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Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 23, 2006
1933 Act File No. 333-131478
1940 Act File No. 811-21846
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-2
(Check Appropriate Box or Boxes)
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 | ý | |||
Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 | ý | |||
Post-Effective Amendment No. | o | |||
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 | ý | |||
Amendment No. 1 | ý |
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Certificate of Trust)
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200
Denver, Colorado 80202
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(303) 623-2577
(Registrant's Telephone Number)
Erin E. Douglas, Associate Counsel
ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc.
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200
Denver, Colorado 80202
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
Copy to:
Philip J. Niehoff
Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP 71 South Wacker Drive Chicago, Illinois 60606 (312) 782-0600 |
Leonard B. Mackey, Jr.
Clifford Chance US LLP 31 West 52 nd Street New York, New York 10019 (212) 878-8000 |
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):
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Title of Securities
Being Registered |
Amount Being
Registered(1)(2) |
Proposed
Maximum Offering Price Per Unit(1) |
Proposed
Maximum Aggregate Offering Price(1)(2) |
Amount of
Registration Fee |
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Common Shares, no par value | 50,000 shares | $20.00 | $1,000,000 | $107.00(3) | ||||
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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 this Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to 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. The 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.
Subject to Completion
Preliminary Prospectus dated March 22, 2006
P R O S P E C T U S
Shares |
Clough Global Opportunities Fund
Common Shares of Beneficial Interest
$20.00 per Share
Investment Objective. Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Fund") is a newly organized, non-diversified, closed-end management investment company. The Fund's investment objective is to provide a high level of total return. The Fund seeks to pursue this objective by applying a fundamental research-driven investment process and will invest in equity and equity-related securities, as well as fixed income securities, including both corporate and sovereign debt, in both U.S. and non-U.S. markets.
No Prior Trading History. Because the Fund is newly organized, its shares have no history of public trading. Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from their net asset value and initial offering prices. The risks associated with this characteristic of closed-end investment companies may be greater for investors expecting to sell their shares in a relatively short period after completion of the initial public offering. The Fund anticipates that its common shares will be listed on the American Stock Exchange, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol "GLO."
Portfolio Contents. The Fund intends to invest primarily in a managed mix of U.S. and non-U.S. equity and debt securities. The Fund is flexibly managed so that, depending on the Fund's investment adviser's outlook, it sometimes will be more heavily invested in equity securities or in debt or fixed income securities. The Fund will also, in certain situations, augment its investment positions by purchasing call options, both on specific equity securities, as well as securities representing exposure to equity sectors or indices and fixed income indices. Investments in non-U.S. markets will be made primarily through liquid securities, including depositary receipts (which evidence ownership in underlying foreign securities) and exchange traded funds.
(continued on following page)
An investment in the Fund's common shares involves certain risks. See "Risk Factors" beginning on page 36 of this prospectus. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
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Per Share
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Total
(2)
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Public offering price | $20.00 | $ | ||
Sales load(1) | $.90 | $ | ||
Estimated offering expenses(3) | $.04 | $ | ||
Proceeds, after expenses, to the Fund(4) | $19.06 | $ |
(footnotes continued 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 common shares will be ready for delivery on or about , 2006.
Merrill Lynch & Co. | A.G. Edwards | Raymond James |
BB&T Capital Markets |
Robert W. Baird & Co. |
H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc. |
Ferris, Baker Watts |
Fixed Income Securities, LP |
J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, Inc. |
Incorporated | ||
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC |
KeyBanc Capital Markets |
Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc. |
Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. |
Oppenheimer & Co. |
RBC Capital Markets |
Ryan Beck & Co. |
Stifel Nicolaus |
Wedbush Morgan Securities Inc. |
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Wells Fargo Securities |
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The date of this prospectus is , 2006.
(footnotes from previous page)
(continued from previous page)
Investments in debt may include both investment grade and non-investment grade issues. Investments in sovereign debt may also include bonds issued by countries considered emerging markets. The Fund will not invest more than 20% of its total assets in securities rated, at the time of acquisition, below investment grade. Investments in non-investment grade securities, commonly referred to as "junk bonds," involve certain risks. The Fund will not invest more than 25% of its total assets, at the time of acquisition, in securities of governments and companies in emerging markets.
Use of Leverage. The Fund expects to use leverage through the issuance of preferred shares and/or through borrowings, including the issuance of debt securities (the "leverage program"). If the Fund offers preferred shares, costs of that offering (including the sales load paid to the underwriters for the offering) will be borne immediately by holders of Common Shares and result in a reduction of the net asset value of the Common Shares. The Fund intends to use leverage initially of up to 33% of its total assets (including the amount obtained from leverage). See "Effects of Leverage" and "Risk FactorsLeverage Risk."
Investment Adviser. Clough Capital Partners L.P. ("Clough") will act as the Fund's investment adviser. See "Management of the Fund." As of December 31, 2005, Clough had over $1.5 billion of assets under management. Clough's address is One Post Office Square, Suite 4000, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
You should read this prospectus, which contains important information about the Fund, before deciding whether to invest in the common shares, and you should retain this prospectus for future reference. A Statement of Additional Information, dated , 2006 (the "Statement of Additional Information"), containing additional information about the Fund, has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this prospectus, which means that it is part of this prospectus for legal purposes. You may request a free copy of the Statement of Additional Information, the table of contents of which is on page 61 of this prospectus, by calling (877) 256-8445 (toll-free) or by writing to ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc., 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, or obtain a copy (and other information regarding the Fund) from the Securities and Exchange Commission's web site (http://www.sec.gov). To obtain annual and semi-annual shareholder reports electronically, please visit the Fund's web site (http://www.cloughglobal.com) or call (877) 256-8445 (toll-free). You may also call this number to request additional information or to make other inquiries pertaining to the Fund.
The Fund's common shares 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 (FDIC), the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency.
You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus. The Fund has not, and the underwriters have not, authorized any other person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different information or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. The Fund is not, and the underwriters are not, making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information contained or the representations made herein are accurate only as of the date on the cover page of this prospectus. The Fund will amend this prospectus if, during the period this prospectus is required to be delivered, there are any material changes to the Fund subsequent to the date of this prospectus.
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This is only a summary . This summary does not contain all of the information that you should consider before investing in the Fund's common shares . You should review the more detailed information contained in this prospectus and in the Statement of Additional Information, especially the information set forth under the heading "Risk Factors."
The Fund | Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Fund") is a newly organized, non-diversified, closed-end management investment company. See "The Fund." | |
The Offering |
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The Fund is offering common shares of beneficial interest ("Common Shares") through a group of underwriters led by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("Merrill Lynch"). You must purchase at least 100 Common Shares ($2,000). The underwriters have been granted an option to purchase up to additional Common Shares to cover overallotments. The initial public offering price is $20.00 per share. The Fund's administrator and investment adviser have agreed to pay all organizational expenses of the Fund. The administrator and the investment adviser have also agreed to pay those offering costs (other than the sales load) that exceed $.04 per Common Share. See "Underwriting." |
Listing and Symbol |
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The Fund anticipates that its Common Shares will be listed on the American Stock Exchange, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol "GLO." |
Investment Objective and Policies |
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The Fund's investment objective is to provide a high level of total return. The Fund seeks to pursue this objective by applying a fundamental research-driven investment process and will invest in equity and equity-related securities, as well as fixed income securities, including both corporate and sovereign debt, in both U.S. and non-U.S. markets. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. |
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The Fund intends to invest primarily in a managed mix of U.S. and non-U.S. equity and debt securities. The Fund is flexibly managed so that, depending on the Fund's investment adviser's outlook, it sometimes will be more heavily invested in equity securities or in debt or fixed income securities. Under normal circumstances, the Fund expects to invest in securities of at least three countries. The Fund will also, in certain situations, augment its investment positions by purchasing call options, both on specific equity securities, as well as securities representing exposure to equity sectors or indices and fixed income indices. Investments in non-U.S. markets will be made primarily through liquid securities, including depositary receipts (which evidence ownership of underlying foreign securities) such as American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), as well as through exchange traded funds ("ETFs") and in stocks traded on non-U.S. exchanges. Investment in debt may include both investment grade and non-investment |
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grade issues. There are certain risks associated with investing in non-investment grade securities, commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Investments in corporate debt may include bonds issued by companies in countries considered emerging markets. Investments in sovereign debt may include bonds issued by countries considered emerging markets. The Fund will not invest more than 25% of its total assets, at the time of acquisition, in securities of governments and companies in emerging markets. The Fund may also invest a portion of its assets in real estate investment trusts, or "REITs", but the Fund does not expect that portion to be significant. |
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The Fund will place a high priority on capital preservation, and should the Fund's investment adviser believe that extraordinary conditions affecting financial markets warrant, the Fund may temporarily be primarily invested in money market securities or money market mutual funds. When the Fund is invested in these instruments for temporary or defensive purposes, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund may use a variety of investment techniques designed to capitalize on declines in the market price of equity securities or declines in market indices (e.g., the Fund may establish short positions in specific stocks or stock indices) based on the Fund's investment adviser's investment outlook. Subject to the requirements of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder (the "1940 Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), the Fund will not make a short sale if, after giving effect to such sale, the market value of all securities sold short by the Fund exceeds 30% of the value of its total assets. |
Investment Adviser |
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Clough Capital Partners L.P. ("Clough"), the investment adviser of the Fund, is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. As of December 31, 2005, Clough had over $1.5 billion of assets under management. |
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Clough is entitled to receive a monthly fee at the annual rate of 1.00% of the Fund's average daily total assets. See "Management of the Fund." |
Administrator |
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ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc. ("ALPS"), located at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, serves as administrator to the Fund. Under the Administration Agreement, ALPS is responsible for calculating the net asset value of the Common Shares, and generally managing the business affairs of the Fund. The Administration Agreement between the Fund and ALPS provides that ALPS will pay all expenses incurred by the Fund, with the exception of organizational costs (to be paid by both ALPS and Clough) and offering costs in excess of $.04 per Common Share (to be paid by both ALPS and Clough), advisory fees, trustees' fees, interest expenses, if any, portfolio transaction expenses, litigation expenses, taxes, costs of preferred shares, expenses of conducting repurchase offers for the purpose of repurchasing Fund shares, extraordinary expenses and dividends on securities sold short. ALPS |
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is entitled to receive a monthly fee at the annual rate of .32% of the Fund's average daily total assets. |
Effects of Leverage |
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The Fund expects to use leverage through the issuance of preferred shares and/or through borrowings, including the issuance of debt securities (the "leverage program"). The Fund intends to use leverage initially of up to 33% of its total assets (including the amount obtained from leverage). The Fund also may borrow money as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes. |
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Leverage creates risks for holders of the Common Shares (the "Common Shareholders"), including the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and market price of, and dividends paid on, the Common Shares. There is a risk that fluctuations in the dividend rates on any preferred shares issued by the Fund may adversely affect the return to the Common Shareholders. If the income from the securities purchased with such funds is not sufficient to cover the cost of leverage, the return on the Fund will be less than if leverage had not been used, and therefore the amount available for distribution to the Common Shareholders as dividends and other distributions will be reduced and may not satisfy the level dividend rate distribution policy set by the Board of Trustees. |
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Changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio (including investments bought with the proceeds of the leverage program) will be borne entirely by the Common Shareholders. If there is a net decrease (or increase) in the value of the Fund's investment portfolio, the leverage will decrease (or increase) the net asset value per share to a greater extent than if the Fund were not leveraged. |
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The issuance of a class of preferred shares or incurrence of borrowings having priority over the Fund's Common Shares creates an opportunity for greater return per Common Share, but at the same time such leveraging is a speculative technique in that it will increase the Fund's exposure to capital risk. Unless the income and appreciation, if any, on assets acquired with leverage proceeds equal or exceed the associated costs of the leverage program (and other Fund expenses), the use of leverage will diminish the investment performance of the Fund's Common Shares compared with what it would have been without leverage. The fees to be received by Clough and ALPS are based on the total assets of the Fund, including assets represented by leverage. During periods in which the Fund is using leverage, the fees paid to Clough for investment advisory services and to ALPS for administrative services will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the fees paid will be calculated on the basis of the Fund's total assets, including proceeds from borrowings and the issuance of preferred shares. |
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Under the 1940 Act, the Fund is not permitted to issue preferred shares unless immediately after such issuance the value of the total assets of the Fund's portfolio is at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding preferred shares (i.e., such liquidation |
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value may not exceed 50% of the Fund's total assets). In addition, the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on its Common Shares unless, at the time of such declaration, the net asset value of the Fund's portfolio (determined after deducting the amount of such dividend or other distribution) is at least 200% of such liquidation value. |
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Also under the 1940 Act, the Fund must satisfy an asset coverage requirement of 300% of its indebtedness, including amounts borrowed, measured at the time the investment company incurs the indebtedness. This means that the value of the investment company's total indebtedness may not exceed one-third of the value of its total assets (including assets acquired with such indebtedness). In addition, the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on any class of its capital stock (including the Common Shares), and is not permitted to purchase any of its capital stock unless, at the time of such declaration or purchase, the net asset value of the Fund's portfolio (determined after deducting the amount of such dividend or other distribution, or purchase price) is at least 300% of its outstanding indebtedness; except that dividends may be declared upon any preferred stock of the Fund if the Fund, at the time of such declaration (and after deducting the amount of the dividend), maintains an asset coverage with respect to its preferred stock of at least 200%. |
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To qualify for federal income taxation as a "regulated investment company," the Fund must satisfy certain requirements relating to sources of its income and diversification of its assets, and must distribute in each taxable year at least 90% of its net investment income (including net interest income and net short-term gain). The Fund also will be required to distribute annually substantially all of its income and capital gain, if any, to avoid imposition of a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax. |
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The Fund's willingness to issue new securities for investment purposes, and the amount the Fund will issue, will depend on many factors, the most important of which are market conditions and interest rates. There is no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed. |
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Until the Fund issues preferred shares or makes borrowings, the Common Shares will not be leveraged, and the risks and special considerations related to leverage described in this prospectus will not apply. It will not be possible to achieve any potential returns from such leveraging of the Common Shares until the proceeds resulting from the use of leverage have been invested in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies. |
Risk Factors |
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Investing in the Fund involves risks, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment or that you may lose part or even all of your investment. Therefore, before investing you should consider carefully the following risks that you assume when you invest in the Fund's Common Shares. |
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Non-Diversified Status. As a non-diversified investment company under the 1940 Act, the Fund may invest a greater portion of its assets in a more limited number of issuers than a diversified fund. An investment in the Fund may, under certain circumstances, present greater risk to an investor than an investment in a diversified company because changes in the financial condition or market assessment of a single issuer may cause greater fluctuations in the value of the Fund's Common Shares. The Fund intends to comply with the diversification requirements of the Code, applicable to regulated investment companies. See "Taxes" in the Statement of Additional Information. |
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No Operating History. The Fund is a closed-end investment company with no history of operations and is designed for long-term investors and not as a trading vehicle. |
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Key Adviser Personnel Risk. The Fund's ability to identify and invest in attractive opportunities is dependent upon Clough, its investment adviser. If one or more key individuals leaves Clough, Clough may not be able to hire qualified replacements, or may require an extended time to do so. This could prevent the Fund from achieving its investment objective. |
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Investment and Market Risk. An investment in Common Shares is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire principal amount invested. An investment in Common Shares represents an indirect investment in the securities owned by the Fund, which are generally traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter markets. The value of these securities, like other market investments, may move up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably. The Common Shares at any point in time may be worth less than the original investment, even after taking into account any reinvestment of dividends and distributions. |
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Issuer Risk. The value of an issuer's securities may decline for a number of reasons which directly relate to the issuer, such as management performance, financial leverage and reduced demand for the issuer's goods and services. |
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Common Stock Risk. Investments in common stocks are subject to special risks. Although common stocks have historically generated higher average returns than fixed income securities over the long term, common stocks also have experienced significantly more volatility in returns. Common stocks may be more susceptible to adverse changes in market value due to issuer specific events or general movements in the equities markets. A drop in the stock market may depress the price of common stocks held by the Fund. These risks may be heightened for common stocks of small and medium capitalization companies because these issuers may have more limited product lines or markets and may be less financially secure than larger, more established issuers. |
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Debt Securities Risk. In addition to credit risk, investment in debt securities carries certain other risks. An issuer may call for a redemption in the event of tax or security law changes, or pursuant to call features attached to the debt securities. In these events, the Fund may not be able to reinvest the proceeds at comparable rates of return. Further, debt securities typically do not provide for voting rights, and certain debt securities may be substantially less liquid than many other securities. |
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Interest Rate Risk. Interest rate risk is the risk that preferred stocks paying fixed dividend rates and fixed-rate debt securities will decline in value because of changes in market interest rates. When interest rates rise the market value of such securities generally will fall. The Fund's investment in preferred stocks and fixed-rate debt securities means that the net asset value and price of the Common Shares may decline if market interest rates rise. Interest rates are currently low relative to historic levels. During periods of declining interest rates, an issuer of preferred stock or fixed-rate debt securities may exercise its option to redeem or prepay securities prior to maturity, which could result in the Fund's having to reinvest in lower yielding debt securities or other types of securities. This is known as call or prepayment risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower than expected payments. This may lock in a below market yield, increase the security's duration, and reduce the value of the security. This is known as extension risk. Investments in debt securities with long-term maturities may experience significant price declines if long-term interest rates increase. This is known as maturity risk. The value of the Fund's common stock investments may also be influenced by changes in interest rates. |
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Credit Risk. Credit risk is the risk that an issuer of a preferred or debt security will become unable to meet its obligation to make dividend, interest and principal payments. In general, lower rated preferred or debt securities carry a greater degree of credit risk. If rating agencies lower their ratings of preferred or debt securities in the Fund's portfolio, the value of those obligations could decline. In addition, the underlying revenue source for a preferred or debt security may be insufficient to pay dividends, interest or principal in a timely manner. Because a significant primary source of income for the Fund is the dividend, interest and principal payments on the preferred or debt securities in which it invests, any default by an issuer of a preferred or debt security could have a negative impact on the Fund's ability to pay dividends on Common Shares. Even if the issuer does not actually default, adverse changes in the issuer's financial condition may negatively affect its credit rating or presumed creditworthiness. These developments would adversely affect the market value of the issuer's obligations or the value of credit derivatives if the Fund has sold credit protection. |
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Preferred Securities Risk. In addition to credit risk, investment in preferred securities carries certain other risks. An issuer may defer or skip distributions, including dividend payments, which may require the Fund to report income for tax purposes on distributions it has not received. In addition, an issuer may call for a redemption in the event of tax or securities law changes, or pursuant to call features attached to the preferred securities. In these events, the Fund may not be able to reinvest the proceeds at comparable rates of return. Further, preferred securities typically do not provide for voting rights and are subordinated to debt instruments in a company's capital structure in terms of priority to corporate income and liquidation payments (and thus subject to greater credit risk than the debt instruments). Preferred securities may also be substantially less liquid than many other securities. |
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Non-Investment Grade Securities Risk. The Fund's investments in preferred stocks and bonds of below investment grade quality (commonly referred to as "high yield" or "junk bonds"), if any, are predominantly speculative because of the credit risk of their issuers. While offering a greater potential opportunity for capital appreciation and higher yields, preferred stocks and bonds of below investment grade quality entail greater potential price volatility and may be less liquid than higher-rated securities. Issuers of below investment grade quality preferred stocks and bonds are more likely to default on their payments of dividends/interest and liquidation value/principal owed to the Fund, and such defaults will reduce the Fund's net asset value and income distributions. The prices of these lower quality preferred stocks and bonds are more sensitive to negative developments than higher rated securities. Adverse business conditions, such as a decline in the issuer's revenues or an economic downturn, generally lead to a higher non-payment rate. In addition, such a security may lose significant value before a default occurs as the market adjusts to expected higher non-payment rates. The Fund will not invest more than 20% of its total assets in securities rated below investment grade. The foregoing credit quality policy applies only at the time a security is purchased, and the Fund is not required to dispose of securities already owned by the Fund in the event of a change in assessment of credit quality or the removal of a rating. |
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Foreign Securities Risk. Foreign issuers are subject to risks of possible adverse political and economic developments abroad. Investing in foreign issuers also involves risks of change in foreign currency exchange rates. The Fund's investments in sovereign debt may also include bonds issued by countries in emerging markets. The Fund will not invest more than 25% of its assets, at the time of acquisition, in securities (including equity and fixed income securities) of governments and companies in emerging markets. However, the Fund has no other investment restrictions with respect to investing in foreign issuers. See "Risk FactorsForeign Securities Risk." |
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Emerging Markets Risk. Investing in securities of issuers based in underdeveloped emerging markets entails all of the risks of investing in securities of foreign issuers to a heightened degree. These heightened risks include: (i) greater risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization and less social, political and economic stability; (ii) the smaller size of the market for such securities and a lower volume of trading, resulting in a lack of liquidity and in price volatility; and (iii) certain national policies that may restrict the Fund's investment opportunities including restrictions on investing in issuers or industries deemed sensitive to relevant national interests. |
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Derivatives Risk. The Fund may acquire put and call options and options on stock indices and enter into stock index futures contracts, certain credit derivatives transactions and short sales in connection with its equity investments. In connection with the Fund's investments in debt securities, it may enter into related derivatives transactions such as interest rate futures, swaps and options thereon and certain credit derivatives transactions. Derivatives transactions of the types described above subject the Fund to increased risk of principal loss due to imperfect correlation or unexpected price or interest rate movements. The Fund also will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties to the derivatives contracts purchased by the Fund. If a counterparty becomes bankrupt or otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a derivatives contract due to financial difficulties, the Fund may experience significant delays in obtaining any recovery under the derivatives contract in a bankruptcy or other reorganization proceeding. The Fund may obtain only a limited recovery or may obtain no recovery in such circumstances. |
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Hedging Strategy Risk. There may be an imperfect correlation between changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio holdings and hedging positions entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of loss. In addition, the Fund's success in using hedge instruments is subject to Clough's ability to predict correctly changes in the relationships of such hedge instruments to the Fund's portfolio holdings, and there can be no assurance that Clough's judgment in this respect will be accurate. Consequently, the use of hedging transactions might result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund, whether or not adjusted for risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio holdings. |
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Small and Medium Cap Company Risk. Compared to investment companies that focus only on large capitalization companies, the Fund's share price may be more volatile because it also invests in small and medium capitalization companies. Compared to large companies, small and medium capitalization companies are more likely to have (i) more limited product lines or markets and less mature businesses, (ii) fewer capital resources, (iii) more limited management depth and (iv) shorter operating histories. Further, |
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compared to large cap stocks, the securities of small and medium capitalization companies are more likely to experience sharper swings in market values, be harder to sell at times and at prices that Clough believes appropriate, and offer greater potential for gains and losses. |
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Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the purchasing power of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the real value of the Common Shares and distributions thereon can decline. In addition, during any periods of rising inflation, dividend rates of preferred shares of the Fund would likely increase, which would tend to further reduce returns to Common Shareholders. |
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Market Price of Shares. The shares of closed-end management investment companies often trade at a discount from their net asset value, and the Fund's Common Shares may likewise trade at a discount from net asset value. The trading price of the Fund's Common Shares may be less than the public offering price. The returns earned by Common Shareholders who sell their Common Shares below net asset value will be reduced. |
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Management Risk. The Fund is subject to management risk because it is an actively managed portfolio. Clough and the individual portfolio managers will apply investment techniques and risk analyses in making investment decisions for the Fund, but there can be no guarantee that these will produce the desired results. |
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Leverage Risk. Leverage creates risks for the Common Shareholders, including the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and market price of the Common Shares. There is a risk that fluctuations in the dividend rates on any preferred shares may adversely affect the return to the Common Shareholders. If the income from the securities purchased with such funds is not sufficient to cover the cost of leverage, the return on the Fund will be less than if leverage had not been used, and therefore the amount available for distribution to Common Shareholders as dividends and other distributions will be reduced and may not satisfy the level dividend rate distribution policy set by the Board of Trustees. Clough in its best judgment nevertheless may determine to maintain the Fund's leveraged position if it deems such action to be appropriate in the circumstances. |
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Liquidity Risk. Restricted securities and other illiquid investments of the Fund involve the risk that the securities will not be able to be sold at the time desired by Clough or at prices approximating the value at which the Fund is carrying the securities. Where registration is required to sell a security, the Fund may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expenses, and a considerable period may elapse between the decision to sell and the time the Fund may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the Fund might obtain a less favorable |
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price than prevailed when it decided to sell. Restricted securities for which no market exists and other illiquid investments are valued at fair value as determined in accordance with procedures approved and periodically reviewed by the trustees of the Fund. |
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Market Disruption Risk. The terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001 had a disruptive effect on the securities markets. The Fund cannot predict the effects of similar events in the future on the U.S. economy and securities markets. These terrorist attacks and related events, including the war in Iraq, have led to increased short-term market volatility and may have long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets. A similar disruption of the financial markets could impact interest rates, secondary trading, credit risk, inflation and other factors relating to the Common Shares. |
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Income Risk. The income Common Shareholders receive from the Fund is based primarily on the dividends and interest it earns from its investments, which can vary widely over the short and long term. If prevailing market interest rates drop, distribution rates of the Fund's preferred stock holdings and any bond holdings and Common Shareholder's income from the Fund could drop as well. The Fund's income also would likely be affected adversely when prevailing short-term interest rates increase and the Fund is utilizing leverage. |
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Anti-Takeover Provisions. The Fund's Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated January 12, 2006 (the "Declaration of Trust"), includes provisions that could have the effect of inhibiting the Fund's possible conversion to open-end status and limiting the ability of other entities or persons to acquire the Fund or to obtain control of the Board of Trustees. In certain circumstances, these provisions might also inhibit the ability of shareholders to sell their shares at a premium over prevailing market prices. See "Conversion to Open-End Fund" and "Anti-Takeover Provisions in the Declaration of Trust." |
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Portfolio Turnover Risk. The techniques and strategies contemplated by the Fund might result in a high degree of portfolio turnover. The Fund cannot accurately predict its securities portfolio turnover rate, but anticipates that its annual portfolio turnover rate will not exceed 100% under normal market conditions, although it could be materially higher under certain conditions. Higher portfolio turnover rates could result in corresponding increases in brokerage commissions and generate short-term capital gains taxable as ordinary income. |
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Convertible Securities Risk. The value of a convertible security is a function of its "investment value" (determined by its yield in comparison with the yields of other securities of comparable maturity and quality that do not have a conversion privilege) and its "conversion value" (the security's worth, at market value, if converted into the underlying common stock). The investment value |
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of a convertible security is influenced by changes in interest rates, with investment value declining as interest rates increase and increasing as interest rates decline. The credit standing of the issuer and other factors may also have an effect on the convertible security's investment value. The conversion value of a convertible security is determined by the market price of the underlying common stock. If the conversion value is low relative to the investment value, the price of the convertible security is governed principally by its investment value. Generally, the conversion value decreases as the convertible security approaches maturity. To the extent the market price of the underlying common stock approaches or exceeds the conversion price, the price of the convertible security will be increasingly influenced by its conversion value. A convertible security generally will sell at a premium over its conversion value by the extent to which investors place value on the right to acquire the underlying common stock while holding a fixed income security. |
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A convertible security may be subject to redemption at the option of the issuer at a price established in the convertible security's governing instrument. If a convertible security held by the Fund is called for redemption, the Fund will be required to permit the issuer to redeem the security, convert it into the underlying common stock or sell it to a third party. Any of these actions could have an adverse effect on the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective. |
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REIT Risk. If the Fund invests in REITs, such investment will subject the Fund to various risks. The first, real estate industry risk, is the risk that the REIT share prices will decline because of adverse developments affecting the real estate industry and real property values. In general, real estate values can be affected by a variety of factors, including supply and demand for properties, the economic health of the country or of different regions and the strength of specific industries that rent properties. The second, investment style risk, is the risk that returns from REITs, which typically are small or medium capitalization stocks, will trail returns from the overall stock market. The third, interest rate risk, is the risk that changes in interest rates may hurt real estate values or make REIT shares less attractive than other income-producing investments. |
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Qualification as a REIT in any particular year is a complex analysis that depends on a number of factors. There can be no assurance that the entities in which the Fund invests with the expectation that they will be taxed as a REIT will qualify as a REIT. An entity that fails to qualify as a REIT, would be subject to a corporate level tax, would not be entitled to a deduction for dividends paid to its shareholders and would not pass through to its shareholders the character of income earned by the entity. If the Fund were to invest in an entity that failed to qualify as a REIT, such failure could drastically reduce the Fund's yield on that investment. |
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The Fund does not expect to invest a significant portion of its assets in REITs but does not have any investment restrictions with respect to such investments. |
Distributions |
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The Fund intends to make a level dividend distribution each quarter to Common Shareholders after payment of interest on any outstanding borrowings or dividends on any outstanding preferred shares. The level dividend rate may be modified by the Board of Trustees from time to time. If, for all quarterly distributions, net investment company taxable income, if any (which term includes net short-term capital gain), and net tax-exempt income, if any, as determined as of the close of the Fund's taxable year, is less than the amount of the sum of all of the distributions for the taxable year, the difference will generally be a tax-free return of capital distributed from the Fund's assets. The Fund's final distribution for each calendar year will include any net investment company taxable income and net tax-exempt income undistributed during the year, as well as all net capital gain, if any, realized during the year. In general, the total distributions made in any taxable year (other than distributions of net capital gain) would be treated as ordinary dividend income to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Distributions in excess of the earnings and profits would first be a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the adjusted tax basis in the shares. After such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, the distribution would constitute capital gain (assuming the shares are held as capital assets). This distribution policy may, under certain circumstances, have certain adverse consequences to the Fund and its shareholders. The initial distribution is expected to be declared approximately 45 days after the completion of this offering and paid on or about July 31, 2006, depending on market conditions. See "Distributions." |
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Clough has applied to the Securities and Exchange Commission, on behalf of the Fund, for an exemption from Section 19(b) of the 1940 Act and Rule 19b-1 thereunder permitting the Fund to make periodic distributions of long-term capital gains, provided that the distribution policy of the Fund with respect to its Common Shares calls for periodic (e.g., quarterly/monthly) distributions in an amount equal to a fixed percentage of the Fund's 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. The exemption also would permit the Fund to make distributions with respect to any preferred shares that may be issued by the Fund in accordance with such shares' terms. No assurance can be given that the Securities and Exchange Commission will grant the exemption to the Fund. The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has indicated that it has suspended the processing of exemptive applications requesting the type of relief referenced above, pending review by the staff of the results of an industry-wide Securities and Exchange Commission inspection focusing on the dividend practices of closed-end investment companies. There can be no assurance as to when that review might |
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The following table assumes the issuance of preferred shares in an amount equal to 33% of the Fund's capital (after issuance), assumes that the Fund issues approximately 15,000,000 Common Shares and shows Fund expenses as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares. Footnote (4) to the table also shows Fund expenses as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares, but assumes that no preferred shares are issued or outstanding (such as will be the case prior to the Fund's expected issuance of preferred shares).
Shareholder Transaction Expenses | |||
Sales load (as a percentage of offering price) | 4.50% | ||
Offering expenses borne by the Fund (as a percentage of offering price)(1) | .20% | ||
Preferred share offering expenses borne by the Fund (as a percentage of offering price)(2) | .57% | ||
Dividend Reinvestment and Cash Purchase Plan fees | None(3) |
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Percentage of Net Assets
Attributable to Common Shares (assuming the issuance of preferred shares)(4) |
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Annual Expenses | ||||
Investment advisory fees | 1.49 | % | ||
Other expenses(5) | .85 | %(2) | ||
Total annual Fund operating expenses | 2.34 | % | ||
Dividends on preferred shares(6) | 2.14 | % | ||
Total annual Fund operating expenses and dividends on preferred shares | 4.48 | % |
Offering costs borne by Common Shareholders will result in a reduction of capital of the Fund attributable to the Common Shares.
Assuming the issuance of preferred shares in an amount equal to 33% of the Fund's capital (after their issuance) these offering costs (including the sales load paid to the underwriters in connection with the preferred share offering) are estimated to be approximately $1,722,000 or $0.11 per Common Share (.57% of the offering price). These offering costs are not included among the expenses shown in the Annual Expenses table.
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above, assumes that no preferred shares are issued or outstanding. This will be the case, for instance, prior to the Fund's expected issuance of preferred shares. In accordance with these assumptions, the Fund's expenses would be estimated to be as follows:
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Percentage of Net Assets
Attributable to Common Shares (assuming no preferred shares are issued or outstanding) |
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Annual Expenses | ||||
Investment Advisory Fees | 1.00 | % | ||
Other Expenses(5) | .46 | % | ||
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | 1.46 | %(1) |
"Other Expenses" also include costs associated with the Fund's short sales on equity securities (see "Investment Objectives and PoliciesInvestment TechniquesShort Sales"). Assuming the issuance of preferred shares, dividend expenses paid on securities sold short are estimated to be .21% of the Fund's net assets. Assuming preferred shares are not issued, dividend expenses paid on securities sold short are estimated to be .11% of the Fund's net assets. These percentages represent estimates for the Fund's initial year of operations, assuming that the Fund maintains short equity positions equal to 7% of its net assets assuming preferred shares are not issued and 14% of its net assets assuming the issuance of preferred shares ( i.e. , based on the Fund's initial expected short equity exposure). When a cash dividend is declared on a security for which the Fund holds a short position, the Fund incurs the obligation to pay an amount equal to that dividend to the lender of the shorted security. Thus, the estimate for dividend expenses paid is also based on the dividend yields of stocks that would be sold short in a model portfolio developed by the Investment Adviser as well as anticipated trading practices (which may involve avoiding dividend expenses with respect to certain short sale transactions by closing out the position prior to the underlying issuer's ex-dividend date). The Fund's actual dividend expenses paid on securities sold short may be significantly higher or lower than the estimates above due to, among other factors, the actual extent of the Fund's short positions (which can range from 0% to 30% of total assets), the actual dividends paid with respect to the securities the Fund sells short, and the actual timing of the Fund's short sale transactions, each of which is expected to vary over time and from time to time.
ALPS will pay all expenses incurred by the Fund except organizational costs (to be paid by both ALPS and Clough) and offering costs in excess of $.04 per Common Share (to be paid by both ALPS and Clough), advisory fees, trustees' fees, interest expenses, if any, portfolio transaction expenses, litigation expenses, taxes, costs of preferred shares, expenses of conducting repurchase offers for the purpose of repurchasing Fund shares, extraordinary expenses and dividends on securities sold short.
ALPS will provide administration, bookkeeping and pricing services to the Fund pursuant to an agreement with the Fund. ALPS serves as sponsor to the Fund, and the Fund considers ALPS to be an "interested person" of the Fund within the meaning of Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act. It further considers interested persons of ALPS to be interested persons of the Fund.
The purpose of the above table is to help a holder of Common Shares understand the fees and expenses that such holder would bear directly or indirectly. The expenses shown in the table are based on estimated amounts for the Fund's first year of operations, unless otherwise indicated, and assume
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that the Fund issues approximately 15,000,000 Common Shares. If the Fund issues fewer Common Shares, all other things being equal, these expenses would increase as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares. See "Management of the Fund."
Example
The following example illustrates the expenses (including the sales load of $45.00, estimated offering expenses of this offering of $2.00 and the estimated offering costs of issuing preferred shares, assuming the Fund issues preferred shares representing 33% of the Fund's capital (after their issuance), of $5.74) that you would pay on a $1,000 investment in Common Shares, assuming (i) total annual expenses of 2.34% (which excludes dividends on any preferred shares) of net assets attributable to Common Shares and (ii) a 5% annual return*:
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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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Total Expenses Incurred | $ | 75 | $ | 119 | $ | 166 | $ | 293 |
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The Fund is a newly organized, non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act. The Fund was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on January 17, 2006, pursuant to a Certificate of Trust dated January 12, 2006 governed by the laws of the state of Delaware, and has no operating history. The Fund's principal office is located at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202 and its telephone number is (877) 256-8445 (toll-free).
The net proceeds of this offering of Common Shares will be approximately $ ($ if the underwriters exercise the overallotment option in full) after payment of the sales load, and organizational and offering costs (other than the sales load) expected to be approximately $.04 per Common Share. The net proceeds of the offering will be invested in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies (as stated below) as soon as practicable after completion of the offering. The Fund currently anticipates being able to do so within three months after the completion of the offering. Pending investment of the net proceeds in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, the Fund will invest in money market securities or money market mutual funds. Investors should expect, therefore, that before the Fund has fully invested the proceeds of the offering in accordance with its investment objective and policies, the Fund's net asset value would be subject to less fluctuation than would be the case at such time as the Fund is fully invested.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
General
The Fund's investment objective is to provide a high level of total return. The Fund seeks to pursue this objective by applying a fundamental research driven investment process and will invest in equity and equity-related securities, as well as fixed income securities, including both corporate and sovereign debt, in both U.S. and non-U.S. markets. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
The Fund intends to invest primarily in a managed mix of U.S. and non-U.S. equity and debt securities. The Fund is flexibly managed so that, depending on the Fund's investment adviser's outlook, it sometimes will be more heavily invested in equity securities or in debt or fixed income securities. Under normal circumstances, the Fund expects to invest in securities of at least three countries. The Fund will also, in certain situations, augment its investment positions by purchasing call options, both on specific equity securities, as well as securities representing exposure to equity sectors or indices and fixed income indices. Investments in non-U.S. markets will be made primarily through liquid securities, including depositary receipts (which evidence ownership of underlying foreign securities) such as American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), as well as through exchange traded funds ("ETFs") and in stocks traded on non-U.S. exchanges. Investments in debt may include both investment grade and non-investment grade issues. There are certain risks associated with investing in non investment grade securities, commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Investments in corporate debt may include bonds issued by companies in countries considered emerging markets. Investments in sovereign debt may include bonds issued by countries considered emerging markets. The Fund will not invest more than 25% of its total assets, at the time of acquisition, in securities of governments and companies in emerging markets. The Fund may also invest a portion of its assets in real estate investment trusts, or "REITs", but the Fund does not expect that portion to be significant.
The Fund will place a high priority on capital preservation, and should the Fund's investment adviser believe that extraordinary conditions affecting financial markets warrant, the Fund may temporarily be primarily invested in money market securities or money market mutual funds. When the
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Fund is invested in these instruments for temporary or defensive purposes, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund may use a variety of investment techniques designed to capitalize on declines in the market price of equity securities or declines in market indices (e.g., the Fund may establish short positions in specific stocks or stock indices) based on the Fund's investment adviser's investment outlook. Subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act and the Code, the Fund will not make a short sale if, after giving effect to such sale, the market value of all securities sold short by the Fund exceeds 30% of the value of its total assets.
Investment Strategy
Clough believes that above average investment returns can be achieved when key, proprietary insights into industry or economic trends are discovered, and their significance understood, before they become obvious to other investors. Within this context, the investment process will focus on investing in a number of major global investment themes identified by Clough. Industry consolidation, technological change, an emerging shortage of a product or raw material which derives from a period of under-investment, changes in government regulation or major economic or investment cycles are examples of themes Clough would emphasize in its investment focus. Attractive investment themes will often be influenced by global trends, which make investments in certain industries across more than one geographic market likely.
Once attractive themes are identified, Clough will generally utilize a "bottom-up" research process to identify companies it believes are best positioned to benefit from those specific themes. Individual positions will be selected based upon a host of qualitative and quantitative factors, including, but not limited to, such factors as a company's competitive position, quality of company management, quality and visibility of earnings and cash flow, balance sheet strength and relative valuation. This approach may provide investment opportunities in various levels of a company's capital structure, including common and preferred stock, as well as corporate bonds, including convertible debt securities.
Under the Fund's theme-oriented investment approach, investment positions may be concentrated in only a relatively small number of industries. The Fund will attempt to diversify within its investment themes, as appropriate, to lower volatility. Individual equity positions on both the long and short side of the portfolio will typically be below 5% of total assets. The Fund also does not have restrictions on the levels of portfolio turnover. However, since major industry trends often last years, Clough believes that a theme-based investment approach can result in opportunities for tax efficient investing (as a result of lower portfolio turnover).
The Fund is not required to maintain any particular percentage of its assets in equity securities, or in fixed income securities, and Clough may change the weightings of the Fund's investments in equity and fixed income securities based upon Clough's assessment of the prevailing interest rate environment and expected returns relative to other identified investment opportunities. Generally, the Fund will increase its investments in fixed income securities when Clough anticipates that the return on these securities will exceed the return on equity securities, and vice versa.
Clough believes that its theme-based portfolio strategy will present periods of time when Clough has a particularly high degree of confidence in the Fund's investment positions. During these occasions, the Fund may purchase call options in order to enhance investment returns. The Fund may also purchase such options at other times if the Adviser believes it would be beneficial to the Fund to do so. The Fund's use of such option strategies is expected to be opportunistic in nature and the Fund is not required to maintain any particular percentage of assets in call option premium. Call option premiums, when utilized, will typically be less than 12% of total assets.
Generally, securities will be purchased or sold by the Fund on national securities exchanges and in the over-the-counter market. From time to time, securities may be purchased or sold in private transactions, including securities that are not publicly traded or that are otherwise illiquid. Clough does
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not expect such investments to comprise more than 10% of the Fund's total assets (determined at the time the investment is made).
Clough may invest the Fund's cash balances in any investments it deems appropriate, including, without limitation and as permitted under the 1940 Act, money market funds, repurchase agreements, U.S. Treasury and U.S. agency securities, municipal bonds and bank accounts. Any income earned from such investments is ordinarily reinvested by the Fund in accordance with its investment program. Many of the considerations entering into Clough's recommendations and the portfolio managers' decisions are subjective.
The Fund's portfolio will be actively managed and securities may be bought or sold on a daily basis. Investments may be added to the portfolio if they satisfy value-based criteria or contribute to the portfolio's risk profile. Investments may be removed from the portfolio if Clough believes that their market value exceeds full value, they add inefficient risk or the initial investment thesis fails.
Portfolio Investments
Common Stocks
Common stock represents an equity ownership interest in an issuer. The Fund will have substantial exposure to common stocks. Although common stocks have historically generated higher average returns than fixed income securities over the long term, common stocks also have experienced significantly more volatility in returns. An adverse event, such as an unfavorable earnings report, may depress the value of a particular common stock held by the Fund. Also, the prices of common stocks are sensitive to general movements in the stock market and a drop in the stock market may depress the prices of common stocks to which the Fund has exposure. Common stock prices fluctuate for many reasons, including changes in investors' perceptions of the financial condition of an issuer or the general condition of the relevant stock market, or when political or economic events affecting the issuer occur. In addition, common stock prices may be sensitive to rising interest rates, as the costs of capital rise and borrowing costs increase.
Small and Medium Cap Companies
The Fund may invest in securities of small capitalization companies, currently considered by Clough to mean companies with market capitalization at or below $1 billion. It may also invest in medium capitalization companies, currently considered by Clough to mean companies with market capitalization of between $1 billion and $5 billion.
Preferred Stocks
Preferred stock, like common stock, represents an equity ownership in an issuer. Generally, preferred stock has a priority of claim over common stock in dividend payments and upon liquidation of the issuer. Unlike common stock, preferred stock does not usually have voting rights. Preferred stock in some instances is convertible into common stock.
Although they are equity securities, preferred stocks have certain characteristics of both debt and common stock. They are debt-like in that their promised income is contractually fixed. They are common stock-like in that they do not have rights to precipitate bankruptcy proceedings or collection activities in the event of missed payments. Furthermore, they have many of the key characteristics of equity due to their subordinated position in an issuer's capital structure and because their quality and value are heavily dependent on the profitability of the issuer rather than on any legal claims to specific assets or cash flows.
In order to be payable, dividends on preferred stock must be declared by the issuer's board of directors or trustees. In addition, distributions on preferred stock may be subject to deferral and thus
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may not be automatically payable. Income payments on some preferred stocks are cumulative, causing dividends and distributions to accrue even if not declared by the board of directors or trustees or otherwise made payable. Other preferred stocks are non-cumulative, meaning that skipped dividends and distributions do not continue to accrue. There is no assurance that dividends on preferred stocks in which the Fund invests will be declared or otherwise made payable. The Fund may invest in non-cumulative preferred stock, although Clough would consider, among other factors, their non-cumulative nature in making any decision to purchase or sell such securities.
Shares of preferred stock have a liquidation value that generally equals the original purchase price at the date of issuance. The market values of preferred stock may be affected by favorable and unfavorable changes impacting the issuers' industries or sectors. They may also be affected by actual and anticipated changes or ambiguities in the tax status of the security and by actual and anticipated changes or ambiguities in tax laws, such as changes in corporate and individual income tax rates.
Because the claim on an issuer's earnings represented by preferred stock may become onerous when interest rates fall below the rate payable on the stock or for other reasons, the issuer may redeem preferred stock, generally after an initial period of call protection in which the stock is not redeemable. Thus, in declining interest rate environments in particular, the Fund's holdings of higher dividend-paying preferred stocks may be reduced and the Fund may be unable to acquire securities paying comparable rates with the redemption proceeds.
Restricted and Illiquid Securities
Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded securities, it may invest a portion of its assets (generally, no more than 10% of its value) in restricted securities and other investments which are illiquid. Restricted securities are securities that may not be sold to the public without an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or, if they are unregistered, may be sold only in a privately negotiated transaction or pursuant to an exemption from registration. In recognition of the increased size and liquidity of the institutional markets for unregistered securities and the importance of institutional investors in the formation of capital, the Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted Rule 144A under the Securities Act, which is designed to further facilitate efficient trading among eligible institutional investors by permitting the sale of certain unregistered securities to qualified institutional buyers. The Fund will be eligible to purchase securities in Rule 144A transactions if and when it owns at least $100 million of securities of unaffiliated issuers. To the extent privately placed securities held by the Fund qualify under Rule 144A, and an institutional market develops for those securities, the Fund likely will be able to dispose of the securities without registering them under the Securities Act. To the extent that institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in purchasing these securities, investing in Rule 144A securities could have the effect of increasing the level of the Fund's illiquidity. The Fund may adopt procedures under which certain Rule 144A securities will not be deemed to be illiquid, if certain criteria are satisfied with respect to those securities and the market therefor. Foreign securities that can be freely sold in the markets in which they are principally traded are not considered by the Fund to be restricted. Regulation S under the Securities Act permits the sale abroad of securities that are not registered for sale in the United States. Repurchase agreements with maturities of more than seven days will be treated as illiquid.
Corporate Bonds, Government Debt Securities and Other Debt Securities
The Fund may invest in corporate bonds, debentures and other debt securities. Debt securities in which the Fund may invest may pay fixed or variable rates of interest. Bonds and other debt securities generally are issued by corporations and other issuers to borrow money from investors. The issuer pays the investor a fixed or variable rate of interest and normally must repay the amount borrowed on or before maturity. Certain debt securities are "perpetual" in that they have no maturity date.
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The Fund will invest in government debt securities, including those of emerging market issuers or of other non-U.S. issuers. These securities may be U.S. dollar-denominated on non-U.S. dollar-denominated and include: (a) debt obligations issued or guaranteed by foreign national, provincial, state, municipal or other governments with taxing authority or by their agencies or instrumentalities; and (b) debt obligations of supranational entities. Government debt securities include: debt securities issued or guaranteed by governments, government agencies or instrumentalities and political subdivisions; debt securities issued by government owed, controlled or sponsored entities; interests in entities organized and operated for the purpose of restructuring the investment characteristics issued by the above-noted issuers; or debt securities issued by supranational entities such as the World Bank or the European Union. The Fund may also invest in securities denominated in currencies of emerging market countries. Emerging market debt securities generally are rated in the lower rating categories of recognized credit rating agencies or are unrated and considered to be of comparable quality to lower rated debt securities. A non-U.S. issuer of debt or the non-U.S. governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due, and the Fund may have limited resources in the event of a default. Some of these risks do not apply to issuers in large, more developed countries. These risks are more pronounced in investments in issuers in emerging markets or if the Fund invests significantly in one country.
The Fund will not invest more than 20% of its total assets in debt securities rated below investment grade ( i.e., securities rated lower than Baa by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") or lower than BBB by Standard & Poor's Rating Services, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ("S&P")), or their equivalent as determined by Clough. These securities are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." The foregoing credit quality policy applies only at the time a security is purchased, and the Fund is not required to dispose of securities already owned by the Fund in the event of a change in assessment of credit quality or the removal of a rating.
Exchange Traded Funds
The Fund may invest in ETFs, which are investment companies that aim to track or replicate a desired index, such as a sector, market or global segment. ETFs are passively managed and their shares are traded on a national exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers' Automatic Quotation System ("NASDAQ"). ETFs do not sell individual shares directly to investors and only issue their shares in large blocks known as "creation units." The investor purchasing a creation unit may sell the individual shares on a secondary market. Therefore, the liquidity of ETFs depends on the adequacy of the secondary market. There can be no assurance that an ETF's investment objective will be achieved, as ETFs based on an index may not replicate and maintain exactly the composition and relative weightings of securities in the index. ETFs are subject to the risks of investing in the underlying securities. The Fund, as a holder of the securities of the ETF, will bear its pro rata portion of the ETF's expenses, including advisory fees. These expenses are in addition to the direct expenses of the Fund's own operations.
Foreign Securities
Under normal circumstances, the Fund intends to invest a portion of its assets in securities of issuers located in at least three countries (in addition to the United States). The value of foreign securities is affected by changes in currency rates, foreign tax laws (including withholding tax), government policies (in this country or abroad), relations between nations and trading, settlement, custodial and other operational risks. In addition, the costs of investing abroad are generally higher than in the United States, and foreign securities markets may be less liquid, more volatile and less subject to governmental supervision than markets in the United States. As an alternative to holding foreign-traded securities, the Fund may invest in dollar-denominated securities of foreign companies that trade on U.S. exchanges or in the U.S. over-the-counter market (including depositary receipts as
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described below, which evidence ownership in underlying foreign securities, and ETFs as described above).
