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borrow money, except as permitted by the 1940 Act and the rules and
interpretive positions of the SEC thereunder; |
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(3) |
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make loans, except by the purchase of debt obligations, by entering into
repurchase agreements or through the lending of portfolio securities and as otherwise
permitted by the 1940 Act and the rules and interpretive positions of the SEC
thereunder; |
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concentrate (invest 25% or more of our Total Assets) our investments in any
particular industry, except that we will concentrate our assets in the midstream,
upstream and downstream energy industries constituting the energy infrastructure
sector; |
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underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that we may be
considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
(the 1933 Act), in the disposition of restricted securities held in our portfolio; |
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purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of
securities or other instruments, except that we may invest in securities or other
instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies that invest in real estate
or interests therein (including REITs); and |
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purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of the
ownership of securities or other instruments, except that we may purchase or sell
options and futures contracts or invest in securities or other instruments backed by
physical commodities. |
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All other investment policies are considered non-fundamental and may be changed by our Board
of Directors (the Board of Directors or the Board) without prior approval of our outstanding
voting securities.
Non-fundamental Investment Policies
We have adopted the following non-fundamental policies:
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Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our Total Assets in
equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies; |
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(2) |
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We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers
(including Canadian issuers), which may include securities issued by companies
organized and/or having securities traded on an exchange outside the U.S. or may be
securities of U.S. companies that are denominated in the currency of a different
country; |
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We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in unregistered or otherwise
restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of listed
companies. For purposes of this limitation, restricted securities include (i)
registered securities of public companies subject to a lock-up period, (ii)
unregistered securities of public companies with registration rights, and (iii)
unregistered securities of public companies that become freely tradable with the
passage of time; |
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We will not invest in privately-held companies; |
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We may invest up to 20% of our Total Assets in debt securities, including those
rated below investment grade, commonly referred to as junk bonds; |
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We will not invest more than 10% of our Total Assets in any single issuer; and |
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We will not engage in short sales. |
In addition, to comply with federal tax requirements for qualification as a regulated
investment company (RIC), our investments will be limited so that at the close of each quarter of
each taxable year (i) at least 50% of the value of our Total Assets is represented by cash and cash
items, U.S. Government securities, the securities of other RICs and other securities, with such
other securities limited for purposes of such calculation, in respect of any one issuer, to an
amount not greater than 5% of the value of our Total Assets and not more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of our Total
Assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities or
the securities of other RICs), the securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of any two
or more issuers that we control and that are determined to be engaged in the same business or
similar or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded
partnerships (which includes MLPs). These tax-related limitations may be changed by the Board of
Directors to the extent appropriate in light of changes to applicable tax requirements.
Currently under the 1940 Act, we are not permitted to incur indebtedness unless immediately
after such borrowing we have asset coverage of at least 300% of the aggregate outstanding principal
balance of indebtedness (i.e., such indebtedness may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of our Total
Assets, including the amount borrowed, less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by
senior securities). In addition, currently under the 1940 Act, we may not declare any distribution
on any class of shares of our stock, or purchase any such stock, unless our aggregate indebtedness
has, at the time of the declaration of any such distribution or at the time of any such purchase,
an asset coverage of at least 300% after deducting the amount of such distribution, or purchase
price, as the case may be, except that distributions may be declared upon any preferred stock if
such senior security representing indebtedness has an asset coverage of at least 200% at the time
of declaration of such distribution and after deducting the amount of such distribution.
Currently under the 1940 Act, we are not permitted to issue preferred stock unless immediately
after such issuance we have asset coverage of at least 200% of the total of the aggregate amount of
senior securities representing indebtedness plus the aggregate liquidation value of the outstanding
preferred stock (i.e., the aggregate principal amount of such indebtedness and liquidation value
may not exceed 50% of the value of our Total Assets, including the proceeds of such issuance, less
liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior securities). In addition, currently under
the 1940 Act, we are not permitted to declare any distribution on our common stock or purchase any
such common stock unless, at the time of such declaration or purchase, we would satisfy this 200%
asset coverage requirement test after deducting the amount of such distribution or share price.
S-3
Under the 1940 Act, a senior security does not include any promissory note or evidence of
indebtedness where such loan is for temporary purposes only and in an amount not exceeding 5% of
the value of the total assets of the issuer at the time the loan is made. A loan is presumed to be
for temporary purposes if it is repaid within sixty days and is not extended or renewed. Both
transactions involving indebtedness and any preferred stock issued by us would be considered senior
securities under the 1940 Act, and as such, are subject to the asset coverage requirements
discussed above.
Currently under the 1940 Act, we are not permitted to lend money or property to any person,
directly or indirectly, if such person controls or is under common control with us, except for a
loan from us to a company which owns all of our outstanding securities. Currently, under
interpretative positions of the staff of the SEC, we may not have on loan at any given time
securities representing more than one-third of our Total Assets.
We interpret our policies with respect to borrowing and lending to permit such activities as
may be lawful, to the full extent permitted by the 1940 Act or by exemption from the provisions
therefrom pursuant to an exemptive order of the SEC.
We interpret our policy with respect to concentration to include pipeline companies and other
energy infrastructure companies, as defined in the prospectus and below. See Investment Objective
and Principal Investment Strategies.
Under the 1940 Act, we may, but do not intend to, invest up to 10% of our Total Assets in the
aggregate in shares of other investment companies and up to 5% of our Total Assets in any one
investment company, provided that the investment does not represent more than 3% of the voting
stock of the acquired investment company at the time such shares are purchased. As a stockholder in
any investment company, we will bear our ratable share of that investment companys expenses and
would remain subject to payment of our advisory fees and other expenses with respect to assets so
invested. Holders of common stock would therefore be subject to duplicative expenses to the extent
we invest in other investment companies. In addition, the securities of other investment companies
also may be leveraged and will therefore be subject to the same leverage risks described herein and
in the prospectus. The net asset value and market value of leveraged shares will be more volatile
and the yield to stockholders will tend to fluctuate more than the yield generated by unleveraged
shares. A material decline in net asset value may impair our ability to maintain asset coverage on
any preferred stock and debt securities, including any interest and principal for debt securities.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The prospectus presents our investment objective and principal investment strategies and
risks. This section supplements the disclosure in our prospectus and provides additional
information on our investment policies, strategies and risks. Restrictions or policies stated as a
maximum percentage of our assets are only applied immediately after a portfolio investment to which
the policy or restriction is applicable (other than the limitations on borrowing). Accordingly, any
later increase or decrease resulting from a change in values, net assets or other circumstances
will not be considered in determining whether the investment complies with our restrictions and
policies.
Our investment objective is to provide our stockholders a high level of total return with an
emphasis on making current distributions. For purposes of our investment objective, total return
includes capital appreciation of, and all distributions received from, securities in which we
invest regardless of the tax character of the distribution. There is no assurance that we will
achieve our objective. Our investment objective and the investment policies discussed below are
non-fundamental. The Board of Directors may change the investment objective, or any policy or
limitation that is not fundamental, without a stockholder vote. Stockholders will receive at least
60 days prior written notice of any change to the non-fundamental investment policy of investing at
least 80% of our Total Assets in equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure
companies.
Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of our Total Assets in equity
securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. We intend to focus primarily on
pipeline companies that engage in the business of transporting natural gas, natural gas liquids
(NGLs), crude oil and refined products through pipelines,
and to a lesser extent, on other energy infrastructure companies. For purposes of these
policies, we consider a
S-4
company to be a pipeline company if at least 50% of its assets, cash flow
or revenue is associated with the operation or ownership of energy pipelines and complementary
assets or it operates in the energy pipeline industry as defined by the standard industrial
classification (SIC) system. We consider a company to be an energy infrastructure company if at
least 50% of its assets, revenues or cash flows are derived from energy infrastructure operations
or ownership. We also may invest in other securities, consistent with our investment objective and
fundamental and non-fundamental policies.
We may invest up to 25% of our Total Assets in securities of MLPs. We may invest up to 30% of
our Total Assets in unregistered or otherwise restricted securities, primarily through direct
investments in securities of listed companies.
The following pages contain more detailed information about the types of issuers and
instruments in which we may invest, strategies our Adviser may employ in pursuit of our investment
objective and a discussion of related risks. Our Adviser does not intend to buy these instruments
or use these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help us achieve our objective.
Our Investments
The types of securities in which we may invest include, but are not limited to, the following:
Equity Securities. Equity investments generally represent an equity ownership interest, or the
right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide
different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of an issuers bankruptcy. An
adverse event, such as unfavorable earnings report, may depress the value of a particular equity
investment we hold. Prices of equity investments are sensitive to general movements in the stock
market, and a drop in the stock market may depress the price of equity investments that we own.
Equity investment prices fluctuate for several reasons, including changes in investors perceptions
of the financial condition of an issuer or rising interest rates, which increases borrowing costs
and the costs of capital. We expect that such equity investments will generally include the
following:
Common Stock. Common stock represents an ownership interest in the profits and losses of a
corporation, after payment of amounts owed to bondholders, other debt holders, and holders of
preferred stock. Holders of common stock generally have voting rights, but we do not generally
expect to have voting control in any of the companies in which we invest. In addition to the
general risks set forth in the prospectus, investments in common stock are subject to the risk that
in the event a company in which we invest is liquidated, the holders of preferred stock and
creditors of that company will be paid in full before any payments are made to us as holders of
common stock. It is possible that all assets of that company will be exhausted before any payments
are made to the holders of common stock.
Common units of MLPs. As a RIC, we may invest no more than 25% of our Total Assets in
securities of MLPs. An MLP is a publicly traded company organized as a limited partnership or LLC
and treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes. MLP common units represent an equity
ownership interest in a partnership and provide limited voting rights. MLP common unit holders have
a limited role in the partnerships operations and management. Some energy infrastructure companies
in which we may invest have been organized as LLCs, which are treated in the same manner as MLPs
for federal income tax purposes. Common units of an LLC represent an equity ownership in an LLC.
Unlike stockholders of a corporation, common unitholders do not elect directors annually and
generally have the right to vote only on certain significant events, such as mergers, a sale of
substantially all of the assets, removal of the general partner or material amendments to the
partnership agreement. MLPs are required by their partnership agreements to distribute a large
percentage of their current operating earnings. Common unitholders generally have first right to a
minimum quarterly distribution (MQD) prior to distributions to the subordinated unitholders or
the general partner (including incentive distributions). Common unitholders typically have
arrearage rights if the MQD is not met. In the event of liquidation, MLP common unitholders have
first rights to the partnerships remaining assets after bondholders, other debt holders, and
preferred unitholders have been paid in full. MLP common units trade on a national securities
exchange or over-the-counter.
Equity Securities of MLP Affiliates. In addition to securities of MLPs, we may also invest in
equity securities issued by MLP affiliates, such as MLP I-Shares and common shares of corporations that own MLP
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general partner interests. I-Shares represent an indirect ownership interest in MLP
common units issued by an MLP affiliate, which is typically a publicly traded LLC. The I-Share
issuers assets consist exclusively of I-units. I-Shares differ from MLP common units primarily in
that instead of receiving cash distributions, holders of I-Shares receive distributions in the form
of additional I-Shares. Issuers of MLP I-Shares are corporations and not partnerships for tax
purposes; however, the MLP does not allocate income or loss to the I-Share issuer. Because the
issuers of MLP I-Shares are not partnerships for tax purposes, MLP I-Shares are not subject to the
25% limitation regarding investments in MLPs and other entities treated as qualified publicly
traded partnerships. MLP affiliates also include the publicly traded equity securities of LLCs
that own, directly or indirectly, general partner interests of MLPs. General partner interests
often confer direct board participation rights and in many cases, operating control, over the MLP.
Other Equity Securities. We may also invest in all types of publicly traded equity
securities, including but not limited to, preferred equity, convertible securities, depository
receipts, limited partner interests, rights and warrants of underlying equity securities, exchange
traded funds, limited liability companies and REITs.
Non-U.S. Securities. We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in securities issued by
non-U.S. issuers (including Canadian issuers). These securities may be issued by companies
organized and/or having securities traded on an exchange outside the U.S. or may be securities of
U.S. companies that are denominated in the currency of a different country. An issuer of a security
generally will be considered to be located in a particular country if it meets either of the
following criteria: (i) the issuer is organized under the laws of, or maintains its principal place
of business in, the country; or (ii) during the issuers most recent fiscal year, it derived at
least 50% of its revenues or profits from goods or services produced or sold, investments made or
services performed in the country.
Investments in securities issued by non-U.S. issuers involve certain considerations and risks
not ordinarily associated with investments in securities and instruments of U.S. issuers. Some of
these risks include: (1) there may be less publicly available information about non-U.S. issuers or
markets due to less rigorous disclosure or accounting standards or regulatory practices; (2)
non-U.S. securities markets are smaller, may be less liquid and more volatile than the U.S.
securities markets; (3) fluctuations in currency exchange rates and the existence or possible
imposition of exchange controls may adversely affect the value of our investments; (4) the
economies of non-U.S. countries may grow at slower rates than expected or may experience a downturn
or recession even during periods in which the U.S. economy performs well; (5) the impact of
economic, political, regulatory, social or diplomatic events; (6) certain non-U.S. countries may
impose restrictions on the ability of non-U.S. issuers to make payments of principal and interest
to investors located in the United States due to restrictions on exchanges of currency or
otherwise; (7) non-U.S. withholding and other taxes may decrease our investment return; (8) the
difficulty or impossibility of obtaining the necessary data to determine whether distributions paid
by non-U.S. issuers qualify as tax-advantaged dividends, ordinary income or return of capital; and
(9) other investment controls imposed by the governments of non-U.S. countries, especially
countries with emerging markets, which controls may limit or preclude investments in non-U.S.
countries. These investment controls may include (a) requiring governmental approval prior to
investment by foreign persons; (b) limiting the amount of investment by foreign persons in a
particular country; (c) limiting investments by foreign persons to only a specific class of
securities of a company that may have less advantageous terms than the classes available for
purchase by domiciliaries of the countries; or (d) imposing additional taxes on foreign investors.
We may also purchase American Depository Receipts (ADRs) or U.S. dollar-denominated
securities of non-U.S. issuers. While ADRs may not necessarily be denominated in the same currency
as the securities into which they may be converted, many of the risks associated with non-U.S.
securities may also apply to ADRs. In addition, the underlying issuers of certain depositary
receipts, particularly unsponsored or unregistered depositary receipts, are under no obligation to
distribute stockholder communications to the holders of such receipts, or to pass through to them
any voting rights with respect to the deposited securities.