Because foreign companies are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than about a domestic company. Volume and liquidity in most foreign debt markets is less than in the United States and securities of some foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. companies. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, broker-dealers and listed companies than in the United States. Mail service between the United States and foreign countries may be slower or less reliable than within the United States, thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. Payment for securities before delivery may be required. In addition, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments, which could affect investments in those countries. Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Foreign securities markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers (particularly those located in developing countries) may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. companies.
The Fund may purchase ADRs, EDRs and GDRs, which are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of foreign issuers and are alternatives to purchasing directly the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, such depository receipts continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks associated with the underlying issuer's country. ADRs, EDRs and GDRs may be sponsored or unsponsored. Unsponsored receipts are established without the participation of the issuer. Unsponsored receipts may involve higher expenses, they may not pass-through voting or other shareholder rights, and they may be less liquid.
The Fund's investments in sovereign debt may also include bonds issued by countries in emerging markets. Emerging market securities generally are less liquid and subject to wider price and currency fluctuations than securities issued in more developed countries. While there is no limit on the amount of assets the Fund may invest outside of the United States, the Fund will not invest more than 25% of its assets, at the time of acquisition, in securities (including equity and fixed income securities) of governments and companies in emerging markets.
Warrants
The Fund may invest in equity and index warrants of domestic and international issuers. Equity warrants are securities that give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to subscribe for equity issues of the issuing company or a related company at a fixed price either on a certain date or during a set period. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
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Convertible Securities and Bonds with Warrants Attached
The Fund may invest in preferred stocks and fixed income obligations that are convertible into common stocks of domestic and foreign issuers, and bonds issued as a unit with warrants to purchase equity or fixed income securities. Convertible securities in which the Fund may invest, comprised of both convertible debt and convertible preferred stock, may be converted at either a stated price or at a stated rate into underlying shares of common stock. Because of this feature, convertible securities generally enable an investor to benefit from increases in the market price of the underlying common stock. Convertible securities often provide higher yields than the underlying equity securities, but generally offer lower yields than non-convertible securities of similar quality. The value of convertible securities fluctuates in relation to changes in interest rates like bonds, and, in addition, fluctuates in relation to the underlying common stock.
Bonds with warrants attached to purchase equity securities have many characteristics of convertible bonds and their prices may, to some degree, reflect the performance of the underlying stock. Bonds may also be issued with warrants attached to purchase additional fixed income securities at the same coupon rate. A decline in interest rates would permit the Fund to buy additional bonds at a favorable rate or to sell the warrants at a profit. If interest rates rise, the warrants would generally expire with no value.
REITS
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in REITs. REITs are companies that own and manage real estate, including apartment buildings, offices, shopping centers, industrial buildings and hotels. By investing in REITs, the Fund may gain exposure to the real estate market with greater liquidity and diversification than through direct ownership of property, which can be costly and require ongoing management and maintenance, and which can be difficult to convert into cash when needed. The Fund does not expect to invest a significant portion of its assets in REITs but does not have any investment restrictions with respect to such investments.
Investment Techniques
The Fund may, but is under no obligation to, from time to time employ a variety of investment techniques, including those described below, to hedge against fluctuations in the price of portfolio securities, to enhance total return or to provide a substitute for the purchase or sale of securities. Some of these techniques, such as purchases of put and call options, options on stock indices and stock index futures and entry into certain credit derivative transactions and short sales, may be used as hedges against or substitutes for investments in equity securities. Other techniques such as the purchase of interest rate futures and entry into transactions involving interest rate swaps, options on interest rate swaps and certain credit derivatives are hedges against or substitutes for investments in debt securities. The Fund's ability to utilize any of the techniques described below may be limited by restrictions imposed on its operations in connection with obtaining and maintaining its qualification as a regulated investment company under the Code. Additionally, other factors (such as cost) may make it impractical or undesirable to use any of these investment techniques from time to time.
Options on Securities
In order to hedge against adverse market shifts, the Fund may utilize up to 12% of its total assets (in addition to the 12% limit applicable to options on stock indices described below) to purchase put and call options on securities. The Fund will also, in certain situations, augment its investment positions by purchasing call options, both on specific equity securities, as well as securities representing exposure to equity sectors or indices and fixed income indices. In addition, the Fund may seek to increase its income or may hedge a portion of its portfolio investments through writing ( i.e. , selling) covered put
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and call options. A put option embodies the right of its purchaser to compel the writer of the option to purchase from the option holder an underlying security or its equivalent at a specified price at any time during the option period. In contrast, a call option gives the purchaser the right to buy the underlying security or its equivalent covered by the option or its equivalent from the writer of the option at the stated exercise price. Under interpretations of the Securities and Exchange Commission currently in effect, which may change from time to time, a "covered" call option means that so long as the Fund is obligated as the writer of the option, it will own (1) the underlying instruments subject to the option, (2) instruments convertible or exchangeable into the instruments subject to the option or (3) a call option on the relevant instruments with an exercise price no higher than the exercise price on the call option written.
Similarly, the Securities and Exchange Commission currently requires that, to "cover" or support its obligation to purchase the underlying instruments if a put option is written by the Fund, the Fund must (1) deposit with its custodian in a segregated account liquid securities having a value at least equal to the exercise price of the underlying securities, (2) continue to own an equivalent number of puts of the same "series" (that is, puts on the same underlying security having the same exercise prices and expiration dates as those written by the Fund), or an equivalent number of puts of the same "class" (that is, puts on the same underlying security) with exercise prices greater than those it has written (or, if the exercise prices of the puts it holds are less than the exercise prices of those it has written, it will deposit the difference with its custodian in a segregated account) or (3) sell short the securities underlying the put option at the same or a higher price than the exercise price on the put option written.
The Fund will receive a premium when it writes put and call options, which increases the Fund's return on the underlying security in the event the option expires unexercised or is closed out at a profit. By writing a call, the Fund will limit its opportunity to profit from an increase in the market value of the underlying security above the exercise price of the option for as long as the Fund's obligation as the writer of the option continues. Upon the exercise of a put option written by the Fund, the Fund may suffer an economic loss equal to the difference between the price at which the Fund is required to purchase the underlying security and its market value at the time of the option exercise, less the premium received for writing the option. Upon the exercise of a call option written by the Fund, the Fund may suffer an economic loss equal to an amount not less than the excess of the security's market value at the time of the option exercise over the Fund's acquisition cost of the security, less the sum of the premium received for writing the option and the difference, if any, between the call price paid to the Fund and the Fund's acquisition cost of the security. Thus, in some periods the Fund might receive less total return and in other periods greater total return from its hedged positions than it would have received from leaving its underlying securities unhedged.
The Fund may purchase and write options on securities that are listed on national securities exchanges or are traded over the counter, although it expects, under normal circumstances, to effect such transactions on national securities exchanges.
As a holder of a put option, the Fund will have the right to sell the securities underlying the option and as the holder of a call option, the Fund will have the right to purchase the securities underlying the option, in each case at their exercise price at any time prior to the option's expiration date. The Fund may choose to exercise the options it holds, permit them to expire or terminate them prior to their expiration by entering into closing sale transactions. In entering into a closing sale transaction, the Fund would sell an option of the same series as the one it has purchased. The ability of the Fund to enter into a closing sale transaction with respect to options purchased and to enter into a closing purchase transaction with respect to options sold depends on the existence of a liquid secondary market. There can be no assurance that a closing purchase or sale transaction can be effected when the Fund so desires. The Fund's ability to terminate option positions established in the over-the-counter market may be more limited than in the case of exchange-traded options and may also involve the risk
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that securities dealers participating in such transactions would fail to meet their obligations to the Fund.
In purchasing a put option, the Fund will seek to benefit from a decline in the market price of the underlying security, while in purchasing a call option, the Fund will seek to benefit from an increase in the market price of the underlying security. If an option purchased is not sold or exercised when it has remaining value, or if the market price of the underlying security remains equal to or greater than the exercise price, in the case of a put, or remains equal to or below the exercise price, in the case of a call, during the life of the option, the option will expire worthless. For the purchase of an option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must decline sufficiently below the exercise price, in the case of a put, and must increase sufficiently above the exercise price, in the case of a call, to cover the premium and transaction costs. Because option premiums paid by the Fund are small in relation to the market value of the instruments underlying the options, buying options can result in large amounts of leverage. The leverage offered by trading in options could cause the Fund's net asset value to be subject to more frequent and wider fluctuation than would be the case if the Fund did not invest in options.
Options on Stock Indices
The Fund may utilize up to 12% of its total assets (in addition to the 12% limit applicable to options on securities) to purchase put and call options on domestic stock indices to hedge against risks of market-wide price movements affecting its assets. The Fund will also, in certain situations, augment its investment positions by purchasing call options, both on specific equity securities, as well as securities representing exposure to equity sectors or indices and fixed income indices. In addition, the Fund may write covered put and call options on stock indices. A stock index measures the movement of a certain group of stocks by assigning relative values to the common stocks included in the index. Options on stock indices are similar to options on securities. Because no underlying security can be delivered, however, the option represents the holder's right to obtain from the writer, in cash, a fixed multiple of the amount by which the exercise price exceeds (in the case of a put) or is less than (in the case of a call) the closing value of the underlying index on the exercise date. The advisability of using stock index options to hedge against the risk of market-wide movements will depend on the extent of diversification of the Fund's investments and the sensitivity of its investments to factors influencing the underlying index. The effectiveness of purchasing or writing stock index options as a hedging technique will depend upon the extent to which price movements in the Fund's securities investments correlate with price movements in the stock index selected. In addition, successful use by the Fund of options on stock indices will be subject to the ability of Clough to predict correctly changes in the relationship of the underlying index to the Fund's portfolio holdings. No assurance can be given that Clough's judgment in this respect will be correct.
When the Fund writes an option on a stock index, it will establish a segregated account with its custodian in which the Fund will deposit liquid securities in an amount equal to the market value of the option, and will maintain the account while the option is open.
Short Sales
The Fund intends to attempt to limit exposure to a possible market decline in the value of its portfolio securities through short sales of securities that Clough believes possess volatility characteristics similar to those being hedged. In addition, the Fund intends to use short sales for non-hedging purposes to pursue its investment objective. Subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act and the Code, the Fund will not make a short sale if, after giving effect to such sale, the market value of all securities sold short by the Fund exceeds 30% of the value of its total assets.
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A short sale is a transaction in which the Fund sells a security it does not own in anticipation that the market price of that security will decline. When the Fund makes a short sale, it must borrow the security sold short from a broker-dealer and deliver it to the buyer upon conclusion of the sale. The Fund may have to pay a fee to borrow particular securities and is often obligated to pay over any payments received on such borrowed securities.
The Fund's obligation to replace the borrowed security will be secured by collateral deposited with the broker-dealer, usually cash, U.S. government securities or other liquid securities. The Fund will also be required to designate on its books and records similar collateral with its custodian to the extent, if any, necessary so that the aggregate collateral value is at all times at least equal to the current market value of the security sold short. Depending on arrangements made with the broker-dealer from which it borrowed the security regarding payment over of any payments received by the Fund on such security, the Fund may not receive any payments (including interest) on its collateral deposited with such broker-dealer.
If the price of the security sold short increases between the time of the short sale and the time the Fund replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will incur a loss; conversely, if the price declines, the Fund will realize a gain. Any gain will be decreased, and any loss increased, by the transaction costs described above. Although the Fund's gain is limited to the price at which it sold the security short, its potential loss is unlimited.
The Fund may also sell a security short if it owns at least an equal amount of the security sold short or another security convertible or exchangeable for an equal amount of the security sold short without payment of further compensation (a short sale against-the-box). In a short sale against-the-box, the short seller is exposed to the risk of being forced to deliver stock that it holds to close the position if the borrowed stock is called in by the lender, which would cause gain or loss to be recognized on the delivered stock. The Fund expects normally to close its short sales against-the-box by delivering newly acquired stock.
Purchasing securities to close out the short position can itself cause the price of the securities to rise further, thereby exacerbating the loss. Short-selling exposes the Fund to unlimited risk with respect to that security due to the lack of an upper limit on the price to which an instrument can rise. Although the Fund reserves the right to utilize short sales, and currently intends to utilize short sales, Clough is under no obligation to utilize short sales at all.
Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts
The Fund may enter into interest rate and stock index futures contracts and may purchase and sell put and call options on such futures contracts. The Fund will enter into such transactions for hedging and other appropriate risk-management purposes or to increase return, in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC") and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
An interest rate futures contract is a standardized contract for the future delivery of a specified security (such as a U.S. Treasury Bond or U.S. Treasury Note) or its equivalent at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A stock index futures contract is an agreement to take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to the difference between the value of the index at the beginning and at the end of the contract period. The Fund may only enter into futures contracts traded on regulated commodity exchanges.
Parties to a futures contract must make "initial margin" deposits to secure performance of the contract. There are also requirements to make "variation margin" deposits from time to time as the value of the futures contract fluctuates. Clough has claimed an exclusion from the definition of commodity pool operator under the Commodity Exchange Act ("CEA") and, therefore, Clough will not
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be subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool operator under the CEA. The Fund reserves the right to engage in transactions involving futures and options thereon and in accordance with the Fund's policies. In addition, certain provisions of the Code may limit the extent to which the Fund may enter into futures contracts or engage in options transactions.
Pursuant to the views of the Securities and Exchange Commission currently in effect, which may change from time to time, with respect to futures contracts to purchase securities or stock indices, call options on futures contracts purchased by the Fund and put options on futures contracts written by the Fund, the Fund will set aside in a segregated account liquid securities with a value at least equal to the value of instruments underlying such futures contracts less the amount of initial margin on deposit for such contracts. The current view of the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission is that the Fund's long and short positions in futures contracts as well as put and call options on futures written by it must be collateralized with cash or certain liquid assets held in a segregated account or "covered" in a manner similar to that described above for covered options on securities. See "Investment Objective and PoliciesInvestment TechniquesOptions on Securities". However, even if "covered," these instruments could have the effect of leveraging the Fund's portfolio.
The Fund may either accept or make delivery of cash or the underlying instrument specified at the expiration of an interest rate futures contract or cash at the expiration of a stock index futures contract or, prior to expiration, enter into a closing transaction involving the purchase or sale of an offsetting contract. Closing transactions with respect to futures contracts are effected on the exchange on which the contract was entered into (or a linked exchange).
The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on interest rate futures contracts and stock index futures contracts in order to hedge all or a portion of its investments and may enter into closing purchase transactions with respect to options written by the Fund in order to terminate existing positions. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected at any particular time or at all. In addition, daily limits on price fluctuations on exchanges on which the Fund conducts its futures and options transactions may prevent the prompt liquidation of positions at the optimal time, thus subjecting the Fund to the potential of greater losses.
An option on an interest rate futures contract or stock index futures contract, as contrasted with the direct investment in such a contract, gives the purchaser of the option the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a stock index futures contract or interest rate futures contract at a specified exercise price at any time on or before the expiration date of the option. Upon exercise of an option, the delivery of the futures position by the writer of the option to the holder of the option will be accompanied by delivery of the accumulated balance in the writer's futures margin account, which represents the amount by which the market price of the futures contract exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than, in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option on the futures contract. The potential loss related to the purchase of an option on a futures contract is limited to the premium paid for the option (plus transaction costs).
With respect to options purchased by the Fund, there are no daily cash payments made by the Fund to reflect changes in the value of the underlying contract; however, the value of the option does change daily and that change would be reflected in the net asset value of the Fund.
While the Fund may enter into futures contracts and options on futures contracts for hedging purposes, the use of futures contracts and options on futures contracts might result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in any such transactions. If, for example, the Fund had insufficient cash, it might have to sell a portion of its underlying portfolio of securities in order to meet daily variation margin requirements on its futures contracts or options on futures contracts at a time when it might be disadvantageous to do so. There may be an imperfect correlation between the Fund's portfolio holdings and futures contracts or options on futures contracts entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of
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loss. Further, the Fund's use of futures contracts and options on futures contracts to reduce risk involves costs and will be subject to Clough's ability to predict correctly changes in interest rate relationships or other factors. No assurance can be given that Clough's judgment in this respect will be correct.
When-Issued and Delayed Delivery Transactions
New issues of preferred and debt securities may be offered on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, which means that delivery and payment for the security normally take place within 45 days after the date of the commitment to purchase. The payment obligation and the dividends that will be received on the security are fixed at the time the buyer enters into the commitment. The Fund will make commitments to purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis only with the intention of acquiring the securities, but may sell these securities before the settlement date if Clough deems it advisable. No additional when-issued or delayed delivery commitments will be made if more than 20% of the Fund's total assets would be so committed. Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis may be subject to changes in value based upon the public's perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and changes, real or anticipated, in the level of interest rates. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis may expose the Fund to risk because they may experience these fluctuations prior to their actual delivery. The Fund will not accrue income with respect to a debt security it has purchased on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis prior to its stated delivery date but will accrue income on a delayed delivery security it has sold. Purchasing or selling securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis can involve the additional risk that the yield available in the market when the delivery takes place actually may be higher than that obtained in the transaction itself. A segregated account of the Fund consisting of liquid securities equal at all times to the amount of the Fund's when-issued and delayed delivery purchase commitments will be established and maintained with the Fund's custodian. Placing securities rather than cash in the segregated account may have a leveraging effect on the Fund's net asset value per share; that is, to the extent that the Fund remains substantially fully invested in securities at the same time that it has committed to purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, greater fluctuations in its net asset value per share may occur than if it has set aside cash to satisfy its purchase commitments.
Interest Rate Swaps and Options Thereon ("Swaptions")
The Fund may enter into interest rate swap agreements and may purchase and sell put and call options on such swap agreements, commonly referred to as swaptions. The Fund will enter into such transactions for hedging some or all of its interest rate exposure in its holdings of preferred securities and debt securities. Interest rate swap agreements and swaptions are highly specialized investments and are not traded on or regulated by any securities exchange or regulated by the CFTC or the Securities and Exchange Commission.
An interest rate swap is an agreement between two parties where one party agrees to pay a contractually stated fixed income stream, usually denoted as a fixed percentage of an underlying "notional" amount, in exchange for receiving a variable income stream, usually based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), and denoted as a percentage of the underlying notional amount. From the perspective of a fixed rate payer, if interest rates rise, the payer will expect a rising level of income since the payer is a receiver of floating rate income. This would cause the value of the swap contract to rise in value, from the payer's perspective, because the discounted present value of its obligatory payment stream is diminished at higher interest rates, all at the same time it is receiving higher income. Alternatively, if interest rates fall, the reverse occurs and it simultaneously faces the prospects of both a diminished floating rate income stream and a higher discounted present value of his fixed rate payment obligation. These value changes all work in reverse from the perspective of a fixed rate receiver.
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A swaption is an agreement between two parties where one party purchases the right from the other party to enter into an interest rate swap at a specified date and for a specified "fixed rate" yield (or "exercise" yield). In a pay-fixed swaption, the holder of the swaption has the right to enter into an interest rate swap as a payer of fixed rate and receiver of variable rate, while the writer of the swaption has the obligation to enter into the other side of the interest rate swap. In a received-fixed swaption, the holder of the swaption has the right to enter into an interest rate swap as a receiver of fixed rate and a payer of variable rate, while the writer of the swaption has the obligation to enter into the opposite side of the interest rate swap.
A pay-fixed swaption is analogous to a put option on Treasury securities in that it rises in value as interest rate swap yields rise. A receive-fixed swaption is analogous to a call option on Treasury securities in that it rises in value as interest rate swap yields decline. As with other options on securities, indices, or futures contracts, the price of any swaption will reflect both an intrinsic value component, which may be zero, and a time premium component. The intrinsic value component represents what the value of the swaption would be if it were immediately exercisable into the underlying interest rate swap. The intrinsic value component measures the degree to which an option is in-the-money, if at all. The time premium represents the difference between the actual price of the swaption and the intrinsic value.
It is customary market practice for swaptions to be "cash settled" rather than an actual position in an interest rate swap being established at the time of swaption expiration. For reasons set forth more fully below, Clough expects to enter strictly into cash settled swaptions ( i.e. , where the exercise value of the swaption is determined by reference to the market for interest rate swaps then prevailing).
Credit Derivatives
The Fund may enter into credit derivative transactions, either to hedge credit exposure or to gain exposure to an issuer or group of issuers more economically than can be achieved by investing directly in preferred or debt securities. Credit derivatives fall into two broad categories: credit default swaps and market spread swaps, both of which can reference either a single issuer or obligor or a portfolio of preferred and/or debt securities. In a credit default swap, which is the most common form of credit derivative, the purchaser of credit protection makes a periodic payment to the seller (swap counterparty) in exchange for a payment by the seller should a referenced security or loan, or a specified portion of a portfolio of such instruments, default during the life of the swap agreement. If there were a default event as specified in the swap agreement, the buyer either (i) would receive from the seller the difference between the par (or other agreed-upon) value of the referenced instrument(s) and the then-current market value of the instrument(s) or (ii) have the right to make delivery of the reference instrument to the counterparty. If there were no default, the buyer of credit protection would have spent the stream of payments and received no benefit from the contract. Market spread swaps are based on relative changes in market rates, such as the yield spread between a preferred security and a benchmark Treasury security, rather than default events.
In a market spread swap, two counterparties agree to exchange payments at future dates based on the spread between a reference security (or index) and a benchmark security (or index). The buyer (fixed-spread payer) would receive from the seller (fixed-spread receiver) the difference between the market rate and the reference rate at each payment date, if the market rate were above the reference rate. If the market rate were below the reference rate, then the buyer would pay to the seller the difference between the reference rate and the market rate. The Fund may utilize market spread swaps to "lock in" the yield (or price) of a security or index without having to purchase the reference security or index. Market spread swaps may also be used to mitigate the risk associated with a widening of the spread between the yield or price of a security in the Fund's portfolio relative to a benchmark Treasury security. Market spread options, which are analogous to swaptions, give the buyer the right but not the obligation to buy (in the case of a call) or sell (in the case of a put) the referenced market spread at a
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fixed price from the seller. Similarly, the seller of a market spread option has the obligation to sell (in the case of a call) or buy (in the case of a put) the referenced market spread at a fixed price from the buyer. Credit derivatives are highly specialized investments and are not traded on or regulated by any securities exchange or regulated by the CFTC or the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Interest Rate Swaps, Swaptions and Credit Derivatives (General)
The pricing and valuation terms of interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives are not standardized and there is no clearinghouse whereby a party to any such derivative agreement enter into an offsetting position to close out a contract. Interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives are usually (1) between an institutional investor and a broker-dealer firm or bank or (2) between institutional investors. In addition, substantially all swaps are entered into subject to the standards set forth by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association ("ISDA"). ISDA represents participants in the privately negotiated derivatives industry, helps formulate the investment industry's position on regulatory and legislative issues, develops international contractual standards and offers arbitration on disputes concerning market practice.
Under the rating agency guidelines that would likely be imposed in connection with any issuance of preferred shares by the Fund, it is expected that the Fund would be authorized to enter into swaptions and to purchase credit default swaps without limitation but would be subject to limitation on entering into interest rate swap agreements or selling credit protection. Certain rating agency guidelines may be changed from time to time and it is expected that those relating to interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives would be able to be revised by the Board of Trustees, without shareholder vote of the Common Shares or the Fund's preferred shares, so long as the relevant rating agency(ies) has given written notice that such revisions would not adversely affect the rating of the Fund's preferred shares then in effect.
The Board of Trustees has currently limited the Fund's use of interest rate and credit swaps and swaptions as follows: (1) swaps and swaptions must be U.S. dollar-denominated and used for hedging purposes only; (2) no more than 5% of the Fund's total assets, at the time of purchase, may be invested in time premiums paid for swaptions; (3) swaps and swaptions must conform to the standards of the ISDA Master Agreement; and (4) the counterparty must be a bank or broker-dealer firm regulated under the laws of the United States that (a) is on a list approved by the Board of Trustees, (b) has capital of at least $100 million and (c) is rated investment grade by both Moody's and S&P. These criteria can be modified by the Board of Trustees at any time in its discretion.
The market value of the Fund's investments in credit derivatives and/or premiums paid therefor as a buyer of credit protection is not expected to exceed 12% of the Fund's total assets and the notional value of the credit exposure to which the Fund is subject when it sells credit derivatives is not expected to exceed 33 1 / 3 % of the Fund's total assets. The Fund has no other investment restrictions with respect to credit derivates.
Clough expects that the Fund will be subject to the initial and subsequent mark-to-market collateral requirements that are standard among ISDA participants. These requirements help insure that the party who is a net obligor at current market value has pledged for safekeeping, to the counterparty or its agent, sufficient collateral to cover any losses should the obligor become incapable, for whatever reason, of fulfilling its commitments under the swap or swaption agreements. This is analogous, in many respects, to the collateral requirements in place on regular futures and options exchanges. The Fund will be responsible for monitoring the market value of all derivative transactions to ensure that they are properly collateralized.
If Clough determines it is advisable for the Fund to enter into such transactions, the Fund will institute procedures for valuing interest rate swap, swaption or credit derivative positions to which it is party. Interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives will be valued by the counterparty to the
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swap or swaption in question. Such valuation will then be compared with the valuation provided by a broker-dealer or bank that is not a party to the contract. In the event of material discrepancies, the Fund has procedures in place for valuing the swap or swaption, subject to the direction of the Board of Trustees, which include reference to third-party information services, such as Bloomberg, and a comparison with Clough's valuation models. The use of interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives, as the foregoing discussion suggests, is subject to risks and complexities beyond what might be encountered in standardized, exchange traded options and futures contracts. Such risks include operational risk, valuation risk, credit risk and /or counterparty risk ( i.e. , the risk that the counterparty cannot or will not perform its obligations under the agreement). In addition, at the time the interest rate swap, swaption or credit derivative reaches its scheduled termination date, there is a risk that the Fund will not be able to obtain a replacement transaction or that the terms of the replacement will not be as favorable as on the expiring transaction. If this occurs, it could have a negative impact on the performance of the Fund.
While the Fund may utilize interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives for hedging purposes or to enhance total return, their use might result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in any such transactions. If, for example, the Fund had insufficient cash, it might have to sell or pledge a portion of its underlying portfolio of securities in order to meet daily mark-to-market collateralization requirements at a time when it might be disadvantageous to do so.
There may be an imperfect correlation between the Fund's portfolio holdings and swaps, swaptions or credit derivatives entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of loss. Further, the Fund's use of swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives to reduce risk involves costs and will be subject to Clough's ability to predict correctly changes in interest rate relationships, volatility, credit quality or other factors. No assurance can be given that Clough's judgment in this respect will be correct.
Temporary Investments
From time to time, as Clough deems warranted based on market conditions, the Fund may invest temporarily in cash, money market securities, money market mutual funds or cash equivalents, which may be inconsistent with the Fund's investment objective. Cash equivalents are highly liquid, short-term securities such as commercial paper, time deposits, certificates of deposit, short-term notes and short-term U.S. government obligations.
Portfolio Turnover
Although the Fund cannot accurately predict its portfolio turnover rate, it may exceed 100% (excluding turnover of securities having a maturity of one year or less). A high turnover rate (100% or more) necessarily involves greater expenses to the Fund and may result in realization of net short-term capital gains.
Foreign Currency Transactions
The value of foreign assets as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in foreign currency rates and exchange control regulations. Currency exchange rates can also be affected unpredictably by intervention by U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. Foreign currency exchange transactions may be conducted on a spot ( i.e. , cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market or through entering into derivative currency transactions. Currency futures contracts are exchange-traded and change in value to reflect movements of a currency or a basket of currencies. Settlement must be made in a designated currency.
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Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are individually negotiated and privately traded so they are dependent upon the creditworthiness of the counterparty. Such contracts may be used when a security denominated in a foreign currency is purchased or sold, or when the Fund anticipates receipt in a foreign currency of dividend or interest payments on such a security. A forward contract can then "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of the security or the U.S. dollar equivalent of such dividend or interest payment, as the case may be. Additionally, when Clough believes that the currency of a particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S. dollar, it may enter into a forward contract to sell, for a fixed amount of dollars, the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of the securities held that are denominated in such foreign currency. The precise matching of the forward contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible. In addition, it may not be possible to hedge against long-term currency changes. The Fund may engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in one currency (or basket of currencies) to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities denominated in a different currency if Clough determines that there is an established historical pattern of correlation between the two currencies (or the basket of currencies and the underlying currency). Use of a different foreign currency magnifies exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. The Fund may use forward contracts to shift exposure to foreign currency exchange rate changes from one currency to another. Short-term hedging provides a means of fixing the dollar value of only a portion of portfolio assets.
Currency transactions are subject to the risk of a number of complex political and economic factors applicable to the countries issuing the underlying currencies. Furthermore, unlike trading in most other types of instruments, there is no systematic reporting of last sale information with respect to the foreign currencies underlying the derivative currency transactions. As a result, available information may not be complete. In an over-the-counter trading environment, there are no daily price fluctuation limits. There may be no liquid secondary market to close out options purchased or written, or forward contracts entered into, until their exercise, expiration or maturity. There is also the risk of default by, or the bankruptcy of, the financial institution serving as a counterparty.
Illiquid Securities
The Fund may invest in securities for which there is no readily available trading market or which are otherwise illiquid. Illiquid securities include securities legally restricted as to resale, such as commercial paper issued pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A thereunder. Section 4(2) and Rule 144A securities may, however, be treated as liquid by Clough pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board of Trustees, which require consideration of factors such as trading activity, availability of market quotations and number of dealers willing to purchase the security. If the Fund invests in Rule 144A securities, the level of portfolio illiquidity may be increased to the extent that eligible buyers become uninterested in purchasing such securities.
It may be difficult to sell such securities at a price representing their fair value until such time as such securities may be sold publicly. Where registration is required, a considerable period may elapse between a decision to sell the securities and the time when it would be permitted to sell. Thus, the Fund may not be able to obtain as favorable a price as that prevailing at the time of the decision to sell. The Fund may also acquire securities through private placements under which it may agree to contractual restrictions on the resale of such securities. Such restrictions might prevent their sale at a time when such sale would otherwise be desirable.
Repurchase Agreements
A repurchase agreement exists where the Fund sells a security (typically U.S. government securities) to a party for cash and agrees to buy the same security back on a specific date (typically the next business day) from the same party for cash. Repurchase agreements carry several risks. For instance, the Fund could incur a loss if the value of the security sold has increased more than the value
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of the cash and collateral held. In addition, the other party to the agreement may default, in which case the Fund would not re-acquire possession of the security and suffer full value loss (or incur costs when attempting to purchase a similar security from another party). Also, in a bankruptcy proceeding involving the other party, a court may determine that the security does not belong to the Fund and order that the security be used to pay off the debts of the bankrupt. The Fund will reduce the risk by requiring the other party to put up collateral, whose value is checked and reset daily. The Fund also intends only to deal with parties that appear to have the resources and the financial strength to live up to the terms of the agreement. Repurchase agreements are limited to 50% of the Fund's assets. Cash held for securities sold by the Fund are not included in the Fund's assets when making this calculation.
The Fund expects to use leverage through the issuance of preferred shares and/or through borrowings, including the issuance of debt securities. The Fund intends to use leverage initially of up to 33% of its total assets (including the amount obtained from leverage). The Fund generally will not use leverage if Clough anticipates that it would result in a lower return to Common Shareholders for any significant amount of time. The Fund also may borrow money as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes, including the payment of dividends and the settlement of securities transactions, which otherwise might require untimely dispositions of Fund securities.
Changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio (including investments bought with the proceeds of the preferred shares offering or borrowing program) will be borne entirely by the Common Shareholders. If there is a net decrease (or increase) in the value of the Fund's investment portfolio, the leverage will decrease (or increase) the net asset value per share to a greater extent than if the Fund were not leveraged. During periods in which the Fund is using leverage, the fees paid to Clough for investment advisory services and to ALPS for administrative services will be higher than if the Fund did not use leverage because the fees paid will be calculated on the basis of the Fund's total assets, including proceeds from borrowings and the issuance of preferred shares, which may create an incentive to leverage the Fund. As discussed under "Description of Capital StructurePreferred Shares," the Fund's issuance of preferred shares may alter the voting power of Common Shareholders.
Capital raised through leverage will be subject to dividend or interest payments, which may exceed the income and appreciation on the assets purchased. The issuance of preferred shares or entering into a borrowing program involves expenses and other costs and may limit the Fund's freedom to pay dividends on Common Shares or to engage in other activities. The issuance of a class of preferred shares or incurrence of borrowings having priority over the Fund's Common Shares creates an opportunity for greater return per Common Share, but at the same time such leveraging is a speculative technique in that it will increase the Fund's exposure to capital risk. Unless the income and appreciation, if any, on assets acquired with leverage proceeds exceed the associated costs of such preferred shares or borrowings (and other Fund expenses), the use of leverage will diminish the investment performance of the Fund's Common Shares compared with what it would have been without leverage. See "Risk FactorsLeverage Risk."
The Fund may be subject to certain restrictions on investments imposed by guidelines of one or more rating agencies that may issue ratings for any preferred shares issued by the Fund and by borrowing program covenants. These guidelines and covenants may impose asset coverage or Fund composition requirements that are more stringent than those imposed on the Fund by the 1940 Act. It is not anticipated that these covenants or guidelines will significantly impede Clough from managing the Fund's portfolio in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies.
Under the 1940 Act, the Fund is not permitted to issue preferred shares unless immediately after such issuance the value of the total assets of the Fund's portfolio is at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding preferred shares ( i.e. , such liquidation value may not exceed 50% of the
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Fund's total assets). In addition, the Fund is not permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on its Common Shares unless, at the time of such declaration, the net asset value of the Fund's portfolio (determined after deducting the amount of such dividend or other distribution) is at least 200% of such liquidation value. If preferred shares are issued, the Fund intends, to the extent possible, to purchase or redeem preferred shares, from time to time, to maintain coverage of any preferred shares of at least 200%. Though the Fund may issue preferred shares amounting to 50% leverage, it does not intend to exceed 33% leverage, at which point there will be an asset coverage of 303%. The holders of the Common Shares will elect each of the eight Trustees of the Fund in accordance with the Fund's Declaration of Trust. If the Fund issues preferred shares, the holders of the preferred shares will elect two of the Trustees of the Fund. In the event the Fund failed to pay dividends on its preferred shares for two years, preferred shareholders would be entitled to elect a majority of the Trustees until the dividends are paid.
To qualify for federal income taxation as a "regulated investment company," the Fund must distribute in each taxable year at least 90% of its net investment income (including net interest income and net short-term gain). The Fund also will be required to distribute annually substantially all of its income and capital gain, if any, to avoid imposition of a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax.
The Fund's willingness to issue new securities for investment purposes, and the amount the Fund will issue, will depend on many factors, the most important of which are market conditions and interest rates. Successful use of a leveraging strategy may depend on Clough's ability to predict correctly interest rates and market movements, and there is no assurance that a leveraging strategy will be successful during any period in which it is employed.
Assuming the utilization of leverage in the amount of 33% of the Fund's total assets, and an annual dividend rate on preferred shares of 4.35% payable on such leverage based on market rates as of the date of this prospectus, the additional income that the Fund must earn (net of expenses) in order to cover such dividend payments is 1.53%. The annual dividend rate on preferred shares of 4.35% is based on current interest rates. The Fund's actual cost of leverage will be based on market rates at the time the Fund undertakes a leveraging strategy, and such actual cost of leverage may be higher or lower than that assumed in the previous example.
The following table is designed to illustrate the effect on the return to a holder of the Fund's Common Shares of leverage in the amount of approximately 33% of the Fund's total assets, assuming hypothetical annual returns of the Fund's portfolio of minus 10% to plus 10%. As the table shows, leverage generally increases the return to Common Shareholders when portfolio return is positive and 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.
Assumed portfolio return (net of expenses) | (10) | % | (5) | % | 0 | % | 5 | % | 10 | % | |
Corresponding Common Share return | (17) | % | (10) | % | (2) | % | 5 | % | 13 | % |
In addition to the issuance of preferred shares, the Fund may use a variety of additional strategies that would be viewed as potentially adding leverage to the portfolio, subject to rating agency limitations. These include the sale of credit default swap contracts and the use of other derivative instruments and, prior to the issuance of preferred shares, reverse repurchase agreements. By adding additional leverage, these strategies have the potential to increase returns to Common Shareholders, but also involve additional risks. Additional leverage will increase the volatility of the Fund's investment portfolio and could result in larger losses than if the strategies were not used. However, to the extent that the Fund enters into offsetting transactions or owns positions covering its obligations, the leveraging effect is expected to be minimized or eliminated.
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During the time in which the Fund is utilizing leverage, the fees paid to Clough and the Administrator for services will be higher than if the Fund did not utilize leverage because the fees paid will be calculated based on the Fund's total assets. Only the Fund's holders of Common Shares bear the cost of the Fund's fees and expenses.
Until the Fund issues preferred shares or incurs borrowings, the Common Shares will not be leveraged, and the risks and special considerations related to leverage described in this prospectus will not apply. Such leveraging of the Common Shares cannot be achieved until the proceeds resulting from the use of leverage have been invested in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies.
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Investing in the Fund involves risk, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment or that you may lose part or all of your investment. Therefore, before investing you should consider carefully the following risks before investing in the Fund.
Non-Diversified Status
As a non-diversified investment company under the 1940 Act, the Fund is not limited in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in securities of a single issuer, and accordingly, may invest a greater portion of its assets in a more limited number of issuers than a diversified fund. However, the Fund intends to conduct its operations so as to qualify as a regulated investment company for purposes of the Code, which generally will relieve the Fund of any liability for federal income tax to the extent its earnings are distributed to shareholders. See "Taxes" in the Statement of Additional Information. To so qualify, among other requirements, the Fund will limit its investments so that at the end of each quarter of each taxable year (a) at least 50% of the market value of the Fund's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, the securities of other regulated investment companies and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (b) not more than 25% of the market value of the Fund's total assets is invested in the securities of any issuer (other than U.S. government securities and the securities of other regulated investment companies) or of any two or more issuers that the Fund controls and that are determined to be engaged in the same business or similar or related trades or businesses. Because the Fund, as a non-diversified investment company, may invest in a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified investment company, an investment in the Fund may, under certain circumstances, present greater risk to an investor than an investment in a diversified company because changes in the financial condition or market assessment of a single issuer may cause greater fluctuations in the Fund's net asset value.
No Operating History
The Fund is a closed-end investment company with no history of operations and is designed for long-term investors and not as a trading vehicle.
Key Adviser Personnel Risk
The Fund's ability to identify and invest in attractive opportunities is dependent upon Clough, its investment adviser. If one or more key individuals leaves Clough, Clough may not be able to hire qualified replacements, or may require an extended time to do so. This could prevent the Fund from achieving its investment objective.
Investment and Market Risk
An investment in Common Shares is subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of the entire principal amount invested. An investment in Common Shares represents an indirect investment in the securities owned by the Fund, which are generally traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter markets. The value of these securities, like other market investments, may move up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably. The Common Shares at any point in time may be worth less than the original investment, even after taking into account any reinvestment of dividends and distributions.
Issuer Risk
The value of an issuer's securities may decline for a number of reasons which directly relate to the issuer, such as management performance, financial leverage and reduced demand for the issuer's goods and services.
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Common Stock Risk
To the extent the Fund invests in common stocks, those investments will be subject to special risks. Although common stocks have historically generated higher average returns than fixed income securities over the long term, common stocks also have experienced significantly more volatility in returns. Common stocks may be more susceptible to adverse changes in market value due to issuer specific events or general movements in the equities markets. A drop in the stock market may depress the price of common stocks held by the Fund. Common stock prices fluctuate for many reasons, including changes in investors' perceptions of the financial condition of an issuer or the general condition of the relevant stock market, or the occurrence of political or economic events affecting issuers. For example, an adverse event, such as an unfavorable earnings report, may depress the value of common stock in which the Fund has invested; the price of common stock of an issuer may be particularly sensitive to general movements in the stock market; or a drop in the stock market may depress the price of most or all of the common stocks held by the Fund. Also, common stock of an issuer in the Fund's portfolio may decline in price if the issuer fails to make anticipated dividend payments because, among other reasons, the issuer of the security experiences a decline in its financial condition. The common stocks in which the Fund will invest are structurally subordinated to preferred securities, bonds and other debt instruments in a company's capital structure, in terms of priority to corporate income and assets, and therefore will be subject to greater risk than the preferred securities or debt instruments of such issuers. In addition, common stock prices may be sensitive to rising interest rates, as the costs of capital rise and borrowing costs increase.
Debt Securities Risk
In addition to credit risk, investment in debt securities carries certain risks including:
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that preferred stocks paying fixed dividend rates and fixed-rate debt securities will decline in value because of changes in market interest rates. When interest rates rise the market value of such securities generally will fall. The Fund's investment in preferred stocks and fixed-rate debt securities means that the net asset value and price of the Common Shares may decline if market interest rates rise. Interest rates are currently low relative to historic levels. During periods of declining interest rates, an issuer of preferred stock or fixed-rate debt securities may exercise its option to redeem or prepay securities prior to maturity, which could result in the Fund's having to reinvest in lower yielding debt securities or other types of securities. This is known as call or prepayment risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower than expected payments. This may lock in a below market yield, increase the security's duration, and reduce the value of the security. This is known as extension risk. Investments in debt securities with long-term maturities may experience significant price declines if long-term interest rates increase. This is known as maturity risk. The value of the Fund's common stock investments may also be influenced by changes in interest rates.
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Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk that an issuer of a preferred or debt security will become unable to meet its obligation to make dividend, interest and principal payments. In general, lower rated preferred or debt securities carry a greater degree of credit risk. If rating agencies lower their ratings of preferred or debt securities in the Fund's portfolio, the value of those obligations could decline. In addition, the underlying revenue source for a preferred or debt security may be insufficient to pay dividends, interest or principal in a timely manner. Because a significant primary source of income for the Fund is the dividend, interest and principal payments on the preferred or debt securities in which it invests, any default by an issuer of a preferred or debt security could have a negative impact on the Fund's ability to pay dividends on Common Shares. Even if the issuer does not actually default, adverse changes in the issuer's financial condition may negatively affect its credit rating or presumed creditworthiness. These developments would adversely affect the market value of the issuer's obligations or the value of credit derivatives if the Fund has sold credit protection.
Preferred Securities Risk
In addition to credit risk, investment in preferred securities carries certain risks including:
Non-Investment Grade Securities Risk
The Fund's investments in preferred stocks and bonds of below investment grade quality (commonly referred to as "high yield" or "junk bonds"), if any, are predominantly speculative because of the credit risk of their issuers. While offering a greater potential opportunity for capital appreciation and higher yields, preferred stocks and bonds of below investment grade quality entail greater potential price volatility and may be less liquid than higher-rated securities. Issuers of below investment grade quality preferred stocks and bonds are more likely to default on their payments of dividends/interest and liquidation value/principal owed to the Fund, and such defaults will reduce the Fund's net asset value and income distributions. The prices of these lower quality preferred stocks and bonds are more sensitive to negative developments than higher rated securities. Adverse business conditions, such as a decline in the issuer's revenues or an economic downturn, generally lead to a higher non-payment rate. In addition, such a security may lose significant value before a default occurs as the market adjusts to expected higher non-payment rates. The Fund will not invest more than 20% of its total assets in securities rated below investment grade. The foregoing credit quality policy applies only at the time a
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security is purchased, and the Fund is not required to dispose of securities already owned by the Fund in the event of a change in assessment of credit quality or the removal of a rating.
Foreign Securities Risk
The Fund's investments in securities of foreign issuers are subject to risks not usually associated with owning securities of U.S. issuers. These risks can include fluctuations in foreign currencies, foreign currency exchange controls, social, political and economic instability, differences in securities regulation and trading, expropriation or nationalization of assets, and foreign taxation issues. In addition, changes in government administrations or economic or monetary policies in the United States or abroad could result in appreciation or depreciation of the Fund's securities. It may also be more difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment against a foreign issuer. Any foreign investments made by the Fund must be made in compliance with U.S. and foreign currency restrictions and tax laws restricting the amounts and types of foreign investments. The Fund will not invest more than 25% of its assets, at the time of acquisition, in securities (including equity and fixed income securities) of governments and companies in emerging markets. However, the Fund has no other investment restrictions with respect to investing in foreign issuers.
Emerging Markets Risk
Investing in securities of issuers based in underdeveloped emerging markets entails all of the risks of investing in securities of foreign issuers to a heightened degree. These heightened risks include: (i) greater risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization, and less social, political and economic stability; (ii) the smaller size of the market for such securities and a lower volume of trading, resulting in lack of liquidity and in price volatility; and (iii) certain national policies that may restrict the Fund's investment opportunities including restrictions on investing in issuers or industries deemed sensitive to relevant national interests.
Derivatives Risk
Derivative transactions (such as futures contracts and options thereon, options, swaps and short sales) subject the Fund to increased risk of principal loss due to imperfect correlation or unexpected price or interest rate movements. The Fund also will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties to the derivatives contracts purchased by the Fund. If a counterparty becomes bankrupt or otherwise fails to perform its obligations under a derivative contract due to financial difficulties, the Fund may experience significant delays in obtaining any recovery under the derivative contract in a bankruptcy or other reorganization proceeding. The Fund may obtain only a limited recovery or may obtain no recovery in such circumstances. As a general matter, dividends received on hedged stock positions are characterized as ordinary income and are not eligible for favorable tax treatment. In addition, use of derivatives may give rise to short-term capital gains and other income that would not qualify for payments by the Fund of tax-advantaged dividends.
Hedging Strategy Risk
Certain of the investment techniques that the Fund may employ for hedging or, under certain circumstances, to increase income or total return will expose the Fund to risks. In addition to the hedging techniques described elsewhere ( i.e. , positions in Treasury Bond or Treasury Note futures contracts, use of options on these positions, positions in interest rate swaps, swaptions and credit derivatives), such investment techniques may include entering into interest rate and stock index futures contracts and options on interest rate and stock index futures contracts, purchasing and selling put and call options on securities and stock indices, purchasing and selling securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, entering into repurchase agreements, lending portfolio securities and making short sales of securities "against the box." The Fund intends to comply with regulations of the
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Securities and Exchange Commission involving "covering" or segregating assets in connection with the Fund's use of options and futures contracts.
There are economic costs of hedging reflected in the pricing of futures, swaps, options, and swaption contracts which can be significant, particularly when long-term interest rates are substantially above short-term interest rates, as is the case at present. The desirability of moderating these hedging costs will be a factor in Clough's choice of hedging strategies, although costs will not be the exclusive consideration in selecting hedge instruments. In addition, the Fund may select individual investments based upon their potential for appreciation without regard to the effect on current income, in an attempt to mitigate the impact on the Fund's assets of the expected normal cost of hedging.
There may be an imperfect correlation between changes in the value of the Fund's portfolio holdings and hedging positions entered into by the Fund, which may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to risk of loss. In addition, the Fund's success in using hedge instruments is subject to Clough's ability to predict correctly changes in the relationships of such hedge instruments to the Fund's portfolio holdings, and there can be no assurance that Clough's judgment in this respect will be accurate. Consequently, the use of hedging transactions might result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund, whether or not adjusted for risk, than if the Fund had not hedged its portfolio holdings.
Small and Medium Cap Company Risk
Compared to investment companies that focus only on large capitalization companies, the Fund's share price may be more volatile because it also invests in small and medium capitalization companies. Compared to large companies, small and medium capitalization companies are more likely to have (i) more limited product lines or markets and less mature businesses, (ii) fewer capital resources, (iii) more limited management depth and (iv) shorter operating histories. Further, compared to large cap stocks, the securities of small and medium capitalization companies are more likely to experience sharper swings in market values, be harder to sell at times and at prices that Clough believes appropriate, and offer greater potential for gains and losses.
Inflation Risk
Inflation risk is the risk that the purchasing power of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the real value of the Common Shares and distributions thereon can decline. In addition, during any periods of rising inflation, dividend rates of preferred shares of the Fund would likely increase, which would tend to further reduce returns to Common Shareholders.
Market Price of Shares
The shares of closed-end management investment companies often trade at a discount from their net asset value, and the Fund's Common Shares may likewise trade at a discount from net asset value. The trading price of the Fund's Common Shares may be less than the public offering price. The returns earned by Common Shareholders who sell their Common Shares below net asset value will be reduced.
Management Risk
The Fund is subject to management risk because it is an actively managed portfolio. Clough and the individual portfolio managers will apply investment techniques and risk analyses in making investment decisions for the Fund, but there can be no guarantee that these will produce the desired results.
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Leverage Risk
Leverage creates risks for the Common Shareholders, including the likelihood of greater volatility of net asset value and market price of the Common Shares. There is a risk that fluctuations in the dividend rates on any preferred shares may adversely affect the return to the Common Shareholders. If the income from the securities purchased with such funds is not sufficient to cover the cost of leverage, the return on the Fund will be less than if leverage had not been used, and therefore the amount available for distribution to Common Shareholders as dividends and other distributions will be reduced and may not satisfy the level dividend rate distribution policy set by the Board of Trustees. Clough in its best judgment nevertheless may determine to maintain the Fund's leveraged position if it deems such action to be appropriate in the circumstances.
Liquidity Risk
Restricted securities and other illiquid investments of the Fund involve the risk that the securities will not be able to be sold at the time desired by Clough or at prices approximating the value at which the Fund is carrying the securities. Where registration is required to sell a security, the Fund may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expenses, and a considerable period may elapse between the decision to sell and the time the Fund may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the Fund might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to sell. Restricted securities for which no market exists and other illiquid investments are valued at fair value as determined in accordance with procedures approved and periodically reviewed by the Trustees of the Fund.
Market Disruption
The terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001 had a disruptive effect on the securities markets. The Fund cannot predict the effects of similar events in the future on the U.S. economy and securities markets. These terrorist attacks and related events, including the war in Iraq, have led to increased short-term market volatility and may have long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets. A similar disruption of the financial markets could impact interest rates, secondary trading, credit risk, inflation and other factors relating to the Common Shares.
Income Risk
The income Common Shareholders receive from the Fund is based primarily on the dividends and interest it earns from its investments, which can vary widely over the short and long term. If prevailing market interest rates drop, distribution rates of the Fund's preferred stock holdings and any bond holdings and Common Shareholder's income from the Fund could drop as well. The Fund's income also would likely be affected adversely when prevailing short-term interest rates increase and the Fund is utilizing leverage.
Anti-Takeover Provisions
The Fund's Declaration of Trust includes provisions that could have the effect of inhibiting the Fund's possible conversion to open-end status and limiting the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund or the Board of Trustees. In certain circumstances, these provisions might also inhibit the ability of shareholders to sell their shares at a premium over prevailing market prices. See "Anti-Takeover Provisions in the Declaration of Trust."
Portfolio Turnover Risk
The techniques and strategies contemplated by the Fund might result in a high degree of portfolio turnover. The Fund cannot accurately predict its securities portfolio turnover rate, but anticipates that
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its annual portfolio turnover rate will not exceed 100% under normal market conditions, although it could be materially higher under certain conditions. Higher portfolio turnover rates could result in corresponding increases in brokerage commissions and generate short-term capital gains taxable as ordinary income.
Convertible Securities Risk
The value of a convertible security is a function of its "investment value" (determined by its yield in comparison with the yields of other securities of comparable maturity and quality that do not have a conversion privilege) and its "conversion value" (the security's worth, at market value, if converted into the underlying common stock). The investment value of a convertible security is influenced by changes in interest rates, with investment value declining as interest rates increase and increasing as interest rates decline. The credit standing of the issuer and other factors may also have an effect on the convertible security's investment value. The conversion value of a convertible security is determined by the market price of the underlying common stock. If the conversion value is low relative to the investment value, the price of the convertible security is governed principally by its investment value. Generally, the conversion value decreases as the convertible security approaches maturity. To the extent the market price of the underlying common stock approaches or exceeds the conversion price, the price of the convertible security will be increasingly influenced by its conversion value. A convertible security generally will sell at a premium over its conversion value by the extent to which investors place value on the right to acquire the underlying common stock while holding a fixed income security.
A convertible security may be subject to redemption at the option of the issuer at a price established in the convertible security's governing instrument. If a convertible security held by the Fund is called for redemption, the Fund will be required to permit the issuer to redeem the security, convert it into the underlying common stock or sell it to a third party. Any of these actions could have an adverse effect on the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective.
REIT Risk
If the Fund invests in REITs, such investment will subject the Fund to various risks. The first, real estate industry risk, is the risk that the REIT share prices will decline because of adverse developments affecting the real estate industry and real property values. In general, real estate values can be affected by a variety of factors, including supply and demand for properties, the economic health of the country or of different regions, and the strength of specific industries that rent properties. The second, investment style risk, is the risk that returns from REITs, which typically are small or medium capitalization stocks, will trail returns from the overall stock market. The third, interest rate risk, is the risk that changes in interest rates may hurt real estate values or make REIT shares less attractive than other income producing investments.
Qualification as a REIT in any particular year is a complex analysis that depends on a number of factors. There can be no assurance that the entities in which the Fund invests with the expectation that they will be taxed as a REIT will qualify as a REIT. An entity that fails to qualify as a REIT, would be subject to a corporate level tax, would not be entitled to a deduction for dividends paid to its shareholders and would not pass through to its shareholders the character of income earned by the entity. If the Fund were to invest in an entity that failed to qualify as a REIT, such failure could drastically reduce the Fund's yield on that investment.
The Fund does not expect to invest a significant portion of its assets in REITs but does not have any investment restrictions with respect to such investments.
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Trustees And Officers
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall management of the Fund, including supervision of the duties performed by Clough. There are eight trustees of the Fund. Two of the trustees are "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund. The trustees will select a Chairperson. The name and business address of the trustees and officers of the Fund and their principal occupations and other affiliations during the past five years are set forth under "Trustees and Officers" in the Statement of Additional Information.
The Securities and Exchange Commission recently re-adopted rules requiring investment companies to establish boards where 75% of the trustees are independent of the Fund and where the Chairperson is also independent. The Fund intends to replace the Chairperson within the time period established by the Securities and Exchange Commission and in accordance with the 1940 Act, the Declaration of Trust and applicable state law.
Investment Adviser
Clough Capital Partners L.P., located at One Post Office Square, Suite 4000, Boston, Massachusetts 02109, serves as investment adviser to the Fund.
Clough is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Clough began conducting business in 2000 and had over $1.5 billion under management as of December 31, 2005. Clough is a Delaware limited partnership organized on September 27, 1999.
Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement, Clough has agreed to provide a continuous investment program for the Fund, including investment research and management with respect to the assets of the Fund. Clough is entitled to receive a monthly fee at the annual rate of 1.00% of the average daily total assets of the Fund.
Under its arrangements with other funds that it manages, Clough receives a portion of the appreciation of such funds' portfolios. This may create an incentive for Clough to allocate attractive investment opportunities to such funds. However, Clough has procedures designed to allocate investment opportunities in a fair and equitable manner.
Charles I. Clough, Jr., Eric A. Brock and James E. Canty are the Fund's portfolio managers (collectively, the "Portfolio Managers"). In carrying out their responsibilities for the management of the Fund's portfolio of securities, the Portfolio Managers allocate these securities into sectors. Each Portfolio Manager has primary responsibility for certain sectors, but the Portfolio Managers generally consult each other with respect to significant investment decisions. In cases where the Portfolio Managers are not in agreement with regard to an investment decision, Mr. Clough has ultimate authority to decide the matter.
The Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the compensation of the Portfolio Managers, other accounts managed by the Portfolio Managers and the Portfolio Managers' ownership of the securities of the Fund.
Charles I. Clough, Jr.
Charles I. Clough, Jr. has been active in the securities and investment business for 40 years. His experience covers most analytical functions from research analyst to portfolio management. In January 2000, Mr. Clough founded Clough Capital Partners L.P., which began serving as investment adviser for two U.S. hedge funds on March 1, 2000. From 1987 through January 2000, Mr. Clough was Chief Investment Strategist at Merrill Lynch, where he was responsible for directing the global
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investment strategy research effort for one of the world's largest investment firms. Using a theme-based investment approach, Mr. Clough advised many of the world's top institutions and investors on portfolio strategy. He was named to the Institutional Investor All-America Research Team for 12 consecutive years and earned first place rankings on three separate occasions. Mr. Clough has been consistently recognized as a top strategist in areas such as U.S. equities, global investments and fixed income.
Prior to his tenure at Merrill Lynch, Mr. Clough was Director of Investment Policy and Chief Strategist at Cowen & Co. Previously, he had been Director of Research and Portfolio Manager at The Boston Company, Portfolio Manger at Colonial Management Associates and Vice President and Senior Research Analyst for Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette and Alliance Capital Management Company. Mr. Clough serves on the boards of a number of educational, hospital and charitable institutions, including his alma mater, Boston College and the Yawkey Foundation, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He is also an ordained Deacon in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston and serves in that capacity at his local parish in Concord, Massachusetts. Mr. Clough graduated magna cum laude in history from Boston College and earned an MBA at the University of Chicago.
Eric A. Brock
Eric A. Brock is a founding partner of Clough Capital Partners L.P. Mr. Brock worked from 1997 to 2000 as an investment banker in the Leveraged Finance Group of Bear Stearns & Co. Inc. ("Bear Stearns"). While at Bear Stearns, Mr. Brock was responsible for raising growth capital (primarily through the issuance of high yield securities) for a number of companies in a variety of industries, including media, telecommunications, health care, and natural resources. His activities at Bear Stearns included structuring and financing mergers and acquisitions. Mr. Brock worked as a certified public accountant at Ernst & Young LLP (1992-1995). He holds an MBA with concentrations in finance and economics from the University of Chicago where he graduated with honors in 1997 and a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Boston College in 1992. Mr. Brock is a son-in-law of Mr. Clough.
James E. Canty
James E. Canty is a founding partner of Clough Capital Partners L.P. In addition to his investment duties, Mr. Canty also serves as Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel for Clough Capital Partners L.P. Prior to this, Mr. Canty worked as an attorney from 1990 to 2000 specializing in the areas of corporate and securities law. Mr. Canty has worked as a corporate and securities lawyer and Director of Investor Relations for Converse Inc. (1995-2000), and as a corporate and securities lawyer for the Boston offices of Goldstein & Manello, P.C. (1993-1994) and Bingham, Dana and Gould (1990-1993). In addition, Mr. Canty served as an Adjunct Professor at Northeastern University from 1996-2000. Mr. Canty worked as a certified public accountant at KPMG Peat Marwick from 1984 through 1987. He holds a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University where he graduated with honors in 1990 and a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from St. Bonaventure University where he graduated with honors in 1984. Mr. Canty is a member of the Bar in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Mr. Canty is a son-in-law of Mr. Clough.
Administrator
ALPS, located at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, serves as administrator to the Fund. As sponsor and a promoter of the Fund, ALPS has control over the Fund and is thus an "interested person" of the Fund for purposes of the 1940 Act. Under the Administration Agreement, ALPS is responsible for calculating the net asset value of the Common Shares, and generally managing the business affairs of the Fund. The Administration Agreement between the Fund and ALPS provides that ALPS will pay all expenses incurred by the Fund, with the exception of advisory fees, trustees'
44
fees, portfolio transactions expenses, litigation expenses, taxes, costs of preferred shares, expenses of conducting repurchase offers for the purpose of repurchasing Fund shares, extraordinary expenses and dividends on securities sold short. ALPS is entitled to receive a monthly fee at the annual rate of .32% of the Fund's average daily total assets.
Estimated Expenses
Clough and ALPS are each obligated to pay expenses associated with providing the services contemplated by the agreements to which they are parties, including compensation of and office space for their respective officers and employees connected with investment and economic research, trading and investment management and administration of the Fund. Clough and ALPS are each obligated to pay the fees of any Trustee of the Fund who is affiliated with it. ALPS will pay all expenses incurred by the Fund, with the exception of organizational costs (to be paid by both ALPS and Clough) and offering costs in excess of $.04 per Common Share (to be paid by both ALPS and Clough), advisory fees, trustees' fees, interest expenses (including preferred dividends paid by the Fund), if any, portfolio transaction expenses, litigation expenses, taxes, costs of preferred shares (which include the operational costs of leverage, such as broker fees, legal fees and rating agency fees), expenses of conducting repurchase offers for the purpose of repurchasing Fund shares, extraordinary expenses and dividends on securities sold short. The fees and expenses incident to the offering and issuance of Common Shares to be issued by the Fund (which include certain partial reimbursement of expenses of the underwriters) will be recorded as a reduction of capital of the Fund attributable to the Common Shares. Such fees and expenses constitute underwriting compensation and are a component of the total compensation to underwriters. See "Underwriting."
On the basis of the anticipated size of the Fund immediately following the offering, assuming no exercise of the overallotment option, ALPS estimates that the Fund's annual operating expenses will be approximately $ . No assurance can be given, in light of the Fund's investment objectives and policies, however, that actual annual operating expenses will not be substantially more or less than this estimate.
Costs incurred in connection with the organization of the Fund, estimated at $ , will be borne evenly by ALPS and Clough. Offering expenses relating to the Fund's Common Shares (other than the sales load, but inclusive of the reimbursement of underwriter expenses of $.0067 per Common Share), estimated at $ , that do not exceed $.04 per Common Share (the "Reimbursement Cap") will be payable upon completion of the offering of Common Shares and will be charged to capital upon the commencement of investment operations of the Fund. To the extent the Fund has not otherwise paid offering expenses equal to the Reimbursement Cap, the Fund will pay up to .10% of the amount of the offering up to the Reimbursement Cap to ALPS Distributors, Inc. as payment for its distribution assistance. The reduction of capital described above is limited to $.04 per Common Share (.20% of the offering price). ALPS and Clough will pay any offering fees and expenses that exceed the Reimbursement Cap.
The Advisory Agreement authorizes Clough to select brokers or dealers (including affiliates) to arrange for the purchase and sale of Fund securities, including principal transactions. Any commission, fee or other remuneration paid to an affiliated broker or dealer is paid in compliance with the Fund's procedures adopted in accordance with Rule 17e-1 under the 1940 Act.
The net asset value per Common Share of the Fund is determined no less frequently than daily, on each day that the American Stock Exchange is open for trading, as of the close of regular trading on the American Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Trading may take place in foreign issues held by the Fund at times when the Fund is not open for business. As a result, the Fund's net
45
asset value may change at times when it is not possible to purchase or sell shares of the Fund. ALPS calculates the Fund's net asset value per Common Share by dividing the value of the Fund's total assets (the value of the securities the Fund holds plus cash or other assets, including interest accrued but not yet received), less accrued expenses of the Fund, less the Fund's other liabilities (including dividends payable, any borrowings and the liquidation preference of any preferred shares issued by the Fund) and less the liquidation value of any outstanding preferred shares by the total number of Common Shares outstanding. Valuations of certain securities held by the Fund may be made by a third-party pricing service.
For purposes of determining the net asset value of the Fund, readily marketable portfolio securities listed on the New York Stock Exchange are valued, except as indicated below, at the last sale price reflected on the consolidated tape at the close of the New York Stock Exchange on the business day as of which such value is being determined. If there has been no sale on such day, the securities are valued at the mean of the closing bid and asked prices on such day. If no bid or asked prices are quoted on such day or if market prices may be unreliable because of events occurring after the close of trading, then the security is valued by such method as the Board of Trustees shall determine in good faith to reflect its fair market value. Readily marketable securities not listed on the New York Stock Exchange but listed on other domestic or foreign securities exchanges are valued in a like manner. Portfolio securities traded on more than one securities exchange are valued at the last sale price on the business day as of which such value is being determined as reflected on the consolidated tape at the close of the exchange representing the principal market for such securities. Securities trading on the NASDAQ are valued at the closing price.
Readily marketable securities traded in the over-the-counter market, including listed securities whose primary market is believed by Clough to be over-the-counter, but excluding securities admitted to trading on the NASDAQ National List, are valued at the mean of the current bid and asked prices as reported by NASDAQ or, in the case of securities not quoted by NASDAQ, the National Quotation Bureau or such other comparable source as the Board of Trustees deem appropriate to reflect their fair market value. However, certain fixed income securities may be valued on the basis of prices provided by a pricing service when such prices are believed by the Board of Trustees to reflect the fair market value of such securities. The prices provided by a pricing service take into account institutional size trading in similar groups of securities and any developments related to specific securities. Where securities are traded on more than one exchange and also over-the-counter, the securities will generally be valued using the quotations the Board of Trustees believes reflect most closely the value of such securities. Instruments with maturities of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates value unless the Board of Trustees determine that under particular circumstances such method does not result in fair value.
The Fund intends to make a level dividend distribution each quarter to Common Shareholders after payment of interest on any outstanding borrowings or dividends on any outstanding preferred shares. The level dividend rate may be modified by the Board of Trustees from time to time. If, for any quarterly distribution, net investment company taxable income, if any (which term includes net short-term capital gain) and net tax-exempt income, if any, is less than the amount of the distribution, the difference will generally be a tax-free return of capital distributed from the Fund's assets. The Fund's final distribution for each calendar year will include any remaining net investment company taxable income and net tax-exempt income undistributed during the year, as well as all net capital gain realized during the year. If the total distributions made in any calendar year exceed net investment company taxable income, net tax-exempt income and net capital gain, such excess distributed amount would be treated as ordinary dividend income to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Distributions in excess of the earnings and profits would first be a tax-free return
46
of capital to the extent of the adjusted tax basis in the shares. After such adjusted tax basis is reduced to zero, the distribution would constitute capital gain (assuming the shares are held as capital assets). This distribution policy may, under certain circumstances, have certain adverse consequences to the Fund and its shareholders because it may result in a return of capital resulting in less of a shareholder's assets being invested in the Fund and, over time, increase the Fund's expense ratio. The distribution policy also may cause the Fund to sell a security at a time it would not otherwise do so in order to manage the distribution of income and gain. The initial distribution is expected to be declared approximately 45 days after the completion of this offering and paid on or about July 31, 2006, depending on market conditions.
The Fund has applied to the Securities and Exchange Commission for an exemption from Section 19(b) of the 1940 Act and Rule 19b-1 thereunder permitting the Fund to make periodic distributions of long-term capital gains, provided that the distribution policy of the Fund with respect to its Common Shares calls for periodic ( e.g. , quarterly/monthly) distributions in an amount equal to a fixed percentage of the Fund's 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. The exemption also would permit the Fund to make distributions with respect to any preferred shares that may be issued by the Fund in accordance with such shares' terms. No assurance can be given that the Securities and Exchange Commission will grant the exemption to the Fund. The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission has indicated that it has suspended the processing of exemptive applications requesting the type of relief referenced above, pending review by the staff of the results of an industry-wide Securities and Exchange Commission inspection focusing on the dividend practices of closed-end investment companies. There can be no assurance as to when that review might be completed or whether, following that review, the staff would process such applications or grant such relief.
The level dividend distribution described above would result in the payment of approximately the same amount or percentage to Common Shareholders each quarter. Section 19(a) of the 1940 Act and Rule 19a-1 thereunder require the Fund to provide a written statement accompanying any such payment that adequately discloses its source or sources. Thus, if the source of the dividend or other distribution were the original capital contribution of the Common Shareholder, and the payment amounted to a return of capital, the Fund would be required to provide written disclosure to that effect. Nevertheless, persons who periodically receive the payment of a dividend or other distribution may be under the impression that they are receiving net profits when they are not. Common Shareholders should read any written disclosure provided pursuant to Section 19(a) and Rule 19a-1 carefully, and should not assume that the source of any distribution from the Fund is net profit. In addition, in cases where the Fund would return capital to Common Shareholders, such distribution may impact the Fund's ability to maintain its asset coverage requirements and to pay the interest on any preferred shares that the Fund may issue, if ever.
Unless the registered owner of Common Shares elects to receive cash by contacting The Bank of New York (the "Plan Administrator"), all dividends declared on Common Shares will be automatically reinvested by the Plan Administrator for shareholders in the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the "Plan"), in additional Common Shares. Shareholders who elect not to participate in the Plan will receive all dividends and other distributions in cash paid by check mailed directly to the shareholder of record (or, if the Common Shares are held in street or other nominee name, then to such nominee) by The Bank of New York as dividend disbursing agent. You may elect not to participate in the Plan and to receive all dividends in cash by contacting The Bank of New York, as dividend disbursing agent, at the address set forth below. Participation in the Plan is completely voluntary and may be terminated or resumed at any time without penalty by notice if received and processed by the Plan Administrator
47
prior to the dividend record date; otherwise such termination or resumption will be effective with respect to any subsequently declared dividend or other distribution. Some brokers may automatically elect to receive cash on your behalf and may re-invest that cash in additional Common Shares for you. If you wish for all dividends declared on your Common Shares to be automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan, please contact your broker.
The Plan Administrator will open an account for each Common Shareholder under the Plan in the same name in which such Common Shareholder's Common Shares are registered. Whenever the Fund declares a dividend or other distribution (together, a "Dividend") payable in cash, non-participants in the Plan will receive cash and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in Common Shares. The Common Shares will be acquired by the Plan Administrator for the participants' accounts, depending upon the circumstances described below, either (i) through receipt of additional unissued but authorized Common Shares from the Fund ("Newly Issued Common Shares") or (ii) by purchase of outstanding Common Shares on the open market ("Open-Market Purchases") on the American Stock Exchange or elsewhere. If, on the payment date for any Dividend, the closing market price plus estimated brokerage commissions per Common Share is equal to or greater than the net asset value per Common Share, the Plan Administrator will invest the Dividend amount in Newly Issued Common Shares on behalf of the participants. The number of Newly Issued Common Shares to be credited to each participant's account will be determined by dividing the dollar amount of the Dividend by the net asset value per Common Share on the payment date; provided that, if the net asset value is less than or equal to 95% of the closing market value on the payment date, the dollar amount of the Dividend will be divided by 95% of the closing market price per Common Share on the payment date. If, on the payment date for any Dividend, the net asset value per Common Share is greater than the closing market value plus estimated brokerage commissions, the Plan Administrator will invest the Dividend amount in Common Shares acquired on behalf of the participants in Open-Market Purchases. In the event of a market discount on the payment date for any Dividend, the Plan Administrator will have until the last business day before the next date on which the Common Shares trade on an "ex-dividend" basis or 30 days after the payment date for such Dividend, whichever is sooner (the "Last Purchase Date"), to invest the Dividend amount in Common Shares acquired in Open-Market Purchases. It is contemplated that the Fund will pay quarterly income Dividends. If, before the Plan Administrator has completed its Open-Market Purchases, the market price per Common Share exceeds the net asset value per Common Share, the average per Common Share purchase price paid by the Plan Administrator may exceed the net asset value of the Common Shares, resulting in the acquisition of fewer Common Shares than if the Dividend had been paid in Newly Issued Common Shares on the Dividend payment date. Because of the foregoing difficulty with respect to Open-Market Purchases, the Plan provides that if the Plan Administrator is unable to invest the full Dividend amount in Open-Market Purchases during the purchase period or if the market discount shifts to a market premium during the purchase period, the Plan Administrator may cease making Open-Market Purchases and may invest the uninvested portion of the Dividend amount in Newly Issued Common Shares at the net asset value per Common Share at the close of business on the Last Purchase Date provided that, if the net asset value is less than or equal to 95% of the then current market price per Common Share, the dollar amount of the Dividend will be divided by 95% of the market price on the payment date for purposes of determining the number of shares issuable under the Plan.
The Plan Administrator maintains all shareholders' accounts in the Plan and furnishes written confirmation of all transactions in the accounts, including information needed by shareholders for tax records. Common Shares in the account of each Plan participant will be held by the Plan Administrator on behalf of the Plan participant, and each shareholder proxy will include those shares purchased or received pursuant to the Plan. The Plan Administrator will forward all proxy solicitation materials to participants and vote proxies for shares held under the Plan in accordance with the instructions of the participants.
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In the case of Common Shareholders such as banks, brokers or nominees which hold shares for others who are the beneficial owners, the Plan Administrator will administer the Plan on the basis of the number of Common Shares certified from time to time by the record shareholder's name and held for the account of beneficial owners who participate in the Plan.
There will be no brokerage charges with respect to Common Shares issued directly by the Fund. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred in connection with Open-Market Purchases. The automatic reinvestment of Dividends will not relieve participants of any federal, state or local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such Dividends. See "Federal Income Tax Matters." Participants that request a sale of Common Shares through the Plan Administrator are subject to brokerage commissions.
The Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan. There is no direct service charge to participants with regard to purchases in the Plan; however, the Fund reserves the right to amend the Plan to include a service charge payable by the participants.
All correspondence or questions concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Administrator, The Bank of New York, 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286, 20th Floor, Transfer Agent Services, (800) 433-8191.
The following is a summary discussion of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to a Common Shareholder that acquires, holds and/or disposes of Common Shares of the Fund, and reflects provisions of the Code, existing Treasury regulations, rulings published by the IRS, and other applicable authority, as of the date of this prospectus. These authorities are subject to change by legislative or administrative action, possibly with retroactive effect. The following discussion is only a summary of some of the important tax considerations generally applicable to investments in the Fund and the discussion set forth herein does not constitute tax advice. For more detailed information regarding tax considerations, see the Statement of Additional Information. There may be other tax considerations applicable to particular investors. In addition, income earned through an investment in the Fund may be subject to state, local and foreign taxes.
The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify each year for taxation as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code. In order for the Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company, it must meet an income and asset diversification test each year. If the Fund so qualifies and satisfies certain distribution requirements, the Fund (but not its shareholders) will not be subject to federal income tax to the extent it distributes its investment company taxable income and net capital gains (the excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital loss) in a timely manner to its shareholders in the form of dividends or capital gain distributions.
The Fund intends to make quarterly distributions of net investment income after payment of dividends on any outstanding preferred shares or interest on any outstanding borrowings. Unless a shareholder is ineligible to participate or elects otherwise, all distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional Common Shares of the Fund pursuant to the Plan. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, all dividends are generally taxable whether a shareholder takes them in cash or they are reinvested pursuant to the Plan in additional shares of the Fund. Distributions of the Fund's investment company taxable income will generally be treated as ordinary income to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Distributions of the Fund's net capital gains ("capital gain dividends"), if any, are taxable to Common Shareholders as long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time Common Shares have been held by Common Shareholders. Distributions, if any, in excess of the Fund's earnings and profits will first reduce the adjusted tax basis of a holder's Common Shares and, after that basis has been reduced to zero, will constitute capital gains to the Common Shareholder (assuming the Common Shares are held as a capital asset). See below for a summary of
49
the maximum tax rates applicable to capital gains (including capital gain dividends). A corporation that owns Fund shares generally will not be entitled to the dividends received deduction with respect to all the dividends it receives from the Fund. Fund dividend payments that are attributable to qualifying dividends received by the Fund from certain domestic corporations may be designated by the Fund as being eligible for the dividends received deduction. There can be no assurance as to what portion of Fund dividend payments may be classified as qualifying dividends. With respect to the quarterly distributions of net investment income described above, it may be the case that any "level load" distributions would result in a return of capital to the Common Shareholders. The determination of the character for U.S. federal income tax purposes of any distribution from the Fund ( i.e. ordinary income dividends, capital gains dividends, qualified dividends, return of capital distributions) will be made as of the end of the Fund's taxable year. Generally, no later than 60 days after the close of its taxable year, the Fund will provide shareholders with a written notice designating the amount of any capital gain distributions or other distributions. See "Distributions" for a more complete description of such returns and the risks associated with them.
Under current law, certain income distributions paid by the Fund to individual taxpayers are taxed at rates equal to those applicable to net long-term capital gains (15%, or 5% for individuals in the 10% or 15% tax brackets). This tax treatment applies only if certain holding period and other requirements are satisfied by the Common Shareholder with respect to its shares of the Fund, and the dividends are attributable to qualified dividends received by the Fund itself. For this purpose, "qualified dividends" means dividends received by the Fund from certain United States corporations and qualifying foreign corporations, provided that the Fund satisfies certain holding period and other requirements in respect of the stock of such corporations. In the case of securities lending transactions, payments in lieu of dividends are not qualified dividends. Dividends received by the Fund from REITs are qualified dividends eligible for this lower tax rate only in limited circumstances. These special rules relating to the taxation of ordinary income dividends from regulated investment companies generally apply to taxable years beginning before January 1, 2009. Thereafter, the Fund's dividends, other than capital gain dividends, will be fully taxable at ordinary income tax rates unless further Congressional legislative action is taken.
A dividend paid by the Fund to a Common Shareholder will not be treated as qualified dividend income of the Common Shareholder if (1) the dividend is received with respect to any share held for fewer than 61 days during the 121-day period beginning on the date which is 60 days before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend, (2) to the extent that the recipient is under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property or (3) if the recipient elects to have the dividend treated as investment income for purposes of the limitation on deductibility of investment interest.
Dividends and interest received, and gains realized, by the Fund on foreign securities may be subject to income, withholding or other taxes imposed by foreign countries and U.S. possessions (collectively "foreign taxes") that would reduce the return on its securities. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States, however, may reduce or eliminate foreign taxes, and many foreign countries do not impose taxes on capital gains in respect of investments by foreign investors. Since less than 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year will consist of securities of foreign corporations, no foreign tax credit with respect to any foreign taxes paid by the Fund will pass through to its shareholders.
The Fund will inform Common Shareholders of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year.
Selling Common Shareholders will generally recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the Common Shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the Common Shares sold and the
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amount received. If the Common Shares are held as a capital asset, the gain or loss will be a capital gain or loss. Under current law, the maximum tax rate applicable to net capital gains recognized by individuals and other non-corporate taxpayers is (i) the same as the maximum ordinary income tax rate for gains recognized on the sale of capital assets held for one year or less or (ii) 15% for gains recognized on the sale of capital assets held for more than one year (as well as certain capital gain dividends) (5% for individuals in the 10% or 15% tax brackets). Any loss on a disposition of Common Shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received with respect to those Common Shares. For purposes of determining whether Common Shares have been held for six months or less, the holding period is suspended for any periods during which the Common Shareholder's risk of loss is diminished as a result of holding one or more other positions in substantially similar or related property, or through certain options or short sales. Any loss realized on a sale or exchange of Common Shares will be disallowed to the extent those Common Shares are replaced by other substantially identical shares within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date of disposition of the Common Shares (whether through the reinvestment of distributions, which could occur, for example, if the Common Shareholder is a participant in the Plan or otherwise). In that event, the basis of the replacement shares will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.
An investor should be aware that, if Common Shares are purchased shortly before the record date for any taxable dividend (including a capital gain dividend), the purchase price likely will reflect the value of the dividend and the investor then would receive a taxable distribution likely to reduce the trading value of such Common Shares, in effect resulting in a taxable return of some of the purchase price. Taxable distributions to individuals and certain other non-corporate Common Shareholders, including those who have not provided their correct taxpayer identification number and other required certifications, may be subject to "backup" federal income tax withholding at the fourth lowest rate of tax applicable to a single individual (in 2006, 28%).
An investor should also be aware that the benefits of the reduced tax rate applicable to long-term capital gains and qualified dividend income may be impacted by the application of the alternative minimum tax to individual shareholders.
The Fund's investments in options, futures contracts, hedging transactions, forward contracts (to the extent permitted) and certain other transactions will be subject to special tax rules (including mark-to-market, constructive sale, straddle, wash sale, short sale and other rules), the effect of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer Fund losses, cause adjustments in the holding periods of securities held by the Fund, convert capital gain into ordinary income and convert short-term capital losses into long-term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. The Fund may be required to limit its activities in options and futures contracts in order to enable it to maintain its regulated investment company status.
The Fund's transactions in foreign currencies, foreign currency denominated debt obligations and certain foreign currency options, futures contracts and forward contracts (and similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or loss to the extent such income or loss results from fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency concerned.
The foregoing briefly summarizes some of the important federal income tax consequences to Common Shareholders of investing in Common Shares, reflects the federal tax law as of the date of this prospectus, and does not address special tax rules applicable to certain types of investors, such as corporate and foreign investors. Investors should consult their tax advisers regarding other federal, state or local tax considerations that may be applicable in their particular circumstances, as well as any proposed tax law changes.
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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE
The Fund is an unincorporated statutory trust established under the laws of the state of Delaware by a Certificate of Trust dated January 12, 2006, which became effective upon filing with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 17, 2006. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Fund may authorize separate classes of shares of beneficial interest. The Trustees have authorized an unlimited number of Common Shares. The Fund intends to hold annual meetings of Common Shareholders in compliance with the requirements of the American Stock Exchange.
Common Shares
The Declaration of Trust permits the Fund to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional Common Shares of beneficial interest, no par value. Each Common Share represents an equal proportionate interest in the assets of the Fund with each other Common Share in the Fund. Holders of Common Shares will be entitled to the payment of dividends when, as and if declared by the Board of Trustees. The 1940 Act or the terms of any borrowings or preferred shares may limit the payment of dividends to the holders of Common Shares. Each whole Common Share shall be entitled to one vote as to matters on which it is entitled to vote pursuant to the terms of the Declaration of Trust on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Upon liquidation of the Fund, after paying or adequately providing for the payment of all liabilities of the Fund and the liquidation preference with respect to any outstanding preferred shares, and upon receipt of such releases, indemnities and refunding agreements as they deem necessary for their protection, the Trustees may distribute the remaining assets of the Fund among the Common Shareholders. The Declaration of Trust provides that Common Shareholders are not liable for any liabilities of the Fund. Although shareholders of an unincorporated statutory trust established under Delaware law, in certain limited circumstances, may be held personally liable for the obligations of the Fund as though they were general partners, the provisions of the Declaration of Trust described in the foregoing sentence make the likelihood of such personal liability remote.
While there are any borrowings or preferred shares outstanding, the Fund may not be permitted to declare any cash dividend or other distribution on its Common Shares, unless at the time of such declaration, (i) all accrued dividends on preferred shares or accrued interest on borrowings have been paid and (ii) the value of the Fund's total assets (determined after deducting the amount of such dividend or other distribution), less all liabilities and indebtedness of the Fund not represented by senior securities, is at least 300% of the aggregate amount of such securities representing indebtedness and at least 200% of the aggregate amount of securities representing indebtedness plus the aggregate liquidation value of the outstanding preferred shares (expected to equal the aggregate original purchase price of the outstanding preferred shares plus redemption premium, if any, together with any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon, whether or not earned or declared and on a cumulative basis). In addition to the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Fund may be required to comply with other asset coverage requirements as a condition of the Fund obtaining a rating of the preferred shares from a rating agency. These requirements may include an asset coverage test more stringent than under the 1940 Act. This limitation on the Fund's ability to make distributions on its Common Shares could in certain circumstances impair the ability of the Fund to maintain its qualification for taxation as a regulated investment company for federal income tax purposes. The Fund intends, however, to the extent possible to purchase or redeem preferred shares or reduce borrowings from time to time to maintain compliance with such asset coverage requirements and may pay special dividends to the holders of the preferred shares in certain circumstances in connection with any such impairment of the Fund's status as a regulated investment company. Depending on the timing of any such redemption or repayment, the Fund may be required to pay a premium in addition to the liquidation preference of the preferred shares to the holders thereof.
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The Fund has no present intention of offering additional Common Shares, except as described herein. Other offerings of its Common Shares, if made, will require approval of the Board of Trustees. Any additional offering will not be sold at a price per Common Share below the then current net asset value (exclusive of underwriting discounts and commissions) except in connection with an offering to existing Common Shareholders or with the consent of a majority of the Fund's outstanding Common Shares. The Common Shares have no preemptive rights.
The Fund generally will not issue Common Share certificates. However, upon written request to the Fund's transfer agent, a share certificate will be issued for any or all of the full Common Shares credited to an investor's account. Common Share certificates that have been issued to an investor may be returned at any time.
Preferred Shares
The Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with preference rights, including preferred shares (the "preferred shares"), having no par value, in one or more series, with rights as determined by the Board of Trustees, by action of the Board of Trustees without the approval of the Common Shareholders.
Under the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Fund must, immediately after the issuance of any preferred shares, have an "asset coverage" of at least 200%. Asset coverage means the ratio which the value of the total assets of the Fund, less all liability and indebtedness not represented by senior securities (as defined in the 1940 Act), bears to the aggregate amount of senior securities representing indebtedness of the Fund, if any, plus the aggregate liquidation preference of the preferred shares. If the Fund seeks a rating of the preferred shares, asset coverage requirements, in addition to those set forth in the 1940 Act, may be imposed. The liquidation value of the preferred shares is expected to equal their aggregate original purchase price plus redemption premium, if any, together with any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon (on a cumulative basis), whether or not earned or declared. The terms of the preferred shares, including their dividend rate, voting rights, liquidation preference and redemption provisions, will be determined by the Board of Trustees (subject to applicable law and the Fund's Declaration of Trust) if and when it authorizes the preferred shares. The Fund may issue preferred shares that provide for the periodic redetermination of the dividend rate at relatively short intervals through an auction or remarketing procedure, although the terms of the preferred shares may also enable the Fund to lengthen such intervals. At times, the dividend rate as redetermined on the Fund's preferred shares may approach or exceed the Fund's return after expenses on the investment of proceeds from the preferred shares and the Fund's leverage structure would result in a lower rate of return to Common Shareholders than if the Fund were not so structured.
In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund, the terms of any preferred shares may entitle the holders of preferred shares to receive a preferential liquidating distribution (expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus redemption premium, if any, together with accrued and unpaid dividends, whether or not earned or declared and on a cumulative basis) before any distribution of assets is made to holders of Common Shares. After payment of the full amount of the liquidating distribution to which they are entitled, the preferred shareholders would not be entitled to any further participation in any distribution of assets by the Fund.
Holders of preferred shares, when issued, shall be entitled to elect two of the Fund's Trustees, voting as a class. Under the 1940 Act, if at any time dividends on the preferred shares are unpaid in an amount equal to two full years' dividends thereon, the holders of all outstanding preferred shares, voting as a class, will be allowed to elect a majority of the Fund's Trustees until all dividends in default have been paid or declared and set apart for payment. In addition, if required by the rating agency rating the preferred shares or if the Board of Trustees determines it to be in the best interests of the
53
Common Shareholders, issuance of the preferred shares may result in more restrictive provisions than required by the 1940 Act being imposed. In this regard, holders of the preferred shares may be entitled to elect a majority of the Board of Trustees in other circumstances, for example, if one payment on the preferred shares is in arrears.
The Fund intends to seek a AAA credit rating for any preferred shares from a rating agency. The Fund intends that, as long as preferred shares are outstanding, the composition of its portfolio will reflect guidelines established by such rating agency. Although, as of the date hereof, no such rating agency has established guidelines relating to preferred shares, based on previous guidelines established by such rating agencies for the securities of other issuers, the Fund anticipates that the guidelines with respect to preferred shares will establish a set of tests for portfolio composition and asset coverage that supplement (and in some cases are more restrictive than) the applicable requirements under the 1940 Act. Although, at this time, no assurance can be given as to the nature or extent of the guidelines which may be imposed in connection with obtaining a rating of any preferred shares, the Fund currently anticipates that such guidelines will include asset coverage requirements, which are more restrictive than those under the 1940 Act, restrictions on certain portfolio investments and investment practices, requirements that the Fund maintain a portion of its assets in short-term, high-quality, fixed income securities and certain mandatory redemption requirements relating to preferred shares. No assurance can be given that the guidelines actually imposed with respect to preferred shares by such rating agency will be more or less restrictive than as described in this prospectus.
Credit Facility
In the event the Fund leverages through borrowings, the Fund may enter into definitive agreements with respect to a credit facility. The Fund may negotiate with commercial banks to arrange a credit facility pursuant to which the Fund would expect to be entitled to borrow an amount equal to approximately one-third of the Fund's total assets (inclusive of the amount borrowed) as of the closing of the offer and sale of the Common Shares offered hereby. Any such borrowings would constitute financial leverage. Such a facility is not expected to be convertible into any other securities of the Fund, outstanding amounts are expected to be prepayable by the Fund prior to final maturity without significant penalty and there are not expected to be any sinking fund or mandatory retirement provisions. Outstanding amounts would be payable at maturity or such earlier times as required by the agreement. The Fund may be required to prepay outstanding amounts under the facility or incur a penalty rate of interest in the event of the occurrence of certain events of default. The Fund would be expected to indemnify the lenders under the facility against liabilities they may incur in connection with the facility. The Fund may be required to pay commitment fees under the terms of any such facility.
In addition, the Fund expects that such a credit facility would contain covenants that, among other things, likely will limit the Fund's ability to pay dividends in certain circumstances, incur additional debt, change its fundamental investment policies and engage in certain transactions, including mergers and consolidations, and may require asset coverage ratios in addition to those required by the 1940 Act. The Fund may be required to pledge its assets and to maintain a portion of its assets in cash or high-grade securities as a reserve against interest or principal payments and expenses. The Fund expects that any credit facility would have customary covenant, negative covenant and default provisions. There can be no assurance that the Fund will enter into an agreement for a credit facility on terms and conditions representative of the foregoing, or that additional material terms will not apply. In addition, if entered into, any such credit facility may in the future be replaced or refinanced by one or more credit facilities having substantially different terms or by the issuance of preferred shares or debt securities.
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Repurchase of Shares And Other Discount Measures
Because shares of closed-end management investment companies frequently trade at a discount to their net asset values, the Board of Trustees has determined that from time to time it may be in the interest of Common Shareholders for the Fund to take corrective actions. The Board of Trustees, in consultation with Clough and ALPS, will review at least annually the possibility of open market repurchases and/or tender offers for the Common Shares and will consider such factors as the market price of the Common Shares, the net asset value of the Common Shares, the liquidity of the assets of the Fund, effect on the Fund's expenses, whether such transactions would impair the Fund's status as a regulated investment company or result in a failure to comply with applicable asset coverage requirements, general economic conditions and such other events or conditions, which may have a material effect on the Fund's ability to consummate such transactions. There are no assurances that the Board of Trustees will, in fact, decide to undertake either of these actions or, if undertaken, that such actions will result in the Fund's Common Shares trading at a price which is equal to or approximates their net asset value. In recognition of the possibility that the Common Shares might trade at a discount to net asset value and that any such discount may not be in the interest of Common Shareholders, the Board of Trustees, in consultation with Clough, from time to time may review possible actions to reduce any such discount.
ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS IN THE DECLARATION OF TRUST
The Declaration of Trust includes provisions that could have the effect of limiting the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund or to change the composition of the Board of Trustees, and could have the effect of depriving Common Shareholders of an opportunity to sell their Common Shares at a premium over prevailing market prices by discouraging a third party from seeking to obtain control of the Fund. These provisions may have the effect of discouraging attempts to acquire control of the Fund, which attempts could have the effect of increasing the expenses of the Fund and interfering with the normal operation of the Fund. The Board of Trustees is divided into three classes, with the term of one class expiring at each annual meeting of Common Shareholders. At each annual meeting, one class of Trustees is elected to a three-year term. This provision could delay for up to two years the replacement of a majority of the Board of Trustees. A Trustee may be removed from office without cause only by a written instrument signed or adopted by two-thirds of the remaining Trustees or by a vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the class of shares of the Fund that elected such Trustee and are entitled to vote on the matter.
The Declaration of Trust provides that the Fund may not merge with another entity, or sell, lease or exchange all or substantially all of its assets without the approval of at least two-thirds of the Trustees and 75% of the affected shareholders.
In addition, the Declaration of Trust requires the favorable vote of the holders of at least 80% of the outstanding shares of each class of the Fund, voting as a class, then entitled to vote to approve, adopt or authorize certain transactions with 5%-or-greater holders of the Fund's outstanding shares and their affiliates or associates, unless two-thirds of the Board of Trustees have approved by resolution a memorandum of understanding with such holders, in which case normal voting requirements would be in effect. For purposes of these provisions, a 5%-or-greater holder of outstanding shares (a "Principal Shareholder") refers to any person who, whether directly or indirectly and whether alone or together with its affiliates and associates, beneficially owns 5% or more of the outstanding shares of beneficial interest of the Fund. The transactions subject to these special approval requirements are: (i) the merger or consolidation of the Fund or any subsidiary of the Fund with or into any Principal Shareholder; (ii) the issuance of any securities of the Fund to any Principal Shareholder for cash (other than pursuant to any automatic dividend reinvestment plan or pursuant to any offering in which such Principal Shareholder acquires securities that represent no greater a percentage of any class or series of securities being offered than the percentage of any class of shares beneficially owned by such Principal
55
Shareholder immediately prior to such offering or, in the case of securities, offered in respect of another class or series, the percentage of such other class or series beneficially owned by such Principal Shareholder immediately prior to such offering); (iii) the sale, lease or exchange of all or any substantial part of the assets of the Fund to any Principal Shareholder (except assets having an aggregate fair market value of less than $1,000,000, aggregating for the purpose of such computation all assets sold, leased or exchanged in any series of similar transactions within a twelve-month period); (iv) the sale, lease or exchange to the Fund or any subsidiary thereof, in exchange for securities of the Fund, of any assets of any Principal Shareholder (except assets having an aggregate fair market value of less than $1,000,000, aggregating for the purposes of such computation all assets sold, leased or exchanged in any series of similar transactions within a twelve-month period); or (v) the purchase by the Fund, or any entity controlled by the Fund, of any Common Shares from any Principal Shareholder or any person to whom any Principal Shareholder transferred Common Shares.
The Board of Trustees has determined that provisions with respect to the Board of Trustees and the 80% voting requirements described above, which voting requirements are greater than the minimum requirements under Delaware law or the 1940 Act, are in the best interest of Common Shareholders generally. Reference should be made to the Declaration of Trust on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the full text of these provisions.
The Fund may be converted to an open-end management investment company at any time if approved by each of the following: (i) a majority of the Trustees then in office, (ii) the holders of not less than 75% of the Fund's outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon and (iii) by such vote or votes of the holders of any class or classes or series of shares as may be required by the 1940 Act. The composition of the Fund's portfolio likely would prohibit the Fund from complying with regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission applicable to open-end management investment companies, including the limitation that open-end management investment companies invest no more than 15% in illiquid securities. Accordingly, conversion likely would require significant changes in the Fund's investment policies and liquidation of a substantial portion of the relatively illiquid portion of its portfolio. Conversion of the Fund to an open-end management investment company also would require the redemption of any outstanding preferred shares and could require the repayment of borrowings, which would eliminate the leveraged capital structure of the Fund with respect to the Common Shares. In the event of conversion, the Common Shares would cease to be listed on the American Stock Exchange or other national securities exchange or market system. The Board of Trustees believes, however, that the closed-end structure is desirable, given the Fund's investment objective and policies. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is unlikely that the Board of Trustees would vote to convert the Fund to an open-end management investment company. Shareholders of an open-end management investment company may require the company to redeem their shares at any time (except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940 Act) at their net asset value, less such redemption charge, if any, as might be in effect at the time of a redemption. The Fund expects to pay all such redemption requests in cash, but intends to reserve the right to pay redemption requests in a combination of cash or securities. If such partial payment in securities were made, investors may incur brokerage costs in converting such securities to cash. If the Fund were converted to an open-end fund, it is likely that new Common Shares would be sold at net asset value plus a sales load.
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Subject to the terms and conditions stated in a purchase agreement dated , 2006, each underwriter named below, for which Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated is acting as representative, has severally agreed to purchase, and the Fund has agreed to sell to such underwriter, the number of Common Shares set forth opposite the name of such underwriter.
Underwriter
|
Number of
Common Shares |
|
---|---|---|
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated |
||
A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. | ||
Raymond James & Associates, Inc. | ||
BB&T Capital Markets, a division of Scott & Stringfellow, Inc. | ||
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated | ||
H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc. | ||
Ferris, Baker Watts, Incorporated | ||
Fixed Income Securities, LP | ||
J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, Inc. | ||
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC | ||
KeyBanc Capital Markets, a division of McDonald Investments Inc. | ||
Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc. | ||
Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc. | ||
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. | ||
RBC Capital Markets Corporation | ||
Ryan Beck & Co., Inc. | ||
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | ||
Wedbush Morgan Securities Inc. | ||
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC | ||
|
||
Total: | ||
|
The purchase agreement provides that the obligations of the underwriters to purchase the shares included in this offering are subject to the approval of certain legal matters by counsel and to certain other conditions. The underwriters are obligated to purchase all the Common Shares sold under the purchase agreement if any of the Common Shares are purchased. In the purchase agreement, the Fund and Clough have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities arising under the Securities Act, or to contribute payments the underwriters may be required to make for any of those liabilities.
Commissions and Discounts
The underwriters propose to initially offer some of the Common Shares directly to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and some of the Common Shares to certain dealers at the public offering price less a concession not in excess of $ per share. The sales load the Fund will pay of $.90 per share is equal to 4.5% of the initial offering price. The underwriters may allow, and the dealers may reallow, a discount not in excess of $ per share on sales to other dealers. After the initial public offering, the public offering price, concession and discount may be changed. Investors must pay for any Common Shares purchased on or before , 2006.
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The following table shows the public offering price, estimated organizational and offering expenses, sales load and proceeds to the Fund. The information assumes either no exercise or full exercise by the underwriters of their overallotment option.
|
Per Share
|
Without Option
|
With Option
|
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Public offering price | $ | 20.00 | $ | $ | |||||
Sales load | $.90 | $ | $ | ||||||
Estimated offering expenses | $.04 | $ | $ | ||||||
Proceeds, after expenses, to the Fund | $ | 19.06 | $ | $ |
The expenses of the offering are estimated to total $ , of which $ is to be paid by the Fund. The Fund has agreed to pay the underwriters $.0067 per Common Share as a partial reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with the offering. The amount paid by the Fund as this partial reimbursement to the underwriters will not exceed .0335% of the total price to the public of the Common Shares sold in this offering. ALPS and Clough have agreed to pay (i) the amount by which the Fund's offering costs (other than the sales load, but inclusive of the reimbursement of underwriter expenses of $.0067 per Common Share) exceed the Reimbursement Cap and (ii) all of the Fund's organizational expenses.
Overallotment Option
The Fund has granted the underwriters an 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 solely to cover any overallotments. If the underwriters exercise this option, each will be obligated, subject to conditions contained in the purchase agreement, to purchase a number of additional shares proportionate to that underwriter's initial amount reflected in the above table.
Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids
Until the distribution of the Common Shares is complete, Securities and Exchange Commission rules may limit underwriters and selling group members from bidding for and purchasing the Fund's Common Shares. However, the representative may engage in transactions that stabilize the price of the Common Shares, such as bids or purchases to peg, fix or maintain that price.
If the underwriters create a short position in the Common Shares in connection with the offering ( i.e. , if they sell more Common Shares than are listed on the cover of this prospectus), the representative may reduce that short position by purchasing Common Shares in the open market. The representative may also elect to reduce any short position by exercising all or part of the overallotment option described above. The underwriters also may impose a penalty bid, whereby selling concessions allowed to syndicate members or other broker-dealers in respect of the Common Shares sold in this offering for their account may be reclaimed by the syndicate if such Common Shares are repurchased by the syndicate in stabilizing or covering transactions. Purchases of the Common Shares to stabilize the price or to reduce a short position may cause the price of the Common Shares to be higher than it might be in the absence of such purchases.
Neither the Fund nor any of the underwriters makes any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above may have on the price of the Common Shares. In addition, neither the Fund nor any of the underwriters makes any representation that the representative will engage in these transactions or that these transactions, once commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.
The Fund has agreed not to offer or sell any additional Common Shares for a period of 180 days after the date of the purchase agreement without the prior written consent of the underwriters, except
58
for the sale of the Common Shares to the underwriters pursuant to the purchase agreement and certain transactions relating to the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment Plan.
The Common Shares will be sold in a manner intended to ensure that American Stock Exchange distribution standards ( i.e. , round lots, public shares and aggregate market value) will be met.