Unregistered or Restricted Securities. We may invest up to 30% of our Total Assets in
unregistered or otherwise restricted securities primarily through direct investments in securities
of listed companies. For purposes of this limitation, restricted securities include (i)
registered securities of public companies subject to a lock-up period, (ii) unregistered securities
of public companies with registration rights, and (iii) unregistered securities of
public companies that become freely tradable with the passage of time. For purposes of the
foregoing, a registered security subject to such a lock-up period will no longer be considered a
restricted security upon expiration of the
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lock-up period, an unregistered security of a public
company with registration rights will no longer be considered a restricted security when such
securities become registered, and an unregistered security of a public company that becomes freely
tradable with the passage of time will no longer be considered a restricted security upon the
elapse of the requisite time period.
An issuer may be willing to offer the purchaser more attractive features with respect to
securities issued in direct investments because it has avoided the expense and delay involved in a
public offering of securities. Adverse conditions in the public securities markets also may
preclude a public offering of securities. Restricted securities obtained by means of direct
investments are less liquid than securities traded in the open market; therefore, we may not be
able to readily sell such securities. Investments currently considered by our Adviser to be
illiquid because of such restrictions include subordinated convertible units and certain direct
placements of common units. Such securities are unlike securities that are traded in the open
market, which can be expected to be sold immediately if the market is adequate. The sale price of
securities that are not readily marketable may be lower or higher than the companys most recent
determination of their fair value. In addition, the value of these securities typically requires
more reliance on the judgment of our Adviser than that required for securities for which there is
an active trading market. Due to the difficulty in valuing these securities and the absence of an
active trading market for these securities, we may not be able to realize these securities true
value, or may have to delay their sale in order to do so.
Restricted securities generally can be sold in private transactions, pursuant to an exemption
from registration under the 1933 Act, or in a registered public offering. If the issuer of the
restricted securities has an effective registration statement on file with the SEC covering the
restricted securities, our Adviser has the ability to deem restricted securities as liquid. To
enable us to sell our holdings of a restricted security not registered under the 1933 Act, we may
have to cause those securities to be registered. When we must arrange registration because we wish
to sell the security, a considerable period may elapse between the time the decision is made to
sell the security and the time the security is registered so that we can sell it. We would bear the
risks of any downward price fluctuation during that period.
In recent years, a large institutional market developed for certain securities that are not
registered under the 1933 Act, including private placements, repurchase agreements, commercial
paper, foreign securities and corporate bonds and notes. These instruments are often restricted
securities because the securities are either themselves exempt from registration or were sold in
transactions not requiring registration, such as Rule 144A transactions. Institutional investors
generally will not seek to sell these instruments to the general public, but instead will often
depend on an efficient institutional market in which such unregistered securities can be resold or
on an issuers ability to honor a demand for repayment. Therefore, the fact that there are
contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or certain institutions is not
dispositive of the liquidity of such investments.
Rule 144A under the 1933 Act establishes a safe harbor from the registration requirements of
the 1933 Act for resales of certain securities to qualified institutional buyers. Institutional
markets for restricted securities that exist or may develop as a result of Rule 144A may provide
both readily ascertainable values for restricted securities and the ability to liquidate an
investment. An insufficient number of qualified institutional buyers interested in purchasing Rule
144A-eligible securities held by us, however, could affect adversely the marketability of such
portfolio securities, and we might be unable to dispose of such securities promptly or at
reasonable prices.
We may also invest in securities that may not be restricted, but are thinly-traded. Although
securities of certain pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies trade on the New York
Stock Exchange (NYSE), NYSE Alternext U.S. (formerly known as AMEX), the NASDAQ National Market
or other securities exchanges or markets, such securities may have a trading volume lower than
those of larger companies due to their relatively smaller capitalizations. Such securities may be
difficult to dispose of at a fair price during times when we believe it is desirable to do so.
Thinly-traded securities are also more difficult to value and our Advisers judgment as to value
will often be given greater weight than market quotations, if any exist. If market quotations are
not available, thinly-traded securities will be valued in accordance with procedures established by
the Board. Investment of capital in thinly-traded securities may restrict our ability to take
advantage of market opportunities. The risks associated with thinly-traded securities may be
particularly acute in situations in which our operations require cash and could result in us
borrowing to meet our short term needs or incurring losses on the sale of thinly-traded securities.
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Debt Securities. We may invest up to 20% of our Total Assets in debt securities, including
securities rated below investment grade, commonly referred to as junk bonds. Our debt securities
may have fixed or variable principal payments and all types of interest rate and reset terms,
including fixed rate, floating rate, adjustable rate, zero coupon, contingent, deferred, and
payment in kind features, and may include securities that are or are not exchange traded. To the
extent that we invest in below investment grade debt securities, such securities will be rated, at
the time of investment, at least B- by S&P or B3 by Moodys or a comparable rating by at least one
other rating agency or, if unrated, determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality. If a
security satisfies our minimum rating criteria at the time of purchase and is subsequently
downgraded below such rating, we will not be required to dispose of such security. If a downgrade
occurs, the Adviser will consider what action, including the sale of such security, is in the best
interest of us and our stockholders.
Repurchase Agreements. We may enter into repurchase agreements backed by U.S. Government
securities. A repurchase agreement arises when we purchase a security and simultaneously agree to
resell it to the vendor at an agreed upon future date. The resale price is greater than the
purchase price, reflecting an agreed upon market rate of return that is effective for the period of
time we hold the security and that is not related to the coupon rate on the purchased security.
Such agreements generally have maturities of not more than seven days and could be used to permit
us to earn interest on assets awaiting long-term investment. We require continuous maintenance by
the custodian for our account in the Federal Reserve/Treasury Book Entry System of collateral in an
amount equal to, or in excess of, the market value of the securities that are the subject of a
repurchase agreement. Repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days are considered
illiquid securities. In the event of a bankruptcy or other default of a seller of a repurchase
agreement, we could experience both delays in liquidating the underlying security and losses,
including: (a) possible decline in the value of the underlying security during the period while we
seek to enforce our rights thereto; (b) possible subnormal levels of income and lack of access to
income during this period; and (c) expenses incurred in connection with enforcing our rights.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. We may enter into reverse repurchase agreements for temporary
purposes with banks and securities dealers if the creditworthiness of the bank or securities dealer
has been determined by our Adviser to be satisfactory. A reverse repurchase agreement is a
repurchase agreement in which we are the seller of, rather than the investor in, securities and
agree to repurchase them at an agreed-upon time and price. Use of a reverse repurchase agreement
may be preferable to a regular sale and later repurchase of securities because it avoids certain
market risks and transaction costs.
At the time when we enter into a reverse repurchase agreement, liquid assets (such as cash,
U.S. Government securities or other high-grade debt obligations) of ours having a value at least
as great as the purchase price of the securities to be purchased will be segregated on our books
and held by the custodian throughout the period of the obligation. The use of reverse repurchase
agreements by us creates leverage which increases our investment risk. If the income and gains on
securities purchased with the proceeds of these transactions exceed the cost, our earnings or net
asset value will increase faster than otherwise would be the case; conversely, if the income and
gains fail to exceed the cost, earnings or net asset value would decline faster than otherwise
would be the case. We intend to enter into reverse repurchase agreements only if the income from
the investment of the proceeds is expected to be greater than the expense of the transaction,
because the proceeds are invested for a period no longer than the term of the reverse repurchase
agreement.
Margin Borrowing. Although we do not currently intend to, we may in the future use margin
borrowing of up to 33 1/3% of our Total Assets for investment purposes when our Adviser believes it
will enhance returns. Margin borrowing creates certain additional risks. For example, should the
securities that are pledged to brokers to secure margin accounts decline in value, or should
brokers from which we have borrowed increase their maintenance margin requirements (i.e., reduce
the percentage of a position that can be financed), then we could be subject to a margin call,
pursuant to which we must either deposit additional funds with the broker or suffer mandatory
liquidation of the pledged securities to compensate for the decline in value. In the event of a
precipitous drop in the value of our assets, we might not be able to liquidate assets quickly
enough to pay off the margin debt and might suffer mandatory liquidation of positions in a
declining market at relatively low prices, thereby incurring substantial losses. For these reasons,
the use of borrowings for investment purposes is considered a speculative investment practice. Any
use of margin borrowing by us would be subject to the limitations of the 1940 Act, including the
prohibition on our issuing more than one class of senior securities, and the asset coverage
requirements discussed earlier in this statement of additional information.
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Hedging and Risk Management. In addition to writing covered call options as part of our
investment strategy, the risks of which are described herein, we may utilize certain other
derivative instruments for hedging or risk management purposes.
In an attempt to reduce the interest rate risk arising from our leveraged capital structure,
we may, but are not obligated to, use interest rate transactions intended to reduce our interest
rate risk with respect to our interest and distribution payment obligations under our outstanding
leverage. Such interest rate transactions would be used to protect us against higher costs on our
leverage resulting from increases in short-term interest rates. We anticipate that the majority of
such interest rate hedges would be interest rate swap contracts and interest rate caps and floors
purchased from financial institutions. There is no assurance that the interest rate hedging
transactions into which we may enter will be effective in reducing our exposure to interest rate
risk. Hedging transactions are subject to correlation risk, which is the risk that payment on our
hedging transactions may not correlate exactly with our payment obligations on senior securities.
The use of interest rate transactions is a highly specialized activity that involves investment
techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio security transactions.
In an interest rate swap, we would agree to pay to the other party to the interest rate swap (known
as the counterparty) a fixed rate payment in exchange for the counterparty agreeing to pay to us
a variable rate payment intended to approximate our variable rate payment obligations on
outstanding leverage. The payment obligations would be based on the notional amount of the swap. In
an interest rate cap, we would pay a premium to the counterparty up to the interest rate cap and,
to the extent that a specified variable rate index exceeds a predetermined fixed rate of interest,
would receive from the counterparty payments equal to the difference based on the notional amount
of such cap. In an interest rate floor, we would be entitled to receive, to the extent that a
specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, payments of interest on a notional
principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. Depending on the state of interest
rates in general, our use of interest rate transactions could affect our ability to make required
interest or distribution payments on our outstanding leverage. To the extent there is a decline in
interest rates, the value of the interest rate transactions could decline. If the counterparty to
an interest rate transaction defaults, we would not be able to use the anticipated net receipts
under the interest rate transaction to offset our cost of financial leverage.
To a lesser extent, we may, but do not currently intend to, use other hedging and risk
management strategies to seek to manage other market risks. Such hedging strategies may be utilized
to seek to protect against possible adverse changes in the market value of securities held in our
portfolio or to otherwise protect the value of our portfolio. We may, but do not currently intend
to, enter into currency exchange transactions to hedge our exposure to foreign currency exchange
rate risk to the extent we invest in non-U.S. dollar denominated securities of non-U.S. issuers.
Our currency transactions will generally be limited to portfolio hedging involving portfolio
positions. Portfolio hedging is the use of a forward contract with respect to a portfolio security
position denominated or quoted in a particular currency. A forward contract is an agreement to
purchase or sell a specified currency at a specified future date (or within a specified time
period) and price set at the time of the contract. Forward contracts are usually entered into with
banks, foreign exchange dealers or broker-dealers, are not exchange-traded, and are usually for
less than one year. The Fund may also purchase and sell other derivative investments such as
exchange-listed and over-the-counter options on securities or indices, futures contracts and
options thereon. The Fund also may purchase derivative investments that combine features of these
instruments.
Securities Lending. We may lend securities to parties such as broker-dealers or institutional
investors. Securities lending allows us to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the
same time, to earn additional income. Because there may be delays in the recovery of loaned
securities, or even a loss of rights in collateral supplied should the borrower fail financially,
loans will be made only to parties deemed by our Adviser to be of good credit and legal standing.
Furthermore, loans of securities will only be made if, in our Advisers judgment, the consideration
to be earned from such loans would justify the risk.
Our Adviser understands that it is the current view of the SEC staff that we may engage in
loan transactions only under the following conditions: (1) we must receive 100% collateral in the
form of cash or cash equivalents (e.g., U.S. Treasury bills or notes) from the borrower; (2) the
borrower must increase the collateral whenever the market value of the securities loaned
(determined on a daily basis) rises above the value of the collateral; (3) after giving notice, we
must be able to terminate the loan at any time; (4) we must receive reasonable interest on the loan
or a flat fee from the borrower, as well as amounts equivalent to any dividends, interest, or other
distributions on the securities loaned and to any increase in market value; (5) we may pay only
reasonable custodian fees in connection
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with the loan; and (6) the Board must be able to vote proxies on the securities loaned, either
by terminating the loan or by entering into an alternative arrangement with the borrower.
Temporary Investments and Defensive Investments. Pending investment of the proceeds of this
offering (which we expect may take up to approximately three to six months following the closing of
this offering), we may invest offering proceeds in mutual funds, cash, cash equivalents, securities
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its instrumentalities or agencies, short-term money
market instruments, short-term debt securities, certificates of deposit, bankers acceptances and
other bank obligations, commercial or other liquid securities all of which are expected to
provide a lower yield than the securities of pipeline companies and energy infrastructure
companies. We may also invest in these instruments on a temporary basis to meet working capital
needs, including, but not limited to, for collateral in connection with certain investment
techniques, to hold a reserve pending payment of distributions, and to facilitate the payment of
expenses and settlement of trades. We anticipate that under normal market conditions and
following the investment of the proceeds of this offering not more than 5% of our total assets will
be invested in these instruments.
Under adverse market or economic conditions, we may invest 100% of our Total Assets in these
securities. The yield on these securities may be lower than the returns on pipeline and other
energy infrastructure companies or yields on lower rated fixed income securities. To the extent we
invest in these securities on a temporary basis or for defensive purposes, we may not achieve our
investment objective.
Covered Call Options Strategy
We will also seek to provide current income from gains earned through an option strategy. We
currently intend to write (sell) call options on selected equity
securities in our portfolio and to only write call options on securities we hold in our portfolio (covered
calls). The notional amount of such calls is expected to initially be approximately 20% of the
total value of our portfolio, although this percentage may vary
depending on the cash flow
requirements of the portfolio and on our Advisers assessment of market conditions.
We currently intend to focus our covered call strategy on other
energy infrastructure companies that our Adviser believes are integral links in the energy infrastructure value chain for pipeline
companies, although we may write options
on other securities in our portfolio or indices in certain market
environments.