Other Relationships and Additional Underwriting Compensation
Clough has also agreed to pay from its own assets additional compensation to Merrill Lynch. This additional compensation will be payable quarterly at the annual rate of .15% of the Fund's average daily total assets (including any assets attributable to any preferred shares that may be outstanding or otherwise attributable to the use of leverage) during the continuance of the Investment Advisory Agreement between Clough and the Fund or other subsequent advisory agreement between Clough and the Fund. Merrill Lynch has agreed to, among other things, provide certain after-market support services to Clough, as requested by Clough, including services designed to maintain the visibility of the Fund on an ongoing basis and to provide, as requested by Clough, relevant information, studies or reports regarding the Fund and the closed-end investment company industry. The total amount of these additional payments to Merrill Lynch for these services will not exceed % of the total price to the public of the Common Shares sold in this offering.
The Fund reasonably expects to pay offering expenses in an amount at least equal to the amount of the Reimbursement Cap. To the extent that the Fund has not otherwise paid offering expenses equal to the Reimbursement Cap, the Fund will pay up to .10% of the amount of the offering up to the Reimbursement Cap to ALPS Distributors, Inc. as payment for its distribution assistance. ALPS Distributors, Inc. will provide distribution assistance in connection with the sale of the Common Shares of the Fund by coordinating the road show, and by designing and coordinating the printing of the marketing materials used in connection with the offering. Additionally, its registered representatives ("Registered Representatives") with the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the "NASD"), who are internal or external wholesalers registered through ALPS Distributors, Inc., will participate and engage in the road show by giving presentations about the Fund to branch offices of the underwriters. The payment by the Fund to ALPS Distributors, Inc. of up to .10% of the amount of the offering up to the Reimbursement Cap will be used solely to pay for ALPS Distributors, Inc.'s assistance with coordinating the road show, designing and coordinating the printing of marketing materials, and to reimburse ALPS Distributors, Inc. for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses related to the road show. With the exception of the foregoing, ALPS Distributors, Inc. will not receive any compensation for its distribution assistance in connection with this offering.
The total amount of the additional compensation fees payable to Merrill Lynch, plus the partial reimbursement of $.0067 per Common Share to the underwriters and any distribution assistance fee payable to ALPS Distributors, Inc., will not exceed 4.5% of the total price to the public of the Common Shares sold in this offering. The sum total of all compensation to underwriters in connection with this public offering of common shares, including the sales load and any distribution assistance fee payable to ALPS Distributors, Inc., will be limited to 9.0% of the total price to the public of the Common Shares sold in this offering.
The Fund anticipates that the underwriters may from time to time act as brokers or, after they have ceased to be underwriters, dealers in executing the Fund's portfolio transactions. The underwriters are active underwriters of, and dealers in, securities and act as market makers in a number of such securities, and therefore can be expected to engage in portfolio transactions with the Fund.
One or more of the underwriters of the Common Shares may also act as an underwriter of the Fund's preferred shares.
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The address of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated is 4 World Financial Center, New York, New York 10080. The address of ALPS Distributors, Inc. is 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202.
The Bank of New York is the custodian of the Fund and will maintain custody of the securities and cash of the Fund. ALPS maintains the Fund's general ledger and computes net asset value per share daily.
The Bank of New York also serves as the transfer agent of the Fund.
Certain legal matters in connection with the Common Shares will be passed upon for the Fund by Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP, Chicago, Illinois, and for the Underwriters by Clifford Chance US LLP, New York, New York. Clifford Chance US LLP may rely as to certain matters of Delaware law on the opinion of Bingham McCutchen LLP.
The Fund will send to Common Shareholders unaudited semi-annual and audited annual reports, including a list of investments held.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Deloitte & Touche LLP is the independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund and will audit the Fund's financial statements.
The prospectus and the Statement of Additional Information do not contain all of the information set forth in the Registration Statement that the Fund has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The complete Registration Statement may be obtained from the Securities and Exchange Commission upon payment of the fee prescribed by its rules and regulations. The Statement of Additional Information can be obtained without charge by calling (877) 256-8445.
Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or other documents 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 the Registration Statement of which this prospectus forms a part, each such statement being qualified in all respects by such reference.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS OF
THE STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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The Fund is committed to ensuring your financial privacy. This notice is being sent to comply with privacy regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Fund has in effect the following policy with respect to nonpublic personal information about its customers:
For more information about the Fund's privacy policies call (877) 256-8445 (toll-free).
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Until , 2006 (25 days after the date of this prospectus), all dealers that buy, sell or trade the Common Shares, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to the dealer's obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to unsold allotments or subscriptions.
Shares
Clough Global Opportunities Fund
Common Shares of Beneficial Interest
$20.00 per Share
PROSPECTUS
Merrill Lynch & Co.
A.G. Edwards
Raymond James
BB&T Capital Markets
Robert W. Baird & Co.
H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc.
Ferris, Baker Watts
Incorporated
Fixed Income Securities, LP
J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, Inc.
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC
KeyBanc Capital Markets
Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc.
Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc.
Oppenheimer & Co.
RBC Capital Markets
Ryan Beck & Co.
Stifel Nicolaus
Wedbush Morgan Securities Inc.
Wells Fargo Securities
, 2006
The information in this Statement of Additional Information is not complete and may be changed. A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement is effective. This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus.
Subject to Completion, dated March 22, 2006
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
, 2006
Clough Global Opportunities Fund
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200
Denver, Colorado 80202
(877) 256-8445
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus and is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only if preceded or accompanied by the prospectus of the Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Fund"), dated , 2006, as supplemented from time to time, which is incorporated herein by reference. This SAI should be read in conjunction with such prospectus, a copy of which may be obtained without charge by contacting your financial intermediary or calling the Fund at (877) 256-8445 (toll-free).
The information in this Statement of Additional Information is not complete and may be changed. These securities may not be sold until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This Statement of Additional Information, which is not a 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.
Capitalized terms used in this SAI and not otherwise defined have the meanings given them in the Fund's prospectus.
i
ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT INFORMATION AND RESTRICTIONS
Primary investment strategies are described in the prospectus. The following is a description of the various investment policies that may be engaged in, whether as a primary or secondary strategy, and a summary of certain attendant risks. Clough may, but is not required to, buy any of the following instruments or use any of the following techniques, and would do so only if it believes that doing so will help to achieve the Fund's investment objectives.
Derivative Instruments
Derivative instruments (which are instruments that derive their value from another instrument, security, index or currency) may be purchased or sold to enhance return (which may be considered speculative), to hedge against fluctuations in securities prices, market conditions or currency exchange rates, or as a substitute for the purchase or sale of securities or currencies. Such transactions may be in the United States or abroad and may include the purchase or sale of futures contracts on indices and options on stock index futures, the purchase of put options and the sale of call options on securities held, equity swaps and the purchase and sale of currency futures and forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Transactions in derivative instruments involve a risk of loss or depreciation due to: unanticipated adverse changes in securities prices, interest rates, indices, the other financial instruments' prices or currency exchange rates; the inability to close out a position; default by the counterparty; imperfect correlation between a position and the desired hedge; tax constraints on closing out positions; and portfolio management constraints on securities subject to such transactions. The loss on derivative instruments (other than purchased options) may substantially exceed an investment in these instruments. In addition, the entire premium paid for purchased options may be lost before than can be profitably exercised. Transaction costs are incurred in opening and closing positions. Derivative instruments may sometimes increase or leverage exposure to a particular market risk, thereby increasing price volatility. Over-the-counter ("OTC") derivative instruments, equity swaps and forward sales of stocks involve an enhanced risk that the issuer or counterparty will fail to perform its contractual obligations. Some derivative instruments are not readily marketable or may become illiquid under adverse market conditions. In addition, during periods of market volatility, a commodity exchange may suspend or limit trading in an exchange-traded derivative instrument, which may make the contract temporarily illiquid and difficult to price. Commodity exchanges may also establish daily limits on the amount that the price of a futures contract or futures option can vary from the previous day's settlement price. Once the daily limit is reached, no trades may be made that day at a price beyond the limit. This may prevent the closing out of positions to limit losses. The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission takes the position that certain purchased OTC options, and assets used as cover for written OTC options, are illiquid. The ability to terminate OTC derivative instruments may depend on the cooperation of the counterparties to such contracts. For thinly traded derivative instruments, the only source of price quotations may be the selling dealer or counterparty. In addition, certain provisions of the Code limit the use of derivative instruments. There can be no assurance that the use of derivative instruments will be advantageous.
Foreign exchange traded futures contracts and options thereon may be used only if Clough determines that trading on such foreign exchange does not entail risks, including credit and liquidity risks, that are materially greater than the risks associated with trading on CFTC-regulated exchanges.
If a put option is written by the Fund, the Fund must (1) deposit with its custodian in a segregated account liquid securities having a value at least equal to the exercise price of the underlying securities, (2) continue to own an equivalent number of puts of the same "series" (that is, puts on the same underlying security having the same exercise prices and expiration dates as those written by the Fund), or an equivalent number of puts of the same "class" (that is, puts on the same underlying security) with exercise prices greater than those it has written (or, if the exercise prices of the puts it holds are less than the exercise prices of those it has written, it will deposit the difference with its custodian in a
1
segregated account) or (3) sell short the securities underlying the put option at the same or a higher price than the exercise price on the put option written.
Corporate Bonds And Other Debt Securities
The Fund may invest in corporate bonds, including below investment grade quality bonds, commonly known as "junk bonds" ("Non-Investment Grade Bonds"). Investments in Non-Investment Grade Bonds generally provide greater income and increased opportunity for capital appreciation than investments in higher quality securities, but they also typically entail greater price volatility and principal and income risk, including the possibility of issuer default and bankruptcy. Non-Investment Grade Bonds are regarded as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's continuing ability to meet principal and interest payments. Debt securities in the lowest investment grade category also may be considered to possess some speculative characteristics by certain rating agencies. In addition, analysis of the creditworthiness of issuers of Non-Investment Grade Bonds may be more complex than for issuers of higher quality securities.
Non-Investment Grade Bonds may be more susceptible to real or perceived adverse economic and competitive industry conditions than investment grade securities. A projection of an economic downturn or of a period of rising interest rates, for example, could cause a decline in Non-Investment Grade Bond prices because the advent of recession could lessen the ability of an issuer to make principal and interest payments on its debt obligations. If an issuer of Non-Investment Grade Bonds defaults, in addition to risking payment of all or a portion of interest and principal, the Fund may incur additional expenses to seek recovery. In the case of Non-Investment Grade Bonds structured as zero-coupon, step-up or payment-in-kind securities, their market prices will normally be affected to a greater extent by interest rate changes, and therefore tend to be more volatile than securities which pay interest currently and in cash. Clough seeks to reduce these risks through diversification, credit analysis and attention to current developments in both the economy and financial markets.
The secondary market on which Non-Investment Grade Bonds are traded may be less liquid than the market for investment grade securities. Less liquidity in the secondary trading market could adversely affect the net asset value of the Shares. Adverse publicity and investor perceptions, whether or not based on fundamental analysis, may decrease the values and liquidity of Non-Investment Grade Bonds, especially in a thinly traded market. When secondary markets for Non-Investment Grade Bonds are less liquid than the market for investment grade securities, it may be more difficult to value the securities because such valuation may require more research, and elements of judgment may play a greater role in the valuation because there is no reliable, objective data available. During periods of thin trading in these markets, the spread between bid and asked prices is likely to increase significantly and the Fund may have greater difficulty selling these securities. The Fund will be more dependent on Clough's research and analysis when investing in Non-Investment Grade Bonds. Clough seeks to minimize the risks of investing in all securities through in-depth credit analysis and attention to current developments in interest rate and market conditions.
A general description of the ratings of securities by Moody's, S&P and Fitch is set forth in Appendix A to this SAI. Such ratings represent these rating organizations' opinions as to the quality of the securities they rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are not absolute standards of quality. Consequently, debt obligations with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have different yields while obligations with the same maturity and coupon may have the same yield. For these reasons, the use of credit ratings as the sole method of evaluating Non-Investment Grade Bonds can involve certain risks. For example, credit ratings evaluate the safety or principal and interest payments, not the market value risk of Non-Investment Grade Bonds. Also, credit rating agencies may fail to change credit ratings in a timely fashion to reflect events since the security was last rated. Clough does not rely solely on credit ratings when selecting securities for the Fund, and develops its own independent analysis of issuer credit quality.
2
In the event that a rating agency or Clough downgrades its assessment of the credit characteristics of a particular issue, the Fund is not required to dispose of such security. In determining whether to retain or sell a downgraded security, Clough may consider such factors as Clough's assessment of the credit quality of the issuer of such security, the price at which such security could be sold and the rating, if any, assigned to such security by other rating agencies. However, analysis of the creditworthiness of issuers of Non-Investment Grade Bonds may be more complex than for issuers of high quality debt securities.
Investment Restrictions
Fundamental Restrictions
The following investment restrictions of the Fund are designated as fundamental policies and as such cannot be changed without the approval of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, which as used in this SAI means the lesser of (a) 67% of the shares of the Fund present or represented by proxy at a meeting if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares are present or represented at the meeting or (b) more than 50% of outstanding shares of the Fund. As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund may not:
3
Nonfundamental Restriction
The Fund has adopted the following nonfundamental investment policy which may be changed by the Board of Trustees without approval of the Fund's shareholders. The Fund may invest in the securities of other investment companies to the extent that such an investment would be consistent with the requirements of the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder. Investments in the securities of other investment companies may involve duplication of advisory fees and certain other expenses. By investing in another investment company, the Fund becomes a shareholder of that investment company. As a result, the Fund's shareholders indirectly bear the Fund's proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by the shareholders of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses Fund shareholders directly bear in connection with the Fund's own operations.
Whenever an investment policy or investment restriction set forth in the prospectus or this SAI states a maximum or minimum percentage of assets that may be invested in any security or other assets or describes a policy regarding quality standards, such percentage limitation or standard shall be determined immediately after and as a result of the Fund's acquisition of such security or asset. Accordingly, any later increase or decrease resulting from a change in values, assets or other circumstances or any subsequent rating change made by a rating service (or as determined by Clough if the security is not rated by a rating agency) will not compel the Fund to dispose of such security or other asset. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Fund must always be in compliance with the borrowing policies set forth above.
Temporary Borrowings
The Fund may borrow money as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes, including the payment of dividends and the settlement of securities transactions which otherwise might require untimely dispositions of Fund securities. The 1940 Act currently requires that the Fund have 300% asset coverage with respect to all borrowings other than temporary borrowings.
4
The Trustees of the Fund are responsible for the overall management and supervision of the affairs of the Fund. The Trustees and officers of the Fund are listed below. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the last five years. The "noninterested Trustees" consist of those Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Fund, as that term is defined under the 1940 Act.
Interested Trustees And Officers
Name, Age & Address
|
Position(s) Held
with Fund |
Term of
Office and Length of Time Served |
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years* and Other Directorships Held by Trustee |
Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee
|
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W. Robert Alexander,
age 78
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
Trustee and Chairman | Since inception. | Mr. Alexander was the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of ALPS until September 30, 2005. Mr. Alexander was Vice Chairman of First Interstate Bank of Denver, responsible for Trust, Private Banking, Retail Banking, Cash Management Services and Marketing. Mr. Alexander is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of the Hunter and Hughes Trusts as well as Financial Investors Trust, Financial Investors Variable Insurance Trust, Reaves Utility Income Fund, Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. Mr. Alexander is on the Board of Directors of ALPS Holdings, Inc. Because of his affiliation with ALPS, Mr. Alexander is considered an "interested" Trustee of the Fund. | 3 | ||||
5
James E. Canty,
age 43
One Post Office Square, Suite 4000 Boston, Massachusetts 02109 |
Trustee | Since inception. | Mr. Canty is a founding partner, Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel for Clough. Prior to founding Clough in 2000, Mr. Canty worked as a corporate and securities lawyer and Director of Investor Relations for Converse, Inc. from 1995 to 2000. He was a corporate and securities lawyer for the Boston offices of Goldstein & Manello, P.C. from 1993 to 1995 and Bingham, Dana and Gould from 1990 to 1993. Mr. Canty served as an Adjunct Professor at Northeastern University from 1996 to 2000. Mr. Canty is currently a member of the Board of Directors of Clough Offshore Fund, Ltd. and the Board of Trustees of Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. Because of his affiliation with Clough, Mr. Canty is considered an "interested" Trustee of the Fund. | 3 | ||||
6
Edmund J. Burke, age 45 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Principal Executive Officer and President |
|
Since inception. |
|
Mr. Burke is President and a Director of ALPS. Mr. Burke joined ALPS in 1991 as Vice President and National Sales Manager. Because of his position with ALPS, Mr. Burke is deemed an affiliate of the Fund as defined under the 1940 Act. Mr. Burke is currently the President of Financial Investors Trust, Financial Investors Variable Insurance Trust, Reaves Utility Income Fund, Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
N/A |
Jeremy O. May , age 35 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Treasurer |
|
Since inception. |
|
Mr. May is a Managing Director of ALPS. Mr. May joined ALPS in 1995 as a Controller. Because of his position with ALPS, Mr. May is deemed an affiliate of the Fund as defined under the 1940 Act. Mr. May is currently the Treasurer of Financial Investors Trust, Financial Investors Variable Insurance Trust, First Funds, Reaves Utility Income Fund, Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
N/A |
7
Erin E. Douglas , age 28 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Secretary |
|
Since inception. |
|
Ms. Douglas is Associate Counsel of ALPS. Ms. Douglas joined ALPS as Associate Counsel in January 2003. Ms. Douglas is deemed an affiliate of the Fund as defined under the 1940 Act. Ms. Douglas is currently the Secretary of Financial Investors Trust, Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
N/A |
Bradley J. Swenson, age 33 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Chief Compliance Officer |
|
Since inception. |
|
Mr. Swenson is Chief Compliance Officer of ALPS. Mr. Swenson joined ALPS as Chief Compliance Officer in May 2004. Prior to joining ALPS, Mr. Swenson served as the Senior Audit Manager at Janus Capital Group. Before joining Janus, Mr. Swenson was a Senior Internal Auditor for Oppenheimer Funds. Because of his position with ALPS, Mr. Swenson is deemed an affiliate of the Fund as defined under the 1940 Act. Mr. Swenson is currently the Chief Compliance Officer of Financial Investors Trust, Reaves Utility Income Fund, Clough Global Allocation Fund, Clough Global Equity Fund, SPDR Trust, Midcap SPDR Trust and DIAMONDS Trust. |
|
N/A |
8
Kimberly R. Storms, age 33 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Assistant Treasurer |
|
Since inception. |
|
Ms. Storms is Vice President and Director of Fund Administration of ALPS. Ms. Storms joined ALPS in 1998 as Assistant Controller. Because of her position with ALPS, Ms. Storms is deemed an affiliate of the Fund as defined under the 1940 Act. Ms. Storms is also Assistant Treasurer of the Clough Global Allocation Fund, Clough Global Equity Fund, Reaves Utility Income Fund, Financial Investors Trust, Financial Investors Variable Insurance Trust and Assistant Secretary of Ameristock Mutual Fund, Inc. |
|
N/A |
9
Independent Trustees
Name, Age & Address
|
Position(s) Held
with Fund |
Term of
Office and Length of Time Served |
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years* and Other Directorships Held by Trustee |
Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee
|
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Andrew C. Boynton,
age 50
Carroll School of Management Boston College Fulton Hall 510 140 Comm. Ave. Chestnut Hill Massachusetts 02467 |
Trustee | Since inception. | Mr. Boynton is currently the Dean of the Carroll School of Management at Boston College. Mr. Boynton served as Professor of Strategy from 1996 to 2005 and Program Director of the Executive MBA Program from 1998 to 2005 at International Institute of Management Development, Lausanne, Switzerland ("IMD"). Prior to that he was an Associate Professor at the Kenan-Flagler Business School, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill from 1994 to 1996, Visiting Professor at IMD, Lausanne, Switzerland from 1992 to 1994 and Assistant Professor; Darden School, University of Virginia from 1987 to 1992. Mr. Boynton is currently a Trustee of the Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. | 3 | ||||
10
Robert Butler, age 65 12 Harvard Drive Hingham, Massachusetts 02043 |
|
Trustee |
|
Since inception. |
|
Mr. Butler is currently an independent consultant for businesses. Mr. Butler was President of the Pioneer Funds Distributor, Inc. from 1989 to 1998. He was Senior Vice-President from 1985 to 1988 and Executive Vice-President and Director from 1988 to 1999 of the Pioneer Group, Inc. While at the Pioneer Group, Inc. until his retirement in 1999, Mr. Butler was a Director of Supervisory Board member of a number of subsidiary and affiliated companies, including: Pioneer First Polish Investment Fund, JSC, Pioneer Czech Investment Company, Pioneer Global Equity Fund PLC. From 1975 to 1984 Mr. Butler was a Vice-President of the National Association of Securities Dealers. Mr. Butler is currently a Trustee of the Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
3 |
11
Adam D. Crescenzi, age 63 100 Walden Street Concord, Massachusetts 01742 |
|
Trustee |
|
Since inception |
|
Mr. Crescenzi is a founding partner of Telos Partners, Inc., a business advisory firm founded in 1998. Prior to that he served as Executive Vice President of CSC Index. Mr. Crescenzi is currently a Trustee of Dean College, Clough Global Allocation Fund, and Clough Global Equity Fund and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Creative Realities and ICEX, Inc. Mr. Crescenzi is an active member of the strategic committee of the Patrons of Boston College McMullen Museum of Arts. |
|
3 |
John F. Mee, Esq., age 62 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Trustee |
|
Since inception |
|
Mr. Mee is an attorney practicing commercial law, family law, products liability and criminal law. He was an instructor in the Harvard Law School Trial Advocacy Workshop from 1990-2002. Mr. Mee is a member of the Bar of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He serves on the Board of Directors of Holy Cross Alumni Association and is a Trustee of the Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
3 |
12
Jerry G. Rutledge, age 61 2745 Springmede Court Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906 |
|
Trustee |
|
Since inception |
|
Mr. Rutledge is the President and Owner of Rutledge's Inc., a retail clothing business. Mr. Rutledge currently is a Director of the American National Bank, a Regent of the University of Colorado and a Trustee of the Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
3 |
Richard C. Rantzow, age 67 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver, Colorado 80202 |
|
Trustee |
|
Since inception |
|
Mr. Rantzow was CFO/Director, Ron Miller Associates, Inc. (manufacturer). Prior to that, Mr. Rantzow was Managing Partner (until 1990) of the Memphis office of Ernst & Young. Mr. Rantzow is also a Chairman of First Funds Trust and a Trustee of the Clough Global Allocation Fund and Clough Global Equity Fund. |
|
3 |
The Audit Committee of the Board of Trustees ("Audit Committee") is comprised of the noninterested Trustees. The Audit Committee's functions include making recommendations to the Trustees regarding the selection and performance of the independent registered public accounting firm, and reviewing matters relative to accounting and auditing practices and procedures, accounting records, and the internal accounting controls, of the Fund, and certain service providers.
The Fair Value Committee of the Board of Trustees ("Valuation Committee") is comprised of an independent trustee and various principals of the Fund. The Valuation Committee's function is to oversee the implementation of the Fund's valuation procedures and to make fair value determinations and establish methodologies on behalf of the Board as may be specified in the valuation procedures. Meetings may be held in person or by telephone conference call, as necessary.
The noninterested Trustees meet separately to consider, evaluate and make recommendations to the full Board of Trustees concerning (i) all contractual arrangements with service providers to the Fund, including investment advisory, administrative, transfer agency, custodial and distribution services, and (ii) all other matters in which Clough, ALPS, or either of their respective affiliates has any actual or potential conflict of interest with the Fund.
13
As of the date of this SAI, the Audit Committee, Fair Value Committee and noninterested members of the Board of Trustees each had one meeting.
On March 15, 2006, the Board of Trustees met in person to, among other things, review and consider the approval of the Advisory Agreement. In its consideration of the Advisory Agreement, the Trustees, including the non-interested Trustees, considered in general the nature, quality and scope of services to be provided by Clough.
Prior to beginning their review of the Advisory Agreement, counsel to the Fund, who also serve as independent counsel to the independent Trustees, discussed with the Trustees their fiduciary responsibilities in general and also specifically with respect to the approval of the Advisory Agreement.
James Canty, a partner at Clough and a Trustee of the Fund, then discussed the organizational structure of Clough and the qualifications of Clough and its principals to act as the Fund's adviser. He reviewed the professional experience of the portfolio managers, referring the Trustees to the biographies of himself, Chuck Clough and Eric Brock, partners at Clough, emphasizing that Mr. Clough, Mr. Brock and he each had substantial experience as an investment professional. Mr. Canty stated that Clough is the investment adviser to the Clough Global Allocation Fund (the "Global Allocation Fund") and the Clough Global Equity Fund (the "Global Equity Fund"), both closed-end funds. The Trustees, all of whom currently serve as trustees for the Global Allocation Fund and Global Equity Fund, acknowledged their familiarity with the expertise and standing in the investment community of Messrs. Clough, Canty and Brock and their satisfaction with the expertise of the Clough partners and the services provided by Clough to the Global Allocation Fund and Global Equity Fund. The Trustees concluded that the portfolio management team was well qualified to serve the Fund in those functions.
Mr. Canty then reviewed Clough's plans to add both investment and administrative staff to service the additional closed-end fund. He described Clough's procedures relating to compliance and oversight. He discussed Clough's order management systems that contain pre-trade compliance functions which review each trade against certain of the Fund's investment restrictions and applicable Investment Company Act of 1940 and Internal Revenue Code restrictions, and the efforts that Clough's Chief Compliance Officer will undertake to summarize monthly for Clough's management and quarterly for the Trustees any violations that may occur, as well any other violations detected through the manual monitoring that supplements the order management system's testing. He also reviewed the adequacy of Clough's facilities. The Trustees concluded that Clough appeared to have adequate procedures and personnel in place to ensure compliance by Clough with applicable law and with the Fund's investment objectives and restrictions.
Mr. Canty described generally the investment objective and policies of the Fund and discussed the Fund's target portfolio. He stated that the type of securities that the Fund would be investing in would be similar to the securities in which the Global Allocation Fund and Global Equity Fund invested. He described the theme-based portfolio strategy Clough Capital intends to employ for the Fund. Mr. Canty said that the Fund may purchase call options on investment positions within the themes in order to seek to enhance investment returns. Mr. Canty stated that the use of such option strategies will be opportunistic in nature.
He also stated that, like the Global Allocation Fund and Global Equity Fund, Clough intended to invest a portion of the Fund's assets in iShares ETFs. He said that Clough would identify geographic areas, in particular emerging markets, in which they intend to invest a portion of Fund assets and how much to invest in each geographic location. In addition to identifying and purchasing individual securities in these markets, Mr. Canty stated that iShares ETFs may be used to gain wider exposure to particular markets or regions without the expense of purchasing numerous foreign securities. He stated
14
that investments in iShares also permit Clough to rapidly enter and exit these foreign markets without having to deal with currency conversions, settlement delays, or illiquidity that often characterize these less developed markets. Mr. Canty stated that, as a result of the use of Clough's judgment to determine which iShares ETF to invest in, if any, the use of iShares ETFs would not result in the Fund receiving or paying for duplicative services provided by both Clough and the iShares investment adviser.
Mr. Canty next reviewed the terms of the proposed Advisory Agreement, stating that Clough would receive a fee of 1.00% of the average daily total assets of the Fund and that it would pay a fee equal to an annual rate of 0.15% of the average weekly total assets to Merrill Lynch. He stated that the profitability analysis of the investment advisory services provided by Clough will depend primarily on the asset size of the Fund. He said that based on a hypothetical size of $300 million, and if the Fund leveraged another $150 million, the net annual fee to Clough, after paying the 0.15% of the average weekly total assets to Merrill Lynch, would be approximately $3,825,000, but that that number could of course be higher or lower based on the size of the Fund. Mr. Canty stated that due to regulatory restrictions and oversight, managing a closed-end fund can be more labor intensive on the administrative, operational and compliance sides and therefore more costly to Clough than advising a hedge fund, Clough's principal type of other large client. The Trustees then reviewed Clough's income statement for the year ended December 31, 2005 and its balance sheet as of that date. In response to questions by the Trustees, Mr. Canty reviewed management fees received by Clough for other investment products Clough provides advisory services for and also discussed the capacity of Clough to advise another product.
Mr. Canty stated that in the near term, Clough did not expect any fall out benefits or any other direct or indirect benefits to result to it from its relationship with the Fund. Mr. Canty then reviewed with the Trustees Clough's best execution, soft dollar practices and proxy voting policies, which are detailed elsewhere in this SAI. See "Portfolio Trading."
The Board of Trustees reviewed and discussed materials prepared and distributed in advance of the meeting regarding the comparability of the proposed investment advisory fee of the Fund with the investment advisory fees of other investment companies, which had been prepared at the request of ALPS by Lipper Analytical Services and a Morningstar analysis. Mr. Canty advised the Board that the projected expenses for the Fund are 1.35%, not including dividends on short sales. He stated that including dividends on short sales, the Fund's total expenses are estimated to be 1.46% With leverage, Mr. Canty stated that the Fund's total expenses are estimated to be 2.13%, not including dividends on short sales. Including dividends on short sales, the Fund's total expenses with leverage are estimated to be 2.34%.
For comparison, the Trustees first were presented with a Morningstar analysis comparing the proposed investment advisory fee of the Fund with investment advisory fees of long/short open-end investment companies. The average total expenses for the Morningstar long/short open-end investment companies was approximately 2.30%. The average total expenses for the Morningstar open-end global equity funds was approximately 1.90%.
Because the Fund is unique in the marketplace, Lipper had a difficult time presenting a large peer group for comparison. The Trustees compared fees from 7 closed-end investment companies that invest in foreign markets, primarily in geographic sectors or emerging markets, that did not use leverage (i.e., issue debt or preferred stock). The investment advisory fee for this group ranged from 0.333% to 1.150%, with a median of 0.925%. The total expenses for this group ranged from 1.042% to 2.221%.
The Trustees were also presented with the fees from 4 closed-end investment companies that invest in foreign markets, primarily in geographic sectors or emerging markets, that used leverage. The investment advisory fee for this group ranged from 0.90% to 1.50%, with a median of 1.35%. The total expenses for this group ranged from 1.79% to 2.59%, with a median of 2.11%. The Trustees noted that there is one other closed-end fund that uses leverage that employs a long/short strategy and that the
15
fund's total expense ratio is 1.25%. The Trustees pointed out that this fund is an equity only fund that does not use asset allocation.
The Trustees noted that, except for the one closed-end fund with a long/short strategy, the objectives of these funds in the two analyses differed from the Fund's objectives and policies; however the Trustees believed that the analyses provided a sufficient comparative universe. Mr. Canty stated that the increase in the investment advisory fee Clough is to receive from the Fund in relation to the fees paid by the Global Allocation Fund and Global Equity Fund is within the average and medians provided by the comparative universe.
At this point, W. Robert Alexander (the Fund's Chairman) and Mr. Canty, both "interested persons" of the Fund, as well as the other representatives of ALPS, left the meeting. The non-interested Trustees, with the assistance of legal counsel, reviewed and discussed in more detail the information that had been presented relating to Clough, the Advisory Agreement and Clough's profitability.
Mr. Alexander, Mr. Canty and the representatives of ALPS rejoined the meeting. Discussion ensued regarding the additional compensation of 0.15% of the Fund's average daily total assets Clough will make to Merrill Lynch during the continuance of the Investment Advisory Agreement between Clough and the Fund for certain after-market support services to Clough. The Board of Trustees present in person, with the non-interested Trustees present in person voting separately, unanimously concluded that the proposed investment advisory fee of 1.00% of the Fund's total assets is fair and reasonable for the Fund and that the Advisory Agreement is in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.
Share Ownership
As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees and the officers of the Fund as a group owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. On March 14, 2006, ALPS purchased $100,000 in shares of the Fund at an initial subscription price of $19.10 per share and was the sole shareholder as of this date.
Compensation of Officers and Trustees
The Fund pays no salaries or compensation to any of its interested Trustees or Officers. The noninterested Trustees of the Fund receive an annual retainer of $14,000 and an additional $1,500 for attending each meeting of the Board of Trustees and each committee meeting, other than committee meetings that occur on the same day as a Board of Trustees meeting. All Trustees are reimbursed by the Fund for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings of the Board of Trustees or committee meetings. The Trustees do not receive any pension or retirement benefits from the Fund. The officers of the Fund do not receive any additional compensation from the Fund.
16
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the estimated compensation of the Fund's noninterested Trustees for the calendar year ending December 31, 2006.
|
Aggregate
Compensation From The Fund |
Pension Or
Retirement Benefits Accrued As Part of Fund Expenses |
Estimated Annual
Benefits Upon Retirement |
Aggregate
Compensation From The Fund Complex Paid To Trustees |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Andrew C. Boynton | $ | 15,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | 52,000 | ||||
Robert Butler | $ | 15,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | 55,000 | ||||
Adam D. Crescenzi | $ | 15,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | 55,000 | ||||
John F. Mee | $ | 15,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | 55,000 | ||||
Jerry G. Rutledge | $ | 15,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | 55,000 | ||||
Richard C. Rantzow | $ | 15,000 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | 55,000 |
Code of Ethics
Clough and the Fund have adopted a code of ethics governing personal securities transactions. Under the code of ethics, Clough employees may purchase and sell securities (including securities held or eligible for purchase by the Fund) subject to certain pre-clearance and reporting requirements and other procedures.
The code of ethics can be reviewed and copied at the Securities and Exchange Commission's public reference room in Washington, DC (call 1-202-942-8090 for information on the operation of the public reference room); on the EDGAR Database on the Securities and Exchange Commission's Internet site (http://www.sec.gov); or, upon payment of copying fees, by writing the Securities and Exchange Commission's public reference section, Washington, DC 20549-0102, or by electronic mail at publicinfo@sec.gov.
Proxy Voting Policy
The Fund has delegated the voting of proxies with respect to securities owned by it to Clough, and Clough will vote proxies in a manner that it deems to be in the best interests of the Fund. In general, Clough believes that voting proxies in accordance with the policies described below will be in the best interests of the Fund. If an analyst, trader or partner of Clough believes that voting in accordance with stated proxy-voting guidelines would not be in the best interests of the Fund, the proxy will be referred to Clough's Compliance Committee for a determination of how such proxy should be voted.
Clough will generally vote to support management recommendations relating to routine matters such as the election of directors (where no corporate governance issues are implicated), the selection of independent auditors, an increase in or reclassification of common stock, the addition or amendment of indemnification provisions in the company's charter or by-laws, changes in the board of directors and compensation of outside directors. Clough will generally vote in favor of management or shareholder proposals that Clough believes will maintain or strengthen the shared interests of shareholders and management, increase shareholder value, maintain or increase shareholder influence over the company's board of directors and management and maintain or increase the rights of shareholders.
On non-routine matters, Clough will generally vote in favor of management proposals for mergers or reorganizations, reincorporation plans, fair-price proposals and shareholder rights plans so long as such proposals are in the best economic interests of the Fund.
If a proxy includes a matter to which none of the specific policies described above or in Clough's stated proxy-voting guidelines is applicable or a matter involving an actual or potential conflict of interest as described below, the proxy will be referred to Clough's Compliance Committee for a determination of how such proxy should be voted.
17
In exercising its voting discretion, Clough and its employees will seek to avoid any direct or indirect conflict of interest presented by the voting decision. If any substantive aspect or foreseeable result of the matter to be voted on presents an actual or potential conflict of interest involving Clough (or an affiliate of Clough), any issuer of a security for which Clough (or an affiliate of Clough) acts as sponsor, advisor, manager, custodian, distributor, underwriter, broker or other similar capacity or any person with whom Clough (or an affiliate of Clough) has an existing material contract or business relationship not entered into in the ordinary course of business (Clough and such other persons having an interest in the matter being called "Interested Persons"), Clough will make written disclosure of the conflict to the disinterested Trustees of the Fund indicating how Clough proposes to vote on the matter and its reasons for doing so. If Clough does not receive timely written instructions as to voting or non-voting on the matter from the Fund's disinterested Trustees, Clough may take any of the following actions which it deems to be in the best interests of the Fund: (i) engage an independent third party to determine whether and how the proxy should be voted and vote or refrain from voting on the matter as determined by the third party; (ii) vote on the matter in the manner proposed to the disinterested Trustees if the vote is against the interests of all Interested Persons; or (iii) refrain from voting on the matter.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES
Clough has been managing assets of private investment vehicles since 2000. Clough maintains a staff of experienced investment professionals to service the needs of its clients.
Except as provided in the Administration Agreement, the Fund will be responsible for all of its costs and expenses not expressly stated to be payable by Clough under the Advisory Agreement or ALPS under the Administration Agreement. Such costs and expenses to be borne by the Fund include, without limitation: advisory fees, administration fees, trustees' fees, interest expenses, if any, expenses related to custody of international securities, portfolio transaction expenses, litigation expenses, taxes, costs of preferred shares, expenses of conducting repurchase offers for the purpose of repurchasing Fund shares, extraordinary expenses and dividends on securities sold short.
The Advisory Agreement with Clough continues in effect to , 2008 and from year to year so long as such continuance is approved at least annually (i) by the vote of a majority of the noninterested Trustees of the Fund or of Clough cast in person at a meeting specifically called for the purpose of voting on such approval and (ii) by the Board of Trustees or by vote of a majority of the outstanding Shares of the Fund. The agreement may be terminated at any time without penalty on sixty (60) days' written notice by the Trustees of the Fund or Clough, as applicable, or by vote of the majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. The agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment. The agreement provides that, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its obligations or duties to the Fund under such agreements on the part of Clough, or a loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by Clough with respect to the receipt of compensation for services (in which case damages shall be limited by the 1940 Act), Clough shall not be liable to the Fund or any shareholder for any loss incurred, to the extent not covered by insurance.
Clough is a limited partnership organized under the laws of Delaware. It is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. As of December 31, 2005, Clough had approximately $1.5 billion in assets under management.
18
Portfolio Managers
Set forth below is certain additional information with respect Charles I. Clough, Jr., Eric A. Brock and James E. Canty, the Fund's portfolio managers (collectively, the "Portfolio Managers"), who together are the principal investment professionals of Clough. Unless noted otherwise, all information is provided as of February 28, 2006.
Other Accounts Managed by Portfolio Managers
In addition to their responsibilities with regard to the Fund, the Portfolio Managers, either as the principal investment professionals of Clough, or as the members of Clough's affiliate, Clough Associates, LLC, also have day-to-day management responsibilities for the assets of (i) two other registered investment companies with approximately $1 billion in assets under management; (ii) three other pooled investment vehicles with a total of approximately $370 million in assets under management, with respect to which a portion of the investment advisory fees are based on the performance of the assets thereof; and (iii) three other accounts with a total of approximately $150 million in assets under management.
Compensation of Portfolio Managers
The Portfolio Managers each receive a fixed base salary from Clough. The base salary for each Portfolio Manager is typically determined based on market factors and the skill and experience of each Portfolio Manager. Additionally, Clough distributes its annual net profits to the three Portfolio Managers, with Mr. Clough receiving a majority share and the remainder being divided evenly between Mr. Brock and Mr. Canty.
Material Conflicts of Interest
Material conflicts of interest may arise as a result of the fact that the Portfolio Managers also have day-to-day management responsibilities with respect to both the Fund and the various accounts listed above (collectively with the Fund, the "Accounts"). These potential conflicts include:
Limited Resources. The Portfolio Managers cannot devote their full time and attention to the management of each of the Accounts. Accordingly, the Portfolio Managers may be limited in their ability to identify investment opportunities for each of the Accounts that are as attractive as might be the case if the Portfolio Managers were to devote substantially more attention to the management of a single Account. The effects of this potential conflict may be more pronounced where the Accounts have different investment strategies.
Limited Investment Opportunities. If the Portfolio Managers identify a limited investment opportunity that may be appropriate for more than one Account, the investment opportunity may be allocated among several Accounts. This could limit any single Account's ability to take full advantage of an investment opportunity that might not be limited if the Portfolio Managers did not provide investment advice to other Accounts.
Different Investment Strategies. The Accounts managed by the Portfolio Managers have differing investment strategies. If the Portfolio Managers determine that an investment opportunity may be appropriate for only some of the Accounts or decide that certain of the Accounts should take different positions with respect to a particular security, the Portfolio Managers may effect transactions for one or more Accounts which may affect the market price of the security or the execution of the transaction, or both, to the detriment or benefit of one or more other Accounts.
Variation in Compensation. A conflict of interest may arise where Clough or Clough Associates, LLC, as applicable, is compensated differently by the Accounts that are managed by the Portfolio
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Managers. If certain Accounts pay higher management fees or performance-based incentive fees, the Portfolio Managers might be motivated to prefer certain Accounts over others. The Portfolio Managers might also be motivated to favor Accounts in which they have a greater ownership interest or Accounts that are more likely to enhance the Portfolio Managers' performance record or to otherwise benefit the Portfolio Managers.
Selection of Brokers. The Portfolio Managers select the brokers that execute securities transactions for the Accounts that they supervise. In addition to executing trades, some brokers provide the Portfolio Managers with research and other services which may require the payment of higher brokerage fees than might otherwise be available. The Portfolio Managers' decision as to the selection of brokers could yield disproportionate costs and benefits among the Accounts that they manage, since the research and other services provided by brokers may be more beneficial to some Accounts than to others.
Securities Ownership
As the Fund is newly offered, none of the Portfolio Managers owns any equity securities of the Fund. However, the Portfolio Managers presently intend to purchase shares of the Fund in this offering and/or thereafter.
Investment Advisory Services
Under the general supervision of the Board of Trustees, Clough will carry out the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the Fund, will furnish continuously an investment program with respect to the Fund, will determine which securities should be purchased, sold or exchanged, and will implement such determinations. Clough will furnish to the Fund investment advice and provide related office facilities and personnel for servicing the investments of the Fund. Clough will compensate all Trustees and officers of the Fund who are members of the Clough organization and who render investment services to the Fund, and will also compensate all other Clough personnel who provide research and investment services to the Fund.
Administrative Services
Under the Administration Agreement, ALPS is responsible for calculating the net asset value of the Common Shares, and generally managing the business affairs of the Fund, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees. ALPS will furnish to the Fund all office facilities, equipment and personnel for administering the affairs of the Fund. ALPS will compensate all Trustees and officers of the Fund who are members of the ALPS organization and who render executive and administrative services to the Fund, and will also compensate all other ALPS personnel who perform management and administrative services for the Fund. ALPS' administrative services include, preparation and filing of documents required to comply with federal and state securities laws, supervising the activities of the Fund's custodian and transfer agent, providing assistance in connection with the Trustees and shareholders' meetings, providing services in connection with repurchase offers, if any, and other administrative services necessary to conduct the Fund's business. Under the Administration Agreement, ALPS is also obligated to pay all expenses incurred by the Fund, with the exception of advisory fees, portfolio transaction expenses, trustees' fees, litigation expenses, taxes, costs of preferred shares, expenses of conducting repurchase offers for the purpose of repurchasing Fund shares, extraordinary expenses and dividends on securities sold short.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value per Share of the Fund is determined no less frequently than daily, on each day that the American Stock Exchange (the "Exchange") is open for trading, as of the close of regular
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trading on the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. New York time). The Fund's net asset value per Share is determined by ALPS, in the manner authorized by the Trustees of the Fund. Net asset value is computed by dividing the value of the Fund's total assets, less its liabilities by the number of shares outstanding.
The Trustees of the Fund have established the following procedures for fair valuation of the Fund's assets under normal market conditions. Marketable securities listed on foreign or U.S. securities exchanges generally are valued at closing sale prices or, if there were no sales, at the mean between the closing bid and asked prices therefor on the exchange where such securities are principally traded (such prices may not be used, however, where an active over-the-counter market in an exchange listed security better reflects current market value). Marketable securities listed in the NASDAQ National Market System are valued at the NASDAQ closing price. Unlisted or listed securities for which closing sale prices are not available are valued at the mean between the latest bid and asked prices. An option is valued at the last sale price as quoted on the principal exchange or board of trade on which such option or contract is traded, or in the absence of a sale, at the mean between the last bid and asked prices.
The Fair Value Committee may implement new pricing methodologies or expand mark-to-market valuation of debt securities whose market prices are not readily available in the future, which may result in a change in the Fund's net asset value per share. The Fund's net asset value per share will also be affected by fair value pricing decisions and by changes in the market for such debt securities. The Fund has adopted Fair Valuation Procedures to determine the fair value of a debt security. These Fair Valuation Procedures consider relevant factors, data, and information, including: (i) the characteristics of and fundamental analytical data relating to the debt security, including the cost, size, current interest rate, period until next interest rate reset, maturity and base lending rate of the debt security, the terms and conditions of the debt security and any related agreements, and the position of the debt security in the borrower's debt structure; (ii) the nature, adequacy and value of the collateral, including the Fund's rights, remedies and interests with respect to the collateral; (iii) the creditworthiness of the borrower, based on an evaluation of its financial condition, financial statements and information about the borrower's business, cash flows, capital structure and future prospects; (iv) information relating to the market for the debt security, including price quotations for and trading in the debt security and interests in similar debt security and the market environment and investor attitudes towards the debt security and interests in similar debt securities; and (v) general economic and market conditions affecting the fair value of the debt security. The fair value of each debt security is reviewed and approved by the Valuation Committee and the Fund's Trustees.
Debt securities for which the over-the-counter market is the primary market are normally valued on the basis of prices furnished by one or more pricing services at the mean between the latest available bid and asked prices. OTC options are valued at the mean between the bid and asked prices provided by dealers. Financial futures contracts listed on commodity exchanges and exchange-traded options are valued at closing settlement prices. Short-term obligations having remaining maturities of less than 60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates value, unless the Trustees determine that under particular circumstances such method does not result in fair value. As authorized by the Trustees, debt securities (other than short-term obligations) may be valued on the basis of valuations furnished by a pricing service which determines valuations based upon market transactions for normal, institutional-size trading units of such securities. Securities for which there is no such quotation or valuation and all other assets are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by or at the direction of the Fund's Trustees.
All other securities are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by or at the direction of the Trustees.
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Generally, trading in the foreign securities owned by the Fund is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of the Exchange. The values of these securities used in determining the net asset value of the Fund generally are computed as of such times. Occasionally, events affecting the value of foreign securities may occur between such times and the close of the Exchange which will not be reflected in the computation of the Fund's net asset value (unless the Fund deems that such events would materially affect its net asset value, in which case an adjustment would be made and reflected in such computation). Foreign securities and currency held by the Fund will be valued in U.S. dollars; such values will be computed by the custodian based on foreign currency exchange rate quotations supplied by an independent quotation service.
Decisions concerning the execution of portfolio security transactions, including the selection of the market and the executing firm, are made by Clough. Clough is also responsible for the execution of transactions for all other accounts managed by it. Clough generally aggregates the portfolio security transactions of the Fund and of all other accounts managed by it for execution with many firms and allocates the orders across all participating accounts prior to execution. Accounts that are considered to be managed in the same investment strategy (based on investment objectives, time horizons, tax considerations, etc.) will generally be allocated on a pro rata basis. Clough uses its best efforts to obtain execution of portfolio security transactions at prices which are advantageous to the Fund and at reasonably competitive spreads or (when a disclosed commission is being charged) at reasonably competitive commission rates. In seeking such execution, Clough will use its best judgment in evaluating the terms of a transaction, and will give consideration to various relevant factors, including without limitation the full range and quality of the executing firm's services, the value of the brokerage and research services provided, the responsiveness of the firm to Clough, the actual price of the security, the commission rates charged, the nature and character of the market for the security, the confidentiality, speed and certainty of effective execution required for the transaction, the general execution and operational capabilities of the executing firm, the reputation, reliability, integrity, experience and financial condition of the firm, the value and quality of the services rendered by the firm in this and other transactions, and the reasonableness of the spread or commission, if any.
Transactions on stock exchanges and other agency transactions involve the payment of negotiated brokerage commissions. Such commissions vary among different broker-dealer firms, and a particular broker-dealer may charge different commissions according to such factors as the difficulty and size of the transaction and the volume of business done with such broker-dealer. Transactions in foreign securities often involve the payment of brokerage commissions, which may be higher than those in the United States. There is generally no stated commission in the case of securities traded in the over-the-counter markets, but the price paid or received usually includes an undisclosed dealer markup or markdown. In an underwritten offering the price paid often includes a disclosed fixed commission or discount retained by the underwriter or dealer.
Fixed income obligations which may be purchased and sold by the Fund are generally traded in the over-the-counter market on a net basis ( i.e. , without commission) through broker-dealers or banks acting for their own account rather than as brokers, or otherwise involve transactions directly with the issuers of such obligations. The Fund may also purchase fixed income and other securities from underwriters, the cost of which may include undisclosed fees and concessions to the underwriters.
Although spreads or commissions paid on portfolio security transactions will, in the judgment of Clough, be reasonable in relation to the value of the services provided, commissions exceeding those which another firm might charge may be paid to broker-dealers who were selected to execute transactions on behalf of Clough's clients in part for providing brokerage and research services to Clough.
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As authorized in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, a broker or dealer who executes a portfolio transaction on behalf of the Fund may receive a commission which is in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting that transaction. Clough may use brokers or dealers who provide additional brokerage or research services and charge commissions in excess of other brokers or dealers (soft dollar arrangements) if it determines in good faith that such compensation was reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided. This determination may be made on the basis of that particular transaction or on the basis of overall responsibilities which Clough and its affiliates have for accounts over which they exercise investment discretion. In making any such determination, Clough will not attempt to place a specific dollar value on the brokerage and research services provided or to determine what portion of the commission should be related to such services. Brokerage and research services may include advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing, or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts; effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance and settlement); and the "Research Services" referred to in the next paragraph.