A call option on a security is a contract that gives the holder of such call option the right
to buy the security underlying the call option from the writer of such call option at a specified
price (exercise price) at any time during the term of the option. At the time the call option is
sold, the writer of a call option receives a premium from the buyer of such call option.
If we write a call option on a security or basket of securities, we have the obligation upon
exercise of such call option to deliver the underlying security or securities upon payment of the
exercise price. As the writer of such call options, in effect, during the term of the option, in
exchange for the premium received by us, we sell the potential appreciation above the exercise
price in the value of securities covered by the options. Therefore, we forgo part of the potential
appreciation for part of our equity portfolio in exchange for the call premium received, but retain
the risk of potential decline in those securities below the price which is equal to the excess of
the exercise price of the call option over the premium per share received on the call option.
If we write a call option, we may terminate our obligation by effecting a closing purchase
transaction. This is accomplished by purchasing a call option with the same terms as the option
previously written. However, once we have been assigned an exercise notice, we will be unable to
effect a closing purchase transaction. There can be no assurance that a closing purchase
transaction can be effected when we so desire.
Other principal factors affecting the market value of an option include supply and demand,
interest rates, the current market price and price volatility of the underlying security and the
time remaining until the expiration date of the option. Gains and losses on investments in options
depend, in part, on the ability of our Adviser to predict correctly the effect of these factors.
When we write a call option, an amount equal to the premium received by us will be recorded as
a liability and will be subsequently adjusted to the current fair value of the option written.
Premiums received from writing options that expire unexercised are treated by us as realized gains
from investments on the expiration date. If we repurchase a written call option prior to its
exercise, the difference between the premium received and the amount
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paid to repurchase the option is treated as a realized gain or realized loss. If a call option
is exercised, the premium is added to the proceeds from the sale of the underlying security in
determining whether we have realized a gain or loss.
Although our Adviser will attempt to take appropriate measures to minimize the risks relating
to writing covered call options, there can be no assurance that we will succeed in any
option-writing program we undertake.
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
Directors and Officers
Our business and affairs are managed under the direction of the Board of Directors.
Accordingly, the Board of Directors provides broad supervision over our affairs, including
supervision of the duties performed by our Adviser. Our officers are responsible for our day-to-day
operations. Our Board of Directors is currently comprised of four directors, three of whom are not
interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of our Adviser or its affiliates. The names, ages
and addresses of each of our directors and officers, together with their principal occupations and
other affiliations during the past five years, are set forth below. Each director and officer will
hold office until his successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he resigns or is removed in
the manner provided by law. Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each director and officer is
11550 Ash Street, Leawood, Kansas 66211.
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Conrad S. Ciccotello
(Born 1960)
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Tenured Associate
Professor of Risk
Management and
Insurance, Robinson
College of Business,
Georgia State
University (faculty
member since 1999);
Director of Graduate
Personal Financial
Planning Programs;
Formerly Editor,
Financial Services
Review (an academic
journal dedicated to
the study of
individual financial
management)
(2001-2007); Formerly
Faculty Member,
Pennsylvania State
University
(1997-1999); Published
several academic and
professional journal
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articles about energy
infrastructure and oil
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John R. Graham
(Born 1945)
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Director since 2011
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Executive-in-Residence
and Professor of
Finance (part-time),
College of Business
Administration, Kansas
State University (has
served as a professor
or adjunct professor
since 1970); Chairman
of the Board,
President and CEO,
Graham Capital
Management, Inc.,
primarily a real
estate development,
investment and venture
capital company; Owner
of Graham Ventures, a
business services and
venture capital firm;
Part-time Vice
President Investments,
FB Capital Management,
Inc. (a registered
investment adviser),
since 2007; formerly,
CEO, Kansas Farm
Bureau Financial
Services, including
seven affiliated
insurance or financial
service companies
(1979-2000).
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Charles E. Heath
(Born 1942)
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Director since 2011
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Retired in 1999,
Formerly Chief
Investment Officer, GE
Capitals Employers
Reinsurance
Corporation
(1989-1999). Chartered
Financial Analyst
(CFA) designation
since 1974.
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|
|
|
|
|
Interested Directors
and Officers (2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
S-12
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER PUBLIC |
|
|
POSITION(S) HELD |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMPANY |
|
|
WITH COMPANY, TERM |
|
PRINCIPAL |
|
NUMBER OF |
|
DIRECTORSHIPS |
|
|
OF OFFICE AND |
|
OCCUPATION |
|
PORTFOLIOS IN FUND |
|
HELD DURING |
|
|
LENGTH OF |
|
DURING PAST |
|
COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY |
|
THE PAST |
NAME AND AGE |
|
TIME SERVED |
|
FIVE YEARS |
|
DIRECTOR (1) |
|
FIVE YEARS |
H. Kevin Birzer
(Born 1959)
|
|
Director and
Chairman of the
Board since 2011
|
|
Co-Founder and
Managing Director of
the Adviser since
2002; Member, Fountain
Capital Management,
LLC (Fountain
Capital), a
registered investment
adviser, (1990-May
2009); Director and
Chairman of the Board
of each of TYG, TYY,
TYN, TTO, TPZ and NTG
since its inception;
Vice President,
Corporate Finance
Department, Drexel
Burnham Lambert
(1986-1989); Vice
President, F. Martin
Koenig & Co., an
investment management
firm (1983-1986). CFA
designation since
1988.
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
None |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terry C. Matlack
(Born 1956)
|
|
Chief Executive
Officer since 2011
|
|
Co-founder and
Managing Director of
the Adviser since
2002; Full-time
Managing Director,
Kansas City Equity
Partners, LC (KCEP)
(2001-2002); Formerly
President, GreenStreet
Capital, a private
investment firm
(1998-2001); Director
of each of TYG, TYY,
TYN, TTO and TPZ from
its inception to
September, 2009; Chief
Executive Officer of
NTG since its
inception and of each
of TYG, TYY, TYN and
TPZ since May 2011;
Chief Financial
Officer of each of
TYG, TYY, TYN and TPZ
from inception to
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
None |
S-13
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER PUBLIC |
|
|
POSITION(S) HELD |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMPANY |
|
|
WITH COMPANY, TERM |
|
PRINCIPAL |
|
NUMBER OF |
|
DIRECTORSHIPS |
|
|
OF OFFICE AND |
|
OCCUPATION |
|
PORTFOLIOS IN FUND |
|
HELD DURING |
|
|
LENGTH OF |
|
DURING PAST |
|
COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY |
|
THE PAST |
NAME AND AGE |
|
TIME SERVED |
|
FIVE YEARS |
|
DIRECTOR (1) |
|
FIVE YEARS |
|
|
|
|
May
2011 and of TTO since
inception; Assistant
Treasurer of TYY, TYG
and TYN from November
2005 to April 2008,
and of TTO from its
inception to April
2008. CFA designation
since 1985. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zachary A. Hamel
(Born 1965)
|
|
President since 2011
|
|
Co-founder and
Managing Director of
the Adviser since
2002; Partner,
Fountain Capital
(1997-present).
President of NTG since
2010 and of each of
TYG, TYY and TPZ since
May 2011; Senior Vice
President of TTO since
2005, of TYN since
2007, of TYY from 2005
to May 2011, of TYG
from 2007 to May 2011,
and of TPZ from
inception to May 2011;
Secretary of each of
TYG, TYY, TYN and TTO
from their inception
to April 2007. CFA
designation since
1998.
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
None |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
P. Bradley Adams
(Born 1960)
|
|
Chief Financial
Officer since 2011
|
|
Director of Financial
Operations of the
Adviser since 2005;
Chief Financial
Officer of NTG since
2010 and of each of
TYG, TYY, TYN and TPZ
since May 2011;
Assistant Treasurer of
TYG, TYY and TYN from
April 2008 to May
2011, of TPZ from
inception to May 2011,
and of TTO since April
2008.
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
None |
S-14
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER PUBLIC |
|
|
POSITION(S) HELD |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMPANY |
|
|
WITH COMPANY, TERM |
|
PRINCIPAL |
|
NUMBER OF |
|
DIRECTORSHIPS |
|
|
OF OFFICE AND |
|
OCCUPATION |
|
PORTFOLIOS IN FUND |
|
HELD DURING |
|
|
LENGTH OF |
|
DURING PAST |
|
COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY |
|
THE PAST |
NAME AND AGE |
|
TIME SERVED |
|
FIVE YEARS |
|
DIRECTOR (1) |
|
FIVE YEARS |
Kenneth P. Malvey
(Born 1965)
|
|
Senior Vice
President and
Treasurer since
2011
|
|
Co-founder and
Managing Director of
the Adviser since
2002; Partner,
Fountain Capital
(2002-present);
formerly, Investment
Risk Manager and
member of the Global
Office of Investments,
GE Capitals Employers
Reinsurance
Corporation
(1996-2002); Treasurer
of each of TYG, TYY,
TYN, and TTO since
2005, and of TPZ and
NTG since their
inception; Senior Vice
President of each of
TYY and TTO since
2005, and of each of
TYG and TYN since 2007
and of TPZ and NTG
since their inception;
Assistant Treasurer of
each of TYY, TYG and
TYN from their
inception to November
2005; CFA designation
since 1996.
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
None |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
David J. Schulte
(Born 1961)
|
|
Senior Vice
President since
2011
|
|
Managing Director of
the Adviser since
2002; Full-time
Managing Director,
KCEP (1993-2002);
Senior Vice President
of NTG since 2010 and
of TYG, TYY, TYN and
TPZ since May 2011;
President and Chief
Executive Officer of
each of TYG, TYY and
TPZ from inception to
May 2011; Chief
Executive Officer of
TYN from 2005 to May
2011 and President of
TYN from 2005 to
September 2008; Chief
Executive Officer of
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
None |
S-15
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OTHER PUBLIC |
|
|
POSITION(S) HELD |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMPANY |
|
|
WITH COMPANY, TERM |
|
PRINCIPAL |
|
NUMBER OF |
|
DIRECTORSHIPS |
|
|
OF OFFICE AND |
|
OCCUPATION |
|
PORTFOLIOS IN FUND |
|
HELD DURING |
|
|
LENGTH OF |
|
DURING PAST |
|
COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY |
|
THE PAST |
NAME AND AGE |
|
TIME SERVED |
|
FIVE YEARS |
|
DIRECTOR (1) |
|
FIVE YEARS |
|
|
|
|
TTO since 2005 and
President of TTO from
2005 to April 2007;
CFA designation since
1992. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
This number includes us, TYG, TYY, TYN, TPZ, TTO and NTG. Our Adviser also serves as the
investment adviser to TYG, TYY, TYN, TPZ, TTO and NTG. |
|
(2) |
|
As a result of their respective positions held with our Adviser or its affiliates, these
individuals are considered interested persons of ours within the meaning of the 1940 Act. |
Each director was selected to join our Board of Directors based upon their character and
integrity; their service as a director for other funds in the Tortoise fund complex; and their
willingness and ability to serve and commit the time necessary to perform the duties of a director.
In addition, as to each director other than Mr. Birzer, their status as not being an interested
person as defined in the 1940 Act; and, as to Mr. Birzer, his role with our Adviser was an
important factor in his selection as a director. No factor was by itself controlling.
In addition to the information provided in the table above, each director possesses the
following attributes that were considered when selecting such director to join our Board of
Directors: Mr. Ciccotello, experience as a college professor, a Ph.D. in finance and knowledge of
energy infrastructure MLPs; Mr. Graham, experience as a college professor, executive leadership and
business executive; Mr. Heath, executive leadership and business experience; and Mr. Birzer,
investment management experience as an executive, portfolio manager and leadership roles with our
Adviser.
Mr. Birzer serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Birzer is an interested person
of ours within the meaning of the 1940 Act. The appointment of Mr. Birzer as Chairman reflects the
Board of Directors belief that his experience, familiarity with our day-to-day operations and
access to individuals with responsibility for our management and operations provides the Board of
Directors with insight into our business and activities and, with his access to appropriate
administrative support, facilitates the efficient development of meeting agendas that address our
business, legal and other needs and the orderly conduct of meetings of the Board of Directors. Mr.
Heath serves as Lead Independent Director. The Lead Independent Director will, among other things,
chair executive sessions of the three directors who are not interested persons of ours within the
meaning of the 1940 Act (Independent Directors), serve as a spokesperson for the Independent
Directors and serve as a liaison between the Independent Directors and our management. The
Independent Directors will regularly meet outside the presence of management and are advised by
independent legal counsel. The Board of Directors also has determined that its leadership
structure, as described above, is appropriate in light of our size and complexity, the number of
Independent Directors and the Board of Directors general oversight responsibility. The Board of
Directors also believes that its leadership structure not only facilitates the orderly and
efficient flow of information to the Independent Directors from management, but also enhances the
independent and orderly exercise of its responsibilities.
We have an audit committee consisting of three Independent Directors (the Audit Committee).
The Audit Committee members are Conrad S. Ciccotello (Chairman), John R. Graham and Charles E.
Heath. The Audit Committees function is to oversee our accounting policies, financial reporting
and internal control system. The Audit Committee makes recommendations regarding the selection of
our independent registered public accounting firm, reviews the independence of such firm, reviews
the scope of the audit and internal controls, considers and reports to the Board on matters
relating to our accounting and financial reporting practices, and performs such other tasks as the
full Board deems necessary or appropriate.
S-16
We have a nominating and governance committee that consists exclusively of three
Independent Directors (the Nominating Committee). The Nominating Committee members are Conrad S.
Ciccotello, John R. Graham (Chairman) and Charles E. Heath. The Nominating Committees function is
to nominate and evaluate Independent Director candidates, review the compensation arrangements for
each of the directors, review corporate governance issues and developments, and develop and
recommend to the Board corporate governance guidelines and procedures, to the extent appropriate.
The Nominating Committee will consider nominees recommended by stockholders so long as such
recommendations are made in accordance with our Bylaws. Nominees recommended by stockholders in
compliance with our Bylaws will be evaluated on the same basis as other nominees considered by the
Nominating Committee.
We also have a compliance committee that consists exclusively of three Independent Directors
(the Compliance Committee). The Compliance Committees function is to review and assess
managements compliance with applicable securities laws, rules and regulations, monitor compliance
with our Code of Ethics, and handle other matters as the Board or committee chair deems
appropriate. The Compliance Committee members are Conrad S. Ciccotello, John R. Graham and Charles
E. Heath (Chairman).
The Board of Directors role in our risk oversight reflects its responsibility under
applicable state law to oversee generally, rather than to manage, our operations. In line with this
oversight responsibility, the Board of Directors will receive reports and makes inquiry at its
regular meetings and as needed regarding the nature and extent of significant risks (including
investment, compliance and valuation risks) that potentially could have a materially adverse impact
on our business operations, investment performance or reputation, but relies upon our management
to assist it in identifying and understanding the nature and extent of such risks and determining
whether, and to what extent, such risks may be eliminated or mitigated. In addition to reports and
other information received from our management regarding our investment program and activities, the
Board of Directors as part of its risk oversight efforts will meet at its regular meetings and as
needed with the our Advisers Chief Compliance Officer to discuss, among other things, risk issues
and issues regarding our policies, procedures and controls. The Board of Directors may be assisted
in performing aspects of its role in risk oversight by the Audit Committee and such other standing
or special committees as may be established from time to time. For example, the Audit Committee
regularly meets with our independent public accounting firm to review, among other things, reports
on our internal controls for financial reporting.
The Board of Directors believes that not all risks that may affect us can be identified, that
it may not be practical or cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be
necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve our goals and
objectives, and that the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain risks may
be limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the directors as to risk
management matters are typically summaries of relevant information and may be inaccurate or
incomplete. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the risk management oversight of the
Board of Directors is subject to substantial limitations.
Directors and officers who are interested persons of ours will receive no salary or fees from
us. For the 2011 fiscal year, each Independent Director will receive from us an annual retainer in
an amount to be determined following this offering and a fee of $2,000 (and reimbursement for
related expenses) for each meeting of the Board or Audit Committee attended in person (or $1,000
for each Board or Audit Committee meeting attended telephonically, or for each Audit Committee
meeting attended in person that is held on the same day as a Board meeting), and an additional
$1,000 for each other committee meeting attended in person or telephonically. No director or
officer is entitled to receive pension or retirement benefits from us.
S-17
The following table sets forth the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by
each director of the Fund as of December 31, 2010.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate Dollar Range of |
|
|
|
|
Equity Securities in all |
|
|
Aggregate Dollar Range of |
|
Registered Investment |
|
|
Fund Securities |
|
Companies Overseen by |
|
|
Beneficially Owned By |
|
Director in Family of |
Name of Director |
|
Director** |
|
Investment Companies* |
Independent Directors |
|
|
|
|
Conrad S. Ciccotello |
|
|
|
Over $100,000 |
John R. Graham |
|
|
|
Over $100,000 |
Charles E. Heath |
|
|
|
Over $100,000 |
Interested Directors |
|
|
|
|
H. Kevin Birzer |
|
|
|
Over $100,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Includes the Fund, TYG, TYY, TYN, TTO, TPZ and NTG. |
|
|
** |
|
As of December 31, 2010, the officers and directors of the Fund,
as a group, owned less than 1% of any class of the Funds
outstanding shares of stock. |
|
Indemnification of Directors and Officers
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 which is established by a final
judgment as being material to the cause of action. Our Charter (the Charter) contains such a
provision which eliminates directors and officers liability to the maximum extent permitted by
Maryland law and the 1940 Act.
Our Charter authorizes, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law and the 1940 Act, us
to indemnify any present or former director or officer or any individual who, while a director or
officer of ours and at our request, serves or has served another corporation, real estate
investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a
director, officer, partner or trustee, from and against any claim or liability to which that person
may become subject or which that person may incur by reason of his or her status as a present or
former director or officer of ours or as a present or former director, officer, partner or trustee
of another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee
benefit plan or other enterprise, and to pay or reimburse his or her reasonable expenses in advance
of final disposition of a proceeding. Our Bylaws obligate us, to the maximum extent permitted by
Maryland law to indemnify any present or former director or officer or any individual who, while a
director of ours and at our request, serves or has served another corporation, real estate
investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a
director, officer, partner or trustee and who is made, or threatened to be made, a party to the
proceeding by reason of his or her service in that capacity from and against any claim or liability
to which that person may become subject or which that person may incur by reason of his or her
status as a present or former director or officer of ours and to pay or reimburse his or her
reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding. Our obligation to indemnify
any director, officer or other individual, however, is limited by the 1940 Act which prohibits us
from indemnifying any director, officer or other individual from any liability resulting from the
willful misconduct, bad faith, gross negligence in the performance of duties or reckless disregard
of applicable obligations and duties of the directors, officers or other individuals. To the
maximum extent permitted by Maryland law and the 1940 Act, our Charter and Bylaws also permit us to
indemnify and advance expenses to any person who served a predecessor of ours in any of the
capacities described above and any employee or agent of ours or a predecessor of ours.
S-18
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 is made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of his 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, or
threatened to 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
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 good faith belief that he has met the standard of conduct necessary
for indemnification by the corporation, and (b) a written undertaking by him or on his behalf to
repay the amount paid or reimbursed by the corporation if it is ultimately determined that the
standard of conduct was not met. Our obligation to indemnify any director, officer or other
individual, however, is limited by the 1940 Act, which prohibits us from indemnifying any director,
officer or other individual from any liability resulting from the willful misconduct, bad faith,
gross negligence in the performance of duties or reckless disregard of applicable obligations and
duties of the directors, officers or other individuals.
Investment Adviser
Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. serves as our investment adviser pursuant to an Investment
Advisory Agreement (the Advisory Agreement). Our Adviser specializes in managing portfolios of
investments in listed energy infrastructure companies. Our Adviser was formed in 2002 to provide
portfolio management services to institutional and high-net worth investors seeking professional
management of their MLP investments. Our Adviser is wholly-owned by Tortoise Holdings, LLC, a
holding company. Montage Investments, LLC (Montage Investments), a registered investment
adviser, owns a majority interest in Tortoise Holdings, LLC with the remaining interests held by
the five Managing Directors of our Adviser and certain other senior employees of our Adviser. In
September, 2009, our Advisers five Managing Directors entered into employment agreements with our
Adviser.
Our Adviser is located at 11550 Ash Street, Suite 300, Leawood, Kansas 66211. As of August 31,
2011, our Adviser had approximately $6.5 billion in assets under management in six publicly traded
closed-end funds, an open-end fund and other managed accounts.
Investment Committee
Subject to the supervision of the Board of Directors, and pursuant to the Advisory Agreement,
our investment committee is responsible for management of our investments. Our investment
committee determines which portfolio securities will be purchased or sold, arranges for the placing
of orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities, manages our covered call option
strategy, selects brokers or dealers to place those orders, maintains books, provides certain
clerical, bookkeeping and other administrative services and records with respect to our securities
transactions and reports to the Board of Directors on our investments and performance.
The investment committees members are H. Kevin Birzer, Zachary Hamel, Kenneth Malvey, Terry
Matlack and David Schulte, all of whom share responsibility for management of our investments. It
is the policy of the investment committee that any investment decision relating to our portfolio
must be approved by their unanimous vote. The members of the investment committee have the
following years of investment experience: Mr. Birzer 30 years; Mr. Hamel22 years; Mr.
Malvey23 years; Mr. Matlack29 years; and Mr. Schulte 22 years.
S-19
All members of our investment committee are employees of our Adviser.
The following table provides information about the number of and total assets in other
accounts managed on a day-to-day basis by each investment committee member as of August 31,
2011.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Total Assets of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts |
|
Accounts |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Paying a |
|
Paying a |
|
|
Number of |
|
Total Assets of |
|
Performance |
|
Performance |
Name of Manager |
|
Accounts |
|
Accounts |
|
Fee |
|
Fee |
H. Kevin Birzer |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered investment companies |
|
|
8 |
|
|
$ |
4,542,074,174 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled investment vehicles |
|
|
5 |
|
|
$ |
163,960,267 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
128,863,211 |
|
Other accounts |
|
|
490 |
|
|
$ |
1,839,589,426 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Zachary A. Hamel |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered investment companies |
|
|
8 |
|
|
$ |
4,542,074,174 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled investment vehicles |
|
|
7 |
|
|
$ |
225,962,235 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
128,863,211 |
|
Other accounts |
|
|
501 |
|
|
$ |
2,927319,196 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Kenneth P. Malvey |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered investment companies |
|
|
8 |
|
|
$ |
4,542,074,174 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled investment vehicles |
|
|
7 |
|
|
$ |
225,962,235 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
128,863,211 |
|
Other accounts |
|
|
501 |
|
|
$ |
2,927,319,196 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Terry C. Matlack |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered investment companies |
|
|
8 |
|
|
$ |
4,542,074,174 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled investment vehicles |
|
|
5 |
|
|
$ |
163,960,267 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
128,863,211 |
|
Other accounts |
|
|
490 |
|
|
$ |
1,839,589,426 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
David J. Schulte |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered investment companies |
|
|
8 |
|
|
$ |
4,542,074,174 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
Other pooled investment vehicles |
|
|
5 |
|
|
$ |
163,960,267 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
128,863,211 |
|
Other accounts |
|
|
490 |
|
|
$ |
1,839,589,426 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
None of Messrs. Birzer, Hamel, Malvey, Matlack or Schulte receive any direct compensation from
us or any other of the managed accounts reflected in the table above. Messrs. Birzer, Hamel,
Malvey, Matlack and Schulte are full-time employees of our Adviser and receive a fixed salary for
the services they provide. Each of Messrs. Birzer, Hamel, Malvey, Matlack and Schulte own an equity
interest in Tortoise Holdings, LLC, the sole member of our Adviser, and each thus benefits from
increases in the net income of our Adviser.
The
Adviser has hired 440 Investment Group, LLC (440 Investment
Group) to provide research assistance and option market
analysis for its covered call option strategy. 440 Investment Group, an affiliate
of the Adviser owned by Montage Investments, is a registered
investment adviser that specializes in alternative investments,
including option strategies. Its founders have over a decade of
alternative investment experience, including managing commodity,
agriculture and index option investment strategies.
In addition to portfolio management services, our Adviser is obligated to supply our Board and
officers with certain statistical information and reports, to oversee the maintenance of various
books and records and to arrange for the preservation of records in accordance with applicable
federal law and regulations. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, we pay our Adviser a fee
equal to 1.10% annually of our average monthly Managed Assets for the services rendered by it.
Managed Assets means our Total Assets minus accrued liabilities other than debt representing
financial leverage and the aggregate liquidation preference of any outstanding preferred stock. The
Adviser has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.25%, 0.20%, and 0.15% of average monthly Managed Assets for
the first, second and third years following this offering, respectively. Because the fee paid to
the Adviser is determined on the basis of our Managed Assets, the Advisers interest in determining
whether we should incur additional leverage will conflict with our interests.
Because the management fees paid to our Adviser are based upon a percentage of our Managed
Assets, fees paid to our Adviser are higher when we are leveraged; thus, our Adviser will have an
incentive to leverage us. Our Adviser intends to leverage us only when it believes it will serve
the best interests of our stockholders. Our average monthly Managed Assets are determined for the
purpose of calculating the management fee by taking the average of the monthly determinations of
Managed Assets during a given calendar quarter. The fees are payable for each calendar quarter
within five (5) days of the end of that quarter.
S-20
The Advisory Agreement provides that we will pay all expenses other than those expressly
stated to be payable by our Adviser, which expenses payable by us shall include, without implied
limitation: (1) expenses of maintaining and continuing our existence and related overhead,
including, to the extent services are provided by personnel of our Adviser or its affiliates,
office space and facilities and personnel compensation, training and benefits, (2) our registration
under the 1940 Act, (3) commissions, spreads, fees and other expenses connected with the
acquisition, holding and disposition of securities and other investments, including placement and
similar fees in connection with direct placements entered into on our behalf, (4) auditing,
accounting and legal expenses, (5) taxes and interest, (6) governmental fees, (7) expenses of
listing our shares with a stock exchange, and expenses of issue, sale, repurchase and redemption
(if any) of our shares, including expenses of conducting tender offers for the purpose of
repurchasing our shares, (8) expenses of registering and qualifying us and our shares under
federal and state securities laws and of preparing and filing registration statements and
amendments for such purposes, (9) expenses of communicating with stockholders, including website
expenses and the expenses of preparing, printing and mailing press releases, reports and other
notices to stockholders and of meetings of stockholders and proxy solicitations therefor, (10)
expenses of reports to governmental officers and commissions, (11) insurance expenses, (12)
association membership dues, (13) fees, expenses and disbursements of custodians and subcustodians
for all services to us (including without limitation safekeeping of funds, securities and other
investments, keeping of books, accounts and records, and determination of NAVs), (14) fees,
expenses and disbursements of transfer agents, dividend and interest paying agents, stockholder
servicing agents and registrars for all services to us, (15) compensation and expenses of our
directors who are not members of our Advisers organization, (16) pricing and valuation services
employed by us, (17) all expenses incurred in connection with leveraging of our assets through a
line of credit or other indebtedness or issuing and maintaining notes or preferred stock, (18) all
expenses incurred in connection with offerings of our common and preferred stock and debt
securities, and (19) such non-recurring items as may arise, including expenses incurred in
connection with litigation, proceedings and claims and our obligation to indemnify our directors,
officers and stockholders with respect thereto.
The Advisory Agreement provides that our Adviser will not be liable in any way for any
default, failure or defect in any of the securities comprising the portfolio if it has satisfied
the duties and the standard of care, diligence and skill set forth in the Advisory Agreement.
However, our Adviser will be liable to us for any loss, damage, claim, cost, charge, expense or
liability resulting from our Advisers willful misconduct, bad faith or gross negligence or
disregard by our Adviser of our Advisers duties or standard of care, diligence and skill set forth
in the Advisory Agreement or a material breach or default of our Advisers obligations under the
Advisory Agreement.
The Advisory Agreement has a term ending on the second anniversary of this offering and may be
continued from year to year thereafter as provided in the 1940 Act. The Advisory Agreement will be
submitted to the Board of Directors for renewal each year following its initial term. The Advisory
Agreement will continue from year to year, provided such continuance is approved by a majority of
the Board or by vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding voting securities. In
addition, the Advisory Agreement must be approved annually by vote of a majority of the Independent
Directors. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated by our Adviser or us, without penalty, on sixty
(60) days written notice to the other. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the
event of its assignment.