It is a common practice of the investment advisory industry and of the advisers of investment companies, institutions and other investors to receive research, analytical, statistical and quotation services, data, information and other services, products and materials which assist such advisers in the performance of their investment responsibilities ("Research Services") from broker-dealer firms which execute portfolio transactions for the clients of such advisers and from third parties with which such broker-dealers have arrangements. Consistent with this practice, Clough receives Research Services from many broker-dealer firms with which Clough places the Fund's transactions and from third parties with which these broker-dealers have arrangements. These Research Services may include such matters as general economic, political, business and market information, industry and company reviews, evaluations of securities and portfolio strategies and transactions, proxy voting data and analysis services, technical analysis of various aspects of the securities market, recommendations as to the purchase and sale of securities and other portfolio transactions, financial, industry and trade publications, news and information services, pricing and quotation equipment and services, and research oriented computer hardware, software, data bases and services. Any particular Research Service obtained through a broker-dealer may be used by Clough in connection with client accounts other than those accounts which pay commissions to such broker-dealer. Any such Research Service may be broadly useful and of value to Clough in rendering investment advisory services to all or a significant portion of its clients, or may be relevant and useful for the management of only one client's account or of a few clients' accounts, or may be useful for the management of merely a segment of certain clients' accounts, regardless of whether any such account or accounts paid commissions to the broker-dealer through which such Research Service was obtained. The advisory fee paid by the Fund is not reduced because Clough receives such Research Services. Clough evaluates the nature and quality of the various Research Services obtained through broker-dealer firms and attempts to allocate sufficient portfolio security transactions to such firms to ensure the continued receipt of Research Services which Clough believes are useful or of value to it in rendering investment advisory services to its clients. If only part of the Research Services provided are used to assist in the investment decision-making process, the percentage of permitted use must be determined and the remainder paid for with hard dollars.
The Fund and Clough may also receive Research Services from underwriters and dealers in fixed-price offerings, which Research Services are reviewed and evaluated by Clough in connection with its investment responsibilities.
Securities considered as investments for the Fund may also be appropriate for other investment accounts managed by Clough or its affiliates. Whenever decisions are made to buy or sell securities by
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the Fund and one or more of such other accounts simultaneously, Clough will allocate the security transactions (including initial public offerings and other new issues) in a manner which it believes to be fair and equitable under the circumstances and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. As a result of such allocations, there may be instances where the Fund will not participate in a transaction that is allocated among other accounts. Generally, participating accounts will receive the weighted average execution price per broker for the day and will pay the commissions, fees and other charges on a weighted average basis. However there may be instances where a smaller account receives its entire allocation before a larger account in order to minimize transaction costs, an account that specializes or concentrates holdings in a particular industry is given priority in allocation over other accounts, or allocations are not exactly pro rata due to Clough's practice of trading in 100 share lots. While these aggregation and allocation policies could have a detrimental effect on the price or amount of the securities available to the Fund from time to time, it is the opinion of the Trustees of the Fund that the benefits received from Clough's organization outweigh any disadvantage that may arise from exposure to simultaneous transactions.
The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify each year as a regulated investment company (a "RIC") under the Code. Accordingly, the Fund must, among other things, (i) derive in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income (including tax-exempt interest) from (a) 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 gain from options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies; and (b) net income from interests in "qualified publicly traded partnerships" (as defined in the Code); (ii) diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of each taxable year (a) at least 50% of the market value of the Fund's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, the securities of other regulated investment companies and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer and (b) not more than 25% of the market value of the Fund's total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities and the securities of other regulated investment companies) of (I) any one issuer; (II) any two or more issuers that the Fund controls and that are determined to be engaged in the same business or similar or related trades or businesses or (III) any one or more "qualified publicly traded partnerships" (as defined in the Code); and (iii) distribute substantially all of its net income and net short-term and long-term capital gains (after reduction by any available capital loss carryforwards) in accordance with the timing requirements imposed by the Code, so as to maintain its RIC status and to avoid paying any U.S. federal income or excise tax. For purposes of the 90% of gross income requirement described above, the Code expressly provides the U.S. Treasury with authority to issue regulations that would exclude foreign currency gains from qualifying income if such gains are not directly related to the Fund's business of investing in stock or securities. While to date the U.S. Treasury has not exercised this regulatory authority, there can be no assurance that it will not issue regulations in the future (possibly with retroactive application) that would treat some or all of the Fund's foreign currency gains as non-qualifying income. To the extent it qualifies for treatment as a RIC and satisfies the above-mentioned distribution requirements, the Fund will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on income paid to its shareholders in the form of dividends or capital gain distributions.
In order to avoid incurring a U.S. federal excise tax obligation, the Code requires that the Fund distribute (or be deemed to have distributed) by December 31 of each calendar year an amount at least equal to the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income for such year and (ii) 98% of its capital gain net income (which is the excess of its realized net long-term capital gain over its realized net short-term capital loss), generally computed on the basis of the one-year period ending on October 31 of such
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year, after reduction by any available capital loss carryforwards, plus (iii) 100% of any ordinary income and capital gain net income from the prior year (as previously computed) that were not paid out during such year and on which the Fund paid no U.S. federal income tax. Under current law, provided that the Fund qualifies as a RIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Fund should not be liable for any income, corporate excise or franchise tax in the state of Delaware.
If the Fund does not qualify as a RIC for any taxable year, the Fund's taxable income will be subject to corporate income taxes, and all distributions from earnings and profits, including distributions of net capital gain (if any), will be taxable to the shareholder as ordinary income. Such distributions generally will be eligible (i) for the dividends received deduction in the case of corporate shareholders and (ii) for treatment as "qualified dividends" in the case of individual shareholders provided certain holding period and other requirements are met, as described below. In addition, in order to requalify for taxation as a RIC, the Fund may be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make certain distributions.
Distributions from the Fund derived from investment income and net short-term capital gains, as described below, generally will be taxable to Common Shareholders as dividend income to the extent of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits. Distributions of net capital gains (that is, the excess of net gains from the sale of capital assets held more than one year over net losses from the sale of capital assets held for not more than one year) properly designated as capital gain dividends ("Capital Gain Dividends") will be taxable to Common Shareholders as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long a Common Shareholder has held the shares in the Fund.
If a Common Shareholder's distributions are automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan and the Plan Administrator invests the distribution in shares acquired on behalf of the shareholder in open-market purchases, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Common Shareholder will generally be treated as having received a taxable distribution in the amount of the cash dividend that the Common Shareholder would have received if the shareholder had elected to receive cash. If a Common Shareholder's distributions are automatically reinvested pursuant to the Plan and the Plan Administrator invests the distribution in newly issued shares of the Fund, the Common Shareholder will generally be treated as receiving a taxable distribution equal to the fair market value of the stock the Common Shareholder receives.
Under current law, certain income distributions paid by the Fund to individual taxpayers are taxed at rates equal to those applicable to net long-term capital gains (15%, or 5% for individuals in the 10% or 15% tax brackets). This tax treatment applies only if certain holding period requirements and other requirements are satisfied by the Common Shareholder with respect to its Common Shares and the dividends are attributable to qualified dividend income received by the Fund itself. For this purpose, "qualified dividend income" means dividends received by the Fund from certain United States corporations and qualifying foreign corporations, provided that the Fund satisfies certain holding period and other requirements in respect of the stock of such corporations. For these purposes, a "qualified foreign corporation" means any foreign corporation if (i) such corporation is incorporated in a possession of the United States, (ii) such corporation is eligible for benefits of a qualified comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States and which includes an exchange of information program, or (iii) the stock of such corporation with respect to which such dividend is paid is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. A "qualified foreign corporation" does not include any foreign corporation which for the taxable year of the corporation in which the dividend was paid, or the preceding taxable year, is a "passive foreign investment company" (as defined in the Code). In the case of securities lending transactions, payments in lieu of dividends are not qualified dividends. Dividends received by the Fund from REITs are qualified dividends eligible for this lower tax rate only in limited circumstances. These special rules relating to the taxation of ordinary income dividends from regulated investment companies generally apply to taxable years beginning
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before January 1, 2009. Thereafter, the Fund's dividends, other than Capital Gain Dividends, will be fully taxable at ordinary income tax rates unless further Congressional legislature action is taken.
A dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income (whether received by the Fund or paid by the Fund to a shareholder) if (1) the dividend is received with respect to any share held for fewer than 61 days during the 121-day period beginning on the date which is 60 days before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend, (2) to the extent that the recipient is under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property or (3) if the recipient elects to have the dividend treated as investment income for purposes of the limitation on deductibility of investment interest. Distributions of income by the Fund other than qualified dividend income and distributions of net realized short-term gains (on stocks held for one year or less) are taxed as ordinary income, at rates currently up to 35%.
The benefits of the reduced tax rates applicable to long-term capital gains and qualified dividend income may be impacted by the application of the alternative minimum tax to individual shareholders.
We cannot assure you as to what percentage of the dividends paid on the Common Shares will consist of qualified dividend income or long-term capital gains, both of which are taxed at lower rates for individuals than are ordinary income and short-term capital gains.
The Fund's investment in zero coupon and certain other securities will cause it to realize income prior to the receipt of cash payments with respect to these securities. Such income will be accrued daily by the Fund and, in order to avoid a tax payable by the Fund, the Fund may be required to liquidate securities that it might otherwise have continued to hold in order to generate cash so that the Fund may make required distributions to its shareholders.
Investments in lower rated or unrated securities may present special tax issues for the Fund to the extent that the issuers of these securities default on their obligations pertaining thereto. The Code is not entirely clear regarding the federal income tax consequences of the Fund's taking certain positions in connection with ownership of such distressed securities.
Any recognized gain or income attributable to market discount on long-term debt obligations ( i.e. , obligations with a term of more than one year except to the extent of a portion of the discount attributable to original issue discount) purchased by the Fund is taxable as ordinary income. A long-term debt obligation is generally treated as acquired at a market discount if purchased after its original issue at a price less than (i) the stated principal amount payable at maturity, in the case of an obligation that does not have original issue discount or (ii) in the case of an obligation that does have original issue discount, the sum of the issue price and any original issue discount that accrued before the obligation was purchased, subject to a de minimis exclusion.
The Fund's investments in options, futures contracts, hedging transactions, forward contracts (to the extent permitted) and certain other transactions will be subject to special tax rules (including mark-to-market, constructive sale, straddle, wash sale, short sale and other rules), the effect of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer Fund losses, cause adjustments in the holding periods of securities held by the Fund, convert capital gain into ordinary income and convert short-term capital losses into long-term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. The Fund may be required to limit its activities in options and futures contracts in order to enable it to maintain its RIC status.
The Fund's transactions in foreign currencies, foreign currency-denominated debt obligations and certain foreign currency options, futures contracts and forward contracts (and similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or loss to the extent such income or loss results from fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency concerned.
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Income received by the Fund from sources within foreign countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such countries. Tax conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or eliminate such taxes. Common Shareholders generally will not be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect to foreign taxes.
If the Fund acquires any equity interest in certain foreign corporations that receive at least 75% of their annual gross income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends, certain rents and royalties, or capital gains) or that hold at least 50% of their assets in investments producing such passive income ("passive foreign investment companies"), the Fund could be subject to U.S. federal income tax and additional interest charges on "excess distributions" received from such companies or on gain from the sale of stock in such companies, even if all income or gain actually received by the Fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. The Fund would not be able to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for such a tax. An election may generally be available that would ameliorate these adverse tax consequences, but any such election could require the Fund to recognize taxable income or gain (subject to tax distribution requirements) without the concurrent receipt of cash and would require certain information to be furnished by the foreign corporation, which may not be provided. These investments could also result in the treatment of associated capital gains as ordinary income. The Fund may limit and/or manage its holdings in passive foreign investment companies to limit its tax liability or maximize its return from these investments. Dividends paid by passive foreign investment companies will not qualify as qualified dividend income eligible for taxation at reduced tax rates.
The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (the "Jobs Act"), among other things, modified the 90% gross income test with respect to income of a RIC to include net income derived from an interest in certain qualified "publicly traded partnerships" ("PTPs") and modified the asset diversification test of a RIC to include a new limitation on the investment by a RIC in certain qualified PTP interests. Under the Jobs Act, a RIC may now invest in a qualified PTP regardless of the types of business the PTP operates. The Jobs Act further provides that passive losses from an investment in a qualified PTP may not be used by a RIC to offset any income other than income from the same PTP and any deductions passed through by the PTP may not be used by a RIC to offset income from other sources.
The sale, exchange or redemption of Fund shares may give rise to a gain or loss. Such gain or loss would generally be treated as capital gain or loss if the Fund shares are held as a capital asset. In general, any gain or loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than 12 months. Otherwise, the gain or loss on the taxable disposition of Fund shares will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss. Long-term capital gain rates applicable to individuals have been reduced, in general, to 15% (or 5% for individuals in the 10% or 15% rate brackets); however, such rates are set to expire after December 31, 2008 absent further legislation. Any loss realized upon the sale or exchange of Fund shares with a holding period of 6 months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain distributions received with respect to such shares. In addition, all or a portion of a loss realized on a redemption or other disposition of Fund shares may be disallowed under "wash sale" rules to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced with other substantially identical shares (whether through the reinvestment of distributions or otherwise) within a 61-day period beginning 30 days before the redemption of the loss shares and ending 30 days after such date. Any disallowed loss will result in an adjustment to the shareholder's tax basis in some or all of the other shares acquired.
Sales charges paid upon a purchase of shares cannot be taken into account for purposes of determining gain or loss on a sale of the shares before the 91st day after their purchase to the extent a sales charge is reduced or eliminated in a subsequent acquisition of shares of the Fund (or of another fund) pursuant to the reinvestment or exchange privilege. Any disregarded amounts will result in an adjustment to the shareholder's tax basis in some or all of any other shares acquired.
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Dividends and distributions on the Fund's shares are generally subject to federal income tax as described herein to the extent they do not exceed the Fund's realized income and gains, even though such dividends and distributions may economically represent a return of a particular shareholder's investment. Such distributions are likely to occur in respect of shares purchased at a time when the Fund's net asset value reflects gains that are either unrealized, or realized but not distributed. Such realized gains may be required to be distributed even when the Fund's net asset value also reflects unrealized losses. Certain distributions declared in October, November or December and paid in the following January will be taxed to shareholders as if received on December 31 of the year in which they were declared. In addition, certain other distributions made after the close of a taxable year of the Fund may be "spilled back" and treated as paid by the Fund (except for purposes of the 4% excise tax) during such taxable year. In such case, Shareholders will be treated as having received such dividends in the taxable year in which the distributions were actually made.
Amounts paid by the Fund to individuals and certain other shareholders who have not provided the Fund with their correct taxpayer identification number ("TIN") and certain certifications required by the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") as well as shareholders with respect to whom the Fund has received certain information from the IRS or a broker may be subject to "backup" withholding of federal income tax arising from the Fund's taxable dividends and other distributions as well as the gross proceeds of sales of shares, at a rate equal to the fourth highest rate of tax applicable to a single individual (currently, 28%). An individual's TIN is generally his or her social security number. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from payments made to a Shareholder may be refunded or credited against such Shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS.
Under Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a loss on disposition of the Fund's shares of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the Internal Revenue Service a disclosure statement on Form 8886 except to the extent such losses are from assets that have a qualifying basis and meet certain other requirements. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance, shareholders of a regulated investment company are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all regulated investment companies. In addition, pursuant to recently enacted legislation, significant penalties may be imposed for the failure to comply with the reporting requirements. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer's treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
The foregoing discussion does not address the special tax rules applicable to certain classes of investors, such as tax-exempt entities, foreign investors, insurance companies and financial institutions. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers with respect to special tax rules that may apply in their particular situations, as well as the state, local, and, where applicable, foreign tax consequences of investing in the Fund.
The Fund will inform Shareholders of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. The IRS has taken the position that if a RIC has more than one class of shares, it may designate distributions made to each class in any year as consisting of no more than that class's proportionate share of particular types of income for that year, including ordinary income and net capital gain. A class's proportionate share of a particular type of income for a year is determined according to the percentage of total dividends paid by the RIC during that year to the class. Accordingly, the Fund intends to designate a portion of its distributions in capital gain dividends in accordance with the IRS position.
28
Although the matter is not free from doubt, due to the absence of direct regulatory or judicial authority, under current law the manner in which the Fund intends to allocate items of ordinary income and net capital gain among the Fund's Common Shares and auction preferred shares is likely to be respected for federal income tax purposes. It is possible that the IRS could disagree with counsel's opinion and attempt to reallocate the Fund's net capital gain or other taxable income.
State And Local Taxes
Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers as to the state or local tax consequences of investing in the Fund.
The Fund is an organization of the type commonly known as a "Delaware statutory trust." Under Delaware law, shareholders of such a trust may, in certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. The Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability in connection with the Fund property or the acts, obligations or affairs of the Fund. The Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification out of the Fund property of any shareholder held personally liable for the claims and liabilities to which a shareholder may become subject by reason of being or having been a shareholder. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Fund itself is unable to meet its obligations. The Fund has been advised by its counsel that the risk of any shareholder incurring any liability for the obligations of the Fund is remote.
The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees will not be liable for actions taken in good faith in the reasonable belief that such actions were in the best interests of the Fund or, in the case of any criminal proceeding, as to which a Trustee did not have reasonable cause to believe that such actions were unlawful; but nothing in the Declaration of Trust protects a Trustee against any liability to the Fund or its shareholders to which he would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office. Voting rights are not cumulative, which means that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of Trustees can elect 100% of the Trustees and, in such event, the holders of the remaining less than 50% of the shares voting on the matter will not be able to elect any Trustees.
The Declaration of Trust provides that no person shall serve as a Trustee if shareholders holding two-thirds of the outstanding shares have removed him from that office either by a written declaration filed with the Fund's custodian or by votes cast at a meeting called for that purpose.
The Fund's prospectus and this SAI do not contain all of the information set forth in the Registration Statement that the Fund has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The complete Registration Statement may be obtained from the Securities and Exchange Commission upon payment of the fee prescribed by its Rules and Regulations.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Deloitte & Touche LLP is the independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund, providing audit services, tax return preparation, and assistance and consultation with respect to the preparation of filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
29
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Board of Trustees and Shareholders
Clough Global Opportunities Fund
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200
Denver, Colorado 80202
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Clough Global Opportunities Fund, (the "Fund") as of March 15, 2006. This financial statement is the responsibility of the Fund's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this financial statement 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. The Fund is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its 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 Fund's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statement, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such statement of assets and liabilities presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund at March 15, 2006, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Denver, Colorado
March 20, 2006
30
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
March 15, 2006
|
|
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
ASSETS: | ||||
Cash | $ | 100,000 | ||
LIABILITIES | | |||
NET ASSETS | $ | 100,000 | ||
COMPONENTS OF NET ASSETS: | ||||
Paid in capital | $ | 100,000 | ||
NET ASSETS | $ | 100,000 | ||
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding, no par value, unlimited shares authorized | $ | 5,235.602 | ||
Net asset value per share | $ | 19.10 |
SEE NOTES TO STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES.
31
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND NOTES TO STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
NOTE 1ORGANIZATION
Clough Global Opportunities Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company (the "Fund") that was organized under the laws of the state of Delaware by a Certificate of Trust dated January 12, 2006. The Fund is a series with an investment objective to provide a high level of total return.
On March 14, 2006, ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc. ("ALPS"), the Fund's Administrator, purchased 5,235.602 shares of beneficial interest in the Fund at a net asset value of $19.10 per share.
ALPS and Clough Capital Partners L.P. ("Clough"), the Fund's Adviser, have agreed to pay all organizational expenses and to pay all offering costs (other than sales load) that exceed $.04 per Common Share.
NOTE 2SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Fund's financial statement is prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statement. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
The Fund's policy is to comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required.
NOTE 3INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER AGREEMENTS
Clough will serve as the Fund's investment adviser pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Fund. As compensation for its services to the Fund, Clough receives an annual investment advisory fee of 1.00% based on the Fund's average daily total assets. The Fund's Board of Trustees approved the Investment Advisory Agreement at its March 15, 2006 meeting.
ALPS will provide administration, bookkeeping and pricing services to the Fund pursuant to an agreement with the Fund. As compensation for its services to the Fund, ALPS receives an annual administration fee of 0.32% based on the Fund's average daily total assets. ALPS serves as sponsor to the Fund, and the Fund considers ALPS to be an "interested person" of the Fund within the meaning of Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act. It further considers interested persons of ALPS to be interested persons of the Fund.
32
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC.
Long-Term Debt Securities and Preferred Stock Ratings
Aaa: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present which make the long-term risk appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities.
A: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations ( i.e. , they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds and preferred stock lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during other good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
Ca: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C: Bonds and preferred stock which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds, and issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment standing.
The ratings indicated herein are believed to be the most recent ratings available at the date of this SAI for the securities listed. Ratings are generally given to securities at the time of issuance. While the rating agencies may from time to time revise such ratings, they undertake no obligation to do so, and the ratings indicated do not necessarily represent ratings which would be given to these securities on the date of the Fund's fiscal year end.
A-1
Absence of Rating: Where no rating has been assigned or where a rating has been suspended or withdrawn, it may be for reasons unrelated to the quality of the issue.
Should no rating be assigned, the reason may be one of the following:
Suspension or withdrawal may occur if new and material circumstances arise, the effects of which preclude satisfactory analysis; if there is no longer available reasonable up-to-date data to permit a judgment to be formed; if a bond is called for redemption; or for other reasons.
Note: Moody's applies numerical modifiers, 1, 2 and 3 in each generic rating classification from Aa through B in its bond rating system. The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating category.
Short-Term Debt Securities Ratings
Moody's short-term debt ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to repay punctually senior debt obligations. These obligations have an original maturity not exceeding one year, unless explicitly noted.
Moody's employs the following three designations, all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the relative repayment ability of rated issuers:
PRIME-1: Issuers rated Prime-1 (or supporting institutions) have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: leading market positions in well-established industries; high rates of return on funds employed; conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt and ample asset protection; broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation; and well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity.
PRIME-2: Issuers rated Prime-2 (or supporting institutions) have a strong ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. This will normally be evidenced by many of the characteristics cited above but to a lesser degree. Earnings trends and coverage ratios, while sound, may be more subject to variation. Capitalization characteristics, while still appropriate, may be more affected by external conditions. Ample alternate liquidity is maintained.
PRIME-3: Issuers rated Prime-3 (or supporting institutions) have an acceptable ability for repayment of senior short-term obligations. The effect of industry characteristics and market compositions may be more pronounced. Variability in earnings and profitability may result in changes in the level of debt protection measurements and may require relatively high financial leverage. Adequate alternate liquidity is maintained.
NOT PRIME: Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.
A-2
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP
Investment Grade
AAA: Debt and preferred stock rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA: Debt rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differs from the highest rated issues only in small degree.
A: Debt and preferred stock rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB: Debt and preferred stock rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibit adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
Speculative Grade
Debt and preferred stock rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C are regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
BB: Debt and preferred stock rated BB have less near-term vulnerability to default than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BBB-rating.
B: Debt and preferred stock rated B have a greater vulnerability to default but currently has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
CCC: Debt and preferred stock rated CCC have a currently identifiable vulnerability to default, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to meet timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The CCC rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied B or B- rating.
CC: The rating CC is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior debt and preferred stock which is assigned an actual or implied CCC debt rating.
C: The rating C is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior debt and preferred stock which is assigned an actual or implied CCC- debt rating. The C rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed, but debt service payments are continued.
C1: The Rating C1 is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being paid.
A-3
D: Debt and preferred stock rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made during such grace period.
The D rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are jeopardized.
PLUS (+) OR MINUS (-): The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
P: The letter "p" indicates that the rating is provisional. A provisional rating assumes the successful completion of the project being financed by the debt being rated and indicates that payment of debt service requirements is largely or entirely dependent upon the successful and timely completion of the project. This rating, however, while addressing credit quality subsequent to completion of the project, makes no comment on the likelihood of, or the risk of default upon failure of such completion. The investor should exercise his own judgment with respect to such likelihood and risk.
L: The letter "L" indicates that the rating pertains to the principal amount of those bonds to the extent that the underlying deposit collateral is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and interest is adequately collateralized. In the case of certificates of deposit, the letter "L" indicates that the deposit, combined with other deposits being held in the same right and capacity, will be honored for principal and accrued pre-default interest up to the federal insurance limits within 30 days after closing of the insured institution or, in the event that the deposit is assumed by a successor insured institution, upon maturity.
NR: NR indicates no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on which to base a rating, or that S&P does not rate a particular type of obligation as a matter of policy.
Commercial Paper Rating Definitions
An S&P commercial paper rating is a current assessment of the likelihood of timely payment of debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Ratings are graded into several categories, ranging from A for the highest quality obligations to D for the lowest. These categories are as follows:
A-1: A short-term obligation rated A-1 is rated in the highest category by S&P. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.
A-2: A short-term obligation rated A-2 is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.
A-3: A short-term obligation rated A-3 exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B: A short-term obligation rated B is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
C: A short-term obligation rated C is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
A-4
D: A short-term obligation rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
A commercial paper rating is not a recommendation to purchase, sell or hold a security inasmuch as it does not comment as to market price or suitability for a particular investor. The ratings are based on current information furnished to S&P by the issuer or obtained from other sources it considers reliable. S&P does not perform an audit in connection with any rating and may, on occasion, rely on unaudited financial information. The ratings may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in or unavailability of such information.
Investment Grade Ratings
AAA: Bonds and preferred stocks are considered to be investment grade and of the highest credit quality. The obligor has an exceptionally strong ability to pay interest and repay principal, which is unlikely to be affected by reasonably foreseeable events.
AA: Bonds and preferred stocks are considered to be investment grade and of very high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is very strong, although not quite as strong as bonds rated AAA. Because bonds rated in the AAA and AA categories are not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable future developments, short-term debt of these issuers is generally rated F-1+.
A: Bonds and preferred stocks are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
BBB: Bonds and preferred stocks are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these bonds, and therefore, impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings.
Below Investment Grade Ratings
BB: Bonds and preferred stocks are considered speculative. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives can be identified that could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements.
B: Bonds and preferred stocks are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the life of the issue.
CCC: Bonds and preferred stocks have certain identifiable characteristics which, if not remedied, may lead to default. The ability to meet obligations requires an advantageous business and economic environment.
A-5
CC: Bonds and preferred stocks are minimally protected. Default in payment of interest and/or principal seems probable over time.
C: Bonds and preferred stocks are in imminent default in payment of interest or principal.
DDD, DD AND D: Bonds and preferred stocks are in default on interest and/or principal payments. Such bonds are extremely speculative and should be valued on the basis of their ultimate recovery value in liquidation or reorganization of the obligor. DDD represents the highest potential for recovery on these bonds, and D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
PLUS (+) OR MINUS (-): The ratings from AA to C may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to indicate the relative position of a credit within the rating category.
NR: Indicates that Fitch does not rate the specific issue.
CONDITIONAL: A conditional rating is premised on the successful completion of a project or the occurrence of a specific event.
Investment Grade Short-Term Ratings
Fitch's short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that are payable on demand or have original maturities of generally up to three years, including commercial paper, certificates of deposit, medium-term notes, and municipal and investment notes.
F-1+: Exceptionally Strong Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating are regarded as having the strongest degree of assurance for timely payment.
F-1: Very Strong Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating reflect an assurance of timely payment only slightly less in degree than issues rated F-1+.
F-2: Good Credit Quality. Issues carrying this rating have a satisfactory degree of assurance for timely payment, but the margin of safety is not as great as the F-1+ and F-1 categories.
F-3: Fair Credit Quality. Issues carrying this rating have characteristics suggesting that the degree of assurance for timely payment is adequate, however, near-term adverse change could cause these securities to be rated below investment grade.
* * * * * * * *
Notes: Bonds which are unrated expose the investor to risks with respect to capacity to pay interest or repay principal which are similar to the risks of lower-rated speculative bonds. The Fund is dependent on the investment adviser's judgment, analysis and experience in the evaluation of such bonds.
Investors should note that the assignment of a rating to a bond by a rating service may not reflect the effect of recent developments on the issuer's ability to make interest and principal payments.
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A-6
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 25. Financial Statements and Exhibits
(1) | Financial Statements | |||||
Included in Part A: | ||||||
Not applicable. | ||||||
Included in Part B: | ||||||
Independent Auditors' Report | ||||||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||||||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||||||
(2) | Exhibits | |||||
(a)(i) | Certificate of Trust* | |||||
(a)(ii) | Agreement and Declaration of Trust* | |||||
(b) | Bylaws* | |||||
(c) | Not applicable | |||||
(d) | Form of Certificate for Common Shares of Beneficial Interest | |||||
(e) | Form of Dividend Reinvestment Plan | |||||
(f) | Not applicable | |||||
(g) | Form of Investment Advisory and Management Agreement | |||||
(h) | (1) | Form of Underwriting Agreement | ||||
(2) | Form of Additional Compensation Agreement | |||||
(i) | Not applicable | |||||
(j) | Form of Custody Agreement | |||||
(k) | (1) | Form of Stock Transfer Agency Agreement | ||||
(2) | Form of Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement | |||||
(3) | Form of Distribution Assistance Agreement | |||||
(l) | Opinion and Consent of Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP | |||||
(m) | Not applicable | |||||
(n) | Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP | |||||
(o) | Not applicable | |||||
(p) | Form of Initial Subscription Agreement | |||||
(q) | Not applicable | |||||
(r) | (1) | Code of Ethics of the Fund | ||||
(2) | Code of Ethics of the Adviser | |||||
(3) | Code of Ethics of the Principal Executive and Financial Officers of the Fund | |||||
(s) | Power of Attorney |
Item 26. Marketing Arrangements
See Form of Underwriting Agreement filed herewith.
II-1
Item 27. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution
The approximate expenses in connection with the offering are as follows:
Item 28. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control With Registrant
None.
Item 29. Number of Holders of Securities
Set forth below is the number of record holders as of March 14, 2006, of each class of securities of the Registrant:
Title of Class
|
Number of Record Holders
|
|
---|---|---|
Common Shares of Beneficial Interest | 1 |
Item 30. Indemnification
Article IV of the Registrant's Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides as follows:
4.1 No Personal Liability of Shareholders, Trustees, etc. No Shareholder of the Trust shall be subject in such capacity to any personal liability whatsoever to any Person in connection with Trust Property or the acts, obligations or affairs of the Trust. Shareholders shall have the same limitation of personal liability as is extended to stockholders of a private corporation for profit incorporated under the general corporation law of the State of Delaware. No Trustee or officer of the Trust shall be subject in such capacity to any personal liability whatsoever to any Person, other than the Trust or its Shareholders, in connection with Trust Property or the affairs of the Trust, save only liability to the Trust or its Shareholders arising from bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard for his duty to such Person; and, subject to the foregoing exception, all such Persons shall look solely to the Trust Property for satisfaction of claims of any nature arising in connection with the affairs of the Trust. If any Shareholder, Trustee or officer, as such, of the Trust, is made a party to any suit or proceeding to enforce any such liability, subject to the foregoing exception, he shall not, on account thereof, be held to any personal liability.
4.2 Mandatory Indemnification. (a) The Trust shall indemnify the Trustees and officers of the Trust (each such person being an "indemnitee") against any liabilities and expenses, including amounts paid in satisfaction of judgments, in compromise or as fines and penalties, and reasonable counsel fees reasonably incurred by such indemnitee in connection with the defense or disposition of any action, suit or other proceeding, whether civil or criminal, before any court or administrative or investigative body in which he may be or may have been involved as a party or otherwise (other than, except as authorized by the Trustees, as the plaintiff or complainant) or with which he may be or may have been threatened, while acting
II-2
in any capacity set forth above in this Section 4.2 by reason of his having acted in any such capacity, except with respect to any matter as to which he shall not have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his action was in the best interest of the Trust or, in the case of any criminal proceeding, as to which he shall have had reasonable cause to believe that the conduct was unlawful, provided, however, that no indemnitee shall be indemnified hereunder against any liability to any person or any expense of such indemnitee arising by reason of (i) willful misfeasance, (ii) bad faith, (iii) gross negligence (negligence in the case of Affiliated Indemnitees), or (iv) reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his position (the conduct referred to in such clauses (i) through (iv) being sometimes referred to herein as "disabling conduct"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to any action, suit or other proceeding voluntarily prosecuted by any indemnitee as plaintiff, indemnification shall be mandatory only if the prosecution of such action, suit or other proceeding by such indemnitee was authorized by a majority of the Trustees.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, no indemnification shall be made hereunder unless there has been a determination (1) by a final decision on the merits by a court or other body of competent jurisdiction before whom the issue of entitlement to indemnification hereunder was brought that such indemnitee is entitled to indemnification hereunder or, (2) in the absence of such a decision, by (i) a majority vote of a quorum of those Trustees who are neither Interested Persons of the Trust nor parties to the proceeding ("Disinterested Non-Party Trustees"), that the indemnitee is entitled to indemnification hereunder, or (ii) if such quorum is not obtainable or even if obtainable, if such majority so directs, independent legal counsel in a written opinion conclude that the indemnitee should be entitled to indemnification hereunder. All determinations to make advance payments in connection with the expense of defending any proceeding shall be authorized and made in accordance with the immediately succeeding paragraph (c) below.
(c) The Trust shall make advance payments in connection with the expenses of defending any action with respect to which indemnification might be sought hereunder if the Trust receives a written affirmation by the indemnitee of the indemnitee's good faith belief that the standards of conduct necessary for indemnification have been met and a written undertaking to reimburse the Trust unless it is subsequently determined that he is entitled to such indemnification and if a majority of the Trustees determine that the applicable standards of conduct necessary for indemnification appear to have been met. In addition, at least one of the following conditions must be met: (1) the indemnitee shall provide adequate security for his undertaking, (2) the Trust shall be insured against losses arising by reason of any lawful advances, or (3) a majority of a quorum of the Disinterested Non-Party Trustees, or if a majority vote of such quorum so direct, independent legal counsel in a written opinion, shall conclude, based on a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry), that there is substantial reason to believe that the indemnitee ultimately will be found entitled to indemnification.
(d) The rights accruing to any indemnitee under these provisions shall not exclude any other right to which he may be lawfully entitled.
(e) Notwithstanding the foregoing, subject to any limitations provided by the 1940 Act and this Declaration, the Trust shall have the power and authority to indemnify Persons providing services to the Trust to the full extent provided by law provided that such indemnification has been approved by a majority of the Trustees.
4.3 No Duty of Investigation; Notice in Trust Instruments, etc. No purchaser, lender, transfer agent or other person dealing with the Trustees or with any officer, employee or agent
II-3
of the Trust shall be bound to make any inquiry concerning the validity of any transaction purporting to be made by the Trustees or by said officer, employee or agent or be liable for the application of money or property paid, loaned, or delivered to or on the order of the Trustees or of said officer, employee or agent. Every obligation, contract, undertaking, instrument, certificate, Share, other security of the Trust, and every other act or thing whatsoever executed in connection with the Trust shall be conclusively taken to have been executed or done by the executors thereof only in their capacity as Trustees under this Declaration or in their capacity as officers, employees or agents of the Trust. The Trustees may maintain insurance for the protection of the Trust Property, its Shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees and agents in such amount as the Trustees shall deem adequate to cover possible liability, and such other insurance as the Trustees in their sole judgment shall deem advisable or is required by the 1940 Act.
4.4 Reliance on Experts, etc. Each Trustee and officer or employee of the Trust shall, in the performance of its duties, be fully and completely justified and protected with regard to any act or any failure to act resulting from reliance in good faith upon the books of account or other records of the Trust, upon an opinion of counsel, or upon reports made to the Trust by any of the Trust's officers or employees or by any adviser, administrator, manager, distributor, selected dealer, accountant, appraiser or other expert or consultant selected with reasonable care by the Trustees, officers or employees of the Trust, regardless of whether such counsel or other person may also be a Trustee.
Item 31. Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser
Clough Capital Partners L.P. serves as investment adviser to the Registrant and also serves as adviser to unregistered funds, institutions and high net worth individuals. A description of any other business, profession, vocation, or employment of a substantial nature in which the investment adviser, and each partner or executive officer of the investment adviser, is or has been during the past two fiscal years, engaged in for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee, is set forth in the prospectus contained in this Registration Statement in the section entitled "Management of the FundInvestment Adviser." Additional information regarding the employment during the past two years of one of the officers of the investment adviser appears below:
Name and Position with
Clough Capital Partners L.P. |
Other Business, Profession, Vocation or
Employment During the Past Two Years |
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Daniel J. Gillis, Chief Compliance Officer | Clough Capital Partners L.P., Chief Compliance Officer (May 2004 to present); Deutsche Asset Management Inc., Vice President, Investment Management Compliance (July 2003 to April 2004), Vice President, Business Risk Management (April 2002 to June 2003). |
Item 32. Location of Accounts and Records
All applicable accounts, books and documents required to be maintained by the Registrant by Section 31(a) of the 1940 Act and the Rules promulgated thereunder are in the possession and custody of the Registrant, c/o ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc., 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202.
Item 33. Management Services
Not applicable.
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Item 34. Undertakings
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Pursuant to 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 the city of Denver, and the state of Colorado, on the 22nd day of March, 2006.
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND | ||||
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By: |
/s/ EDMUND J. BURKE |
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Name: | Edmund J. Burke | |||
Title: | President |
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 dates indicated.
Signature
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Date
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/s/
EDMUND J. BURKE
Edmund J. Burke |
Principal Executive Officer and President | March 22, 2006 | ||
/s/ JEREMY O. MAY Jeremy O. May |
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Principal Financial and Accounting Officer and Treasurer |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ W. ROBERT ALEXANDER W. Robert Alexander |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ JAMES E. CANTY James E. Canty |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ ANDREW C. BOYNTON Andrew C. Boynton |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ ROBERT BUTLER Robert Butler |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ ADAM D. CRESCENZI Adam D. Crescenzi |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
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/s/ JOHN F. MEE John F. Mee |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ RICHARD C. RANTZOW Richard C. Rantzow |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
/s/ JERRY G. RUTLEDGE Jerry G. Rutledge |
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Trustee |
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March 22, 2006 |
By: |
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/s/ ERIN E. DOUGLAS Erin E. Douglas Attorney-in-fact |
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Secretary |
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March 22, 2006 |
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INDEX TO EXHIBITS
(d) | Form of Certificate for Common Shares of Beneficial Interest | |
(e) | Form of Dividend Reinvestment Plan | |
(g) | Form of Investment Advisory and Management Agreement | |
(h) | (1) Form of Underwriting Agreement | |
(2) Form of Additional Compensation Agreement | ||
(j) | Form of Custody Agreement | |
(k) | (1) Form of Stock Transfer Agency Agreement | |
(2) Form of Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement | ||
(3) Form of Distribution Assistance Agreement | ||
(n) | Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP | |
(r) | (1) Code of Ethics of the Fund | |
(2) Code of Ethics of the Adviser | ||
(3) Code of Ethics of the Principal Executive and Financial Officers of the Fund | ||
(s) | Power of Attorney |
Exhibit 99(d)
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COUNTERSIGNED AND REGISTERED: |
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THE BANK OF NEW YORK | ||||||||
TRANSFER AGENT | ||||||||
AND REGISTRAR | ||||||||
BY | ||||||||
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AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE | TREASURER | PRESIDENT |
AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY 711 ARMSTRONG LANE COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE 38401 (931) 388-3003 SALES: R. JOHNS 212-269-0339X1 / ETHER 7 / LIVE JOBS / C / CLOUGH 22912 FC |
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PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: DENISE MARTIN 931-490-1727 PROOF OF MARCH 8, 2006 CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND WSB 22912 FC Operator: Ron / Teresa REV. 1 |
COLORS SELECTED FOR PRINTING: Intaglio prints in SC-7 Dark Blue.
COLOR: This proof was printed from a digital file or artwork on a graphics quality, color laser printer. It is a good representation of the color as it will appear on the final product. However, it is not an exact color rendition, and the final printed product may appear slightly different fromthe proof due to the difference between the dyes and printing ink.
PLEASE INITIAL THE APPROPRIATE SELECTION FOR THIS PROOF: OK AS IS OK WITH CHANGES MAKE CHANGES AND SEND ANOTHER PROOF
Exhibit 99(e)
AUTOMATIC DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN
TERM AND CONDITIONS Pursuant to this Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the "Plan") of the Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Trust"), unless a holder (a "Shareholder") of the Trust's common shares of beneficial interest (the "Common Shares") otherwise elects, all dividends and distributions on such Shareholders Common Shares will be automatically reinvested by the Bank of New York ("BONY") as agent for Shareholders in administering the Plan (the "Plan Agent"), in additional common Shares of the Trust. Shareholders who elect not to participate in the Plan will receive all dividends and other distributions in cash paid by check mailed directly to the Shareholder of record (or, if the Common Shares are held in street or other nominee name, then to such nominee) by BONY as the Dividend Disbursing Agent. Participants may elect not to participate in the Plan and to receive all dividends and distributions in cash by sending written instructions to BONY, as the Dividend Disbursing Agent, at the address set forth below. Participation in the Plan is completely voluntary and may be terminated or resumed at any time without penalty by written notice if received by the Plan Agent not less than tem days prior to and dividend or distribution payment date; otherwise such termination or resumption will be effective with respect to any subsequently declared dividend or distribution.
The Plan Agent will open an account for each Shareholder under the Plan in the same name in which such Shareholder's Common Shares are registered. Whenever the Trust declares a dividend or distribution (collectively referred to as "dividends") payable in cash, non-participants in the Plan will receive cash and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in Common Shares. The Common Shares will be acquired by the Plan Agent for the participants' accounts, depending upon the circumstances described below, either (i) through receipt of additional unissued but authorized Common Shares from the respective Trust ("newly issued Common Shares") or (ii) by purchase of outstanding Common Shares on the open market ("open market purchases") on the New York Stock Exchange, the primary national securities exchange on which the common shares are traded, or elsewhere.
If on the payment date for any dividend, the market price per Common Share plus estimated brokerage commissions is greater than the net asset value per Common Share (such condition being referred to herein as "market premium"), the Plan Agent will invest the dividend amount in newly issued Common Shares, including fractions, on behalf of the participants. The number of newly issued Common Shares to be credited to each participant's account will be determined by dividing the dollar amount of the dividend by the net asset value per Common Share on the payment date; provided that, if the net asset value per Common Share is less than or equal to 95% of the market price per Common Share on the payment date, the dollar amount of the dividend will be divided by 95% of the market price per Common Share on the payment date.
If on such payment date for any dividend, the net asset value per Common Share is greater than the market value per Common Share plus estimated brokerage commissions (such condition being referred to herein as "market discount"), the Plan Agent will invest the dividend amount in Common Shares acquired on behalf of the participants in open-market purchases.
In the event a market discount on the payment date for any dividend, the Plan Agent will have until the last business day before the next date on which the Common Shares trade on an "ex-dividend" basis or 30 days after the payment date for such dividend, whichever is sooner (the "last purchase date"), to invest the dividend amount in Common Shares acquired in open-market purchases. It is contemplated the Trust will pay quarterly dividends. Therefore the period during which open-market purchases can be made will exist only from the payment date of each dividend through the date before the next "ex-dividend" date which will be approximately ten days. If, before the Plan Agent has completed its open-market purchases, the market price of the Common Shares exceeds the net asset value per Common Share, the average price per Common Share purchase price paid by the Plan may exceed the net asset value of the Common Shares, resulting in the acquisition of fewer
Common Shares than if the dividend had been paid on newly issued Common Shares on the dividend payment date. Because of the foregoing difficulty with respect to open market purchases, if the Plan Agent is unable to invest the full dividend amount in open-market purchases during the purchase period or if the market discount shifts to a market premium during the purchase period, the Plan Agent may cease making open-market purchases and may invest the uninvested portion of the dividend amount in newly issued Common Shares at the net asset value per Common Share at the close of business on the last purchase date; provide that, if the net asset value per Common Share is less than 95% of the market price per Common Share on the payment date, the dollar amount of the dividend will be divided by 95% of the market price per Common Share on the payment date.
The Plan Agent will maintain all Shareholders' accounts in the plan and furnish written confirmation of all transactions in the accounts, including information needed by Shareholders for tax records. Common Shares in the account of each Plan participant will be held by the Plan Agent on behalf of the Plan participant.
In the case of Shareholders such as banks, brokers or nominees that hold Common Shares for other beneficial owners, the Plan Agent administer the plan on the basis of number of Common Shares certified from time to time by the record Shareholder and held for the account of beneficial owners who participate in the Plan.
There will be no brokerage charges with respect to Common Shares issued directly by the Trust as a result of dividends and capital gains distributions payable either in Common Shares or cash. However, each participant will pay a pro-rata share of brokerage commissions with respect to the Plan Agent's open-market purchases in connection with the reinvestment of dividends.
For the avoidance of doubt, no Common Shares will be issued under the Plan at a price less than net asset value or under any circumstance that may violate the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, or any rules promulgated thereunder.
VOTING
Each Shareholder proxy will include those Common Shares purchased or received pursuant to the Plan. The Plan Agent will forward all proxy solicitation materials to participants and vote proxies for Common Shares held pursuant to the Plan in accordance with the instructions of the participants.
TAXATION
The automatic reinvestment of dividends will not relieve participants of any federal, state or local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such dividends.
AMENDMENT OF THE PLAN
The Plan may be amended or terminated by the Trust. There is no direct service charge to participants in the Plan; however, the Trust reserves the right to amend the Plan to include a service charge payable by the participants. Notice will be sent to Plan participants of any amendments as soon as practicable after such action by the Trust.
INQUIRIES REGARDING THE PLAN
All correspondence concerning the Plan should be directed to the Plan Agent at 100 Church Street, New York, New York 10286
APPLICABLE LAW
These terms and conditions shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York without regard to its conflicts of laws provisions.
EXECUTION
To record the adoption of the Plan of April , 2006, the Trust has caused this Plan to be executed in the name and on behalf of each Trust by a duly authorized officer.
By and behalf of
Clough Global Opportunities Fund |
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Erin E. Douglas, Secretary |
Exhibit 99(g)
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of April , 2006, by and between Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Fund"), a Delaware statutory trust registered as a closed-end investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act"), and Clough Capital Partners L.P. (the "Adviser"), a Delaware limited partnership registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act").
WHEREAS, the Fund desires to retain the Adviser, and the Adviser is willing to serve, as the Fund's investment adviser with full discretion to manage the investments of the Fund, subject to and upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and undertakings herein contained, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:
1. Investment Management by Adviser
1.1. The Adviser shall serve as the Fund's investment adviser with full discretion to manage the investments of the Fund, subject to and in accordance with this Agreement and the investment objectives, policies and restrictions set forth in the prospectus and statement of additional information contained in the Fund's Registration Statement on Form N-2 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, (the "Securities Act") and the Investment Company Act as currently in effect and as supplemented and/or amended from time to time (respectively the "Registration Statement", the "Prospectus" and the "Statement of Additional Information"). The Adviser acknowledges it has received and reviewed the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, each in the form included in the Registration Statement when it first became effective under the Securities Act at the effective date of this Agreement. The Fund agrees to deliver immediately to the Adviser copies of all supplements or amendments to the Prospectus and/or the Statement of Additional Information filed by the Fund, from time to time, under the Securities Act.
1.2. The securities and cash constituting assets of the Fund shall be held by the Custodian(s) designated by the Fund. Delivery and receipt of securities, collection of interest, dividends and other distributions thereon, will be arranged by the Fund.
1.3. The Adviser's responsibilities hereunder are limited to those of an investment manager and shall not include any responsibilities relating to the day-to-day administration of the Fund or the supervision of third-party service providers retained by the Fund.
1.4. Allocation of Brokerage
The Adviser is authorized, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, to place orders for the purchase and sale of the Fund's investments with or through such persons, brokers or dealers and to negotiate commissions to be paid on such transactions in accordance with the Fund's policies with respect to brokerage set forth in the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information. The Adviser may, on behalf of the Fund, pay brokerage commissions to a broker which provides brokerage and research services to the Adviser in excess of the amount another broker would have charged for effecting the transaction, provided (i) the Adviser determines in good faith that the amount is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by the executing broker in terms of the particular transaction or in terms of the Adviser's overall responsibilities with respect to the Fund and the accounts as to which the Adviser exercises investment discretion, (ii) such payment is made in compliance with Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any other applicable laws and regulations, and (iii) in the opinion of the Adviser, the total commissions paid by the Fund will be reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Fund over the long term. It is recognized that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Adviser in connection with the Adviser's services to other clients. On occasions when the Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests of the Fund as well as other clients of the
Adviser, the Adviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may, but shall be under no obligation to, aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased in order to obtain the most favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event, allocation of securities sold or purchased, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Adviser in the manner the Adviser considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Fund and to such other clients.
1.5. Code of Ethics. The Adviser agrees to observe and comply with Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act ("Rule 17j-1"). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Adviser shall submit to the Fund's Board of Trustees for approval a Code of Ethics of the Adviser which complies with Rule 17j-1 and which is consistent with the Code of Ethics adopted by the Fund pursuant to Rule 17j-1. The Adviser will make available to the Fund, at any time upon request, including facsimile, without delay, during any business day, any reports required to be made by the Adviser pursuant to Rule 17j-l.
1.6. Books and Records
The Adviser will maintain all books and records required to be maintained pursuant to the Investment Company Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder with respect to transactions made by it on behalf of the Fund including, without limitation, the books and records required by Subsections (b)(1), (5), (6), (8), (9) and (10) and Subsection (f) of Rule 31a-l under the Investment Company Act and shall timely furnish to the Fund all information relating to the Adviser's services hereunder needed by the Fund to keep such other books and records of the Fund required by Rule 31a-1 under the Investment Company Act. The Adviser will also preserve all such books and records for the periods prescribed in Rule 31a-2 under the Investment Company Act. The Adviser further agrees that all books and records maintained hereunder shall be made available to the Fund at any time upon request, including facsimile without delay, during any business day. However, the Adviser shall not be required to maintain books and records that are required to be maintained by the Fund's administrator other than as required of it by applicable laws and regulations.
1.7. Information Concerning Investments and the Adviser. The Adviser will furnish to the Fund, from time to time and as the Fund may request, reports on portfolio transactions and reports on investments held in the portfolio, all in such detail as may be requested. The Adviser will also provide the Fund, on a regular basis, with economic and investment analysis and reports or other investment services normally available to institutional or other clients of the Adviser.
The Adviser will make available its officers and employees to meet with the Fund's Board of Trustees at the Fund's principal place of business, to review the Investments of the Fund, quarterly, or upon due notice, at a time requested by the Fund's Board of Trustees. The Adviser further agrees to inform the Fund of any changes in investment strategy, tactics or key personnel.
1.8. Compliance with Applicable Laws and Regulations. The Adviser agrees that in all matters relating to its performance under this Agreement, the Adviser and its directors, officers and employees, will act in accordance with all applicable laws, including, without limitation, the Investment Company Act and the Advisers Act.
1.9. Voting of Proxies
The Adviser will vote proxies pursuant to its policies and procedures as set forth in the Statement of Additional Information.
2. Representations of the Fund . The Fund makes the following representations to the Adviser:
2.1. The Fund is a Delaware statutory trust duly registered as a closed-end investment company under the Investment Company Act.
2.2. The execution, delivery and performance by the Fund of this Agreement are within the Fund's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its Board of Trustees, and
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no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Fund for the execution, delivery and performance by the Fund of this Agreement
2.3. The execution, delivery and performance by the Fund of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Fund's agreement and declaration of trust, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Fund.
2.4. This Agreement is a valid and binding agreement of the Fund, enforceable against it in accordance with the terms hereof.
3. Representations of the Adviser. The Adviser makes the following representations to the Fund:
3.1. The Adviser is a Delaware limited partnership duly registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act.
3.2. The Adviser will discharge its duties as investment adviser to the Fund in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Investment Company Act and the Advisers Act and of the rules and regulations thereunder.
3.3. The execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement are within the Adviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its General Partner and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement.
3.4. The execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Adviser's certificate of incorporation or by-laws, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Adviser.
3.5. This Agreement is a valid and binding agreement of the Adviser, enforceable against it in accordance with the terms hereof.
3.6. The Adviser hereby agrees to follow and comply with the policies and procedures of the Fund, including the Order Aggregation and Allocation Procedures, Proxy Voting Guidelines, Rule 10f-3 Procedures, Rule 17a-7 Procedures, Rule 17e-1 Procedures, Soft Dollar Policies and Procedures, Pricing Procedures, Fair Value Procedures, and Repurchase Agreement Guidelines, which have been adopted by the Board of Trustees on March 15, 2006, and which may be amended from time to time.
3.7. The Adviser performs investment advisory services on a fully discretionary basis for various clients, including clients whose investment objectives and policies are generally similar to those of the Fund. The Fund acknowledges and agrees that the nature and timing of the strategies employed and actions taken by the Adviser for any of its other clients may be the same as or different from those employed and taken by the Adviser for the Fund, provided that it continues to be the Adviser's policy and practice not to favor or disfavor any client or class of clients in the allocation of investment opportunities that the Adviser believes would be suitable for such client or class of clients, so that, to the extent practicable, such opportunities will be allocated among clients over time on a fair and equitable basis.
4 Fees
4.1 Advisory Fee Schedule. The Fund shall pay the Adviser, in arrears, a monthly investment advisory fee (hereinafter referred to as "Advisory Fee") based on the average daily total assets of the Fund (including any assets attributable to any preferred shares that may be outstanding or otherwise
3
attributable to the use of leverage) as of the close of business of the last business day of each calendar month, in accordance with the schedule below:
1. 00% (100.0 basis points) annually
The Adviser has also agreed to pay from its own assets additional compensation to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("Merrill"). This additional compensation will be payable quarterly in arrears at the annual rate of 0.15% (15 basis points) (0.0375% quarterly) of the Fund's average daily total assets (including any assets attributable to any preferred shares that may be outstanding or otherwise attributable to the use of leverage) as of the close of business of the last business day of each calendar month, during the continuance of the Investment Advisory and Management Agreement between the Adviser and the Fund or other subsequent advisory agreements between these parties. The sum total of this fee, plus the amount of the expense reimbursement of $. per common share payable to the underwriters pursuant to the Purchase Agreement together with the fee paid to ALPS Distributors, Inc., shall not exceed % of the total price of the Fund's common shares offered by the Prospectus.
4.2. Partial Periods. If the Adviser serves the Fund for a period of less than a full calendar month the Advisory Fee will be proportionately reduced to reflect only the number of days during the month the Fund was under the Adviser's management, and will be based on the average daily total assets of the Fund as of the close of business on the last business day of such lesser period.
5. Survival of Representations and Warranties; Duty to Update Information
All representations and warranties made by the Fund pursuant to Section 2 and by the Adviser pursuant to Section 3 hereof shall survive for the duration of this Agreement, and each party hereto, upon becoming aware that any of its representations and warranties are no longer true, shall immediately, but in any event within five (5) business days, notify the other party in writing. Within forty-five (45) days after the end of each calendar year during the term hereof, the Adviser shall certify to the Fund that it has complied with the requirements of Rule 17j-l with regard to its duties hereunder during the prior year and that there has been no violation of the Adviser's Code of Ethics with respect to the Fund or in respect of any matter or circumstance that is material to the performance of the Adviser's duties hereunder or, if such violation has occurred, that appropriate action was taken in response to such violation.
6. Liability
The Adviser shall not be subject to any liability to the Fund or its shareholders for any act or omission of the Adviser in performing its obligations hereunder as investment adviser to the Fund, or for any losses that may be sustained by the Fund in the purchase, holding or sale of investments; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall protect the Adviser against any liability to the Fund and its shareholders to which the Adviser would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of the Adviser's reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Duration and Termination
7.1. Duration
This Agreement shall be submitted for approval by shareholders of the Fund at the first meeting of shareholders of the Fund following the effective date of the Registration Statement on Form N-2 covering the initial offering of shares of the Fund. Subject to such approval, this Agreement shall continue in effect for a period of two years from the date hereof, subject thereafter to being continued in force and effect from year to year if specifically approved each year by either (i) the Board of Trustees of the Fund, or (ii) by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities. In addition to the foregoing, each renewal of this Agreement must be approved by the vote of a majority of the Fund's trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any
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such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. Prior to voting on the renewal of this Agreement, the Board of Trustees of the Fund may request and evaluate, and the Adviser shall furnish, such information as may reasonably be necessary to enable the Fund's Board of Trustees to evaluate the terms of this Agreement.
7.2. Termination
Notwithstanding whatever may be provided herein to the contrary, this agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty:
a) By vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, upon sixty (60) days' written notice to the Adviser;
b) By the Adviser, upon sixty (60) days notice to the Fund
This agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as such term as defined in the Investment Company Act).
8. Amendment
This agreement may be amended by mutual consent in writing of the parties, provided that the terms of each such amendment shall be approved by the Board of Trustees of the Fund or by a vote of the majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.
9. Notice
Any notice that is required to be given by the parties to each other under the terms of this Agreement shall be in writing, delivered, or mailed postpaid to the other party, or transmitted by facsimile with acknowledgment of receipt, to the parties at the following addresses or facsimile numbers, which may from time to time be changed by the parties by notice to the other party;
10. Governing Law; Jurisdiction
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Delaware with respect to any dispute arising under or in connection with this Agreement.
11. Counterparts
This agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which shall together constitute one and the same document.
12. Captions
The captions herein are included for convenience of reference only and shall be ignored in the construction or interpretation hereof.
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13. Severability
If any provision of this agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision or applicable law, the remainder of the agreement shall not be affected adversely and shall remain in full force and effect.
14. Certain Definitions
(a) Business Day. As used herein, "Business Day" means any customary business day in the United States on which the New York Stock Exchange is open.
(b) Miscellaneous. Any question of interpretation of any term or provision of this Agreement having a counterpart in or otherwise derived from a term or provision of the Investment Company Act shall be resolved by reference to such term or provision of the Investment Company Act and to interpretations thereof, if any, by the US. courts or, in the absence of any controlling decisions of any such court, by rules, regulation or order of the Commission validly issued pursuant to the Investment Company Act. Specifically, as used herein, "investment company," "affiliated person," "interested person," "assignment," "broker," "dealer" and "affirmative vote of the majority of the Fund's outstanding voting securities" shall all have such meaning as such terms have in the Investment Company Act. The term "investment adviser" shall have such meaning as such term has in the Advisers Act and the Investment Company Act, and in the event of a conflict between such Acts, the most expansive definition shall control.
In addition, where the effect of a requirement of the Investment Company Act reflected in any provision of this Agreement is relaxed by a rule, regulation or order of the Commission, whether of special or general application, such provision shall be deemed to incorporate the effect of such rule, regulation or order.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year first written above.
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
(the "FUND") |
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By: |
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Name: Erin E. Douglas
Title: Secretary |
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CLOUGH CAPITAL PARTNERS L.P. (the "ADVISER") |
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By: |
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Name: James E. Canty
Title: CFO |
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Exhibit 99(h)(1)
Clough Global Opportunities Fund
(a Delaware statutory trust)
[ ] Common Shares of Beneficial Interest
$20.00 per Share
(No Par Value)
FORM OF PURCHASE AGREEMENT
[ ], 2006
Merrill
Lynch & Co. Merrill
Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated
[Other Co-Managers]
c/o Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated
4 World Financial Center
New York, New York 10080
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Clough Global Opportunities Fund, a Delaware statutory trust (the "Trust"), the Trust's investment adviser, Clough Capital Partners L.P., a Delaware limited partnership ("Clough" or the "Investment Adviser"), and the Trust's administrator, ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc., a Colorado corporation (the "Administrator"), confirm their agreement with Merrill Lynch & Co, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("Merrill Lynch"), [ ] and [ ] and each of the other Underwriters named in Schedule A hereto (collectively, the "Underwriters," which term shall also include any underwriter substituted as hereinafter provided in Section 10 hereof), for whom Merrill Lynch, [ ] and [ ] are acting as representatives (in such capacity, the "Representatives"), with respect to the issue and sale by the Trust and the purchase by the Underwriters, acting severally and not jointly, of the respective number of common shares of beneficial interest, no par value, of the Trust ("Common Shares") set forth in said Schedule A , and with respect to the grant by the Trust to the Underwriters, acting severally and not jointly, of the option described in Section 2(b) hereof to purchase all or any part of [ ] additional Common Shares for the sole purpose of covering overallotments, if any. The aforesaid [ ] Common Shares (the "Initial Securities") to be purchased by the Underwriters and all or any part of the [ ] Common Shares subject to the option described in Section 2(b) hereof (the "Option Securities") are hereinafter called, collectively, the "Securities."
The Trust understands that the Underwriters propose to make a public offering of the Securities as soon as the Representatives deem advisable after this Agreement has been executed and delivered.
The Trust has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") a registration statement on Form N-2 (No. 333-131478 and No. 811-21846) covering the registration of the Securities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), including the related preliminary prospectus or prospectuses, and a notification on Form N-8A of registration of the Trust as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and the rules and regulations of the Commission under the 1933 Act and the 1940 Act (the "Rules and Regulations"). Promptly after execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Trust will prepare and file a prospectus in accordance with the provisions of Rule 430A ("Rule 430A") of the Rules and Regulations and paragraph (c) or (h) of Rule 497 ("Rule 497") of the Rules and Regulations. The information included in any such prospectus that was omitted from such registration statement at the time it became effective but that is deemed to be part of such registration statement at the time it became effective pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 430A is referred to as "Rule 430A Information."
Each prospectus used before such registration statement became effective, and any prospectus that omitted the Rule 430A Information, that was used after such effectiveness and prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, including in each case any statement of additional information incorporated therein by reference, is herein called a "preliminary prospectus." Such registration statement, including the exhibits thereto and schedules thereto at the time it became effective and including the Rule 430A Information is herein called the "Registration Statement." Any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the Rules and Regulations is herein referred to as the "Rule 462(b) Registration Statement," and after such filing the term "Registration Statement" shall include the Rule 462(b) Registration Statement. The final prospectus in the form first furnished to the Underwriters for use in connection with the offering of the Securities, including the statement of additional information incorporated therein by reference, is herein called the "Prospectus." For purposes of this Agreement, all references to the Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus, the Prospectus or any amendment or supplement to any of the foregoing shall be deemed to include the copy filed with the Commission pursuant to its Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval system ("EDGAR").
All references in this Agreement to financial statements and schedules and other information which is "contained," "included" or "stated" in the Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus (or other references of like import) shall be deemed to mean and include all such financial statements and schedules and other information which is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus, as the case may be.
SECTION 1. Representations and Warranties.
(a) Representations and Warranties by the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser. The Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser jointly and severally represent and warrant to each Underwriter as of the date hereof, as of the Applicable Time referred to in Section 1(a)(i) hereof, as of the Closing Time referred to in Section 2(c) hereof, and as of each Date of Delivery (if any) referred to in Section 2(b) hereof, and agree with each Underwriter, as follows:
(i) Compliance with Registration Requirements . Each of the Registration Statement and any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement has become effective under the 1933 Act and no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement has been issued under the 1933 Act, or order of suspension or revocation of registration pursuant to Section 8(e) of the 1940 Act, and no proceedings for any such purpose have been instituted or are pending or, to the knowledge of the Trust or the Administrator, are contemplated by the Commission, and any request on the part of the Commission for additional information has been complied with in all material respects.
At the respective times the Registration Statement, any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement and any post-effective amendments thereto became effective and at the Closing Time (and, if any Option Securities are purchased, at the Date of Delivery), the Registration Statement, the Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, the notification of Form N-8A and any amendments and supplements thereto complied and will comply in all material respects with the requirements of the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations and did not and will not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. Neither the Prospectus nor any amendments or supplements thereto, at the time the Prospectus or any such amendment or supplement was issued and at the Closing Time (and, if any Option Securities are purchased, at the Date of Delivery), included or will include an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or will omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
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As of the Applicable Time (as defined below), the Rule 482 Statement (as defined below) issued at or prior to the Applicable Time, if any, the Statutory Prospectus (as defined below) and the information included on Schedule C hereto, all considered together (collectively, the "General Disclosure Package"), did not include any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
As used in this subsection and elsewhere in this Agreement:
"Applicable Time" means [ ]:00 [a/p].m. (Eastern time) on April [ ], 2006 or such other time as agreed to by the Trust and Merrill Lynch.
"Rule 482 Statement" means a document that contains the number of Securities issued, the offering price and any other items dependent upon the offering price, prepared in accordance with the provisions of Rule 482 of the 1933 Act, a copy of which shall be attached as Schedule D hereto.
"Statutory Prospectus" as of any time means the prospectus relating to the Securities that is included in the Registration Statement immediately prior to that time, including any document incorporated by reference therein.
Each preliminary prospectus and the prospectus filed as part of the effective Registration Statement or as part of any amendment thereto, or filed pursuant to Rule 497 under the 1933 Act, complied when so filed in all material respects with the Rules and Regulations and each preliminary prospectus and the Prospectus delivered to the Underwriters for use in connection with this offering was identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T.
The documents incorporated or deemed to be incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, when they became effective or at the time they were or hereafter are filed with the Commission, complied and will comply in all material respects with the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act") and the Commission's rules and regulations thereunder, and, when read together with the other information in the Prospectus, (a) at the time the Registration Statement became effective, (b) at the time the Prospectus was issued and (c) at the Closing Time, did not and will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.
If a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement is required in connection with the offering and sale of the Securities, the Trust has complied or will comply with the requirements of Rule 111 under the 1933 Act Regulations relating to the payment of filing fees thereof.
The foregoing representations in this Section 1(a)(i) do not apply to statements or omissions relating to the Underwriters made in reliance on and in conformity with information furnished in writing to the Trust by the Underwriters or their agents expressly for use in the Registration Statement, the 462(b) Registration Statement, Prospectus or preliminary prospectus (or any amendment or supplement to any of the foregoing), or with respect to representations of the Trust, the descriptions of the Investment Adviser (referred to in Section (1)(b)(iii) of this Agreement) contained in the foregoing.
(ii) Independent Registered Public Accountants . As of the date of the report of the independent registered public accounting firm contained in the Registration Statement, the accountants who certified the statement of assets and liabilities included in the Registration Statement are independent registered public accountants as required by the 1933 Act and the Rules and Regulations.
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(iii) Financial Statements . The statement of assets and liabilities included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, together with the related notes, presents fairly the financial position of the Trust in all material respects at the date indicated; said statement has been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP").
(iv) Expense Summary . The information set forth in the Prospectus in the Fee Table has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Form N-2 and to the extent estimated or projected, such estimates or projections are reasonably believed to be attainable and reasonably based.
(v) No Material Adverse Change . Since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, except as otherwise stated therein, (A) there has been no material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Trust, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business (a "Material Adverse Effect"), (B) there have been no transactions entered into by the Trust, other than those in the ordinary course of business, which are material with respect to the Trust, and (C) there has been no dividend or distribution of any kind declared, paid or made by the Trust on any class of its capital shares.
(vi) Good Standing of the Trust . The Trust has been duly organized and is validly existing as a statutory trust in good standing under the laws of Delaware and has power and authority to own and lease its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and to enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement; and the Trust is duly qualified to transact business and is in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which such qualification is required, whether by reason of the ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of business, except where the failure so to qualify or to be in good standing would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(vii) No Subsidiaries . The Trust has no subsidiaries.
(viii) Investment Company Status . The Trust is duly registered with the Commission under the 1940 Act as a closed-end, diversified management investment company, and no order of suspension or revocation of such registration has been issued or proceedings therefor initiated or, to the knowledge of the Trust or the Administrator, threatened by the Commission.
(ix) Officers and Trustees . No person is serving or acting as an officer, trustee or investment adviser of the Trust except in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act"), and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated under the Advisers Act (the "Advisers Act Rules and Regulations"). Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement to either of them), no trustee of the Trust is (A) an "interested person" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust or (B) an "affiliated person" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any Underwriter. For purposes of this Section 1(a)(ix), the Trust and the Administrator shall be entitled to rely on representations from such officers and trustees.
(x) Capitalization . The authorized, issued and outstanding shares of beneficial interest of the Trust is as set forth in the Prospectus. All issued and outstanding common shares of beneficial interest of the Trust have been duly authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and non-assessable (except as described in the Registration Statement) and have been offered and sold or exchanged by the Trust in compliance with all applicable laws (including, without limitation, federal and state securities laws); none of the outstanding common shares of beneficial interest of the Trust was issued in violation of the preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Trust.
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(xi) Authorization and Description of Securities . The Securities to be purchased by the Underwriters from the Trust have been duly authorized for issuance and sale to the Underwriters pursuant to this Agreement and, when issued and delivered by the Trust pursuant to this Agreement against payment of the consideration set forth herein, will be validly issued and fully paid and non-assessable (except as described in the Registration Statement). In all material respects, the Common Shares conform to all statements relating thereto contained in the Prospectus and such description conforms to the rights set forth in the instruments defining the same, to the extent such rights are set forth in all material respects; no holder of the Securities will be subject to personal liability by reason of being such a holder (except as described in the Registration Statement); and the issuance of the Securities is not subject to the preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Trust.
(xii) Absence of Defaults and Conflicts . The Trust is not in violation of its agreement and declaration of trust or by-laws, each as amended from time to time, or in default in the performance or observance of any obligation, agreement, covenant or condition contained in any contract, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan or credit agreement, note, lease or other agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it may be bound, or to which any of the property or assets of the Trust is subject (collectively, "Agreements and Instruments") except for such violations or defaults that would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect; and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement, the Investment Advisory and Management Agreement, the Custody Agreement, the Stock Transfer Agency Agreement and the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement referred to in the Registration Statement (as used herein, the "Investment Advisory Agreement," the "Custody Agreement," the "Transfer Agency Agreement" and the "Administration Agreement," respectively) and the consummation of the transactions contemplated herein and in the Registration Statement (including the issuance and sale of the Securities and the use of the proceeds from the sale of the Securities as described in the Prospectus under the caption "Use of Proceeds") and compliance by the Trust with its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action and do not and will not, whether with or without the giving of notice or passage of time or both, conflict with or constitute a breach of, or default or Repayment Event (as defined below) under, or result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Trust pursuant to, the Agreements and Instruments (except for such conflicts, breaches or defaults or liens, charges or encumbrances that would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect), nor will such action result in any violation (except for such violations that would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect) of the provisions of the agreement and declaration of trust or by-laws of the Trust, each as amended from time to time, or any applicable law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ or decree of any government, government instrumentality or court, domestic or foreign, having jurisdiction over the Trust or any of its assets, properties or operations, other than State securities or "blue sky" laws applicable in connection with the purchase and distribution of the Securities by the Underwriters pursuant to this Agreement. As used herein, a "Repayment Event" means any event or condition which gives the holder of any note, debenture or other evidence of indebtedness (or any person acting on such holder's behalf) the right to require the repurchase, redemption or repayment of all or a portion of such indebtedness by the Trust.
(xiii) Absence of Proceedings . There is no action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation before or brought by any court or governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, now pending, or, to the knowledge of the Trust, threatened, against or affecting the Trust, which is required to be disclosed in the Registration Statement (other than as disclosed therein), or which might reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, or which might reasonably be expected to materially and adversely affect the properties or assets of the Trust or the consummation of the transactions contemplated in this Agreement or the performance by the Trust
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of its obligations hereunder. The aggregate of all pending legal or governmental proceedings to which the Trust is a party or of which any of its property or assets is the subject which are not described in the Registration Statement, including ordinary routine litigation incidental to the business, could not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(xiv) Accuracy of Exhibits . There are no material contracts or documents which are required to be described in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or to be filed as exhibits thereto by the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act or by the Rules and Regulations which have not been so described and filed as required.
(xv) Possession of Intellectual Property . The Trust owns or possesses, or can acquire on reasonable terms, adequate patents, patent rights, licenses, inventions, copyrights, know-how (including trade secrets and other unpatented and/or unpatentable proprietary or confidential information, systems or procedures), trademarks, service marks, trade names or other intellectual property (collectively, "Intellectual Property") necessary to carry on the business now operated by the Trust, and the Trust has not received any notice or is not otherwise aware of any infringement of or conflict with asserted rights of others with respect to any Intellectual Property.
(xvi) Absence of Further Requirements . No filing with, or authorization, approval, consent, license, order, registration, qualification or decree of, any court or governmental authority or agency is necessary or required for the performance by the Trust of its obligations hereunder, in connection with the offering, issuance or sale of the Securities hereunder or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except such as have been already obtained or as may be required under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the 1934 Act, the rules of the American Stock Exchange (the "AMEX") or state securities laws.
(xvii) Possession of Licenses and Permits . The Trust possesses such permits, licenses, approvals, consents and other authorizations (collectively, "Governmental Licenses") issued by the appropriate federal, state, local or foreign regulatory agencies or bodies necessary to operate its properties and to conduct the business as contemplated in the Prospectus, except where the absence of such possession would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect; the Trust is in compliance with the terms and conditions of all such Governmental Licenses, except where the failure so to comply would not, singly or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; all of the Governmental Licenses are valid and in full force and effect, except when the invalidity of such Governmental Licenses or the failure of such Governmental Licenses to be in full force and effect would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and the Trust has not received any notice of proceedings relating to the revocation or modification of any such Governmental Licenses which, singly or in the aggregate, if the subject of an unfavorable decision, ruling or finding, would reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(xviii) Advertisements . Any advertising, sales literature or other promotional material (including "prospectus wrappers," "broker kits," "road show slides" and "road show scripts") authorized in writing by or prepared by the Trust or the Administrator used in connection with the public offering of the Securities (collectively, "sales material") does not contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances in which they were made, not misleading. Moreover, all sales material complied and will comply in all material respects with the applicable requirements of the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations and the rules and interpretations of the NASD, Inc. ("NASD").
(xix) Subchapter M . The Trust intends to direct the investment of the proceeds of the offering described in the Registration Statement in such a manner as to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Subchapter
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M of the Code" and the "Code," respectively), and intends to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code.
(xx) Distribution of Offering Materials . The Trust has not distributed and, prior to the later to occur of (A) the Closing Time and (B) completion of the distribution of the Common Shares, will not distribute any offering material in connection with the offering and sale of the Common Shares other than the Registration Statement, a preliminary prospectus, the Prospectus, the Statutory Prospectus, the Rule 482 Statement, if any, or the sales materials.
(xxi) Accounting Controls . The Trust maintains a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurances that (A) transactions are executed in accordance with management's general or specific authorization and with the applicable requirements of the 1940 Act, the Rules and Regulations and the Code; (B) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP and to maintain accountability for assets and to maintain compliance with the books and records requirements under the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations; (C) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with the management's general or specific authorization; and (D) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any differences.
(xxii) Absence of Undisclosed Payments . To the Trust's knowledge, neither the Trust nor any employee or agent of the Trust has made any payment of funds of the Trust or received or retained any funds, which payment, receipt or retention of funds is of a character required to be disclosed in the Prospectus.
(xxiii) Material Agreements . This Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Administration Agreement, the Custody Agreement and the Transfer Agency Agreement have each been duly authorized by all requisite action on the part of the Trust, executed and delivered by the Trust, as of the dates noted therein and each complies with all applicable provisions of the 1940 Act in all material respects. Assuming due authorization, execution and delivery by the other parties thereto, each such Agreement constitutes a valid and binding agreement of the Trust, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as affected by bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally, general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law) and an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing and except as rights to indemnify or contribute thereunder may be limited by federal or state laws.
(xxiv) Registration Rights . There are no persons with registration rights or other similar rights to have any securities of the Trust registered pursuant to the Registration Statement or otherwise registered by the Trust under the 1933 Act.
(xxv) AMEX Listing . The Securities have been duly authorized for listing, upon notice of issuance, on the AMEX and the Trust's registration statement on Form 8-A under the 1934 Act has become effective.
(b) Representations and Warranties by the Investment Adviser . The Investment Adviser represents and warrants to each Underwriter, and in the case of paragraph (iii) also represents to the Trust, as of the date hereof, as of the Closing Time referred to in Section 2(c) hereof, and as of each Date of Delivery (if any) referred to in Section 2(b) hereof as follows:
(i) Good Standing of the Investment Adviser . The Investment Adviser has been duly organized and is validly existing and in good standing as a corporation under the laws of the State of Delaware, with full corporate power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and is duly qualified as a foreign corporation to transact business and is in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which such qualification is
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required, except to the extent that failure to be so qualified and in good standing would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on the Investment Adviser's ability to provide services to the Trust.
(ii) Investment Adviser Status . The Investment Adviser is duly registered and in good standing with the Commission as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act, and is not prohibited by the Advisers Act or the 1940 Act, or the rules and regulations under such acts, from acting under the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Trust as contemplated by the Prospectus.
(iii) Description of the Investment Adviser . The descriptions of the Investment Adviser in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus (and any amendment or supplement to either of them) complied and comply in all material respects with the provisions of the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, the Rules and Regulations and the Advisers Act Rules and Regulations and are true and correct and do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make such descriptions, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
(iv) Capitalization . The Investment Adviser has the financial resources available to it necessary for the performance of its services and obligations as contemplated in the Prospectus, the General Disclosure Package, this Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Additional Compensation Agreement between the Investment Adviser and Merrill Lynch (the "Additional Compensation Agreement") [other additional compensation agreements, if applicable].
(v) Authorization of Agreements; Absence of Defaults and Conflicts . This Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Additional Compensation Agreement have each been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Investment Adviser, and, assuming due authorization, execution and delivery by the other parties thereto, the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Additional Compensation Agreement each constitutes a valid and binding obligation of the Investment Adviser, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as affected by bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally and general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law) and except as rights to indemnity and contribution thereunder may be limited by federal and state law; and neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement or the Additional Compensation Agreement nor the performance by the Investment Adviser of its obligations hereunder or thereunder will conflict with, or result in a breach of any of the terms and provisions of, or constitute, with or without the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, a default under, any agreement or instrument to which the Investment Adviser is a party or by which it is bound, the limited partnership agreement of the Investment Adviser, or to the Investment Adviser's knowledge, by any law, order, decree, rule or regulation applicable to it of any jurisdiction, court, federal or state regulatory body, administrative agency or other governmental body, stock exchange or securities association having jurisdiction over the Investment Adviser or its properties or operations, except where such breach would not reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the Investment Adviser's ability to perform the services contemplated by such agreement; and no consent, approval, authorization or order of any court or governmental authority or agency is required for the consummation by the Investment Adviser of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement or the Additional Compensation Agreement, except as have been obtained or may be required under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the 1934 Act, AMEX or state securities laws.
(vi) No Material Adverse Change . Since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, except as otherwise stated therein, there has not occurred any event which should reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the
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ability of the Investment Adviser to perform its obligations under this Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Additional Compensation Agreement.
(vii) Absence of Proceedings . There is no action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation before or brought by any court or governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, now pending, or, to the knowledge of the Investment Adviser, threatened against or affecting either the Investment Adviser or any parent or subsidiary of the Investment Adviser or any partners, directors, officers or employees of the foregoing, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business, which would reasonably be expected to result in any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Investment Adviser, materially and adversely affect the properties or assets of the Investment Adviser or materially impair or adversely affect the ability of the Investment Adviser to function as an investment adviser or perform its obligations under the Investment Advisory Agreement or the Additional Compensation Agreement, or which is required to be disclosed in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus (and has not been so disclosed).
(viii) Absence of Violation or Default . The Investment Adviser is not in violation of its limited partnership agreement or in default under any agreement, indenture or instrument, where such violation or default would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the ability of the Investment Adviser to function as an investment adviser or perform its obligations under the Investment Advisory Agreement.
(c) Officer's Certificates . Any certificate signed by any officer of the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser delivered to the Representatives or to counsel for the Underwriters shall be deemed a representation and warranty by the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser, as the case may be, to each Underwriter as to the matters covered thereby.
SECTION 2. Sale and Delivery to Underwriters; Closing.
(a) Initial Securities . On the basis of the representations and warranties herein contained and subject to the terms and conditions herein set forth, the Trust agrees to sell to each Underwriter, severally and not jointly, and each Underwriter, severally and not jointly, agrees to purchase from the Trust, at the price per share set forth in Schedule B , the number of Initial Securities set forth in Schedule A opposite the name of such Underwriter, plus any additional number of Initial Securities which such Underwriter may become obligated to purchase pursuant to the provisions of Section 10 hereof.
(b) Option Securities . In addition, on the basis of the representations and warranties herein contained and subject to the terms and conditions herein set forth, the Trust hereby grants an option to the Underwriters, severally and not jointly, to purchase up to an additional [ ] Common Shares in the aggregate at the price per share set forth in Schedule B , less an amount per share equal to any dividends or distributions declared by the Trust and payable on the Initial Securities but not payable on the Option Securities. The option hereby granted will expire 45 days after the date hereof and may be exercised in whole or in part from time to time only for the purpose of covering overallotments which may be made in connection with the offering and distribution of the Initial Securities upon written notice by the Representatives to the Trust setting forth the number of Option Securities as to which the several Underwriters are then exercising the option and the time and date of payment and delivery for such Option Securities. Any such time and date of delivery (a "Date of Delivery") shall be determined by the Representatives, but shall not be earlier than the third day after the date on which the option is being exercised nor later than seven full business days after the exercise of said option, nor in any event prior to the Closing Time, as hereinafter defined. If the option is exercised as to all or any portion of the Option Securities, each of the Underwriters, acting severally and not jointly, will purchase that proportion of the total number of Option Securities then being purchased which the number of Initial Securities set forth in Schedule A opposite the name of such Underwriter bears to the
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total number of Initial Securities, subject in each case to such adjustments as Merrill Lynch in its discretion shall make to eliminate any sales or purchases of a fractional number of Option Securities plus any additional number of Option Securities which such Underwriter may become obligated to purchase pursuant to the provisions of Section 10 hereof.
(c) Payment . Payment of the purchase price for, and delivery of certificates for, the Initial Securities shall be made at the offices of Clifford Chance US LLP, 31 West 52 nd Street, New York, New York 10019, or at such other place as shall be agreed upon by the Representatives and the Trust, at 10:00 A.M. (Eastern time) on the third (fourth, if the pricing occurs after 4:30 P.M. (Eastern time) on any given day) business day after the date hereof (unless postponed in accordance with the provisions of Section 10), or such other time not later than ten business days after such date as shall be agreed upon by the Representatives and the Trust (such time and date of payment and delivery being herein called "Closing Time").
In addition, in the event that any or all of the Option Securities are purchased by the Underwriters, payment of the purchase price for, and delivery of certificates for, such Option Securities shall be made at the above-mentioned offices, or at such other place as shall be agreed upon by the Representatives and the Trust, on each Date of Delivery as specified in the notice from the Representatives to the Trust.
Payment shall be made to the Trust by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by the Trust, against delivery to the Representatives for the respective accounts of the Underwriters of certificates for the Securities to be purchased by them. It is understood that each Underwriter has authorized the Representatives, for its account, to accept delivery of, receipt for, and make payment of the purchase price for, the Initial Securities and the Option Securities, if any, which it has agreed to purchase. Merrill Lynch, individually and not as representative of the Underwriters, may (but shall not be obligated to) make payment of the purchase price for the Initial Securities or the Option Securities, if any, to be purchased by any Underwriter whose funds have not been received by the Closing Time or the relevant Date of Delivery, as the case may be, but such payment shall not relieve such Underwriter from its obligations hereunder.
(d) Denominations; Registration . Certificates for the Initial Securities and the Option Securities, if any, shall be in such denominations and registered in such names as the Representatives may request in writing at least one full business day before the Closing Time or the relevant Date of Delivery, as the case may be. The certificates for the Initial Securities and the Option Securities, if any, will be made available for examination and packaging by the Representatives in the City of New York not later than 10:00 A.M. (Eastern time) on the business day prior to the Closing Time or the relevant Date of Delivery, as the case may be.
SECTION 3. Covenants.
(i) Compliance with Securities Regulations and Commission Requests . For a period of one year from the date hereof, the Trust, subject to Section 3(a)(ii), will comply with the requirements of Rule 430A and will notify the Representatives immediately, and confirm the notice in writing, (i) when any post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement shall become effective, or any supplement to the Prospectus or any amended Prospectus shall have been filed, (ii) of the receipt of any comments from the Commission, (iii) of any request by the Commission for any amendment to the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement to the Prospectus or any document incorporated by reference therein or for additional information, (iv) of the issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or of any order preventing or suspending the use of any preliminary prospectus, or of the suspension
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of the qualification of the Securities for offering or sale in any jurisdiction, or of the initiation or, to the knowledge of the Trust, threatening of any proceedings for any of such purposes or of any examination pursuant to Section 8(e) of the 1933 Act in connection with the offering of the Securities, and (v) if the Trust becomes the subject of a proceeding under Section 8A of the1933 Act in connection with the offering of the Securities. The Trust will promptly effect the filings necessary pursuant to Rule 497 and will take such steps as it deems necessary to ascertain promptly whether the form of prospectus transmitted for filing under Rule 497 was received for filing by the Commission and, in the event that it was not, it will promptly file such prospectus. The Trust will make every reasonable effort to prevent the issuance of any stop order, or order of suspension or revocation of registration pursuant to Section 8(e) of the 1940 Act, and, if any such stop order or order of suspension or revocation of registration is issued, to obtain the lifting thereof at the earliest possible moment.
(ii) Filing of Amendments . For a period of one year from the date hereof, the Trust will give the Representatives notice of its intention to file or prepare any amendment to the Registration Statement (including any filing under Rule 462(b)), or any amendment, supplement or revision to either the prospectus included in the Registration Statement at the time it became effective or to the Prospectus, will furnish the Representatives with copies of any such documents a reasonable amount of time prior to such proposed filing or use, as the case may be, and will not file or use any such document to which the Representatives or counsel for the Underwriters shall reasonably object.
(iii) Delivery of Registration Statements . The Trust has furnished or will deliver to the Representatives, without charge, a signed copy of the Registration Statement as originally filed and of each amendment thereto (including exhibits filed therewith or incorporated by reference therein) and a signed copy of all consents and certificates of experts, and will also deliver to the Representatives, without charge, a conformed copy of the Registration Statement as originally filed and of each amendment thereto (without exhibits) for each of the Underwriters. The copies of the Registration Statement and each amendment thereto furnished to the Underwriters will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T. No copy of a post-effective amendment shall be required to be delivered after one year from the date hereof.
(iv) Delivery of Prospectuses . The Trust has delivered to each Underwriter, without charge, as many copies of each preliminary prospectus as such Underwriter reasonably requested, and the Trust hereby consents to the use of such copies for purposes permitted by the 1933 Act. The Trust will furnish to each Underwriter, without charge, during the period when the Prospectus is required to be delivered under the 1933 Act, such number of copies of the Prospectus (as amended or supplemented) as such Underwriter may reasonably request. The Prospectus and any amendments or supplements thereto furnished to the Underwriters will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T.
(v) Continued Compliance with Securities Laws . If at any time when a prospectus is required by the 1933 Act to be delivered in connection with sales of the Securities, any event shall occur or condition shall exist as a result of which it is necessary, in the reasonable opinion of counsel for the Underwriters or for the Trust, to amend the Registration Statement or amend or supplement the Prospectus in order that the Prospectus will not include any untrue statements of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein not misleading in the light of the circumstances existing at the time it is delivered to a purchaser, or if it shall be necessary, in the reasonable opinion of such counsel, at any such time to amend the Registration Statement or amend or supplement the Prospectus in order to comply with the requirements of the 1933 Act or the Rules and Regulations, the Trust will promptly prepare and
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file with the Commission, subject to Section 3(a)(ii), such amendment or supplement as may be necessary to correct such statement or omission or to make the Registration Statement or the Prospectus comply with such requirements, and the Trust will furnish to the Underwriters such number of copies of such amendment or supplement as the Underwriters may reasonably request; provided that, if the supplement or amendment is required exclusively as a result of a misstatement in or omission from the information provided to the Trust in writing by the Underwriters expressly for use in the Prospectus, the Trust may deliver such supplement or amendment to the Underwriters and dealers at a reasonable charge not to exceed the actual cost thereof to the Trust. If at any time following the issuance of a Rule 482 Statement, there occurred or there occurs an event or development as a result of which such Rule 482 Statement included or would include an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or would omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances prevailing at that subsequent time, not misleading, the Trust will promptly notify Merrill Lynch and will promptly amend or supplement, at its own expense, such Rule 482 Statement to eliminate or correct such conflict.
(vi) Blue Sky Qualifications . The Trust will use its best efforts, in cooperation with the Underwriters, to qualify the Securities for offering and sale under the applicable securities laws of such states and other jurisdictions of the United States as the Representatives may designate and to maintain such qualifications in effect for a period of not less than one year from the later of the effective date of the Registration Statement and any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement; provided, however, that the Trust shall not be obligated to file any general consent to service of process or to qualify as a foreign corporation or as a dealer in securities in any jurisdiction in which it is not so qualified or to subject itself to taxation in respect of doing business in any jurisdiction in which it is not otherwise so subject. In each jurisdiction in which the Securities have been so qualified, the Trust will file such statements and reports as may be required by the laws of such jurisdiction to continue such qualification in effect for a period of not less than one year from the effective date of the Registration Statement and any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement.
(vii) Rule 158 . The Trust will make generally available to its securityholders as soon as practicable an earnings statement, if applicable, for the purposes of, and to provide to the Underwriters the benefits contemplated by, the last paragraph of Section 11(a) of the 1933 Act.
(viii) Use of Proceeds . The Trust will use the net proceeds received by it from the sale of the Securities substantially in the manner specified in the Prospectus under "Use of Proceeds".
(ix) Listing . The Trust will use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Securities to be duly authorized for listing by the AMEX, prior to the date the Securities are issued.
(x) Restriction on Sale of Securities . During a period of 180 days from the date of the Prospectus, the Trust will not, without the prior written consent of Merrill Lynch, (A) directly or indirectly, offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option, rights or warrant to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase or otherwise transfer or dispose of Common Shares or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Shares or file any registration statement under the 1933 Act with respect to any of the foregoing or (B) enter into any swap or any other agreement or any transaction that transfers, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, the economic consequence of ownership of the Common Shares, whether any such swap or transaction described in clause (A) or (B) above is to be settled by delivery of Common Shares or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. The foregoing sentence shall not apply to (1) the Securities to be sold hereunder or (2) Common Shares issued or, for avoidance of doubt, purchased in the open market pursuant to any dividend reinvestment plan.
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(xi) Reporting Requirements . The Trust, during the period when the Prospectus is required to be delivered under the 1933 Act, will file all documents required to be filed with the Commission pursuant to the 1940 Act and the 1934 Act within the time periods required by the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations and the 1934 Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder, respectively.
(xii) Subchapter M . The Trust will use its best efforts to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Code to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Code.
(xiii) No Manipulation of Market for Securities . The Trust will not (a) take, directly or indirectly, any action designed to cause or to result in, or that might reasonably be expected to constitute, the stabilization or manipulation of the price of any security of the Trust to facilitate the sale or resale of the Securities in violation of federal or state securities laws, and (b) except for share repurchases permitted in accordance with applicable laws and purchases of Securities in the open market pursuant to the Trust's dividend reinvestment plan, until the Closing Date, or the Date of Delivery, if any, (i) sell, bid for or purchase the Securities or pay any person any compensation for soliciting purchases of the Securities or (ii) pay or agree to pay to any person any compensation for soliciting another to purchase any other securities of the Trust.
(xiv) Rule 462(b) Registration Statement . If the Trust elects to rely upon Rule 462(b), the Trust shall file a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement with the Commission in compliance with Rule 462(b) by 10:00 P.M., Washington, D.C. time, on the date of this Agreement, and the Trust shall at the time of filing either pay to the Commission the filing fee for the Rule 462(b) Registration Statement or give irrevocable instructions for the payment of such fee pursuant to Rule 111(b) under the 1933 Act.
SECTION 4. Payment of Expenses.
(a) Expenses . The Trust will pay all expenses incident to the performance of its obligations under this Agreement, including (i) the preparation, printing and filing of the Registration Statement (including financial statements and exhibits) as originally filed and of each amendment thereto, (ii) the reasonable costs of the preparation, printing and delivery to the Underwriters of this Agreement, any Agreement among Underwriters and such other documents as may be required in connection with the offering, purchase, sale, issuance or delivery of the Securities, (iii) the preparation, issuance and delivery of the certificates for the Securities to the Underwriters, including any stock or other transfer taxes and any stamp or other duties payable upon the sale, issuance or delivery of the Securities to the Underwriters, (iv) the fees and disbursements of the Trust's counsel, accountants and other advisors, (v) the qualification of the Securities under securities laws in accordance with the provisions of Section 3(a)(vi) hereof, including filing fees and the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Underwriters in connection therewith and in connection with the preparation of the Blue Sky survey and any supplement thereto, (vi) the printing and delivery to the Underwriters of copies of each preliminary prospectus, Rule 482 Statement, if any, Prospectus and any amendments or supplements thereto, and any costs associated with electronic delivery of any of the foregoing by the Underwriters to investors, (vii) the preparation, printing and delivery to the Underwriters of copies of the Blue Sky Survey and any supplement thereto, (viii) the fees and expenses of any transfer agent or registrar for the Securities, (ix) the filing fees incident to, and the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel to the Underwriters in connection with, the review by the NASD of the terms of the sale of the Securities, (x) the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of the Securities on the AMEX and (xi) the printing of any sales material. Also, the Trust shall pay the Underwriters $.0067 per Common Share as partial reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with the offering. The amount paid by the Trust as this partial reimbursement to the Underwriters will not exceed .0335% of the total price to the public of the Shares sold in this offering. The Administrator and the Investment Adviser have agreed to pay all organizational expenses of the Trust. The Administrator and the Investment Adviser
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have also agreed to pay offering costs (other than sales load, but inclusive of the partial reimbursement of the reimbursement of Underwriter expenses of $.0067 per Common Share) of the Trust that exceed $.04 per Common Share.
(b) Termination of Agreement . If this Agreement is terminated by the Representatives in accordance with the provisions of Section 5 or Section 9(a) hereof, the Trust and the Administrator, jointly and severally, agree that they shall reimburse the Underwriters for all of their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Underwriters.
SECTION 5. Conditions of Underwriters' Obligations.
The obligations of the several Underwriters hereunder are subject to the accuracy in all material respects of the representations and warranties of the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser contained in Section 1 hereof or in certificates of any officer of the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser delivered pursuant to the provisions hereof, to the performance by the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser of their respective covenants and other obligations hereunder in all material respects, and to the following further conditions:
(a) Effectiveness of Registration Statement . The Registration Statement, including any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, has become effective or will have become effective by 5:30 p.m., New York City time on the date hereof, and at Closing Time no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall have been issued under the 1933 Act, no notice or order pursuant to Section 8(e) of the 1940 Act shall have been issued, and no proceedings with respect to either shall have been initiated or, to the knowledge of counsel to the Underwriters and counsel to the Trust, threatened by the Commission, and any request on the part of the Commission for additional information shall have been complied with or waived to the reasonable satisfaction of counsel to the Underwriters. A prospectus containing the Rule 430A Information shall have been filed with the Commission in accordance with Rule 497 (or a post-effective amendment providing such information shall have been filed and declared effective in accordance with the requirements of Rule 430A or a certificate must have been filed in accordance with Rule 497(j)).
(b) Opinions of Counsel for the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser . At Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received the favorable opinions, dated as of Closing Time, of counsel for the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letters for each of the other Underwriters substantially to the effect set forth in Exhibit A hereto or in such other forms and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel to the Underwriters. In giving such opinions such counsel may rely, as to all matters governed by the laws of jurisdictions other than the law of the State of New York and the federal law of the United States, upon the opinions of counsel satisfactory to the Representatives. Such counsel may also state that, insofar as such opinions involve factual matters, they have relied, to the extent they deem proper, upon certificates of officers of the Trust, the Administrator, the Investment Adviser and/or public officials.
(c) Opinion of Counsel for Underwriters . At Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received the favorable opinion, dated as of Closing Time, of Clifford Chance US LLP, counsel for the Underwriters, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for each of the other Underwriters with respect to the matters set forth in clauses (A) (i), (ii), (vi), (vii) (solely as to preemptive or other similar rights arising by operation of law or under the charter or by-laws of the Trust), (viii) through (x), inclusive, (xii), (xiv) (solely as to the information in the Prospectus under "Description of Capital Structure") and the last paragraph of Exhibit A hereto. In giving such opinion such counsel may rely, as to all matters governed by the laws of jurisdictions other than the law of the State of New York and the federal law of the United States, upon the opinions of counsel satisfactory to the Representatives. Such counsel may also state that, insofar as such opinion involves factual
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matters, they have relied, to the extent they deem proper, upon certificates of officers of the Trust and certificates of public officials.
(d) Officers' Certificates . At Closing Time, there shall not have been, since the date hereof or since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Prospectus or the General Disclosure Package, any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Trust, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business, and the Representatives shall have received a certificate of a duly authorized officer of the Trust and of the chief financial or chief accounting officer of the Trust, of the President or a Vice President or Managing Director of the Administrator and of the President or a partner or chief financial officer of the Investment Adviser, dated as of Closing Time, to the effect that (i) there has been no such material adverse change, (ii) the representations and warranties in Sections 1(a) and (b) hereof, as applicable, are true and correct with the same force and effect as though expressly made at and as of Closing Time, (iii) each of the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser, respectively, has complied in all material respects with all agreements and satisfied in all material respects all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied pursuant to this Agreement at or prior to Closing Time, and (iv) with respect to the Trust only, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, or order of suspension or revocation of registration pursuant to Section 8(e) of the 1940 Act, has been issued and no proceedings for any such purpose have been instituted or are pending or are contemplated by the Commission.
(e) Accountant's Comfort Letter . At the time of the execution of this Agreement, the Representatives shall have received from Deloitte & Touche LLP a letter dated such date, in form and substance satisfactory to the Representatives, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for each of the other Underwriters containing statements and information of the type ordinarily included in accountants' "comfort letters" to underwriters with respect to the financial statements and certain financial information contained in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus.
(f) Bring-down Comfort Letter . At Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received from Deloitte & Touche LLP a letter, dated as of Closing Time, to the effect that they reaffirm the statements made in the letter furnished pursuant to subsection (e) of this Section, except that the specified date referred to shall be a date not more than three business days prior to Closing Time.
(g) Approval of Listing . At Closing Time, the Securities shall have been approved for listing on the AMEX, subject only to official notice of issuance.
(h) No Objection . The NASD has confirmed that it has not raised any objection with respect to the fairness and reasonableness of the underwriting terms and arrangements.
(i) Execution of Additional Compensation Agreement . At Closing Time, Merrill Lynch shall have received the Additional Compensation Agreement, dated as of the Closing Date, as executed by the Investment Adviser.
(j) Conditions to Purchase of Option Securities . In the event that the Underwriters exercise their option provided in Section 2(b) hereof to purchase all or any portion of the Option Securities, the representations and warranties of the Trust contained herein and the statements in any certificates furnished by the Trust hereunder shall be true and correct as of each Date of Delivery and, at the relevant Date of Delivery, the Representatives shall have received:
(i) Officers' Certificates . Certificates, dated such Date of Delivery, of a duly authorized officer of the Trust and of the chief financial or chief accounting officer of the Trust, of the President or a Vice President or Managing Director of the Administrator and of the President or a Vice President or Managing Director of the Investment Adviser confirming that the information contained in the certificate delivered by each of them at the Closing Time pursuant to Section 5(d) hereof remains true and correct in all material respects as of such Date of Delivery.
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(ii) Opinions of Counsel for the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser . The favorable opinions of counsel for the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser, each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, dated such Date of Delivery, relating to the Option Securities to be purchased on such Date of Delivery and otherwise to the same effect as the opinions required by Section 5(b) hereof.