Code of Ethics
We and our Adviser have each adopted a Code of Ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act, which
is applicable to officers, directors and designated employees of us and our Adviser (collectively,
the Codes). Subject to certain limitations, the Codes permit those officers, directors and
designated employees of ours, and our Adviser (Covered Persons) to invest in securities,
including securities that may be purchased or held by us. The Codes contain provisions and
requirements designed to identify and address certain conflicts of interest between personal
investment activities of Covered Persons and the interests of investment advisory clients such as
ours. Among other things, the Codes prohibit certain types of transactions absent prior approval,
imposes time periods during which personal transactions may not be made in certain securities, and
requires submission of duplicate broker confirmations and statements and quarterly reporting of
securities transactions. Exceptions to these and other provisions of the Codes may be granted in
particular circumstances after review by appropriate personnel.
The Code of Ethics can be reviewed and copied at the SECs Public Reference Room in
Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by
calling the SEC at (202) 551-8090.
S-21
Our code of ethics is also available on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov, and, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following
e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington,
D.C. 20549-0102.
Our Code of Ethics is also available on our Advisers website at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Execution of Portfolio Transactions
Our Adviser is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities for us, broker-dealer
selection, negotiation of brokerage commission rates, and management of our covered call strategy.
Our Advisers primary consideration in effecting a security transaction will be to obtain the best
execution. In selecting a broker-dealer to execute each particular transaction, our Adviser will
initially consider their ability to execute transactions at the most favorable prices and lowest
overall execution costs, while also taking into consideration other relevant factors, such as the
reliability, integrity and financial condition of the broker-dealer, the size of and difficulty in
executing the order, the quality of execution and custodial services, and the provision of valuable
research services that can be reasonably expected to enhance the investment return of clients
managed by our Adviser. Research services may include reports on energy infrastructure companies,
the market, the economy and other general widely distributed research, and may be used by our
Adviser in servicing all funds and accounts managed by the Adviser, including us. Receipt of
research is one of a number of factors considered in assigning an overall internal ranking to
brokers. The price to us in any transaction may be less favorable than that available from another
broker-dealer if the difference is reasonably justified by other aspects of the execution services
offered.
We may, from time to time, enter into arrangements with placement agents in connection with
direct placement transactions. In evaluating placement agent proposals, our Adviser will consider
each brokers access to issuers of pipeline and other energy infrastructure company securities and
experience in the energy infrastructure market, particularly the direct placement market. In
addition to these factors, our Adviser will consider whether the proposed services are customary,
whether the proposed fee schedules are within the range of customary rates, whether any proposal
would obligate us to enter into transactions involving a minimum fee, dollar amount or volume of
securities, or into any transaction whatsoever, and other terms such as indemnification provisions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may from time to time determine, our Adviser shall not
be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any duty solely by reason of its having
caused us to pay a broker or dealer that provides brokerage and research services to our Adviser an
amount of commission for effecting an investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission
another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting that transaction, if our Adviser
determines in good faith that such amount of commission was reasonable in relation to the value of
the brokerage and research services provided by such broker or dealer, viewed in terms of either
that particular transaction or our Advisers overall responsibilities with respect to us and to
other clients of our Adviser as to which our Adviser exercises investment discretion. Our Adviser
is further authorized to allocate the orders placed by it on behalf of the Fund to such brokers and
dealers who also provide research or statistical material or other services to us, our Adviser or
to any sub-adviser. Such allocation shall be in such amounts and proportions as our Adviser shall
determine and our Adviser will report on said allocations regularly to the Board of Directors
indicating the brokers to whom such allocations have been made and the basis therefor.
Portfolio Turnover
Our annual portfolio turnover rate may vary greatly from year to year. We may, but under
normal market conditions, do not intend to, engage in frequent and active trading of portfolio
securities. Although we cannot accurately predict our portfolio turnover rate, we expect to
maintain relatively low (e.g., less than 30% under normal market circumstances) turnover of
our core equity portfolio under normal market conditions, not including purchases and sales of equity
securities and call options in connection with our call option program. On an overall basis, our
annual turnover rate may exceed 100%. A high turnover rate involves greater trading costs to us and
may result in greater realization of taxable capital gains.
S-22
NET ASSET VALUE
We compute the NAV of our common stock as of the close of trading of the NYSE (normally 4:00
p.m. Eastern time) no less frequently than the last business day of each calendar month and at such
other times as the Board of Directors may determine. When considering an offering of common stock,
we calculate our NAV on a more frequent basis, generally daily, to the extent necessary to comply
with the provisions of the 1940 Act. We currently intend to make our NAV available for publication
weekly on our Advisers website. The NAV per common share equals our NAV divided by the number of
outstanding common shares. Our NAV equals the value of our Total Assets less: (i) all of our
liabilities (including accrued expenses); (ii) accumulated and unpaid dividends on any outstanding
preferred stock; (iii) the aggregate liquidation preference of any outstanding preferred stock;
(iv) accrued and unpaid interest payments on any outstanding indebtedness; (v) the aggregate
principal amount of any outstanding indebtedness; and (vi) any distributions payable on our common
stock.
We will determine the value of our assets and liabilities in accordance with valuation
procedures adopted by our Board of Directors. Securities for which market quotations are readily
available shall be valued at market value. If a market value cannot be obtained or if our Adviser
determines that the value of a security as so obtained does not represent value as of the
measurement date (due to a significant development subsequent to the time its price is determined
or otherwise), value for the security shall be determined pursuant to the methodologies established
by our Board of Directors.
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The value for equity securities and equity-related securities is determined by using
readily available market quotations from the principal market. For equity and
equity-related securities that are freely tradable and listed on a securities exchange or
over the counter market, value is determined using the last sale price on that exchange or
over-the-counter market on the measurement date. If the security is listed on more than one
exchange, we will use the price of the exchange that we consider to be the principal
exchange on which the security is traded. Securities listed on the NASDAQ will be valued
at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may not necessarily represent the last sale
price. If a security is traded on the measurement date, then the last reported sale price
on the exchange or over-the-counter (OTC) market on which the security is principally
traded, up to the time of valuation, is used. If there were no reported sales on the
securitys principal exchange or OTC market on the measurement date, then the average
between the last bid price and last asked price, as reported by the pricing service, shall
be used. We will obtain direct written broker-dealer quotations if a security is not traded
on an exchange or quotations are not available from an approved pricing service.
Exchange-traded options will be valued at the mean of the best bid and best asked prices
across all option exchanges. |
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An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a private placement
transaction without registration is subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the
securitys liquidity and value. Such securities that are convertible into publicly traded
common shares or securities that may be sold pursuant to Rule 144, shall generally be
valued based on the value of the freely tradable common share counterpart less an
applicable discount. Generally, the discount will initially be equal to the discount at
which we purchased the securities. To the extent that such securities are convertible or
otherwise become freely tradable within a time frame that may be reasonably determined, an
amortization schedule may be determined for the discount. |
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Fixed income securities (other than the short-term securities as described below) are
valued by (i) using readily available market quotations based upon the last updated sale
price or a market value from an approved pricing service generated by a pricing matrix
based upon yield data for securities with similar characteristics or (ii) by obtaining a
direct written broker-dealer quotation from a dealer who has made a market in the security. |
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A fixed income security acquired in a private placement transaction without
registration is subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the securitys liquidity
and value. Among the various factors that can affect the value of a privately placed
security are (i) whether the issuing company has freely trading fixed income securities of
the same maturity and interest rate (either through an initial public offering or
otherwise); (ii) whether the company has an effective registration statement in place for
the securities; and (iii) whether a market is made in the securities. The securities
normally will be valued at amortized cost |
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S-23
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unless the portfolio companys condition or other factors lead to a determination of value
at a different amount. |
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Short-term securities, including bonds, notes, debentures and other fixed income
securities, and money market instruments such as certificates of deposit, commercial paper,
bankers acceptances and obligations of domestic and foreign banks, with remaining
maturities of 60 days or less, for which reliable market quotations are readily available
are valued on an amortized cost basis. |
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Other assets will be valued at market value pursuant to written valuation procedures
adopted by our Board of Directors, or if a market value cannot be obtained or if our
Adviser determines that the value of a security as so obtained does not represent value as
of the measurement date (due to a significant development subsequent to the time its price
is determined or otherwise), value shall be determined pursuant to the methodologies
established by our Board of Directors. |
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Valuations of public company securities determined pursuant to fair value methodologies will
be presented to our Board of Directors or a designated committee thereof for approval at the next
regularly scheduled board meeting.
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations
affecting the Fund and its stockholders. The discussion reflects applicable U.S. federal income tax
laws of the U.S. as of the date of this prospectus, which tax laws may be changed or subject to new
interpretations by the courts or the Internal Revenue Service (the IRS), possibly with
retroactive effect. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of all U.S. federal
income, estate or gift, or state, local or foreign tax concerns affecting the Fund and its
stockholders (including stockholders owning large positions in the Fund). The discussion set forth
herein does not constitute tax advice. Investors are urged to consult their own tax advisers to
determine the tax consequences to them of investing in the Fund.
In addition, no attempt is made to address tax concerns applicable to an investor with a
special tax status, such as a financial institution, real estate investment trust, insurance
company, RIC, individual retirement account, other tax-exempt entity, dealer in securities or
non-U.S. investor. Furthermore, this discussion does not reflect possible application of the
alternative minimum tax. Unless otherwise noted, this discussion assumes the Funds stock is held
by U.S. persons and that such shares are held as capital assets.
A U.S. holder is a beneficial owner that is for U.S. federal income tax purposes:
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a citizen or individual resident of the United States (including certain former
citizens and former long-term residents); |
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a corporation or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income
tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any
state thereof or the District of Columbia; |
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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 with respect to which a court within the United States is able to
exercise primary supervision over its administration and one or more U.S. stockholders
have the authority to control all of its substantial decisions or the trust has made a
valid election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S.
person. |
A Non-U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of shares of the Fund that is an individual,
corporation, trust, or estate and is not a U.S. holder. If a partnership (including any entity
treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds shares of the Fund, the tax
treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and
the activities of the partnership.
S-24
Taxation as a RIC
The Fund intends to elect to be treated as, and to qualify each year for the special tax
treatment afforded, a RIC under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
Code). As long as the Fund meets certain requirements that govern the Funds source of income,
diversification of assets and distribution of earnings to stockholders, the Fund will not be
subject to U.S. federal income tax on income distributed (or treated as distributed, as described
below) to its stockholders. With respect to the source of income requirement, the Fund must derive
in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income (including tax-exempt interest) from (i)
dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities loans, and gains from the sale or
other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including but not
limited to gains from options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to its business
of investing in such shares, securities or currencies and (ii) net income derived from interests in
qualified publicly traded partnerships. A qualified publicly traded partnership is generally
defined as a publicly traded partnership under Section 7704 of the Code, but does not include a
publicly traded partnership if 90% or more of its income is described in (i) above. For purposes of
the income test, the Fund will be treated as receiving directly its share of the income of any
partnership that is not a qualified publicly traded partnership.
With respect to the diversification of assets requirement, the Fund must diversify its
holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of each taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the value of
the Funds Total Assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities, the
securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited for purposes of
such calculation, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of
the Funds Total Assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer
and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of the Funds Total Assets is invested in the securities of
any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities or the securities of other RICs), the
securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of any two or more issuers that the Fund
controls and that are determined to be engaged in the same, similar or related trades or
businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships.
If the Fund qualifies as a RIC and distributes to its stockholders at least 90% of the sum of
(i) its investment company taxable income, as that term is defined in the Code (which includes,
among other items, dividends, taxable interest, and the excess of any net short-term capital gains
over net long-term capital losses, as reduced by certain deductible expenses) without regard to the
deduction for dividends paid and (ii) the excess of its gross tax-exempt interest, if any, over
certain deductions attributable to such interest that are otherwise disallowed, the Fund will be
relieved of U.S. federal income tax on any income of the Fund, including long-term capital gains,
distributed to stockholders. However, if the Fund retains any investment company taxable income or
net capital gain (i.e., the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital
loss), it will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate federal income tax rates
(currently at a maximum rate of 35%) on the amount retained. The Fund intends to distribute at
least annually substantially all of its investment company taxable income, net tax-exempt interest,
and net capital gain. Under the Code, the Fund will generally be subject to a nondeductible 4%
federal excise tax on the undistributed portion of its ordinary income and capital gains if it
fails to meet certain distribution requirements with respect to each calendar year. In order to
avoid the 4% federal excise tax, the required minimum distribution is generally equal to the sum of
(1) 98% of the Funds ordinary income (computed on a calendar year basis), (2) 98.2% of the Funds
capital gain net income (generally computed for the one-year period ending on October 31), and (3)
certain amounts from previous years to the extent such amounts have not been treated as distributed
or been subject to tax under Subchapter M of the Code. The Fund generally intends to make
distributions in a timely manner in an amount at least equal to the required minimum distribution
and therefore, under normal market conditions, does not currently expect to be subject to this
excise tax.
The Fund intends to invest a portion of its assets in MLPs. Net income derived from an
interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership, which generally includes MLPs, is included in
the sources of income from which a RIC must derive 90% of its gross income. However, not more than
25% of the value of a RICs Total Assets can be invested in the securities of qualified publicly
traded partnerships. The Fund intends to invest only in MLPs that will constitute qualified
publicly traded partnerships for purposes of the RIC rules, and not more than 25% of the value of
the Funds Total Assets will be invested in the securities of publicly traded partnerships.
S-25
Federal Income Taxation of MLPs
MLPs are similar to corporations in many respects, but differ in others, especially in the way
they are taxed for federal income tax purposes. A corporation is a distinct legal entity, separate
from its stockholders and employees and is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax
purposes as well. Like individual taxpayers, a corporation must pay a federal income tax on its
income. To the extent the corporation distributes its income to its stockholders in the form of
dividends, the stockholders must pay federal income tax on the dividends they receive. For this
reason, it is said that corporate income is double-taxed, or taxed at two levels.
An MLP that satisfies the Qualifying Income rules described below, and does not elect
otherwise, is treated for federal income tax purposes as a pass-through entity. No federal income
tax is paid at the partnership level. A partnerships income is considered earned by all the
partners; it is allocated among all the partners in proportion to their interests in the
partnership (generally as provided in the partnership agreement), and each partner pays tax on his,
her or its share of the partnerships income. All the other items that go into determining taxable
income and tax owed are passed through to the partners as well capital gains and losses,
deductions, credits, etc. Partnership income is thus said to be single-taxed or taxed only at one
level that of the partner.