(iii) Opinion of Counsel for the Underwriters . The favorable opinion of Clifford Chance US LLP, counsel for the Underwriters, dated such Date of Delivery, relating to the Option Securities to be purchased on such Date of Delivery and otherwise to the same effect as the opinion required by Section 5(c) hereof.
(iv) Bring-down Comfort Letter . A letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP, in form and substance satisfactory to the Representatives and dated such Date of Delivery, substantially in the same form and substance as the letter furnished to the Representatives pursuant to Section 5(f) hereof, except that the "specified date" in the letter furnished pursuant to this paragraph shall be a date not more than five days prior to such Date of Delivery.
(k) Additional Documents . At Closing Time and at each Date of Delivery, counsel for the Underwriters shall have been furnished with such documents and opinions as they may reasonably require for the purpose of enabling them to pass upon the issuance and sale of the Securities as herein contemplated, or in order to evidence the accuracy of any of the representations or warranties, or the fulfillment of any of the conditions, herein contained; and all proceedings taken by the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser in connection with the organization and registration of the Trust under the 1940 Act and the issuance and sale of the Securities as herein contemplated shall be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Representatives and counsel for the Underwriters.
(l) Termination of Agreement . If any condition specified in this Section shall not have been fulfilled in all material respects when and as required to be fulfilled, this Agreement, or, in the case of any condition to the purchase of Option Securities, on a Date of Delivery which is after the Closing Time, the obligations of the several Underwriters to purchase the relevant Option Securities, may be terminated by the Representatives by notice to the Trust at any time at or prior to Closing Time or such Date of Delivery, as the case may be, and such termination shall be without liability of any party to any other party except as provided in Section 4 and except that Sections 1, 6, 7, 8 and 13 shall survive any such termination and remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 6. Indemnification.
(a) Indemnification of Underwriters . The Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser, jointly and severally, agree to indemnify and hold harmless each Underwriter and each person, if any, who controls any Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act, as follows:
(i) against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense whatsoever, as incurred, arising out of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or arising out of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact included in any preliminary prospectus, the Rule 482 Statement, if any, or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto), or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading;
(ii) against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense whatsoever, as incurred, to the extent of the aggregate amount paid in settlement of any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or of any claim
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whatsoever based upon any such untrue statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue statement or omission; provided that (subject to Section 6(e) below) any such settlement is effected with the written consent of the Trust; and
(iii) against any and all expense whatsoever, as incurred (including the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel chosen by Merrill Lynch), reasonably incurred in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue statement or omission, to the extent that any such expense is not paid under (i) or (ii) above;
provided, however, that this indemnity agreement shall not apply to any loss, liability, claim, damage or expense to the extent arising out of any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser by any Underwriter through Merrill Lynch expressly for use in the Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information or any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto); provided, further, that the indemnity agreement contained in this Section 6(a) shall not inure to the benefit of any Underwriter (or to the benefit of any person controlling such Underwriter) from whom the person asserting any such loss, liability, claim, damage and expense purchased the Securities which are the subject thereof if the Prospectus corrected any such alleged untrue statement or omission and if such Prospectus was delivered to such Underwriter in a timely manner and if such Underwriter failed to send or give a copy of the Prospectus to such person at or prior to the written confirmation of the sale of such Securities to such person.
(b) Indemnification of the Trust, Administrator, Investment Adviser, Trustees, Directors and Officers. Each Underwriter severally agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser, their respective trustees, directors and shareholders, each of the Trust's officers who signed the Registration Statement, and each person, if any, who controls the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense described in the indemnity contained in subsection (a) of this Section, as incurred, but only with respect to untrue statements or omissions, or alleged untrue statements or omissions, made in the Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information and the Rule 434 Information, if applicable, or any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser by such Underwriter through Merrill Lynch expressly for use in the Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information or such preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto).
(c) Indemnification for Marketing Materials. In addition to the foregoing indemnification, the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser also, jointly and severally, agree to indemnify and hold harmless each Underwriter and each person, if any, who controls any Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act, against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense described in the indemnity contained in Section 6(a), as limited by the proviso set forth therein, with respect to any sales material.
(d) Actions against Parties; Notification . Each indemnified party shall give notice as promptly as reasonably practicable to each indemnifying party of any action commenced against it in respect of which indemnity may be sought hereunder, but failure to so notify an indemnifying party shall not relieve such indemnifying party from any liability hereunder to the extent it is not materially prejudiced as a result thereof and in any event shall not relieve it from any liability which it may have otherwise than on account of this indemnity agreement. In the case of parties indemnified pursuant to
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Section 6(a) above, counsel to the indemnified parties shall be selected by Merrill Lynch, and, in the case of parties indemnified pursuant to Section 6(b) above, counsel to the indemnified parties shall be selected by the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser. An indemnifying party may participate at its own expense in the defense of any such action; provided, however, that counsel to the indemnifying party shall not (except with the consent of the indemnified party) also be counsel to the indemnified party. In no event shall the indemnifying parties be liable for fees and expenses of more than one counsel (in addition to any local counsel) separate from their own counsel for all indemnified parties in connection with any one action or separate but similar or related actions in the same jurisdiction arising out of the same general allegations or circumstances. No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of the indemnified parties, settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment with respect to any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever in respect of which indemnification or contribution could be sought under this Section 6 or Section 7 hereof (whether or not the indemnified parties are actual or potential parties thereto), unless such settlement, compromise or consent (i) includes an unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising out of such litigation, investigation, proceeding or claim and (ii) does not include a statement as to or an admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of any indemnified party.
(e) Settlement without Consent if Failure to Reimburse . If at any time an indemnified party shall have requested an indemnifying party to reimburse the indemnified party for reasonable fees and expenses of counsel, such indemnifying party agrees that it shall be liable for any settlement of the nature contemplated by Section 6(a)(ii) (through, if applicable, the provisions of Section 6(b)) effected without its written consent if (i) such settlement is entered into more than 60 days after receipt by such indemnifying party of the aforesaid request, (ii) such indemnifying party shall have received notice of the terms of such settlement at least 30 days prior to such settlement being entered into and (iii) such indemnifying party shall not have reimbursed such indemnified party in accordance with such request prior to the date of such settlement.
SECTION 7. Contribution.
If the indemnification provided for in Section 6 hereof is for any reason unavailable to or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party in respect of any losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses referred to therein, then, in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified party, each indemnifying party shall contribute to the aggregate amount of such losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses incurred by such indemnified party, as incurred, (i) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other hand from the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement or (ii) if the allocation provided by clause (i) is not permitted by applicable law, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause (i) above but also the relative fault of the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser on the one hand and of the Underwriters on the other hand in connection with the statements or omissions which resulted in such losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations.
The relative benefits received by the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other hand in connection with the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to be in the same respective proportions as the total net proceeds from the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement (before deducting expenses) received by the Trust and the total underwriting discount received by the Underwriters (whether from the Trust or otherwise), in each case as set forth on the cover of the Prospectus, bear to the aggregate initial public offering price of the Securities as set forth on such cover.
The relative fault of the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other hand shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether
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any such untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser or by the Underwriters and the parties' relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission.
The Trust, the Administrator, the Investment Adviser and the Underwriters agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 7 were determined by pro rata allocation (even if the Underwriters were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to above in this Section 7. The aggregate amount of losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses incurred by an indemnified party and referred to above in this Section 7 shall be deemed to include any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 7, no Underwriter shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount by which the total price at which the Securities underwritten by it and distributed to the public were offered to the public exceeds the amount of any damages which such Underwriter has otherwise been required to pay by reason of any such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission.
No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the 1933 Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.
For purposes of this Section 7, each person, if any, who controls an Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act shall have the same rights to contribution as such Underwriter, and each trustee and shareholder of the Trust and each director of the Administrator and Investment Adviser, respectively, each officer of the Trust who signed the Registration Statement, and each person, if any, who controls the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser, within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act shall have the same rights to contribution as the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser, respectively. The Underwriters' respective obligations to contribute pursuant to this Section 7 are several in proportion to the number of Initial Securities set forth opposite their respective names in Schedule A hereto and not joint.
SECTION 8. Representations, Warranties and Agreements to Survive Delivery.
All representations, warranties and covenants contained in this Agreement or in certificates of officers of the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser submitted pursuant hereto, shall remain operative and in full force and effect, regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of any Underwriter or controlling person, or by or on behalf of the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser, and shall survive delivery of the Securities to the Underwriters.
SECTION 9. Termination of Agreement.
(a) Termination; General . The Representatives may terminate this Agreement, by notice to the Trust, at any time at or prior to Closing Time (i) if there has been, since the time of execution of this Agreement or since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Prospectus or the General Disclosure Package, any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Trust, the Administrator or the Investment Adviser, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business, or (ii) if there has occurred any material adverse change in the financial markets in the United States or the international financial markets, any outbreak of hostilities or escalation thereof or other calamity or crisis or any change or
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development involving a prospective change in national or international political, financial or economic conditions, in each case the effect of which is such as to make it, in the judgment of the Representatives, impracticable or inadvisable to market the Securities or to enforce contracts for the sale of the Securities, or (iii) if trading in the Common Shares of the Trust has been suspended or materially limited by the Commission or the AMEX, or if trading generally on the New York Stock Exchange or the AMEX or in the Nasdaq National Market has been suspended or materially limited, or minimum or maximum prices for trading have been fixed, or maximum ranges for prices have been required, by any of said exchanges or by such system or by order of the Commission, the NASD or any other governmental authority, or a material disruption has occurred in commercial banking or securities settlement or clearance services in the United States, or (iv) if a banking moratorium has been declared by either Federal or New York authorities.
(b) Liabilities . If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section, such termination shall be without liability of any party to any other party except as provided in Section 4 hereof, and provided further that Sections 1, 6, 7, 8 and 13 shall survive such termination and remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 10. Default by One or More of the Underwriters.
If one or more of the Underwriters shall fail at Closing Time or a Date of Delivery to purchase the Securities which it or they are obligated to purchase under this Agreement (the "Defaulted Securities"), the Representatives shall have the right, within 24 hours thereafter, to make arrangements for one or more of the non-defaulting Underwriters, or any other underwriters, to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Defaulted Securities in such amounts as may be agreed upon and upon the terms herein set forth; if, however, the Representatives shall not have completed such arrangements within such 24-hour period, then:
(a) if the number of Defaulted Securities does not exceed 10% of the number of Securities to be purchased on such date, each of the non-defaulting Underwriters shall be obligated, severally and not jointly, to purchase the full amount thereof in the proportions that their respective underwriting obligations hereunder bear to the underwriting obligations of all non-defaulting Underwriters, or
(b) if the number of Defaulted Securities exceeds 10% of the number of Securities to be purchased on such date, this Agreement or, with respect to any Date of Delivery which occurs after the Closing Time, the obligation of the Underwriters to purchase and of the Trust to sell the Option Securities to be purchased and sold on such Date of Delivery shall terminate without liability on the part of any non-defaulting Underwriter.
No action taken pursuant to this Section shall relieve any defaulting Underwriter from liability in respect of its default.
In the event of any such default which does not result in a termination of this Agreement or, in the case of a Date of Delivery which is after the Closing Time, which does not result in a termination of the obligation of the Underwriters to purchase and the Trust to sell the relevant Option Securities, as the case may be, either the Representatives or the Trust shall have the right to postpone Closing Time or the relevant Date of Delivery, as the case may be, for a period not exceeding seven days in order to effect any required changes in the Registration Statement or Prospectus or in any other documents or arrangements. As used herein, the term "Underwriter" includes any person substituted for an Underwriter under this Section 10.
SECTION 11. Tax Disclosure.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, from the commencement of discussions with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby, the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser (and each employee, representative or other agent of the Trust) may disclose to any and all persons, without limitation of any kind, the tax treatment and tax structure (as such terms are used in
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Sections 6011, 6111 and 6112 of the U.S. Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder) of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and all materials of any kind (including opinions or other tax analyses) that are provided relating to such tax treatment and tax structure.
SECTION 12. Notices.
All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if mailed or transmitted by any standard form of telecommunication. Notices to the Underwriters shall be directed to the Representatives, Merrill Lynch & Co., 4 World Financial Center, New York, New York 10080, attention of Equity Capital Markets; notices to the Trust and the Administrator shall be directed to each at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, Attention: General Counsel; and notices to the Investment Adviser shall be directed to it at 260 Franklin Street, Suite 1920, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, Attention: General Counsel.
SECTION 13. Parties.
This Agreement shall each inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the Underwriters, the Trust, the Administrator, the Investment Adviser and its respective partners and successors. Nothing expressed or mentioned in this Agreement is intended or shall be construed to give any person, firm or corporation, other than the Underwriters, the Trust, the Administrator, the Investment Adviser and their respective successors and the controlling persons and officers, trustees, shareholders and directors referred to in Sections 6 and 7 and their heirs and legal representatives, any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under or in respect of this Agreement or any provision herein contained. This Agreement and all conditions and provisions hereof are intended to be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Underwriters, the Trust, the Administrator, the Investment Adviser and their respective partners and successors, and said controlling persons and officers, trustees, shareholders and directors and their heirs and legal representatives, and for the benefit of no other person, firm or corporation. No purchaser of Securities from any Underwriter shall be deemed to be a successor by reason merely of such purchase.
SECTION 14. NO FIDUCIARY RELATIONSHIP
The Trust acknowledges and agrees that (i) the purchase and sale of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement, including the determination of the public offering price of the Securities and any related discounts and commissions, is an arm's-length commercial transaction between the Trust, on the one hand, and the Underwriter, on the other hand, (ii) in connection with the offering contemplated hereby and the process leading to such transaction the Underwriter is and has been acting solely as a principal and is not the agent or fiduciary of the Trust or its stockholders, creditors, employees or any other party, (iii) the Underwriter has not assumed nor will assume an advisory or fiduciary responsibility in favor of the Trust with respect to the offering contemplated hereby or the process leading thereto (irrespective of whether the Underwriter has advised or is currently advising the Trust on other matters) and the Underwriter has no obligation to the Trust with respect to the offering contemplated hereby except the obligations expressly set forth in this Agreement, (iv) the Underwriter and its respective affiliates may be engaged in a broad range of transactions that involve interests that differ from those of the Trust and (v) the Underwriter has not provided any legal, accounting, regulatory or tax advice with respect to the offering contemplated hereby and the Trust has consulted its own legal, accounting, regulatory and tax advisors to the extent it deemed appropriate.
SECTION 15. GOVERNING LAW AND TIME.
THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK APPLICABLE TO AGREEMENTS MADE AND TO BE PERFORMED IN SAID STATE. UNLESS OTHERWISE EXPLICITLY PROVIDED, SPECIFIED TIMES OF DAY REFER TO NEW YORK CITY TIME.
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SECTION 16. Effect of Headings.
The Article and Section headings herein and the Table of Contents are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction hereof.
SECTION 17. Delaware Statutory Trust
A copy of the Certificate of Trust of the Trust is on file with the Secretary of State of Delaware, and notice is hereby given that this Certificate is executed on behalf of the Trust by an officer or trustee of the Trust in his or her capacity as an officer or trustee of the Trust and not individually and that the obligations of or arising out of this instrument are not binding upon any of the trustees, officers or shareholders individually but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust.
[ signatures on following pages ]
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If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our agreement, please sign and return to us a counterpart hereof, whereupon this instrument, along with all counterparts, will become a binding agreement among the Underwriters, the Trust, the Administrator and the Investment Adviser in accordance with its terms.
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Very truly yours, CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND |
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Name: Title: |
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ALPS MUTUAL FUNDS SERVICES, INC. |
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CLOUGH CAPITAL PARTNERS L.P. |
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CONFIRMED AND ACCEPTED, as of the date first above written: |
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MERRILL LYNCH & CO. |
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MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED [OTHER CO-MANAGERS] |
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MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED |
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Authorized Signatory | |||
For themselves and as Representatives of the other Underwriters named in Schedule A hereto. |
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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
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Sch A-1
Clough
Global Opportunities Fund
[ ] Common Shares of Beneficial Interest
(No Par Value)
1. The initial public offering price per share for the Securities, determined as provided in said Section 2, shall be $20.00.
2. The purchase price per share for the Securities to be paid by the several Underwriters shall be $[ ], being an amount equal to the initial public offering price set forth above less $[ ] per share; provided that the purchase price per share for any Option Securities purchased upon the exercise of the overallotment option described in Section 2(b) shall be reduced by an amount per share equal to any dividends or distributions declared by the Trust and payable on the Initial Securities but not payable on the Option Securities.
Sch B-1
Oral Information, if any, included as part of the General Disclosure Package
Sch C-1
Rule 482 Statement
Sch D-1
Exhibit A
FORM OF OPINION OF FUND'S, ADMINISTRATOR'S AND INVESTMENT ADVISER'S
COUNSEL TO BE DELIVERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 5(b)
(i) The Trust has been duly organized and is validly existing as a statutory trust in good standing under the laws of Delaware.
(ii) The Trust has statutory trust power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and to enter into and perform its obligations under the Purchase Agreement.
(iii) The Trust is duly qualified as a foreign business trust to transact business and is in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which such qualification is required, whether by reason of the ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of business, except where the failure so to qualify or to be in good standing would not result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(iv) To the best of our knowledge, the Trust does not have any subsidiaries.
(v) The authorized, issued and outstanding shares of beneficial interest of the Trust is as set forth in the Prospectus under the caption "Description of Capital StructureCommon Shares" (except for subsequent issuances, if any, pursuant to the Purchase Agreement); all issued and outstanding shares of beneficial interest of the Trust have been duly authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and, except as set forth in the Prospectus, non-assessable and have been offered and sold or exchanged by the Trust in compliance with all applicable laws (including, without limitation, federal and state securities laws); the Common Shares conform in all material respects as to legal matters to all statements relating thereto contained in the Prospectus and such description conforms in all material respects to the rights set forth in the instruments defining the same; and to our knowledge none of the outstanding shares of beneficial interest of the Trust was issued in violation of the preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Trust.
(vi) The Securities to be purchased by the Underwriters from the Trust have been duly authorized for issuance and sale to the Underwriters pursuant to the Purchase Agreement and, when issued and delivered by the Trust pursuant to the Purchase Agreement against payment of the consideration set forth in the Purchase Agreement, will be validly issued and fully paid and, except as set forth in the Prospectus, non-assessable and, except as set forth in the Prospectus, no holder of the Securities is or will be subject to personal liability by reason of being such a holder.
(vii) The issuance of the Securities is not subject to preemptive or other similar rights of any securityholder of the Trust.
(viii) The Purchase Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Trust.
(ix) The Registration Statement, including any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, has been declared effective under the 1933 Act; any required filing of the Prospectus pursuant to Rule 497(c) or Rule 497(h) has been made in the manner and within the time period required by Rule 497; and, to our knowledge, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement has been issued under the 1933 Act, and, to the best of our knowledge, no order of suspension or revocation of registration pursuant to Section 8(e) of the 1940 Act has been issued, and no proceedings for any such purpose have been instituted or are pending or threatened by the Commission.
Exh. A-1
(x) The Registration Statement, including any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement and the Rule 430A Information, as applicable, the Prospectus and each amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement and Prospectus as of their respective effective or issue dates (other than the financial statements and supporting schedules included therein or omitted therefrom, as to which we need express no opinion), and the notification on Form N-8A complied as to form in all material respects with the requirements of the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations.
(xi) The form of certificate used to evidence the Common Shares complies in all material respects with all applicable statutory requirements, with any applicable requirements of the declaration of trust and by-laws of the Trust and the requirements of the American Stock Exchange.
(xii) To the best of our knowledge, there is not pending or threatened any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, to which the Trust is a party, or to which the property of the Trust is subject, before or brought by any court or governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, which might reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, or which might reasonably be expected to materially and adversely affect the properties or assets of the Trust or the consummation of the transactions contemplated in the Purchase Agreement or the performance by the Trust of its obligations thereunder.
(xiii) The information in the Prospectus under "Description of Capital Structure" and "Federal Income Tax Matters" and in the Registration Statement under Item 29 (Indemnification), to the extent that it constitutes matters of law, summaries of legal matters, the Trust's declaration of trust and by-laws or legal proceedings, or legal conclusions, has been reviewed by us and is correct in all material respects.
(xiv) Each of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Administration Agreement, the Custody Agreement, the Transfer Agency Agreement and the Purchase Agreement comply in all material respects with all applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, Advisers Act, the Rules and Regulations and the Advisers Act Rules and Regulations.
(xv) The Trust is duly registered with the Commission under the 1940 Act as a closed-end, diversified management investment company; and, to our knowledge, no order of suspension or revocation of such registration has been issued or proceedings therefor initiated or threatened by the Commission.
(xvi) To our knowledge, no person is serving as an officer, trustee or investment adviser of the Trust except in accordance with the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations and the Investment Advisers Act and the Advisers Act Rules and Regulations. Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement and Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement to either of them), to the best of our knowledge, no trustee of the Trust is an "interested person" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust or an "affiliated person" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of an Underwriter.
(xvii) There are no statutes or regulations that are required to be described in the Prospectus that are not described as required.
(xviii) All descriptions in the Registration Statement of contracts and other documents to which the Trust is a party are accurate in all material respects. To the best of our knowledge, there are no franchises, contracts, indentures, mortgages, loan agreements, notes, leases or other instruments required to be described or referred to in the Registration Statement or to be filed as exhibits thereto other than those described or referred to therein or filed or incorporated by reference as exhibits thereto, and the descriptions thereof or references thereto are correct in all material respects.
Exh. A-2
(xix) To our knowledge, the Trust is not in violation of its declaration of trust or by-laws and no default by the Trust exists in the due performance or observance of any material obligation, agreement, covenant or condition contained in any contract, indenture, mortgage, loan agreement, note, lease or other agreement or instrument that is described or referred to in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or filed or incorporated by reference as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, which violations or defaults could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
(xx) To our knowledge, no filing with, or authorization, approval, consent, license, order, registration, qualification or decree of, any court or governmental authority or agency (other than under the 1933 Act, the 1934 Act, the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations, which have been obtained, or as may be required under the securities or blue sky laws of the various states, as to which we need express no opinion) is necessary or required in connection with the due authorization, execution and delivery of the Purchase Agreement or for the offering, issuance or sale of the Securities or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Purchase Agreement.
(xxi) The execution, delivery and performance of the Purchase Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated in the Purchase Agreement and in the Registration Statement (including the issuance and sale of the Securities and the use of the proceeds from the sale of the Securities as described in the Prospectus under the caption "Use of Proceeds") and compliance by the Trust with its obligations under the Purchase Agreement do not and will not, whether with or without the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, conflict with or constitute a breach of, or default or Repayment Event (as defined in Section 1(a)(xii) of the Purchase Agreement) under or result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Trust pursuant to any contract, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan or credit agreement, note, lease or any other agreement or instrument, known to us, to which the Trust is a party or by which it or any of them may be bound, or to which any of the property or assets of the Trust is subject, nor will such action result in any violation of the provisions of the charter or by-laws of the Trust, or any applicable law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ or decree, known to us, of any government, government instrumentality or court, domestic or foreign, having jurisdiction over the Trust or any of its properties, assets or operations.
(xxii) The Purchase Agreement, the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Administration Agreement, the Custody Agreement and the Transfer Agency Agreement have each been duly authorized by all requisite action on the part of the Trust, executed and delivered by the Trust, as of the dates noted therein. Assuming due authorization, execution and delivery by the other parties thereto with respect to the Administration Agreement, the Custody Agreement and the Transfer Agency Agreement, each of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Administration Agreement, the Custody Agreement and the Transfer Agency Agreement constitutes a valid and binding agreement of the Trust, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as affected by bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally, general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law) and an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing.
In addition, we have participated in the preparation of the Registration Statement and the Prospectus and participated in discussions with certain officers, trustees and employees of the Trust, representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accountants who examined the statement of assets and liabilities of the Trust included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, and you and your representatives and we have reviewed certain Trust records and documents. While we have not independently verified and are not passing upon, and do not assume any responsibility for, the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the
Exh. A-3
information contained in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, except to the extent necessary to enable us to give the opinions with respect to the Trust in paragraphs (A)(v), (xiii) and (xviii), on the basis of such participation and review, nothing has come to our attention that would lead us to believe that the Registration Statement (except for financial statements, supporting schedules and other financial data included therein or omitted therefrom, as to which we do not express any belief), at the time such Registration Statement became effective, contained an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or that the Prospectus (except for financial statements, supporting schedules and other financial data included therein or omitted therefrom and for statistical information derived from such financial statements, supporting schedules or other financial data, as to which we do not express any belief), at the time the Prospectus was issued, or at the Closing Time, included or includes an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or omits to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. In addition, nothing has come to our attention that caused us to believe that the documents included in the General Disclosure Package (except for financial statements, supporting schedules and other financial data included therein or omitted therefrom, as to which we do not express any belief), as of the Applicable Time, included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances in which they were made, not misleading. With respect to statements contained in the General Disclosure Package, any statement contained in any of the constituent documents shall be deemed to be modified or superseded to the extent that any information contained in subsequent constituent documents modifies or replaces such document.
(i) The Investment Adviser is duly organized and is validly existing as a partnership in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware.
(ii) The Investment Adviser has full limited partnership power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and to enter into and perform its obligations under the Purchase Agreement.
(iii) The Investment Adviser is duly qualified as a foreign entity to transact business and is in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which such qualification is required, whether by reason of the ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of business, except where the failure to so qualify would not result in a material adverse effect.
(iv) The Investment Adviser is duly registered with the Commission as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act and is not prohibited by the Advisers Act, the Advisers Act Rules and Regulations, the 1940 Act or the Rules and Regulations from acting under the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Trust as contemplated by the Prospectus.
(v) The Purchase Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Investment Adviser, and the Investment Advisory Agreement constitutes a valid and binding obligation of the Investment Adviser, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as affected by bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally and general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).
(vi) To the best of our knowledge, there is not pending or threatened any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, to which the Investment Adviser is a party, or to which the property of the Investment Adviser is subject, before or brought by any court or governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, which might reasonably be expected to result in any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, in the earnings, business affairs or business
Exh. A-4
prospects of the Investment Adviser, materially and adversely affect the properties or assets of the Investment Adviser or materially impair or adversely affect the ability of the Investment Adviser to function as an investment adviser or perform its obligations under the Investment Advisory Agreement, or which is required to be disclosed in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus.
(vii) To our knowledge, there are no franchises, contracts, indentures, mortgages, loan agreements, notes, leases or other instruments required to be described or referred to in the Registration Statement or to be filed as exhibits thereto other than those described or referred to therein or filed or incorporated by reference as exhibits thereto, and the descriptions thereof or references thereto are correct in all material respects.
(viii) To our knowledge, the Investment Adviser is not in violation of its certificate of incorporation, by-laws or other organizational documents and no default by the Investment Adviser exists in the due performance or observance of any material obligation, agreement, covenant or condition contained in any contract, indenture, mortgage, loan agreement, note, lease or other agreement or instrument that is described or referred to in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or filed or incorporated by reference as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.
(ix) No filing with, or authorization, approval, consent, license, order, registration, qualification or decree of, any court or governmental authority or agency, domestic or foreign (other than under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations, which have been obtained, or as may be required under the securities or blue sky laws of the various states, as to which we need express no opinion) is necessary or required in connection with the due authorization, execution and delivery of the Purchase Agreement.
(x) The execution, delivery and performance of the Purchase Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated in the Purchase Agreement and in the Registration Statement and compliance by the Investment Adviser with its obligations under the Purchase Agreement do not and will not, whether with or without the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, conflict with or constitute a breach of, or default or Repayment Event (as defined in Section 1(a)(xii) of the Purchase Agreement) under or result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Investment Adviser pursuant to any contract, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan or credit agreement, note, lease or any other agreement or instrument, known to us, to which the Investment Adviser is a party or by which it or any of them may be bound, or to which any of the property or assets of the Investment Adviser is subject (except for such conflicts, breaches or defaults or liens, charges or encumbrances that would not have a material adverse effect on the Investment Adviser), nor will such action result in any violation of the provisions of the charter or by-laws of the Investment Adviser, or any applicable law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ or decree, known to us, of any government, government instrumentality or court, domestic or foreign, having jurisdiction over the Investment Adviser or any of its properties, assets or operations.
In addition, we have participated in the preparation of the Registration Statement and the Prospectus and participated in discussions with certain officers, trustees and employees of the Trust, representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accountants who examined the statement of assets and liabilities of the Trust included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, and you and your representatives and we have reviewed certain Trust records and documents. While we have not independently verified and are not passing upon, and do not assume any responsibility for, the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the information contained in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, on the basis of such participation and review, nothing has come to our attention that would lead us to believe that the description of the Investment Adviser in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, at the time such Registration Statement became effective, at the time the Prospectus was issued, or at the Closing
Exh. A-5
Time, included or includes an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or omits to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. In addition, nothing has come to our attention that caused us to believe that the description of the Investment Adviser in the documents included in the General Disclosure Package, as of the Applicable Time, included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances in which they were made, not misleading. With respect to statements contained in the General Disclosure Package, any statement contained in any of the constituent documents shall be deemed to be modified or superseded to the extent that any information contained in subsequent constituent documents modifies or replaces such document.
(i) The Administrator is duly incorporated and is validly existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the State of Colorado.
(ii) The Administrator has full corporate power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and to enter into and perform its obligations under the Purchase Agreement.
(iii) The Administrator is duly qualified as a foreign corporation to transact business and is in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which such qualification is required, whether by reason of the ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of business, except where the failure to so qualify would not result in a Material Adverse Effect.
(iv) The Purchase Agreement and the Administration Agreement have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Administrator, and the Administration Agreement constitutes a valid and binding obligation of the Administrator, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as affected by bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally and general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).
(v) To our knowledge, there is not pending or threatened any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, to which the Administrator is a party, or to which the property of the Administrator is subject, before or brought by any court or governmental agency or body, domestic or foreign, which would reasonably be expected to result in any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Administrator, materially and adversely affect the properties or assets of the Administrator or materially impair or adversely affect the ability of the Administrator to function as an administrator or perform its obligations under the Administration Agreement, or which is required to be disclosed in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus.
(vi) To our knowledge, there are no franchises, contracts, indentures, mortgages, loan agreements, notes, leases or other instruments required to be described or referred to in the Registration Statement or to be filed as exhibits thereto other than those described or referred to therein or filed or incorporated by reference as exhibits thereto, and the descriptions thereof or references thereto are correct in all material respects.
(vii) To our knowledge, the Administrator is not in violation of its certificate of incorporation, by-laws or other organizational documents and no default by the Administrator exists in the due performance or observance of any material obligation, agreement, covenant or condition contained in any contract, indenture, mortgage, loan agreement, note, lease or other agreement or instrument that is described or referred to in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus or filed or incorporated by reference as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.
Exh. A-6
(viii) To our knowledge, no filing with, or authorization, approval, consent, license, order, registration, qualification or decree of, any court or governmental authority or agency, domestic or foreign (other than under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act and the Rules and Regulations, which have been obtained, or as may be required under the securities or blue sky laws of the various states, as to which we need express no opinion) is necessary or required in connection with the due authorization, execution and delivery of the Purchase Agreement.
(ix) The execution, delivery and performance of the Purchase Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated in the Purchase Agreement and in the Registration Statement and compliance by the Administrator with its obligations under the Purchase Agreement do not and will not, whether with or without the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, conflict with or constitute a breach of, or default or Repayment Event (as defined in Section 1(a)(xii) of the Purchase Agreement) under or result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Administrator pursuant to any contract, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan or credit agreement, note, lease or any other agreement or instrument, known to us, to which the Administrator is a party or by which it or any of them may be bound, or to which any of the property or assets of the Administrator is subject (except for such conflicts, breaches or defaults or liens, charges or encumbrances that would not have a Material Adverse Effect), nor will such action result in any violation of the provisions of the charter or by-laws of the Administrator, or any applicable law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment, order, writ or decree, known to us, of any government, government instrumentality or court, domestic or foreign, having jurisdiction over the Administrator or any of its properties, assets or operations.
In addition, we have participated in the preparation of the Registration Statement and the Prospectus and participated in discussions with certain officers, trustees and employees of the Trust, representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accountants who examined the statement of assets and liabilities of the Trust included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, and you and your representatives and we have reviewed certain Trust records and documents. While we have not independently verified and are not passing upon, and do not assume any responsibility for, the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the information contained in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, on the basis of such participation and review, nothing has come to our attention that would lead us to believe that the Registration Statement (except for financial statements, supporting schedules and other financial data included therein or omitted therefrom, as to which we do not express any belief), at the time such Registration Statement became effective, contained an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or that the Prospectus (except for financial statements, supporting schedules and other financial data included therein or omitted therefrom and for statistical information derived from such financial statements, supporting schedules or other financial data, as to which we do not express any belief), at the time the Prospectus was issued, or at the Closing Time, included or includes an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or omits to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. In addition, nothing has come to our attention that caused us to believe that the documents included in the General Disclosure Package (except for financial statements, supporting schedules and other financial data included therein or omitted therefrom, as to which we do not express any belief), as of the Applicable Time, included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances in which they were made, not misleading. With respect to statements contained in the General Disclosure Package, any statement contained in any of the constituent documents shall be deemed to be modified or superseded to the extent that any information contained in subsequent constituent documents modifies or replaces such document.
Exh. A-7
Exhibit 99(h)(2)
ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION AGREEMENT
ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION AGREEMENT (the "Agreement"), dated as of April [ ], 2006, between Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("Merrill Lynch") and Clough Capital Partners L.P. ("Clough").
WHEREAS, Clough Global Opportunities Fund (including any successor by merger or otherwise, the "Trust") is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and its common shares are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended;
WHEREAS, Clough is the investment adviser of the Trust;
WHEREAS, Merrill Lynch is acting as a lead underwriter in an offering of the Trust's common shares;
WHEREAS, Clough desires to provide additional compensation to Merrill Lynch for acting as lead underwriter in an offering of the Trust's common shares; and
WHEREAS, Clough desires to retain Merrill Lynch to provide after-market support services designed to maintain the visibility of the Trust on an ongoing basis, and Merrill Lynch is willing to render such services;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual terms and conditions set forth below, the parties hereto agree as follows:
reimbursement of $.0067 per common share payable by the Trust to the underwriters pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the amount of distribution assistance fee of up to .10% of the amount of the initial offering proceeds (up to an amount equal to $.04 per common share of the Fund), plus the underwriter's counsel fees, shall not exceed 4.5% of the total price of the Trust's common shares offered by the Prospectus. The sum total of all compensation to or reimbursement of underwriters in connection with the offering, including sales load and all forms of additional compensation, shall be limited to 9% of the total price of the Trust's common shares offered by the Prospectus. "Managed Assets" is defined as the total assets of the Trust (including any assets attributable to any Preferred Shares that may be outstanding or otherwise attributable to the use of leverage). All quarterly fees payable hereunder shall be paid to Merrill Lynch within 30 days following the end of each calendar quarter.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have duly executed this Additional Compensation Agreement as of the date first above written.
CLOUGH CAPITAL PARTNERS L.P. |
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Merrill Lynch & Co. Indemnification Agreement
April [ ], 2006
Merrill
Lynch & Co.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated
4 World Financial Center
New York, New York 10080
Ladies and Gentlemen:
In connection with the engagement of Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("Merrill Lynch") to advise and assist the undersigned (together with its affiliates and subsidiaries, referred to as the "Company") with the matters set forth in the Additional Compensation Agreement dated April [ ], 2006 between the Company and Merrill Lynch (the "Agreement"), in the event that Merrill Lynch becomes involved in any capacity in any claim, suit, action, proceeding, investigation or inquiry (including, without limitation, any shareholder or derivative action or arbitration proceeding) (collectively, a "Proceeding") in connection with any matter in any way relating to or referred to in the Agreement or arising out of the matters contemplated by the Agreement, the Company agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Merrill Lynch harmless to the fullest extent permitted by law, from and against any losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses in connection with any matter in any way relating to or referred to in the Agreement or arising out of the matters contemplated by the Agreement, except to the extent that it shall be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a judgment that has become final in that it is no longer subject to appeal or other review, that such losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses resulted solely from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Merrill Lynch. In addition, in the event that Merrill Lynch becomes involved in any capacity in any Proceeding in connection with any matter in any way relating to or referred to in the Agreement or arising out of the matters contemplated by the Agreement, the Company will reimburse Merrill Lynch for its legal and other expenses (including the cost of any investigation and preparation) as such expenses are incurred by Merrill Lynch in connection therewith. If such indemnification were not to be available for any reason, the Company agrees to contribute to the losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses involved (i) in the proportion appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received or sought to be received by the Company and its stockholders and affiliates and other constituencies, on the one hand, and Merrill Lynch, on the other hand, in the matters contemplated by the Agreement or (ii) if (but only if and to the extent) the allocation provided for in clause (i) is for any reason held unenforceable, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause (i) but also the relative fault of the Company and its stockholders and affiliates and other constituencies, on the one hand, and the party entitled to contribution, on the other hand, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The Company agrees that for the purposes of this paragraph the relative benefits received, or sought to be received, by the Company and its stockholders and affiliates, on the one hand, and the party entitled to contribution, on the other hand, of a transaction as contemplated shall be deemed to be in the same proportion that the total value received or paid or contemplated to be received or paid by the Company or its stockholders or affiliates and other constituencies, as the case may be, as a result of or in connection with the transaction (whether or not consummated) for which Merrill Lynch has been retained to perform financial services bears to the fees paid to Merrill Lynch under the Agreement; provided, that in no event shall the Company contribute less than the amount necessary to assure that Merrill Lynch is not liable for losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses in excess of the amount of fees actually received by Merrill Lynch pursuant to the Agreement. Relative fault shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether any alleged untrue statement or omission or any other alleged conduct relates to information provided by the Company or other conduct by the
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Company (or its employees or other agents), on the one hand, or by Merrill Lynch, on the other hand. The Company will not settle any Proceeding in respect of which indemnity may be sought hereunder, whether or not Merrill Lynch is an actual or potential party to such Proceeding, without Merrill Lynch's prior written consent, unless such settlement (i) includes an unconditional release of Merrill Lynch from all liability arising out of such Proceeding and (ii) does not include a statement as to or an admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of Merrill Lynch. For purposes of this Indemnification Agreement, Merrill Lynch shall include Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, any of its affiliates, each other person, if any, controlling Merrill Lynch or any of its affiliates, their respective officers, current and former directors, employees and agents, and the successors and assigns of all of the foregoing persons. The foregoing indemnity and contribution agreement shall be in addition to any rights that any indemnified party may have at common law or otherwise.
The Company agrees that neither Merrill Lynch nor any of its affiliates, directors, agents, employees or controlling persons shall have any liability to the Company or any person asserting claims on behalf of or in right of the Company in connection with or as a result of either Merrill Lynch's engagement under the Agreement or any matter referred to in the Agreement, including, without limitation, related services and activities prior to the date of the Agreement, except to the extent that it shall be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a judgment that has become final in that it is no longer subject to appeal or other review that any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses incurred by the Company resulted solely from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Merrill Lynch in performing the services that are the subject of the Agreement.
Nothwithstanding any provision contained herein, in no event shall Merrill Lynch be entitled to indemnification by the Company hereunder from and against any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses in respect of which indemnification payments have been previously made to Merrill Lynch under the Purchase Agreement (as defined in the Agreement).
THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT AND ANY CLAIM, COUNTERCLAIM OR DISPUTE OF ANY KIND OR NATURE WHATSOEVER ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT ("CLAIM"), DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH BELOW, NO CLAIM MAY BE COMMENCED, PROSECUTED OR CONTINUED IN ANY COURT OTHER THAN THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK LOCATED IN THE CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW YORK OR IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK, WHICH COURTS SHALL HAVE EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OVER THE ADJUDICATION OF SUCH MATTERS, AND THE COMPANY AND MERRILL LYNCH CONSENT TO THE JURISDICTION OF SUCH COURTS AND PERSONAL SERVICE WITH RESPECT THERETO. THE COMPANY HEREBY CONSENTS TO PERSONAL JURISDICTION, SERVICE AND VENUE IN ANY COURT IN WHICH ANY CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT IS BROUGHT BY ANY THIRD PARTY AGAINST MERRILL LYNCH OR ANY INDEMNIFIED PARTY. EACH OF MERRILL LYNCH AND THE COMPANY WAIVES ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY PROCEEDING OR CLAIM (WHETHER BASED UPON CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE) ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT. THE COMPANY AGREES THAT A FINAL JUDGMENT IN ANY PROCEEDING OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT BROUGHT IN ANY SUCH COURT SHALL BE CONCLUSIVE AND BINDING UPON THE COMPANY AND MAY BE ENFORCED IN ANY OTHER COURTS TO THE JURISDICTION OF WHICH THE COMPANY IS OR MAY BE SUBJECT, BY SUIT UPON SUCH JUDGMENT.
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The foregoing Indemnification Agreement shall remain in full force and effect notwithstanding any termination of Merrill Lynch's engagement. This Indemnification Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same agreement.
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Exhibit 99(j)
AGREEMENT, dated as of April , 2006 between Clough Global Opportunities Fund., organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal office and place of business at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200 Denver Colorado 80202 (the "Fund") and The Bank of New York, a New York corporation authorized to do a banking business having its principal office and place of business at One Wall Street, New York, New York 10286 ("Custodian").
W I T N E S S E T H:
that for and in consideration of the mutual promises hereinafter set forth the Fund and Custodian agree as follows:
Whenever used in this Agreement, the following words shall have the meanings set forth below:
1. "Authorized Person" shall be any person, whether or not an officer or employee of the Fund, duly authorized by the Fund's board to execute any Certificate or to give any Oral Instruction with respect to one or more Accounts, such persons to be designated in a Certificate annexed hereto as Schedule I hereto or such other Certificate as may be received by Custodian from time to time.
2. "BNY Affiliate" shall mean any office, branch or subsidiary of The Bank of New York Company, Inc.
3. "Book-Entry System" shall mean the Federal Reserve/Treasury book-entry system for receiving and delivering securities, its successors and nominees.
4. "Business Day" shall mean any day on which Custodian and relevant Depositories are open for business.
5. "Certificate" shall mean any notice, instruction, or other instrument in writing, authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to Custodian, which is actually received by Custodian by letter or facsimile transmission and signed on behalf of the Fund by an Authorized Person or a person reasonably believed by Custodian to be an Authorized Person.
6. "Composite Currency Unit" shall mean the Euro or any other composite currency unit consisting of the aggregate of specified amounts of specified currencies, as such unit may be constituted from time to time.
7. "Depository" shall include (a) the Book-Entry System, (b) the Depository Trust Company, (c) any other clearing agency or securities depository registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission identified to the Fund from time to time, and (d) the respective successors and nominees of the foregoing.
8. "Foreign Depository" shall mean (a) Euroclear, (b) Clearstream Banking, societe anonyme, (c) each Eligible Securities Depository as defined in Rule 17f-7 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, identified to the Fund from time to time, and (d) the respective successors and nominees of the foregoing.
9. "Instructions" shall mean communications transmitted by electronic or telecommunications media, including S.W.I.F.T., computer-to-computer interface, or dedicated transmission lines.
10. "Oral Instructions" shall mean verbal instructions received by Custodian from an Authorized Person or from a person reasonably believed by Custodian to be an Authorized Person.
11. "Series" shall mean the various portfolios, if any, of the Fund listed on Schedule II hereto, and if none are listed references to Series shall be references to the Fund.
12. "Securities" shall include, without limitation, any common stock and other equity securities, bonds, debentures and other debt securities, notes, mortgages or other obligations, and any instruments representing rights to receive, purchase, or subscribe for the same, or representing any other rights or interests therein (whether represented by a certificate or held in a Depository or by a Subcustodian).
13. "Subcustodian" shall mean a bank (including any branch thereof) or other financial institution (other than a Foreign Depository) located outside the U.S. which is utilized by Custodian in connection with the purchase, sale or custody of Securities hereunder and identified to the Fund from time to time, and their respective successors and nominees.
ARTICLE II
APPOINTMENT OF CUSTODIAN; ACCOUNTS;
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND COVENANTS
1. (a) The Fund hereby appoints Custodian as custodian of all Securities and cash at any time delivered to Custodian during the term of this Agreement, and authorizes Custodian to hold Securities in registered form in its name or the name of its nominees. Custodian hereby accepts such appointment and agrees to establish and maintain one or more securities accounts and cash accounts for each Series in which Custodian will hold Securities and cash as provided herein. Custodian shall maintain books and records segregating the assets of each Series from the assets of any other Series. Such accounts (each, an "Account"; collectively, the "Accounts") shall be in the name of the Fund.
(b) Custodian may from time to time establish on its books and records such sub-accounts within each Account as the Fund and Custodian may agree upon (each a "Special Account"), and Custodian shall reflect therein such assets as the Fund may specify in a Certificate or Instructions.
(c) Custodian may from time to time establish pursuant to a written agreement with and for the benefit of a broker, dealer, future commission merchant or other third party identified in a Certificate or Instructions such accounts on such terms and conditions as the Fund and Custodian shall agree, and Custodian shall transfer to such account such Securities and money as the Fund may specify in a Certificate or Instructions.
2. The Fund hereby represents and warrants, which representations and warranties shall be continuing and shall be deemed to be reaffirmed upon each delivery of a Certificate or each giving of Oral Instructions or Instructions by the Fund, that:
(a) It is duly organized and existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, with full power to carry on its business as now conducted, to enter into this Agreement, and to perform its obligations hereunder;
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Fund, approved by a resolution of its board, constitutes a valid and legally binding obligation of the Fund, enforceable in accordance with its terms, and there is no statute, regulation, rule, order or judgment binding on it, and no provision of its charter or by-laws, nor of any mortgage, indenture, credit agreement or other contract binding on it or affecting its property, which would prohibit its execution or performance of this Agreement;
(c) It is conducting its business in substantial compliance with all applicable laws and requirements, both state and federal, and has obtained all regulatory licenses, approvals and consents necessary to carry on its business as now conducted;
(d) It will not use the services provided by Custodian hereunder in any manner that is, or will result in, a violation of any law, rule or regulation applicable to the Fund;
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(e) Its board or its foreign custody manager, as defined in Rule 17f-5 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "'40 Act"), has determined that use of each Subcustodian (including any Replacement Custodian) and each Depository which Custodian or any Subcustodian is authorized to utilize in accordance with Section 1(a) of Article III hereof, satisfies the applicable requirements of the '40 Act and Rules 17f-4 or 17f-5 thereunder, as the case may be;
(f) The Fund or its investment adviser has determined that the custody arrangements of each Foreign Depository provide reasonable safeguards against the custody risks associated with maintaining assets with such Foreign Depository within the meaning of Rule 17f-7 under the '40 Act;
(g) It is fully informed of the protections and risks associated with various methods of transmitting Instructions and Oral Instructions and delivering Certificates to Custodian, understands that there may be more secure methods of transmitting or delivering the same than the methods selected by the Fund, agrees that the security procedures (if any) to be utilized provide a commercially reasonable degree of protection in light of its particular needs and circumstances, and acknowledges and agrees that Instructions need not be reviewed by Custodian, may conclusively be presumed by Custodian to have been given by person(s) duly authorized, and may be acted upon as given;
(h) It shall manage its borrowings, including, without limitation, any advance or overdraft (including any day-light overdraft) in the Accounts, so that the aggregate of its total borrowings for each Series does not exceed the amount such Series is permitted to borrow under the '40 Act;
(i) Its transmission or giving of, and Custodian acting upon and in reliance on, Certificates, Instructions, or Oral Instructions pursuant to this Agreement shall at all times comply with the '40 Act;
(j) It shall impose and maintain restrictions on the destinations to which cash may be disbursed by Instructions to ensure that each disbursement is for a proper purpose; and
(k) It has the right to make the pledge and grant the security interest and security entitlement to Custodian contained in Section 1 of Article V hereof, free of any right of redemption or prior claim of any other person or entity, such pledge and such grants shall have a first priority subject to no setoffs, counterclaims, or other liens or grants prior to or on a parity therewith, and it shall take such additional steps as Custodian may require to assure such priority.
3. The Fund hereby covenants that it shall from time to time complete and execute and deliver to Custodian upon Custodian's request a Form FR U-1 (or successor form) whenever the Fund borrows from Custodian any money to be used for the purchase or carrying of margin stock as defined in Federal Reserve Regulation U.
ARTICLE III
CUSTODY AND RELATED SERVICES
1. (a) Subject to the terms hereof, the Fund hereby authorizes Custodian to hold any Securities received by it from time to time for the Fund's account. Custodian shall be entitled to utilize Depositories, Subcustodians, and, subject to subsection(c) of this Section 1, Foreign Depositories, to the extent possible in connection with its performance hereunder. Securities and cash held in a Depository or Foreign Depository will be held subject to the rules, terms and conditions of such entity. Securities and cash held through Subcustodians shall be held subject to the terms and conditions of Custodian's agreements with such Subcustodians. Subcustodians may be authorized to hold Securities in Foreign Depositories in which such Subcustodians participate. Unless otherwise required by local law or practice or a particular subcustodian agreement, Securities deposited with a Subcustodian, a Depositary or a Foreign Depository will be held in a commingled account, in the name of Custodian, holding only
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Securities held by Custodian as custodian for its customers. Custodian shall identify on its books and records the Securities and cash belonging to the Fund, whether held directly or indirectly through Depositories, Foreign Depositories, or Subcustodians. Custodian shall, directly or indirectly through Subcustodians, Depositories, or Foreign Depositories, endeavor, to the extent feasible, to hold Securities in the country or other jurisdiction in which the principal trading market for such Securities is located, where such Securities are to be presented for cancellation and/or payment and/or registration, or where such Securities are acquired. Custodian at any time may cease utilizing any Subcustodian and/or may replace a Subcustodian with a different Subcustodian (the "Replacement Subcustodian"). In the event Custodian selects a Replacement Subcustodian, Custodian shall not utilize such Replacement Subcustodian until after the Fund's board or foreign custody manager has determined that utilization of such Replacement Subcustodian satisfies the requirements of the '40 Act and Rule 17f-5 thereunder.