The Code generally requires publicly traded partnerships to be treated as corporations for
federal income tax purposes. However, if the publicly traded partnership satisfies certain
requirements and does not elect otherwise, the publicly traded partnership will be taxed as a
partnership for federal income tax purposes, referred to herein as an MLP. Under these
requirements, an MLP must derive each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income from Qualifying
Income.
Qualifying Income for MLPs includes interest, dividends, real estate rents, gain from the sale
or disposition of real property, certain income and gain from commodities or commodity futures, and
income and gain from certain mineral or natural resources activities. Mineral or natural resources
activities that generate Qualifying Income include income and gains from the exploration,
development, mining or production, processing, refining, transportation (including pipelines
transporting gas, oil or products thereof), or the marketing of any mineral or natural resource
(including fertilizer, geothermal energy, and timber). Most MLPs today are in energy, timber, or
real estate related businesses.
Because the MLP itself does not pay federal income tax, its income or loss is allocated to its
investors, irrespective of whether the investors receive any cash payment from the MLP. MLPs
generally make quarterly cash distributions. Although they resemble corporate dividends, MLP
distributions are treated differently. The MLP distribution is treated as a return of capital to
the extent of the investors basis in his MLP interest and, to the extent the distribution exceeds
the investors basis in the MLP interest, capital gain. The investors original basis is the price
paid for the units. The basis is adjusted downward with each distribution and allocation of
deductions (such as depreciation) and losses, and upwards with each allocation of income.
When the units are sold, the difference between the sales price and the investors adjusted
basis is the gain or loss for federal income tax purposes. The partner generally will not be taxed
on distributions until (1) he sells his MLP units and pays tax on his gain, which gain is increased
resulting from the basis decrease resulting from prior distributions; or (2) his basis reaches
zero.
Failure to Qualify as a RIC
If the Fund is unable to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement or otherwise fails to
qualify as a RIC in any year, it will be taxed in the same manner as an ordinary corporation and
distributions to the Funds stockholders will not be deductible by the Fund in computing its
taxable income. In such event, the Funds distributions, to the extent derived from the Funds
current or accumulated earnings and profits, would constitute dividends, which would generally be
eligible for the dividends received deduction available to corporate stockholders, and
non-corporate stockholders would generally be able to treat such distributions as qualified
dividend income eligible for reduced rates of U.S. federal income taxation in taxable years
beginning on or before December 31, 2012, provided in each case that certain holding period and
other requirements are satisfied. Distributions in excess of the Funds current and accumulated
earnings and profits would be treated first as a return of capital to the extent of the
stockholders tax basis in their Fund shares, and any remaining distributions would be treated as a
capital gain.
S-26
Earnings and profits are generally treated, for federal income tax purposes, as first being
used to pay distributions on preferred stock, and then to the extent remaining, if any, to pay
distributions on the common stock. To qualify as a RIC in a subsequent taxable year, the Fund would
be required to satisfy the source-of-income, the asset diversification, and the annual distribution
requirements for that year and dispose of any earnings and profits from any year in which the Fund
failed to qualify for tax treatment as a RIC. Subject to a limited exception applicable to RICs
that qualified as such under the Code for at least one year prior to disqualification and that
requalify as a RIC no later than the second year following the nonqualifying year, the Fund would
be subject to tax on any unrealized built-in gains in the assets held by it during the period in
which the Fund failed to qualify for tax treatment as a RIC that are recognized within the
subsequent 10 years, unless the Fund made a special election to pay corporate-level tax on such
built-in gain at the time of its requalification as a RIC.
Taxation for U.S. Stockholders
Assuming the Fund qualifies as a RIC, distributions paid to you by the Fund from its
investment company taxable income will generally be taxable to you as ordinary income to the extent
of the Funds earnings and profits, whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. A
portion of such distributions (if designated by the Fund) may qualify (i) in the case of corporate
stockholders, for the dividends received deduction under Section 243 of the Code to the extent that
the Funds income consists of dividend income from U.S. corporations, excluding distributions from
certain entities, including REITs, or (ii) in the case of individual stockholders for taxable years
beginning on or prior to December 31, 2012, as qualified dividend income eligible to be taxed at
reduced rates under Section 1(h)(11) of the Code (which generally provides for a maximum rate of
15%) to the extent that the Fund receives qualified dividend income, and provided in each case that
certain holding period and other requirements are met. Qualified dividend income is, in general,
dividend income from taxable domestic corporations and qualified foreign corporations (e.g.,
generally, if the issuer is incorporated in a possession of the United States or in a country with
a qualified comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States, or if the stock with respect to
which such dividend is paid is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United
States). To be treated as qualified dividend income, the stockholder must hold the shares paying
otherwise qualifying dividend income more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days
before the ex-dividend date. A stockholders holding period may be reduced for purposes of this
rule if the stockholder engages in certain risk reduction transactions with respect to the stock. A
qualified foreign corporation generally excludes any foreign corporation that, for the taxable year
of the corporation in which the dividend was paid or the preceding taxable year, is a passive
foreign investment company. Distributions made to you from an excess of net long-term capital gain
over net short-term capital losses (capital gain dividends), including capital gain dividends
credited to you but retained by the Fund, will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain if they
have been properly designated by the Fund, regardless of the length of time you have owned our
shares. The maximum tax rate on capital gain dividends received by individuals is generally 15% for
such gain realized before January 1, 2013.
Distributions in excess of the Funds earnings and profits will be treated by you, first, as a
tax-free return of capital, which is applied against and will reduce the adjusted tax basis of your
shares and, after such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, will generally constitute capital
gain to you. Under current law, the maximum 15% tax rate on long-term capital gains and qualified
dividend income will cease to apply for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012; beginning
in 2013, the maximum rate on long-term capital gains is scheduled to increase to 20%, and all
ordinary dividends (including amounts treated as qualified dividends under the law currently in
effect) will be taxed as ordinary income. Generally, not later than 60 days after the close of its
taxable year, the Fund will provide you with a written notice designating the amount of any
qualified dividend income or capital gain dividends and other distributions.
As a RIC, the Fund will be subject to the AMT, but any items that are treated differently for
AMT purposes must be apportioned between the Fund and the stockholders and this may affect the
stockholders AMT liabilities. The Fund intends in general to apportion these items in the same
proportion that dividends paid to each stockholder bear to the Funds taxable income (determined
without regard to the dividends paid deduction).
Sales and other dispositions of the Funds shares generally are taxable events. You should
consult your own tax adviser with reference to your individual circumstances to determine whether
any particular transaction in the Funds shares is properly treated as a sale or exchange for
federal income tax purposes and the tax treatment of any gains or losses recognized in such
transactions. The sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund will generally
S-27
result in capital gain or loss to you equal to the difference between the amount realized and
your adjusted tax basis in the shares sold or exchanged, and will be long-term capital gain or loss
if your holding period for the shares is more than one year at the time of sale. Any loss upon the
sale or exchange of shares held for six months or less will be treated as long-term capital loss to
the extent of any capital gain dividends you received (including amounts credited as an
undistributed capital gain dividend) with respect to such shares. A loss you realize on a sale or
exchange of shares of the Fund generally will be disallowed if you acquire other substantially
identical shares within a 61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date
that you dispose of the shares. In such case, the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to
reflect the disallowed loss. Present law taxes both long-term and short-term capital gain of
corporations at the rates applicable to ordinary income of corporations. For non-corporate
taxpayers, short-term capital gain will currently be taxed at the rate applicable to ordinary
income, currently a maximum rate of 35%, while long-term capital gain realized before January 1,
2013 generally will be taxed at a maximum rate of 15%. Capital losses are subject to certain
limitations.
For purpose of determining (i) whether the annual distribution requirement is satisfied for
any year and (ii) the amount of capital gain dividends paid for that year, the Fund may, under
certain circumstances, elect to treat a distribution that is paid during the following taxable year
as if it had been paid during the taxable year in question. If the Fund makes such an election,
the U.S. stockholder will still be treated as receiving the distribution in the taxable year in
which the distribution is made. However, if the Fund pays you a distribution in January that was
declared in the previous October, November or December to stockholders of record on a specified
date in one of such months, then such distribution will be treated for tax purposes as being paid
by the Fund and received by you on December 31 of the year in which the distribution was declared.
A stockholder may elect not to have all distributions automatically reinvested in Fund shares
pursuant to the Plan. If a stockholder elects not to participate in the Plan, such stockholder will
receive distributions in cash. For taxpayers subject to U.S. federal income tax, all distributions
will generally be taxable, as discussed above, regardless of whether a stockholder takes them in
cash or they are reinvested pursuant to the Plan in additional shares of the Fund.
If a stockholders distributions are automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan, for U.S.
federal income tax purposes, the stockholder will generally be treated as having received a taxable
distribution in the amount of the cash dividend that the stockholder would have received if the
stockholder had elected to receive cash. Under certain circumstances, however, if a stockholders
distributions are automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan and the Plan Agent invests the
distribution in newly issued shares of the Fund, the stockholder may be treated as receiving a
taxable distribution equal to the fair market value of the stock the stockholder receives.
The Fund intends to distribute substantially all realized capital gains, if any, at least
annually. If, however, the Fund were to retain any net capital gain, the Fund may designate the
retained amount as undistributed capital gains in a notice to stockholders who, if subject to U.S.
federal income tax on long-term capital gains, (i) will be required to include in income as
long-term capital gain, their proportionate shares of such undistributed amount and (ii) will be
entitled to credit their proportionate shares of the federal income tax paid by the Fund on the
undistributed amount against their U.S. federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim
refunds to the extent the credit exceeds such liabilities. If such an event occurs, the tax basis
of shares owned by a stockholder of the Fund will, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, generally
be increased by the difference between the amount of undistributed net capital gain included in the
stockholders gross income and the tax deemed paid by the stockholders.
Call Options
The Funds covered call options generally will be treated as options governed by Code Section
1234. Pursuant to Code Section 1234, if a written option expires unexercised, the premium received
is short-term capital gain to the Fund. If the Fund enters into a closing transaction, the
difference between the amount paid to close out its position and the premium received for writing
the option is short-term capital gain or loss. If a call option written by the Fund is cash
settled, any resulting gain or loss will generally be short-term capital gain or loss.
The Code contains special rules that apply to straddles, defined generally as the holding of
offsetting positions with respect to personal property. For example, the straddle rules normally
apply when a taxpayer holds stock and an offsetting option with respect to such stock or
substantially identical stock or securities. In general, investment positions will be offsetting if
there is a substantial diminution in the risk of loss from holding one
S-28
position by reason of holding one or more other positions. If two or more positions constitute
a straddle, recognition of a realized loss from one position must generally be deferred to the
extent of unrecognized gain in an offsetting position. In addition, long-term capital gain may be
recharacterized as short-term capital gain, or short-term capital loss as long-term capital loss.
Interest and other carrying charges allocable to personal property that is part of a straddle are
not currently deductible but must instead be capitalized. Similarly, wash sale rules apply to
prevent the recognition of loss by the Fund from the disposition of stock or securities at a loss
in a case in which identical or substantially identical stock or securities (or an option to
acquire such property) is or has been acquired within a prescribed period.
To the extent that any of the Funds positions constitute tax straddles which do not qualify
as a qualified covered call under Section 1092(c)(4), the impact upon the Funds income taxes
will include: dividends received on the long common stock leg of the straddle may not be eligible
for distributions that qualify as qualified dividend income or for the corporate dividends
received deduction, the Fund will generally realize short-term gain or loss on the long common
stock leg of the straddle (to the extent losses are not otherwise deferred) and, realized losses on
either the long common stock or the written (short) option legs of the straddle may be deferred for
tax purposes to the extent that both legs of the straddle are not closed within the same tax year.
In general, a qualified covered call option is an option that is written (sold) with respect
to stock that is held or acquired by a taxpayer in connection with granting the option which meets
certain requirements, including: the option is exchange-traded or, if over-the-counter, meets
certain IRS requirements, is granted more than 30 days prior to expiration, is not
deep-in-the-money (within the meaning of Section 1092), is not granted by an options dealer
(within the meaning of Section 1256(g)(8)) in connection with the option dealers activity of
dealing in options, and gain or loss with respect to such option is not ordinary income or loss.
Provided the Funds covered calls meet the definition of qualified covered calls and are not part
of a larger straddle, the general tax straddle holding period termination rules will not apply. As
a result, dividend income received with respect to the long common stock leg of the straddle may be
eligible for qualified dividend income and corporate dividends received deduction treatment
(assuming all other relevant requirements are met). In addition, the general tax straddle rules
requiring loss deferral and the capitalization of certain interest expense and carrying charges
will not apply. Qualified covered call option positions are, however, subject to special rules in
the case of options which are in-the-money (but still not deep-in-the-money) or for positions
which are closed near year end (and not within the same year end).
The Fund may enter into transactions that would be treated as Section 1256 Contracts under
the Code. In general, the Fund would be required to treat any Section 1256 Contracts as if they
were sold for their fair market value at the end of the Funds taxable year, and would be required
to recognize gain or loss on such deemed sale for federal income tax purposes even though the Fund
did not actually sell the contract and receive cash. Forty percent of such gain or loss would be
treated as short-term capital gain or loss and sixty percent of such gain or loss would be treated
as long-term capital gain or loss.
The Code allows a taxpayer to elect to offset gains and losses from positions that are part of
a mixed straddle. A mixed straddle is any straddle in which one or more but not all positions
are section 1256 contracts. The Fund may be eligible to elect to establish one or more mixed
straddle accounts for certain of its mixed straddle trading positions. The mixed straddle account
rules require a daily marking to market of all open positions in the account and a daily netting
of gains and losses from all positions in the account. At the end of a taxable year, the annual net
gains or losses from the mixed straddle account are recognized for tax purposes. The net capital
gain or loss is treated as 60 percent long-term and 40 percent short-term capital gain or loss if
attributable to the section 1256 contract positions, or all short-term capital gain or loss if
attributable to the non-section 1256 contract positions.
The Funds transactions in options will be subject to special provisions of the Code that,
among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by the Fund (i.e., may
affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital, or short-term or long-term), may accelerate
recognition of income to the Fund and may defer Fund losses. These rules could, therefore, affect
the character, amount and timing of distributions to stockholders. These provisions also (a) will
require the Fund to mark-to- market certain types of the positions in its portfolio (i.e., treat
them as if they were closed out), and (b) may cause the Fund to recognize income without receiving
cash with which to make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the distribution requirement
for qualifying to be taxed as
S-29
a RIC and the distribution requirement for avoiding excise taxes. The Fund will monitor its
transactions, will make the appropriate tax elections and will make the appropriate entries in its
books and records in order to mitigate the effect of these rules and prevent disqualification of
the Fund from being taxed as a RIC.
Withholding and Other
Further, certain of the Funds investment practices are subject to special and complex federal
income tax provisions that may, among other things, (i) convert distributions that would otherwise
constitute qualified dividend income into short-term capital gain or ordinary income taxed at the
higher rate applicable to ordinary income, (ii) treat distributions that would otherwise be
eligible for the corporate dividends received deduction as ineligible for such treatment, (iii)
disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or deductions, (iv) convert
long-term capital gain into short-term capital gain or ordinary income, (v) convert an ordinary
loss or deduction into a capital loss (the deductibility of which is more limited), (vi) cause the
Fund to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of cash, (vii) adversely affect
the time as to when a purchase or sale of stock or securities is deemed to occur, (viii) adversely
alter the characterization of certain complex financial transactions, and (ix) produce income that
will not qualify as good income for purposes of the 90% annual gross income requirement described
above. While it may not always be successful in doing so, the Fund will seek to avoid or minimize
any adverse tax consequences of its investment practices.
The Fund may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries, including
taxes on interest, dividends and capital gains with respect to its investments in those countries,
which would, if imposed, reduce the yield on or return from those investments. Tax treaties between
certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes in some cases. The Fund
does not expect to satisfy the requirements for passing through to its stockholders their pro rata
shares of qualified foreign taxes paid by the Fund, with the result that stockholders will not be
entitled to a tax deduction or credit for such taxes on their own US federal income tax returns,
although the Funds payment of such taxes will remain eligible for a foreign tax credit or a
deduction in computing the Funds taxable income.
The Fund is required in certain circumstances to backup withhold at a current rate of 28%
(which is scheduled to increase to 31% after 2012) on taxable distributions and certain other
payments paid to certain holders of the Funds shares who do not furnish the Fund with their
correct taxpayer identification number (in the case of individuals, their social security number)
and certain certifications, or who are otherwise subject to backup withholding. Backup withholding
is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld from payments made to you may be refunded or
credited against your U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, provided that the required
information is furnished to the IRS.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for Non-U.S. Stockholders
The following discussion is a general summary of the material U.S. federal income tax
considerations applicable to a Non-U.S. holder of our stock (a Non-U.S. Stockholder).
This summary does not purport to be a complete description of the income tax considerations
for a Non-U.S. Stockholder. For example, the following does not describe income tax consequences
that are assumed to be generally known by investors or certain considerations that may be relevant
to certain types of holders subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws. This
summary does not discuss any aspects of U.S. estate or gift tax or state or local tax. In addition,
this summary does not address (i) any Non-U.S. Stockholder that holds, at any time, more than 5
percent of the Funds stock, directly or under ownership attribution rules applicable for purposes
of Section 897 of the Code, or (ii) any Non-U.S. Stockholder whose ownership of shares of the Fund
is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States.
As indicated above, the Fund intends to elect to be treated, and to qualify each year, as a RIC for
U.S. federal income tax purposes. This summary is based on the assumption that the Fund will
qualify as a RIC in each of its taxable years. Distributions of the Funds investment company
taxable income to Non-U.S. Stockholders will, except as discussed below, be subject to withholding
of U.S. federal income tax at a 30% rate (or lower rate provided by an applicable income tax
treaty) to the extent of the Funds current and accumulated earnings and profits. In order to
obtain a reduced rate of withholding, a Non-U.S. Stockholder will be required to provide an
S-30
Internal Revenue Service Form W-8BEN certifying its entitlement to benefits under a treaty.
Distributions made out of qualified interest income or net short-term capital gain in any taxable
year of the Fund beginning before January 1, 2012 will generally not be subject to this withholding
tax. If, however, a Non-U.S. stockholder who is an individual has been present in the United States
for 183 days or more during the taxable year and meets certain other conditions, any such
distribution of net short-term capital gain will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at a rate of
30% (or lower rate provided by an applicable income tax treaty).
Actual or deemed distributions of the Funds net capital gains to a Non-U.S. Stockholder, and
gains realized by a Non-U.S. Stockholder upon the sale of the Funds stock, will not be subject to
withholding of U.S. federal income tax and generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax
unless the Non-U.S. Stockholder is an individual, has been present in the United States for 183
days or more during the taxable year, and certain other conditions are satisfied.
If the Fund distributes its net capital gains in the form of deemed rather than actual
distributions (which the Fund may do in the future), a Non-U.S. Stockholder may be entitled to a
federal income tax credit or tax refund equal to the stockholders allocable share of the tax the
Fund paid on the capital gains deemed to have been distributed. In order to obtain the refund, the
Non-U.S. Stockholder must obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number and file a federal income
tax return even if the Non-U.S. Stockholder would not otherwise be required to obtain a U.S.
taxpayer identification number or file a federal income tax return.
A Non-U.S. Stockholder who is a non-resident alien individual, and who is otherwise subject to
withholding of federal income tax, may be subject to information reporting and backup withholding
of federal income tax on dividends unless the Non-U.S. Stockholder provides us or the dividend
paying agent with an IRS Form W-8BEN (or an acceptable substitute form) or otherwise meets
documentary evidence requirements for establishing that it is a Non-U.S. Stockholder or otherwise
establishes an exemption from backup withholding. The amount of any backup withholding from a
payment to a Non-U.S. Stockholder will be allowed as a credit against such Non-U.S. Stockholders
United States federal income tax liability and may entitle such holder to a refund, provided that
the required information is furnished to the Internal Revenue Service.
Non-U.S. persons should consult their own tax advisers with respect to the U.S. federal income
tax and withholding tax, and state, local and foreign tax consequences of an investment in the
shares.
Medicare Tax
For
taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, recently enacted legislation will
generally impose a 3.8 percent tax on the net investment income of certain individuals with a
modified adjusted gross income of over $200,000 ($250,000 in the case of joint filers) and on the
undistributed net investment income of certain estates and trusts. For these purposes, net
investment income will generally include interest, dividends, annuities, royalties, rent, net gain
attributable to the disposition of property not held in a trade or business (including net gain
from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of shares of our stock) and certain other
income, but will be reduced by any deductions properly allocable to such income or net gain. Thus,
certain of our taxable distributions to stockholders may be subject to the additional tax.
Recently Enacted Legislation
Beginning
with payments of dividends or interest made on or after January 1,
2014, and payments of gross proceeds made after January 1, 2015, recently enacted legislation will
generally impose a 30% withholding tax on distributions paid with respect to our stock and the
gross proceeds from a disposition of our stock paid to (i) a foreign financial institution (as
defined in Section 1471(d)(4) of the Code) unless the foreign financial institution enters into an
agreement with the U.S. Treasury Department to collect and disclose information regarding its U.S.
account holders (including certain account holders that are foreign entities that have U.S. owners)
and satisfies certain other requirements, and (ii) certain other non-U.S. entities unless the
entity provides the payor with certain information regarding direct and indirect U.S. owners of the
entity, or certifies that it has no such U.S. owners, and complies with certain other requirements.
You are encouraged to consult with your own tax adviser regarding the possible implications of this
recently enacted legislation on your investment in our stock.
S-31
The foregoing is a general and abbreviated summary of the provisions of the Code and the
treasury regulations in effect as they directly govern the taxation of the Fund and its
stockholders. These provisions are subject to change by legislative and administrative action, and
any such change may be retroactive. Stockholders are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding
specific questions as to U.S. federal, foreign, state, local income or other taxes.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES
We and our Adviser have adopted proxy voting policies and procedures (Proxy Policy), which
they believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in our best interests and the
best interests of our stockholders. Subject to the oversight of the Board of Directors, the Board
has delegated responsibility for implementing the Proxy Policy to our Adviser. Because of the
unique nature of certain pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies in which we primarily
invest, our Adviser will evaluate each proxy on a case-by-case basis. Because proxies of MLPs are
expected to relate only to extraordinary measures, we do not believe that it is prudent to adopt
pre-established voting guidelines.
In the event requests for proxies are received with respect to the voting of equity securities
other than MLP equity units, on routine matters, such as election of directors or approval of
auditors, the proxies usually will be voted with management unless our Adviser determines that it
has a conflict or our Adviser determines that there are other reasons not to vote with management.
On non-routine matters, such as amendments to governing instruments, proposals relating to
compensation and stock option and equity compensation plans, corporate governance proposals and
stockholder proposals, our Adviser will vote, or abstain from voting if deemed appropriate, on a
case by case basis in a manner that it believes to be in the best economic interest of our
stockholders. In the event requests for proxies are received with respect to debt securities, our
Adviser will vote on a case by case basis in a manner that it believes to be in the best economic
interest of our stockholders.
The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for monitoring our actions and ensuring that: (1)
proxies are received and forwarded to the appropriate decision makers; and (2) proxies are voted in
a timely manner upon receipt of voting instructions. We are not responsible for voting proxies that
we do not receive, but will make reasonable efforts to obtain missing proxies. The Chief Executive
Officer will implement procedures to identify and monitor potential conflicts of interest that
could affect the proxy voting process, including: (1) significant client relationships; (2) other
potential material business relationships; and (3) material personal and family relationships. All
decisions regarding proxy voting will be determined by the Investment Committee of our Adviser and
will be executed by the Chief Executive Officer. Every effort will be made to consult with the
portfolio manager and/or analyst covering the security. We may determine not to vote a particular
proxy, if the costs and burdens exceed the benefits of voting (e.g., when securities are subject to
loan or to share blocking restrictions).
If a request for proxy presents a conflict of interest between our stockholders, on the one
hand, and our Adviser, the principal underwriters, or any affiliated persons of ours, on the other
hand, our management may: (1) disclose the potential conflict to the Board of Directors and obtain
consent; or (2) establish an ethical wall or other informational barrier between the persons
involved in the conflict and the persons making the voting decisions.
Information regarding how we vote proxies will be available without charge by calling us at
(866) 362-9331. You may also access this information on the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov.
Our Advisers website at http://www.tortoiseadvisors.com provides a link to all of our reports
filed with the SEC.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst & Young LLP, 1200 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri, serves as our independent registered
public accounting firm. Ernst & Young provides audit and audit-related services, and tax return
preparation and assistance to us.
S-32
ADMINISTRATOR, CUSTODIAN AND FUND ACCOUNTANT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202, will
serve as our administrator and provide certain back-office support such as oversight and
supervision of the payment of expenses and preparation of financial statements and related
schedules. We will pay the administrator a monthly fee computed at an annual rate of [ ]% of the
first $[ ] of our assets, [ ]% on the next $[ ] of our assets and [ ]% on the balance of
our assets.
U.S. Bank National Association, 1555 N. River Center Dr., Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212, will
serve as our custodian.
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202, will
serve as our fund accountant.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A Registration Statement on Form N-2, including amendments thereto, relating to the common
stock, preferred stock and debt securities offered hereby, has been filed by us with the SEC. The
prospectus and this statement of additional information do not contain all of the information set
forth in the Registration Statement, including any exhibits and schedules thereto. Please refer to
the Registration Statement for further information with respect to us and the offering of our
securities. Statements contained in the prospectus and this statement of additional information as
to the contents of any contract or other document referred to are not necessarily complete and in
each instance reference is made to the copy of such contract or other document filed as an exhibit
to a Registration Statement, each such statement being qualified in all respects by such reference.
Copies of the Registration Statement may be inspected without charge at the SECs principal office
in Washington, D.C., and copies of all or any part thereof may be obtained from the SEC upon the
payment of certain fees prescribed by the SEC. Pursuant to a notice of eligibility claiming
exclusion from the definition of commodity pool operator, filed with the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission and the National Futures Association, we are not deemed to be a commodity pool
operator under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended (the CEA), and accordingly, are not
subject to registration or regulation as such under the CEA.
S-33
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-2 |
|
Audited Financial Statements |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
F-3 |
|
|
|
|
F-4 |
|
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Shareholder and Board of Directors
Tortoise
Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Tortoise Pipeline & Energy
Fund, Inc. (the Company) as of August 25, 2011. The statement of assets and liabilities is the
responsibility of the Companys management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
statement of assets and liabilities based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight
Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the statement of assets and liabilities is free of material
misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Companys internal control over
financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting
as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for
the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over
financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on
a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the statement of assets and
liabilities, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management,
and evaluating the overall statement of assets and liabilities presentation. We believe that our
audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the statement of assets and liabilities referred to above presents fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc. at August 25,
2011, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 30, 2011
F-2
TORTOISE PIPELINE & ENERGY FUND, INC.
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
August 25, 2011
|
|
|
|
|
Assets: |
|
|
|
|
Cash |
|
$ |
100,275 |
|
Deferred offering costs |
|
|
28,912 |
|
Receivable from Adviser for organization costs |
|
|
12,866 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
|
$ |
142,053 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
Accrued offering costs |
|
$ |
28,912 |
|
Payable for organization costs |
|
|
12,866 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities |
|
|
41,778 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net assets applicable to common stockholders |
|
$ |
100,275 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Assets Applicable to Common Stockholders Consist of: |
|
|
|
|
Capital stock, $0.001 par value; 4,200 shares issued and
outstanding (100,000,000 shares authorized) |
|
$ |
4 |
|
Additional paid-in capital |
|
|
100,271 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net assets applicable to common stockholders |
|
$ |
100,275 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset Value per common share outstanding (net assets
applicable to common stock, divided by common shares
outstanding) |
|
$ |
23.88 |
|
|
|
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the statement of assets and liabilities.
F-3
TORTOISE PIPELINE & ENERGY FUND, INC.
Notes to Statement of Assets and Liabilities
August 25, 2011
1. Organization
Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc. (the Company) was organized as a Maryland corporation on
July 19, 2011, and is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act). The Company has had no operations
other than the sale of 4,200 shares to the Subscriber on August 25, 2011. The Company seeks to
provide its stockholders an efficient vehicle to invest in a portfolio consisting primarily of
equity securities of pipeline and other energy infrastructure companies. The Company is planning a
public offering of its common stock as soon as practicable after the effective date of its
registration statement.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a listing of the significant accounting policies that the Company will implement
upon the commencement of its operations:
A. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect
the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities
at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
B. Investment Valuation The Company plans to primarily own securities that are listed on a
securities exchange or over-the-counter market. The Company will value those securities at their
last sale price on that exchange or over-the-counter market on the valuation date. If the security
is listed on more than one exchange, the Company will use the price of the exchange that it
considers to be the principal exchange on which the security is traded. Securities listed on the
NASDAQ will be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may not necessarily represent the
last sale price. If there has been no sale on such exchange or over-the-counter market on such
day, the security will be valued at the mean between the last bid price and last ask price on such
day.
The Company may invest up to 30 percent of its total assets in unregistered or otherwise restricted
securities. Restricted securities are subject to statutory or contractual restrictions on their
public resale, which may make it more difficult to obtain a valuation and may limit the Companys
ability to dispose of them. Investments in restricted securities and other securities for which
market quotations are not readily available will be valued in good faith by using fair value
procedures approved by the Board of Directors. Such fair value procedures consider factors such as
discounts to publicly traded issues, time until conversion date, securities with similar yields,
quality, type of issue, coupon, duration and rating. If events occur that will affect the value of
the Companys portfolio securities before the net asset value has been calculated (a significant
event), the portfolio securities so affected will generally be priced using fair value procedures.
An equity security of a publicly traded company acquired in a direct placement transaction may be
subject to restrictions on resale that can affect the securitys liquidity and fair value. Such
securities that are convertible or otherwise will become freely tradable will be valued based on
the market value of the freely tradable security less an applicable discount. Generally, the
discount will initially be equal to the discount at which the Company purchased the securities. To
the extent that such securities are convertible or otherwise become freely tradable within a time
frame that may be reasonably determined, an amortization schedule may be used to determine the
discount.
Exchange-traded options will be valued at the mean of the best bid and best asked prices across all
option exchanges.
F-4
The Company will generally value short-term debt securities at prices based on market quotations
for such securities, except those securities purchased with 60 days or less to maturity will be
valued on the basis of amortized cost, which approximates market value.
C. Security Transactions and Investment Income Security transactions will be accounted for on
the date the securities are purchased or sold (trade date). Realized gains and losses will be
reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income will be recognized on the accrual basis,
including amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. Dividend and distribution income
will be recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received from the Companys investments in
master limited partnerships (MLPs) generally will be comprised of ordinary income, capital gains
and return of capital from the MLPs. The Company will allocate distributions between investment
income and return of capital based on estimates made at the time such distributions are received.
Such estimates are based on information provided by each MLP and other industry sources. These
estimates may subsequently be revised based on actual allocations received from the MLPs after
their tax reporting periods are concluded, as the actual character of these distributions is not
known until after the fiscal year end of the Company.
D. Distributions to Stockholders The Company anticipates that it may take three to six months to
invest substantially all of the net proceeds from an initial public offering in securities meeting
its investment objectives. Once the Company is fully invested and to the extent it receives
income, the Company intends to make quarterly cash distributions to common stockholders. In
addition, on an annual basis, the Company may distribute additional capital gains in the last
fiscal quarter if necessary to meet minimum distribution requirements and thus avoid being subject
to excise taxes. The amount of any distributions will be determined by the Board of Directors.
Distributions to stockholders will be recorded on the ex-dividend date. The character of
distributions made during the year from net investment income, net realized gains, or other sources
may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes.
E. Federal Income Taxation The Company intends to elect to be treated and to qualify each year
as a regulated investment company (RIC) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended
(the Code). As a result, the Company generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on
income and gains that it distributes each taxable year to stockholders if it meets certain minimum
distribution requirements. To qualify as a RIC, the Company will be required to distribute
substantially all of its income, in addition to other asset diversification requirements. The
Company will be subject to a 4 percent non-deductible U.S. federal excise tax on certain
undistributed income unless the Company makes sufficient distributions to satisfy the excise tax
avoidance requirement.
F. Organization Expenses and Offering Costs Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. (the Adviser)
has agreed to pay the costs related to the Companys formation. The Adviser has also agreed to pay
certain offering costs to the extent they exceed an amount per share to be determined based on the
number of shares sold in the initial public offering. Deferred offering costs paid by the Company
will be charged as a reduction of paid-in capital at the completion of the Companys initial public
offering.
G. Derivative Financial Instruments - The Company intends to seek to provide current income from
gains earned through an option strategy which will normally consist of writing (selling) call
options on selected equity securities in the portfolio (covered calls). The premium received on
a written call option will initially be recorded as a liability and subsequently adjusted to the
then current fair value of the option written. Premiums received from writing call options that
expire unexercised will be recorded as a realized gain on the expiration date. Premiums received
from writing call options that are exercised will be added to the proceeds from the sale of the
underlying security to calculate the realized gain (loss). If a written call option is repurchased
prior to its exercise, the realized gain (loss) will be the difference between the premium received
and the amount paid to repurchase the option.
H. Indemnifications - Under the Companys organizational documents, its officers and directors are
indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the
Company. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Company may enter into contracts that
provide general indemnification to other parties. The Companys maximum exposure under these
arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Company
that have not yet occurred, and may not occur. However, the Company has not had prior claims or
losses pursuant to these contracts and expects the risk of loss to be remote.
F-5
3. Concentration of Risk
The Companys investment objective is to seek a high level of total return with an emphasis on
current distributions paid to its shareholders. Under normal circumstances, and once fully
invested in accordance with its investment objective, the Company will have at least 80 percent of
its total assets (including any assets obtained through leverage) in equity securities of pipeline
and other energy infrastructure companies. Energy infrastructure companies own and operate a
network of asset systems that transport, store, distribute, gather and/or process, explore,
develop, manage or produce crude oil, refined petroleum products (including biodiesel and ethanol),
natural gas or natural gas liquids (NGLs) or that provide electric power generation (including
renewable energy), transmission and/or distribution. The Company may invest up to 30 percent of
its total assets in restricted securities, primarily through direct investments in securities of
listed companies. The Company may also invest up to 25 percent of its total assets in securities
of MLPs. The Company will not invest in privately-held companies.
4. Agreements and Affiliations
The Company intends to enter into an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Adviser. No management
fees will be charged until the Company commences operations.
Computershare Trust Company, N.A. serves as the Companys transfer agent, dividend paying agent,
and agent for the automatic dividend reinvestment plan.
5. Subsequent Events
The Company has performed an evaluation of subsequent events through the date the statement of
assets and liabilities was issued and has determined that no additional items require recognition
or disclosure.
F-6
Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
, 2011
Part C Other Information
Item 25. Financial Statements and Exhibits
1. Financial Statements:
The Registrants financial statements dated August 25, 2011, notes to the financial
statements and report of independent public accountants thereon are incorporated by reference
into Part B: Statement of Additional Information.
2. Exhibits:
|
|
|
Exhibit |
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No. |
|
Description of Document |
a.
|
|
Articles of Incorporation** |
|
|
|
b.
|
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Bylaws(1) |
|
|
|
c.
|
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Inapplicable |
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|
|
d.
|
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Form of Stock Certificate(1) |
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|
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e.
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Dividend Reinvestment Plan(1) |
|
|
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f.
|
|
Inapplicable |
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|
|
g.
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Investment Advisory Agreement with Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. dated , 2011(1) |
|
|
|
h.
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Form of Underwriting Agreement (1) |
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|
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i.
|
|
Inapplicable |
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|
|
j.
|
|
Custody Agreement with dated , 2011(1) |
|
|
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k.1.
|
|
Stock Transfer Agency Agreement with dated , 2011(1) |
|
|
|
k.2.
|
|
Administration Agreement with dated , 2011(1) |
|
|
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l.
|
|
Opinion of Venable LLP(1) |
|
|
|
m.
|
|
Inapplicable |
|
|
|
n.
|
|
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm* |
|
|
|
o.
|
|
Inapplicable |
|
|
|
p.
|
|
Inapplicable |
|
|
|
q.
|
|
Subscription Agreement(1) |
|
|
|
r.1.
|
|
Code of Ethics of the Registrant(1) |
|
|
|
r.2.
|
|
Code of Ethics of Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C.* |
|
|
|
s.
|
|
Power of Attorney** |
|
|
|
* |
|
Filed herewith |
|
|
** |
|
Incorporated by reference to the Registrants Registration Statement
on Form N-2 (File Nos. 811-22585 and 333-175687) filed on July 27,
2011. |
|
|
(1) |
|
To be filed by amendment. |
Item 26. Marketing Arrangements
Reference is made to the form of underwriting agreement included as Exhibit h. hereto.
Item 27. Other Expenses and Distribution
C-1
The following table sets forth the estimated expenses to be incurred in connection with the
offering described in this Registration Statement:
|
|
|
|
|
FINRA filing fee |
|
$ |
25,500 |
|
Securities and Exchange Commission fees |
|
$ |
17,825 |
|
New York Stock Exchange listing fee |
|
$ |
20,000 |
|
Directors fees and expenses |
|
$ |
|
|
Accounting fees and expenses |
|
$ |
40,000 |
|
Legal fees and expenses |
|
$ |
135,000 |
|
Printing expenses |
|
$ |
225,000 |
|
Transfer Agents fees |
|
$ |
|
|
Miscellaneous |
|
$ |
26,675 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
590,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Item 28. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control
None.
Item 29. Number of Holders of Securities
As of September 1, 2011, the number of record holders of each class of securities of the
Registrant was:
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|
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|
|
|
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Number of |
Title of Class |
|
Record Holders |
Common Stock ($0.001 par value)
|
|
|
1 |
|
Item 30. Indemnification
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 which is established by a final
judgment as being material to the cause of action. The Charter contains such a provision which
eliminates directors and officers liability to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law and
the 1940 Act.
The Charter authorizes the Registrant, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law and the
1940 Act, to obligate itself to indemnify any present or former director or officer or any
individual who, while a director or officer of the Registrant and at the request of the Registrant,
serves or has served another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, joint venture,
trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a director, officer, partner or trustee, from
and against any claim or liability to which that person may become subject or which that person may
incur by reason of his or her status as a present or former director or officer of the
Registrant or as a present or former director, officer, partner or trustee of another
corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan
or other enterprise, and to pay or reimburse his or her reasonable expenses in advance of final
disposition of a proceeding. The Bylaws obligate the Registrant, to the maximum extent permitted by
Maryland law and the 1940 Act, to indemnify any present or former director or officer or any
individual who, while a director of the Registrant and at the request of the Registrant, serves or
has served another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust,
employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a director, officer, partner or trustee and who is
made, or threatened to be made, a party to the proceeding by reason of his or her service in that
capacity from and against any claim or liability to which that person may become subject or which
that person may incur by reason of his or her status as a present or former director or officer of
the Registrant and to pay or reimburse his or her reasonable expenses in advance of final
disposition of a proceeding. The Charter and Bylaws also permit the Registrant to indemnify and
advance expenses to any person who served a predecessor of the Registrant in any of the capacities
described above and any employee or agent of the Registrant or a predecessor of the Registrant.
Maryland law requires a corporation (unless its charter provides otherwise, which the
Registrants Charter does not) to indemnify a director or officer who has been successful in the
defense of any proceeding to which he is made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of his
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, or threatened to 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
C-2
(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 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 good faith belief that he has met the standard of conduct necessary for
indemnification by the corporation and (b) a written undertaking by him or on his behalf to repay
the amount paid or reimbursed by the corporation if it is ultimately determined that the standard
of conduct was not met.
Item 31. Business and Other Connections of Investment Advisor
The information in the Statement of Additional Information under the caption Management of
the Fund Directors and Officers and the information in the prospectus under the caption
Management of the Fund Investment Adviser is hereby incorporated by reference.
Item 32. Location of Accounts and Records
The Registrants accounts, books, and other documents are maintained at the offices of the
Registrant, at the offices of the Registrants investment advisor, Tortoise Capital Advisors,
L.L.C., 11550 Ash Street, Suite 300, Leawood, Kansas 66211, at the offices of the custodian, U.S.
Bank National Association, 1555 N. River Center Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212, at the offices
of the transfer agent, Computershare Trust Company, N.A., P.O. Box 43078, Providence, Rhode Island
02940, or at the offices of the administrator, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan
Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 63202.
Item 33. Management Services
Not applicable.
Item 34. Undertakings
1. The Registrant undertakes to suspend the offering of the common shares until the Prospectus
is amended if (1) subsequent to the effective date of its registration statement, the net asset
value declines more than ten percent from its net asset value as of the effective date of the
registration statement or (2) the net asset value increases to an amount greater than its net
proceeds as stated in the Prospectus.
2. Not applicable.
3. Not applicable.
4. Not applicable.
5. The Registrant is filing this Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 430A under the 1933
Act and undertakes that: (a) for the purposes of determining any liability under the 1933 Act, the
information omitted from the form of Prospectus filed as part of a registration statement in
reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in the form of Prospectus filed by the Registrant under Rule
497(h) under the 1933 Act shall be deemed to be part of the Registration Statement as of the time
it was declared effective; (b) for the purpose of determining any liability under the 1933 Act,
each post-effective amendment that contains a form of Prospectus shall be deemed to be a new
registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of the
securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
6. The Registrant undertakes to send by first class mail or other means designed to ensure
equally prompt delivery, within two business days of receipt of an oral or written request, its
Statement of Additional Information.
C-3
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, and the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this registration
statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in
this City of Leawood and State of Kansas on the 9th day of
September, 2011.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc.
|
|
|
By: |
/s/ Terry C. Matlack
|
|
|
|
Terry C. Matlack, |
|
|
|
CEO |
|
|
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 this registration
statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the date
indicated.
|
|
|
|
|
Name |
|
Title |
|
Date |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ P. Bradley Adams
|
|
Chief Financial Officer |
|
|
P. Bradley Adams
|
|
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
|
|
September 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ Terry C. Matlack
|
|
Chief Executive Officer |
|
|
Terry C. Matlack
|
|
(Principal Executive Officer)
|
|
September 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ Conrad S. Ciccotello*
|
|
|
|
|
Conrad S. Ciccotello
|
|
Director
|
|
September 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ John R. Graham*
|
|
|
|
|
John R. Graham
|
|
Director
|
|
September 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ Charles E. Heath*
|
|
|
|
|
Charles E. Heath
|
|
Director
|
|
September 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ H. Kevin Birzer*
|
|
|
|
|
H. Kevin Birzer
|
|
Director
|
|
September 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
|
* |
|
By Terry C. Matlack, pursuant to power of attorney filed with the Registrants Registration
Statement or Form N-2 (File Nos. 811-22585 and 333-175687) on July 27, 2011. |
|
C-4
Exhibit Index
|
|
|
Exhibit |
|
|
No. |
|
Description of Document |
n.
|
|
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
|
r.2.
|
|
Code of Ethics of Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. |
C-5