(b) Unless Custodian has received a Certificate or Instructions to the contrary, Custodian shall hold Securities indirectly through a Subcustodian only if (i) the Securities are not subject to any right, charge, security interest, lien or claim of any kind in favor of such Subcustodian or its creditors or operators, including a receiver or trustee in bankruptcy or similar authority, except for a claim of payment for the safe custody or administration of Securities on behalf of the Fund by such Subcustodian, and (ii) beneficial ownership of the Securities is freely transferable without the payment of money or value other than for safe custody or administration.
(c) With respect to each Foreign Depository, Custodian shall exercise reasonable care, prudence, and diligence (i) to provide the Fund with an analysis of the custody risks associated with maintaining assets with the Foreign Depository, and (ii) to monitor such custody risks on a continuing basis and promptly notify the Fund of any material change in such risks. The Fund acknowledges and agrees that such analysis and monitoring shall be made on the basis of, and limited by, information gathered from Subcustodians or through publicly available information otherwise obtained by Custodian, and shall not include any evaluation of Country Risks. As used herein the term "Country Risks" shall mean with respect to any Foreign Depository: (a) the financial infrastructure of the country in which it is organized, (b) such country's prevailing custody and settlement practices, (c) nationalization, expropriation or other governmental actions, (d) such country's regulation of the banking or securities industry, (e) currency controls, restrictions, devaluations or fluctuations, and (f) market conditions which affect the order execution of securities transactions or affect the value of securities.
2. Custodian shall furnish the Fund with an advice of daily transactions (including a confirmation of each transfer of Securities) and a monthly summary of all transfers to or from the Accounts.
3. With respect to all Securities held hereunder, Custodian shall, unless otherwise instructed to the contrary:
(a) Receive all income and other payments and advise the Fund as promptly as practicable of any such amounts due but not paid;
(b) Present for payment and receive the amount paid upon all Securities which may mature and advise the Fund as promptly as practicable of any such amounts due but not paid;
(c) Forward to the Fund copies of all information or documents that it may actually receive from an issuer of Securities which, in the opinion of Custodian, are intended for the beneficial owner of Securities;
(d) Execute, as custodian, any certificates of ownership, affidavits, declarations or other certificates under any tax laws now or hereafter in effect in connection with the collection of bond and note coupons;
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(e) Hold directly or through a Depository, a Foreign Depository, or a Subcustodian all rights and similar Securities issued with respect to any Securities credited to an Account hereunder; and
(f) Endorse for collection checks, drafts or other negotiable instruments.
4. (a) Custodian shall notify the Fund of rights or discretionary actions with respect to Securities held hereunder, and of the date or dates by when such rights must be exercised or such action must be taken, provided that Custodian has actually received, from the issuer or the relevant Depository (with respect to Securities issued in the United States) or from the relevant Subcustodian, Foreign Depository, or a nationally or internationally recognized bond or corporate action service to which Custodian subscribes, timely notice of such rights or discretionary corporate action or of the date or dates such rights must be exercised or such action must be taken. Absent actual receipt of such notice, Custodian shall have no liability for failing to so notify the Fund.
(b) Whenever Securities (including, but not limited to, warrants, options, tenders, options to tender or non-mandatory puts or calls) confer discretionary rights on the Fund or provide for discretionary action or alternative courses of action by the Fund, the Fund shall be responsible for making any decisions relating thereto and for directing Custodian to act. In order for Custodian to act, it must receive the Fund's Certificate or Instructions at Custodian's offices, addressed as Custodian may from time to time request, not later than noon (New York time) at least two (2) Business Days prior to the last scheduled date to act with respect to such Securities (or such earlier date or time as Custodian may specify to the Fund). Absent Custodian's timely receipt of such Certificate or Instructions, Custodian shall not be liable for failure to take any action relating to or to exercise any rights conferred by such Securities.
5. All voting rights with respect to Securities, however registered, shall be exercised by the Fund or its designee. For Securities issued in the United States, Custodian's only duty shall be to mail to the Fund any documents (including proxy statements, annual reports and signed proxies) actually received by Custodian relating to the exercise of such voting rights. With respect to Securities issued outside of the United States, Custodian's only duty shall be to provide the Fund with access to a provider of global proxy services at the Fund's request. The Fund shall be responsible for all costs associated with its use of such services.
6. Custodian shall promptly advise the Fund upon Custodian's actual receipt of notification of the partial redemption, partial payment or other action affecting less than all Securities of the relevant class. If Custodian, any Subcustodian, any Depository, or any Foreign Depository holds any Securities in which the Fund has an interest as part of a fungible mass, Custodian, such Subcustodian, Depository, or Foreign Depository may select the Securities to participate in such partial redemption, partial payment or other action in any non-discriminatory manner that it customarily uses to make such selection.
7. Custodian shall not under any circumstances accept bearer interest coupons which have been stripped from United States federal, state or local government or agency securities unless explicitly agreed to by Custodian in writing.
8. The Fund shall be liable for all taxes, assessments, duties and other governmental charges, including any interest or penalty with respect thereto ("Taxes"), with respect to any cash or Securities held on behalf of the Fund or any transaction related thereto. The Fund shall indemnify Custodian and each Subcustodian for the amount of any Tax that Custodian, any such Subcustodian or any other withholding agent is required under applicable laws (whether by assessment or otherwise) to pay on behalf of, or in respect of income earned by or payments or distributions made to or for the account of the Fund (including any payment of Tax required by reason of an earlier failure to withhold). Custodian shall, or shall instruct the applicable Subcustodian or other withholding agent to, withhold the amount of any Tax which is required to be withheld under applicable law upon collection of any dividend,
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interest or other distribution made with respect to any Security and any proceeds or income from the sale, loan or other transfer of any Security. In the event that Custodian or any Subcustodian is required under applicable law to pay any Tax on behalf of the Fund, Custodian is hereby authorized to withdraw cash from any cash account in the amount required to pay such Tax and to use such cash, or to remit such cash to the appropriate Subcustodian or other withholding agent, for the timely payment of such Tax in the manner required by applicable law. If the aggregate amount of cash in all cash accounts is not sufficient to pay such Tax, Custodian shall promptly notify the Fund of the additional amount of cash (in the appropriate currency) required, and the Fund shall directly deposit such additional amount in the appropriate cash account promptly after receipt of such notice, for use by Custodian as specified herein. In the event that Custodian reasonably believes that Fund is eligible, pursuant to applicable law or to the provisions of any tax treaty, for a reduced rate of, or exemption from, any Tax which is otherwise required to be withheld or paid on behalf of the Fund under any applicable law, Custodian shall, or shall instruct the applicable Subcustodian or withholding agent to, either withhold or pay such Tax at such reduced rate or refrain from withholding or paying such Tax, as appropriate; provided that Custodian shall have received from the Fund all documentary evidence of residence or other qualification for such reduced rate or exemption required to be received under such applicable law or treaty. In the event that Custodian reasonably believes that a reduced rate of, or exemption from, any Tax is obtainable only by means of an application for refund, Custodian and the applicable Subcustodian shall have no responsibility for the accuracy or validity of any forms or documentation provided by the Fund to Custodian hereunder. The Fund hereby agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Custodian and each Subcustodian in respect of any liability arising from any underwithholding or underpayment of any Tax which results from the inaccuracy or invalidity of any such forms or other documentation, and such obligation to indemnify shall be a continuing obligation of the Fund, its successors and assigns notwithstanding the termination of this Agreement.
9. (a) For the purpose of settling Securities and foreign exchange transactions, the Fund shall provide Custodian with sufficient immediately available funds for all transactions by such time and date as conditions in the relevant market dictate. As used herein, "sufficient immediately available funds" shall mean either (i) sufficient cash denominated in U.S. dollars to purchase the necessary foreign currency, or (ii) sufficient applicable foreign currency, to settle the transaction. Custodian shall provide the Fund with immediately available funds each day which result from the actual settlement of all sale transactions, based upon advices received by Custodian from Subcustodians, Depositories, and Foreign Depositories. Such funds shall be in U.S. dollars or such other currency as the Fund may specify to Custodian.
(b) Any foreign exchange transaction effected by Custodian in connection with this Agreement may be entered with Custodian or a BNY Affiliate acting as principal or otherwise through customary banking channels. The Fund may issue a standing Certificate or Instructions with respect to foreign exchange transactions, but Custodian may establish rules or limitations concerning any foreign exchange facility made available to the Fund. The Fund shall bear all risks of investing in Securities or holding cash denominated in a foreign currency.
(c) To the extent that Custodian has agreed to provide pricing or other information services in connection with this Agreement, Custodian is authorized to utilize any vendor (including brokers and dealers of Securities) reasonably believed by Custodian to be reliable to provide such information. The Fund understands that certain pricing information with respect to complex financial instruments ( e.g. , derivatives) may be based on calculated amounts rather than actual market transactions and may not reflect actual market values, and that the variance between such calculated amounts and actual market values may or may not be material. Where vendors do not provide information for particular Securities or other property, an Authorized Person may advise Custodian in a Certificate regarding the fair market value of, or provide other information with respect to, such Securities or property as determined by it in good faith. Custodian shall not be liable for any loss, damage or expense incurred
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as a result of errors or omissions with respect to any pricing or other information utilized by Custodian hereunder.
10. Custodian shall promptly send to the Fund (a) any reports it receives from a Depository on such Depository's system of internal accounting control, and (b) such reports on its own system of internal accounting control as the Fund may reasonably request from time to time.
11. Until such time as Custodian receives a certificate to the contrary with respect to a particular Security, Custodian may release the identity of the Fund to an issuer which requests such information pursuant to the Shareholder Communications Act of 1985 for the specific purpose of direct communications between such issuer and shareholder.
ARTICLE IV
PURCHASE AND SALE OF SECURITIES;
CREDITS TO ACCOUNT
1. Promptly after each purchase or sale of Securities by the Fund, the Fund shall deliver to Custodian a Certificate or Instructions, or with respect to a purchase or sale of a Security generally required to be settled on the same day the purchase or sale is made, Oral Instructions specifying all information Custodian may reasonably request to settle such purchase or sale. Custodian shall account for all purchases and sales of Securities on the actual settlement date unless otherwise agreed by Custodian.
2. The Fund understands that when Custodian is instructed to deliver Securities against payment, delivery of such Securities and receipt of payment therefor may not be completed simultaneously. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, settlements, payments and deliveries of Securities may be effected by Custodian or any Subcustodian in accordance with the customary or established securities trading or securities processing practices and procedures in the jurisdiction in which the transaction occurs, including, without limitation, delivery to a purchaser or dealer therefor (or agent) against receipt with the expectation of receiving later payment for such Securities. The Fund assumes full responsibility for all risks, including, without limitation, credit risks, involved in connection with such deliveries of Securities.
3. Custodian may, as a matter of bookkeeping convenience or by separate agreement with the Fund, credit the Account with the proceeds from the sale, redemption or other disposition of Securities or interest, dividends or other distributions payable on Securities prior to its actual receipt of final payment therefor. All such credits shall be conditional until Custodian's actual receipt of final payment and may be reversed by Custodian to the extent that final payment is not received. Payment with respect to a transaction will not be "final" until Custodian shall have received immediately available funds which under applicable local law, rule and/or practice are irreversible and not subject to any security interest, levy or other encumbrance, and which are specifically applicable to such transaction.
ARTICLE V
OVERDRAFTS OR INDEBTEDNESS
1. If Custodian should in its sole discretion advance funds on behalf of any Series which results in an overdraft (including, without limitation, any day-light overdraft) because the money held by Custodian in an Account for such Series shall be insufficient to pay the total amount payable upon a purchase of Securities specifically allocated to such Series, as set forth in a Certificate, Instructions or Oral Instructions, or if an overdraft arises in the separate account of a Series for some other reason, including, without limitation, because of a reversal of a conditional credit or the purchase of any currency, or if the Fund is for any other reason indebted to Custodian with respect to a Series, including any indebtedness to The Bank of New York under the Fund's Cash Management and Related Services Agreement (except a borrowing for investment or for temporary or emergency purposes using
7
Securities as collateral pursuant to a separate agreement and subject to the provisions of Section 2 of this Article), such overdraft or indebtedness shall be deemed to be a loan made by Custodian to the Fund for such Series payable on demand and shall bear interest from the date incurred at a rate per annum ordinarily charged by Custodian to its institutional customers, as such rate may be adjusted from time to time. In addition, the Fund hereby agrees that Custodian shall to the maximum extent permitted by law have a continuing lien, security interest, and security entitlement in and to any property, including, without limitation, any investment property or any financial asset, of such Series at any time held by Custodian for the benefit of such Series or in which such Series may have an interest which is then in Custodian's possession or control or in possession or control of any third party acting in Custodian's behalf. The Fund authorizes Custodian, in its sole discretion, at any time to charge any such overdraft or indebtedness together with interest due thereon against any balance of account standing to such Series' credit on Custodian's books.
2. If the Fund borrows money from any bank (including Custodian if the borrowing is pursuant to a separate agreement) for investment or for temporary or emergency purposes using Securities held by Custodian hereunder as collateral for such borrowings, the Fund shall deliver to Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect to each such borrowing: (a) the Series to which such borrowing relates; (b) the name of the bank, (c) the amount of the borrowing, (d) the time and date, if known, on which the loan is to be entered into, (e) the total amount payable to the Fund on the borrowing date, (f) the Securities to be delivered as collateral for such loan, including the name of the issuer, the title and the number of shares or the principal amount of any particular Securities, and (g) a statement specifying whether such loan is for investment purposes or for temporary or emergency purposes and that such loan is in conformance with the '40 Act and the Fund's prospectus. Custodian shall deliver on the borrowing date specified in a Certificate the specified collateral against payment by the lending bank of the total amount of the loan payable, provided that the same conforms to the total amount payable as set forth in the Certificate. Custodian may, at the option of the lending bank, keep such collateral in its possession, but such collateral shall be subject to all rights therein given the lending bank by virtue of any promissory note or loan agreement. Custodian shall deliver such Securities as additional collateral as may be specified in a Certificate to collateralize further any transaction described in this Section. The Fund shall cause all Securities released from collateral status to be returned directly to Custodian, and Custodian shall receive from time to time such return of collateral as may be tendered to it. In the event that the Fund fails to specify in a Certificate the Series, the name of the issuer, the title and number of shares or the principal amount of any particular Securities to be delivered as collateral by Custodian, Custodian shall not be under any obligation to deliver any Securities.
ARTICLE VI
SALE AND REDEMPTION OF SHARES
1. Whenever the Fund shall sell any shares issued by the Fund ("Shares") it shall deliver to Custodian a Certificate or Instructions specifying the amount of money and/or Securities to be received by Custodian for the sale of such Shares and specifically allocated to an Account for such Series.
2. Upon receipt of such money, Custodian shall credit such money to an Account in the name of the Series for which such money was received.
3. Except as provided hereinafter, whenever the Fund desires Custodian to make payment out of the money held by Custodian hereunder in connection with a redemption of any Shares, it shall furnish to Custodian (a) a resolution of the Fund's board directing the Fund's transfer agent to redeem the Shares, and (b) a Certificate or Instructions specifying the total amount to be paid for such Shares. Custodian shall make payment of such total amount to the transfer agent specified in such Certificate or Instructions out of the money held in an Account of the appropriate Series.
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ARTICLE VII
PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS OR DISTRIBUTIONS
1. Whenever the Fund shall determine to pay a dividend or distribution on Shares it shall furnish to Custodian Instructions or a Certificate setting forth with respect to the Series specified therein the date of the declaration of such dividend or distribution, the total amount payable, and the payment date.
2. Upon the payment date specified in such Instructions or Certificate, Custodian shall pay out of the money held for the account of such Series the total amount payable to the dividend agent of the Fund specified therein.
ARTICLE VIII
CONCERNING CUSTODIAN
1. (a) Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, Custodian shall not be liable for any costs, expenses, damages, liabilities or claims, including attorneys' and accountants' fees (collectively, "Losses"), incurred by or asserted against the Fund, except those Losses arising out of Custodian's own negligence or willful misconduct. Custodian shall have no liability whatsoever for the action or inaction of any Depositories, or, except to the extent such action or inaction is a direct result of the Custodian's failure to fulfill its duties hereunder, of any Foreign Depositories. With respect to any Losses incurred by the Fund as a result of the acts or any failures to act by any Subcustodian (other than a BNY Affiliate), Custodian shall take appropriate action to recover such Losses from such Subcustodian; and Custodian's sole responsibility and liability to the Fund shall be limited to amounts so received from such Subcustodian (exclusive of costs and expenses incurred by Custodian). In no event shall Custodian be liable to the Fund or any third party for special, indirect or consequential damages, or lost profits or loss of business, arising in connection with this Agreement, nor shall BNY or any Subcustodian be liable: ( i ) for acting in accordance with any Certificate or Oral Instructions actually received by Custodian and reasonably believed by Custodian to be given by an Authorized Person; ( ii ) for acting in accordance with Instructions without reviewing the same; ( iii ) for conclusively presuming that all Instructions are given only by person(s) duly authorized; ( iv ) for conclusively presuming that all disbursements of cash directed by the Fund, whether by a Certificate, an Oral Instruction, or an Instruction, are in accordance with Section 2(i) of Article II hereof; ( v ) for holding property in any particular country, including, but not limited to, Losses resulting from nationalization, expropriation or other governmental actions; regulation of the banking or securities industry; exchange or currency controls or restrictions, devaluations or fluctuations; availability of cash or Securities or market conditions which prevent the transfer of property or execution of Securities transactions or affect the value of property; ( vi ) for any Losses due to forces beyond the control of Custodian, including without limitation strikes, work stoppages, acts of war or terrorism, insurrection, revolution, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of God, or interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and hardware) services; ( vii ) for the insolvency of any Subcustodian (other than a BNY Affiliate), any Depository, or, except to the extent such action or inaction is a direct result of the Custodian's failure to fulfill its duties hereunder, any Foreign Depository; or ( viii ) for any Losses arising from the applicability of any law or regulation now or hereafter in effect, or from the occurrence of any event, including, without limitation, implementation or adoption of any rules or procedures of a Foreign Depository, which may affect, limit, prevent or impose costs or burdens on, the transferability, convertibility, or availability of any currency or Composite Currency Unit in any country or on the transfer of any Securities, and in no event shall Custodian be obligated to substitute another currency for a currency (including a currency that is a component of a Composite Currency Unit) whose transferability, convertibility or availability has been affected, limited, or prevented by such law, regulation or event, and to the extent that any such law, regulation or event imposes a cost or charge upon Custodian in relation to the transferability, convertibility, or availability of any cash currency or
9
Composite Currency Unit, such cost or charge shall be for the account of the Fund, and Custodian may treat any account denominated in an affected currency as a group of separate accounts denominated in the relevant component currencies.
(b) Custodian may enter into subcontracts, agreements and understandings with any BNY Affiliate, whenever and on such terms and conditions as it deems necessary or appropriate to perform its services hereunder. No such subcontract, agreement or understanding shall discharge Custodian from its obligations hereunder.
(c) The Fund agrees to indemnify Custodian and hold Custodian harmless from and against any and all Losses sustained or incurred by or asserted against Custodian by reason of or as a result of any action or inaction, or arising out of Custodian's performance hereunder, including reasonable fees and expenses of counsel incurred by Custodian in a successful defense of claims by the Fund; provided however, that the Fund shall not indemnify Custodian for those Losses arising out of Custodian's own negligence or willful misconduct. This indemnity shall be a continuing obligation of the Fund, its successors and assigns, notwithstanding the termination of this Agreement.
2. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Custodian shall be under no obligation to inquire into, and shall not be liable for:
(a) Any Losses incurred by the Fund or any other person as a result of the receipt or acceptance of fraudulent, forged or invalid Securities, or Securities which are otherwise not freely transferable or deliverable without encumbrance in any relevant market;
(b) The validity of the issue of any Securities purchased, sold, or written by or for the Fund, the legality of the purchase, sale or writing thereof, or the propriety of the amount paid or received therefor;
(c) The legality of the sale or redemption of any Shares, or the propriety of the amount to be received or paid therefor;
(d) The legality of the declaration or payment of any dividend or distribution by the Fund;
(e) The legality of any borrowing by the Fund;
(f) The legality of any loan of portfolio Securities, nor shall Custodian be under any duty or obligation to see to it that any cash or collateral delivered to it by a broker, dealer or financial institution or held by it at any time as a result of such loan of portfolio Securities is adequate security for the Fund against any loss it might sustain as a result of such loan, which duty or obligation shall be the sole responsibility of the Fund. In addition, Custodian shall be under no duty or obligation to see that any broker, dealer or financial institution to which portfolio Securities of the Fund are lent makes payment to it of any dividends or interest which are payable to or for the account of the Fund during the period of such loan or at the termination of such loan, provided, however that Custodian shall promptly notify the Fund in the event that such dividends or interest are not paid and received when due;
(g) The sufficiency or value of any amounts of money and/or Securities held in any Special Account in connection with transactions by the Fund; whether any broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or clearing member makes payment to the Fund of any variation margin payment or similar payment which the Fund may be entitled to receive from such broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or clearing member, or whether any payment received by Custodian from any broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or clearing member is the amount the Fund is entitled to receive, or to notify the Fund of Custodian's receipt or non-receipt of any such payment; or
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(h) Whether any Securities at any time delivered to, or held by it or by any Subcustodian, for the account of the Fund and specifically allocated to a Series are such as properly may be held by the Fund or such Series under the provisions of its then current prospectus and statement of additional information, or to ascertain whether any transactions by the Fund, whether or not involving Custodian, are such transactions as may properly be engaged in by the Fund.
3. Custodian may, with respect to questions of law specifically regarding an Account, obtain the advice of counsel and shall be fully protected with respect to anything done or omitted by it in good faith in conformity with such advice.
4. Custodian shall be under no obligation to take action to collect any amount payable on Securities in default, or if payment is refused after due demand and presentment.
5. Custodian shall have no duty or responsibility to inquire into, make recommendations, supervise, or determine the suitability of any transactions affecting any Account.
6. The Fund shall pay to Custodian the fees and charges as may be specifically agreed upon from time to time and such other fees and charges at Custodian's standard rates for such services as may be applicable. The Fund shall reimburse Custodian for all costs associated with the conversion of the Fund's Securities hereunder and the transfer of Securities and records kept in connection with this Agreement. The Fund shall also reimburse Custodian for out-of-pocket expenses which are a normal incident of the services provided hereunder.
7. Custodian has the right to debit any cash account for any amount payable by the Fund in connection with any and all obligations of the Fund to Custodian. In addition to the rights of Custodian under applicable law and other agreements, at any time when the Fund shall not have honored any of its obligations to Custodian, Custodian shall have the right without notice to the Fund to retain or set-off, against such obligations of the Fund, any Securities or cash Custodian or a BNY Affiliate may directly or indirectly hold for the account of the Fund, and any obligations (whether matured or unmatured) that Custodian or a BNY Affiliate may have to the Fund in any currency or Composite Currency Unit. Any such asset of, or obligation to, the Fund may be transferred to Custodian and any BNY Affiliate in order to effect the above rights.
8. The Fund agrees to forward to Custodian a Certificate or Instructions confirming Oral Instructions by the close of business of the same day that such Oral Instructions are given to Custodian. The Fund agrees that the fact that such confirming Certificate or Instructions are not received or that a contrary Certificate or contrary Instructions are received by Custodian shall in no way affect the validity or enforceability of transactions authorized by such Oral Instructions and effected by Custodian. If the Fund elects to transmit Instructions through an on-line communications system offered by Custodian, the Fund's use thereof shall be subject to the Terms and Conditions attached as Appendix I hereto, and Custodian shall provide user and authorization codes, passwords and authentication keys only to an Authorized Person or a person reasonably believed by Custodian to be an Authorized Person.
9. The books and records pertaining to the Fund which are in possession of Custodian shall be the property of the Fund. Such books and records shall be prepared and maintained as required by the '40 Act and the rules thereunder. The Fund, or its authorized representatives, shall have access to such books and records during Custodian's normal business hours. Upon the reasonable request of the Fund, copies of any such books and records shall be provided by Custodian to the Fund or its authorized representative. Upon the reasonable request of the Fund, Custodian shall provide in hard copy or on computer disc any records included in any such delivery which are maintained by Custodian on a computer disc, or are similarly maintained.
10. It is understood that Custodian is authorized to supply any information regarding the Accounts which is required by any law, regulation or rule now or hereafter in effect. The Custodian
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shall provide the Fund with any report obtained by the Custodian on the system of internal accounting control of a Depository, and with such reports on its own system of internal accounting control as the Fund may reasonably request from time to time.
11. Custodian shall have no duties or responsibilities whatsoever except such duties and responsibilities as are specifically set forth in this Agreement, and no covenant or obligation shall be implied against Custodian in connection with this Agreement.
1. Either of the parties hereto may terminate this Agreement by giving to the other party a notice in writing specifying the date of such termination, which shall be not less than ninety (90) days after the date of giving of such notice. In the event such notice is given by the Fund, it shall be accompanied by a copy of a resolution of the board of the Fund, certified by the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary, electing to terminate this Agreement and designating a successor custodian or custodians, each of which shall be a bank or trust company having not less than $2,000,000 aggregate capital, surplus and undivided profits. In the event such notice is given by Custodian, the Fund shall, on or before the termination date, deliver to Custodian a copy of a resolution of the board of the Fund, certified by the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary, designating a successor custodian or custodians. In the absence of such designation by the Fund, Custodian may designate a successor custodian which shall be a bank or trust company having not less than $2,000,000 aggregate capital, surplus and undivided profits. Upon the date set forth in such notice this Agreement shall terminate, and Custodian shall upon receipt of a notice of acceptance by the successor custodian on that date deliver directly to the successor custodian all Securities and money then owned by the Fund and held by it as Custodian, after deducting all fees, expenses and other amounts for the payment or reimbursement of which it shall then be entitled.
2. If a successor custodian is not designated by the Fund or Custodian in accordance with the preceding Section, the Fund shall upon the date specified in the notice of termination of this Agreement and upon the delivery by Custodian of all Securities (other than Securities which cannot be delivered to the Fund) and money then owned by the Fund be deemed to be its own custodian and Custodian shall thereby be relieved of all duties and responsibilities pursuant to this Agreement, other than the duty with respect to Securities which cannot be delivered to the Fund to hold such Securities hereunder in accordance with this Agreement.
1. The Fund agrees to furnish to Custodian a new Certificate of Authorized Persons in the event of any change in the then present Authorized Persons. Until such new Certificate is received, Custodian shall be fully protected in acting upon Certificates or Oral Instructions of such present Authorized Persons.
2. Any notice or other instrument in writing, authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to Custodian, shall be sufficiently given if addressed to Custodian and received by it at its offices at 100 Church Street, New York, New York 10286, or at such other place as Custodian may from time to time designate in writing.
3. Any notice or other instrument in writing, authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to the Fund shall be sufficiently given if addressed to the Fund and received by it at its offices at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, or at such other place as the Fund may from time to time designate in writing.
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4. Each and every right granted to either party hereunder or under any other document delivered hereunder or in connection herewith, or allowed it by law or equity, shall be cumulative and may be exercised from time to time. No failure on the part of either party to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right will operate as a waiver thereof, nor will any single or partial exercise by either party of any right preclude any other or future exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right.
5. In case any provision in or obligation under this Agreement shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any exclusive jurisdiction, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected thereby. This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by a written agreement executed by both parties, except that any amendment to the Schedule I hereto need be signed only by the Fund and any amendment to Appendix I hereto need be signed only by Custodian. This Agreement shall extend to and shall be binding upon the parties hereto, and their respective successors and assigns; provided, however, that this Agreement shall not be assignable by either party without the written consent of the other.
6. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflicts of laws principles thereof. The Fund and Custodian hereby consent to the jurisdiction of a state or federal court situated in New York City, New York in connection with any dispute arising hereunder. The Fund hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any objection which it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any such proceeding brought in such a court and any claim that such proceeding brought in such a court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. The Fund and Custodian each hereby irrevocably waives any and all rights to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement.
7. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but such counterparts shall, together, constitute only one instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Fund and Custodian have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective officers, thereunto duly authorized, as of the day and year first above written.
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND | |||
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By: |
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Title: Treasurer | |||
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THE BANK OF NEW YORK |
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By: |
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Title: Vice-President |
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SCHEDULE I
CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORIZED PERSONS
(The FundOral and Written Instructions)
The undersigned hereby certifies that he/she is the duly elected and acting Treasurer of The Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Fund"), and further certifies that the following officers or employees of the Fund have been duly authorized in conformity with the Fund's Declaration of Trust and By-Laws to deliver Certificates, Facsimile and Oral Instructions to The Bank of New York ("Custodian") pursuant to the Custody Agreement between the Fund and Custodian dated April , 2006, and that the signatures appearing opposite their names are true and correct:
Jeremy O. May Name |
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Treasurer Title |
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Signature |
Erin E. Douglas Name |
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Secretary Title |
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Signature |
Kimberly R. Storms Name |
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Assistant Treasurer Title |
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Signature |
James E. Canty Name |
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Chief Financial Officer Title |
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Signature |
Eric Brock Name |
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Portfolio Manager Title |
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Signature |
Katie Maus Name |
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Operations Manager Title |
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Signature |
Abigail Cain Name |
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Director of Investor Relations Title |
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Signature |
Joshua Howland Name |
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Trader Title |
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Signature |
John Kowaleski Name |
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Accounting Manager Title |
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Signature |
Robert M. Zdunczyk Name |
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Fixed Income Analyst Title |
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Signature |
Lauren Motley Name |
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Fund Controller Title |
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Signature |
This certificate supersedes any certificate of Authorized Persons you may currently have on file.
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By: |
Title: |
Date:
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APPENDIX I
THE BANK OF NEW YORK
ON-LINE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM (THE "SYSTEM")
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
1. License; Use . Upon delivery to an Authorized Person or a person reasonably believed by Custodian to be an Authorized Person the Fund of software enabling the Fund to obtain access to the System (the "Software"), Custodian grants to the Fund a personal, nontransferable and nonexclusive license to use the Software solely for the purpose of transmitting Written Instructions, receiving reports, making inquiries or otherwise communicating with Custodian in connection with the Account(s). The Fund shall use the Software solely for its own internal and proper business purposes and not in the operation of a service bureau. Except as set forth herein, no license or right of any kind is granted to the Fund with respect to the Software. The Fund acknowledges that Custodian and its suppliers retain and have title and exclusive proprietary rights to the Software, including any trade secrets or other ideas, concepts, know-how, methodologies, or information incorporated therein and the exclusive rights to any copyrights, trademarks and patents (including registrations and applications for registration of either), or other statutory or legal protections available in respect thereof. The Fund further acknowledges that all or a part of the Software may be copyrighted or trademarked (or a registration or claim made therefor) by Custodian or its suppliers. The Fund shall not take any action with respect to the Software inconsistent with the foregoing acknowledgments, nor shall you attempt to decompile, reverse engineer or modify the Software. The Fund may not copy, sell, lease or provide, directly or indirectly, any of the Software or any portion thereof to any other person or entity without Custodian's prior written consent. The Fund may not remove any statutory copyright notice or other notice included in the Software or on any media containing the Software. The Fund shall reproduce any such notice on any reproduction of the Software and shall add any statutory copyright notice or other notice to the Software or media upon Custodian's request.
2. Equipment . The Fund shall obtain and maintain at its own cost and expense all equipment and services, including but not limited to communications services, necessary for it to utilize the Software and obtain access to the System, and Custodian shall not be responsible for the reliability or availability of any such equipment or services.
3. Proprietary Information . The Software, any data base and any proprietary data, processes, information and documentation made available to the Fund (other than which are or become part of the public domain or are legally required to be made available to the public) (collectively, the "Information"), are the exclusive and confidential property of Custodian or its suppliers. The Fund shall keep the Information confidential by using the same care and discretion that the Fund uses with respect to its own confidential property and trade secrets, but not less than reasonable care. Upon termination of the Agreement or the Software license granted herein for any reason, the Fund shall return to Custodian any and all copies of the Information which are in its possession or under its control.
4. Modifications . Custodian reserves the right to modify the Software from time to time and the Fund shall install new releases of the Software as Custodian may direct. The Fund agrees not to modify or attempt to modify the Software without Custodian's prior written consent. The Fund acknowledges that any modifications to the Software, whether by the Fund or Custodian and whether with or without Custodian's consent, shall become the property of Custodian.
5. NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES . CUSTODIAN AND ITS MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS MAKE NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE SOFTWARE, SERVICES OR ANY DATABASE, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN FACT OR IN LAW, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE FUND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THE SOFTWARE, SERVICES AND ANY DATABASE ARE PROVIDED "AS IS." IN NO EVENT SHALL CUSTODIAN OR ANY SUPPLIER BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL,
WHICH THE FUND MAY INCUR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE, SERVICES OR ANY DATABASE, EVEN IF CUSTODIAN OR SUCH SUPPLIER HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL CUSTODIAN OR ANY SUPPLIER BE LIABLE FOR ACTS OF GOD, MACHINE OR COMPUTER BREAKDOWN OR MALFUNCTION, INTERRUPTION OR MALFUNCTION OF COMMUNICATION FACILITIES, LABOR DIFFICULTIES OR ANY OTHER SIMILAR OR DISSIMILAR CAUSE BEYOND THEIR REASONABLE CONTROL.
6. Security; Reliance; Unauthorized Use . The Fund will cause all persons utilizing the Software and System to treat all applicable user and authorization codes, passwords and authentication keys with extreme care, and it will establish internal control and safekeeping procedures to restrict the availability of the same to persons duly authorized to give Instructions. Custodian is hereby irrevocably authorized to act in accordance with and rely on Instructions received by it through the System. The Fund acknowledges that it is its sole responsibility to assure that only persons duly authorized use the System and that Custodian shall not be responsible nor liable for any unauthorized use thereof.
7. System Acknowledgments . Custodian shall acknowledge through the System its receipt of each transmission communicated through the System, and in the absence of such acknowledgment Custodian shall not be liable for any failure to act in accordance with such transmission and the Fund may not claim that such transmission was received by Custodian.
8. EXPORT RESTRICTIONS. EXPORT OF THE SOFTWARE IS PROHIBITED BY UNITED STATES LAW. THE FUND MAY NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES RESELL, DIVERT, TRANSFER, TRANSSHIP OR OTHERWISE DISPOSE OF THE SOFTWARE (IN ANY FORM) IN OR TO ANY OTHER COUNTRY. IF CUSTODIAN DELIVERED THE SOFTWARE TO THE FUND OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES, THE SOFTWARE WAS EXPORTED FROM THE UNITED STATES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE EXPORTER ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS. DIVERSION CONTRARY TO U.S. LAW IS PROHIBITED. The Fund hereby authorizes Custodian to report its name and address to government agencies to which Custodian is required to provide such information by law.
9. ENCRYPTION . The Fund acknowledges and agrees that encryption may not be available for every communication through the System, or for all data. The Fund agrees that Custodian may deactivate any encryption features at any time, without notice or liability to the Fund, for the purpose of maintaining, repairing or troubleshooting the System or the Software.
Exhibit 99(k)(1)
STOCK TRANSFER AGENCY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT, made as of April , 2006, by and between Clough Global Opportunities Fund, a statutory trust organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware (hereinafter referred to as the "Customer"), and THE BANK OF NEW YORK, a New York trust company (hereinafter referred to as the "Bank").
W I T N E S S E T H:
That for and in consideration of the mutual promises hereinafter set forth, the parties hereto covenant and agree as follows:
Whenever used in this Agreement, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings:
1. "Business Day" shall be deemed to be each day on which the Bank is open for business.
2. "Certificate" shall mean any notice, instruction, or other instrument in writing, authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to the Bank by the Customer which is signed by any Officer, as hereinafter defined, and actually received by the Bank.
3. "Officer" shall be deemed to be the Customer's Chief Executive Officer, President, any Vice President, the Secretary, the Treasurer, the Controller, any Assistant Treasurer, and any Assistant Secretary duly authorized by the Board of Directors of the Customer to execute any Certificate, instruction, notice or other instrument on behalf of the Customer and named in a Certificate, as such Certificate may be amended from time to time.
4. "Shares" shall mean all or any part of each class of the shares of capital stock of the Customer which from time to time are authorized and/or issued by the Customer and identified in a Certificate of the Secretary of the Customer under corporate seal, as such Certificate may be amended from time to time, with respect to which the Bank is to act hereunder.
ARTICLE II.
APPOINTMENT OF BANK
1. The Customer hereby constitutes and appoints the Bank as its agent to perform the services described herein and as more particularly described in Schedule I attached hereto (the "Services"), and the Bank hereby accepts appointment as such agent and agrees to perform the Services in accordance with the terms hereinafter set forth.
2. In connection with such appointment, the Customer shall deliver the following documents to the Bank:
(a) A certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation or other document evidencing the Customer's form of organization (the "Charter") and all amendments thereto;
(b) A certified copy of the By-Laws of the Customer;
(c) A certified copy of a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Customer appointing the Bank to perform the Services and authorizing the execution and delivery of this Agreement;
(d) A Certificate signed by the Secretary of the Customer specifying: the number of authorized Shares, the number of such authorized Shares issued and currently outstanding, and the names and specimen signatures of all persons duly authorized by the Board of Directors of the
Customer to execute any Certificate on behalf of the Customer, as such Certificate may be amended from time to time;
(e) A Specimen Share certificate for each class of Shares in the form approved by the Board of Directors of the Customer, together with a Certificate signed by the Secretary of the Customer as to such approval and covenanting to supply a new such Certificate and specimen whenever such form shall change;
(f) An opinion of counsel for the Customer, in a form satisfactory to the Bank, with respect to the validity of the authorized and outstanding Shares, the obtaining of all necessary governmental consents, whether such Shares are fully paid and non-assessable and the status of such Shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any other applicable law or regulation ( i.e. , if subject to registration, that they have been registered and that the Registration Statement has become effective or, if exempt, the specific grounds therefor);
(g) A list of the name, address, social security or taxpayer identification number of each Shareholder, number of Shares owned, certificate numbers, and whether any "stops" have been placed; and
(h) An opinion of counsel for the Customer, in a form satisfactory to the Bank, with respect to the due authorization by the Customer and the validity and effectiveness of the use of facsimile signatures by the Bank in connection with the countersigning and registering of Share certificates of the Customer.
3. The Customer shall furnish the Bank with a sufficient supply of blank Share certificates and from time to time will renew such supply upon request of the Bank. Such blank Share certificates shall be properly signed, by facsimile or otherwise, by Officers of the Customer authorized by law or by the By-Laws to sign Share certificates, and, if required, shall bear the corporate seal or a facsimile thereof.
ARTICLE III.
AUTHORIZATION AND ISSUANCE OF SHARES
1. The Customer shall deliver to the Bank the following documents on or before the effective date of any increase, decrease or other change in the total number of Shares authorized to be issued:
(a) A certified copy of the amendment to the Charter giving effect to such increase, decrease or change;
(b) An opinion of counsel for the Customer, in a form satisfactory to the Bank, with respect to the validity of the Shares, the obtaining of all necessary governmental consents, whether such Shares are fully paid and non-assessable and the status of such Shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any other applicable federal law or regulations ( i.e. , if subject to registration, that they have been registered and that the Registration Statement has become effective or, if exempt, the specific grounds therefor); and
(c) In the case of an increase, if the appointment of the Bank was theretofore expressly limited, a certified copy of a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Customer increasing the authority of the Bank.
2. Prior to the issuance of any additional Shares pursuant to stock dividends, stock splits or otherwise, and prior to any reduction in the number of Shares outstanding, the Customer shall deliver the following documents to the Bank:
(a) A certified copy of the resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors and/or the shareholders of the Customer authorizing such issuance of additional Shares of the Customer or such reduction, as the case may be;
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(b) A certified copy of the order or consent of each governmental or regulatory authority required by law as a prerequisite to the issuance or reduction of such Shares, as the case may be, and an opinion of counsel for the Customer that no other order or consent is required; and
(c) An opinion of counsel for the Customer, in a form satisfactory to the Bank, with respect to the validity of the Shares, the obtaining of all necessary governmental consents, whether such Shares are fully paid and non-assessable and the status of such Shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any other applicable law or regulation ( i.e. , if subject to registration, that they have been registered and that the Registration Statement has become effective, or, if exempt, the specific grounds therefor).
ARTICLE IV.
RECAPITALIZATION OR CAPITAL ADJUSTMENT
1. In the case of any negative stock split, recapitalization or other capital adjustment requiring a change in the form of Share certificates, the Bank will issue Share certificates in the new form in exchange for, or upon transfer of, outstanding Share certificates in the old form, upon receiving:
(a) A Certificate authorizing the issuance of Share certificates in the new form;
(b) A certified copy of any amendment to the Charter with respect to the change;
(c) Specimen Share certificates for each class of Shares in the new form approved by the Board of Directors of the Customer, with a Certificate signed by the Secretary of the Customer as to such approval;
(d) A certified copy of the order or consent of each governmental or regulatory authority required by law as a prerequisite to the issuance of the Shares in the new form, and an opinion of counsel for the Customer that the order or consent of no other governmental or regulatory authority is required; and
(e) An opinion of counsel for the Customer, in a form satisfactory to the Bank, with respect to the validity of the Shares in the new form, the obtaining of all necessary governmental consents, whether such Shares are fully paid and non-assessable and the status of such Shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any other applicable law or regulation ( i.e. , if subject to registration, that the Shares have been registered and that the Registration Statement has become effective or, if exempt, the specific grounds therefor).
2. The Customer shall furnish the Bank with a sufficient supply of blank Share certificates in the new form, and from time to time will replenish such supply upon the request of the Bank. Such blank Share certificates shall be properly signed, by facsimile or otherwise, by Officers of the Customer authorized by law or by the By-Laws to sign Share certificates and, if required, shall bear the corporate seal or a facsimile thereof.
ARTICLE V.
ISSUANCE AND TRANSFER OF SHARES
1. The Bank will issue Share certificates upon receipt of a Certificate from an Officer, but shall not be required to issue Share certificates after it has received from an appropriate federal or state authority written notification that the sale of Shares has been suspended or discontinued, and the Bank shall be entitled to rely upon such written notification. The Bank shall not be responsible for the payment of any original issue or other taxes required to be paid by the Customer in connection with the issuance of any Shares.
2. Shares will be transferred upon presentation to the Bank of Share certificates in form deemed by the Bank properly endorsed for transfer, accompanied by such documents as the Bank deems
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necessary to evidence the authority of the person making such transfer, and bearing satisfactory evidence of the payment of applicable stock transfer taxes. In the case of small estates where no administration is contemplated, the Bank may, when furnished with an appropriate surety bond, and without further approval of the Customer, transfer Shares registered in the name of the decedent where the current market value of the Shares being transferred does not exceed such amount as may from time to time be prescribed by the various states. The Bank reserves the right to refuse to transfer Shares until it is satisfied that the endorsements on Share certificates are valid and genuine, and for that purpose it may require, unless otherwise instructed by an Officer of the Customer, a guaranty of signature by an "eligible guarantor institution" meeting the requirements of the Bank, which requirements include membership or participation in STAMP or such other "signature guarantee program" as may be determined by the Bank in addition to, or in substitution for, STAMP, all in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Bank also reserves the right to refuse to transfer Shares until it is satisfied that the requested transfer is legally authorized, and it shall incur no liability for the refusal in good faith to make transfers which the Bank, in its judgment, deems improper or unauthorized, or until it is satisfied that there is no basis to any claims adverse to such transfer. The Bank may, in effecting transfers of Shares, rely upon those provisions of the Uniform Act for the Simplification of Fiduciary Security Transfers or the Uniform Commercial Code, as the same may be amended from time to time, applicable to the transfer of securities, and the Customer shall indemnify the Bank for any act done or omitted by it in good faith in reliance upon such laws.
3. All certificates representing Shares that are subject to restrictions on transfer ( e.g. , securities acquired pursuant to an investment representation, securities held by controlling persons, securities subject to stockholders' agreement, etc.), shall be stamped with a legend describing the extent and conditions of the restrictions or referring to the source of such restrictions. The Bank assumes no responsibility with respect to the transfer of restricted securities where counsel for the Customer advises that such transfer may be properly effected.
ARTICLE VI.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
1. The Customer shall furnish to the Bank a copy of a resolution of its Board of Directors, certified by the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary, either (i) setting forth the date of the declaration of a dividend or distribution, the date of accrual or payment, as the case may be, the record date as of which shareholders entitled to payment, or accrual, as the case may be, shall be determined, the amount per Share of such dividend or distribution, the payment date on which all previously accrued and unpaid dividends are to be paid, and the total amount, if any, payable to the Bank on such payment date, or (ii) authorizing the declaration of dividends and distributions on a periodic basis and authorizing the Bank to rely on a Certificate setting forth the information described in subsection (i) of this paragraph.
2. Prior to the payment date specified in such Certificate or resolution, as the case may be, the Customer shall, in the case of a cash dividend or distribution, pay to the Bank an amount of cash, sufficient for the Bank to make the payment, specified in such Certificate or resolution, to the shareholders of record as of such payment date. The Bank will, upon receipt of any such cash, (i) in the case of shareholders who are participants in a dividend reinvestment and/or cash purchase plan of the Customer, reinvest such cash dividends or distributions in accordance with the terms of such plan, and (ii) in the case of shareholders who are not participants in any such plan, make payment of such cash dividends or distributions to the shareholders of record as of the record date by mailing a check, payable to the registered shareholder, to the address of record or dividend mailing address. The Bank shall not be liable for any improper payment made in accordance with a Certificate or resolution described in the preceding paragraph. If the Bank shall not receive sufficient cash prior to the payment date to make payments of any cash dividend or distribution pursuant to subsections (i) and (ii) above
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to all shareholders of the Customer as of the record date, the Bank shall, upon notifying the Customer, withhold payment to all shareholders of the Customer as of the record date until sufficient cash is provided to the Bank.
3. It is understood that the Bank shall in no way be responsible for the determination of the rate or form of dividends or distributions due to the shareholders.
4. It is understood that the Bank shall file such appropriate information returns concerning the payment of dividends and distributions with the proper federal, state and local authorities as are required by law to be filed by the Customer but shall in no way be responsible for the collection or withholding of taxes due on such dividends or distributions due to shareholders, except and only to the extent required of it by applicable law.
ARTICLE VII.
CONCERNING THE CUSTOMER
1. The Customer shall promptly deliver to the Bank written notice of any change in the Officers authorized to sign Share certificates, Certificates, notifications or requests, together with a specimen signature of each new Officer. In the event any Officer who shall have signed manually or whose facsimile signature shall have been affixed to blank Share certificates shall die, resign or be removed prior to issuance of such Share certificates, the Bank may issue such Share certificates as the Share certificates of the Customer notwithstanding such death, resignation or removal, and the Customer shall promptly deliver to the Bank such approvals, adoptions or ratifications as may be required by law.
2. Each copy of the Charter of the Customer and copies of all amendments thereto shall be certified by the Secretary of State (or other appropriate official) of the state of incorporation, and if such Charter and/or amendments are required by law also to be filed with a county or other officer or official body, a certificate of such filing shall be filed with a certified copy submitted to the Bank. Each copy of the By-Laws and copies of all amendments thereto, and copies of resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Customer, shall be certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Customer under the corporate seal.
3. Customer hereby represents and warrants:
(a) It is a statutory trust duly organized and validly existing under the laws of Delaware.
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered on its behalf and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Customer. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by Customer do not and will not violate any applicable law or regulation and do not require the consent of any governmental or other regulatory body except for such consents and approvals as have been obtained and are in full force and effect.
ARTICLE VIII.
CONCERNING THE BANK
1. The Bank shall not be liable and shall be fully protected in acting upon any writing or document reasonably believed by it to be genuine and to have been given, signed or made by the proper person or persons and shall not be held to have any notice of any change of authority of any person until receipt of written notice thereof from an Officer of the Customer. It shall also be protected in processing Share certificates which it reasonably believes to bear the proper manual or facsimile signatures of the duly authorized Officer or Officers of the Customer and the proper countersignature of the Bank.
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2. The Bank may establish such additional procedures, rules and regulations governing the transfer or registration of Share certificates as it may deem advisable and consistent with such rules and regulations generally adopted by bank transfer agents.
3. The Bank may keep such records as it deems advisable but not inconsistent with resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors of the Customer. The Bank may deliver to the Customer from time to time at its discretion, for safekeeping or disposition by the Customer in accordance with law, such records, papers, Share certificates which have been cancelled in transfer or exchange and other documents accumulated in the execution of its duties hereunder as the Bank may deem expedient, other than those which the Bank is itself required to maintain pursuant to applicable laws and regulations, and the Customer shall assume all responsibility for any failure thereafter to produce any record, paper, cancelled Share certificate or other document so returned, if and when required. The records maintained by the Bank pursuant to this paragraph which have not been previously delivered to the Customer pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this paragraph shall be considered to be the property of the Customer, shall be made available upon request for inspection by the Officers, employees and auditors of the Customer, and shall be delivered to the Customer upon request and in any event upon the date of termination of this Agreement, as specified in Article IX of this Agreement, in the form and manner kept by the Bank on such date of termination or such earlier date as may be requested by the Customer.
4. The Bank may employ agents or attorneys-in-fact at the expense of the Customer to perform its obligations hereunder, and shall not be liable for any loss or expense arising out of, or in connection with, the actions or omissions to act of its agents or attorneys-in-fact, so long as the Bank acts in good faith and without negligence or willful misconduct in connection with the selection of such agents or attorneys-in-fact.
5. The Bank shall only be liable for any loss or damage arising out of its own negligence or willful misconduct, provided, however, that the Bank shall not be liable for any indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages.
6. The Customer shall indemnify and hold harmless the Bank from and against any and all claims (whether with or without basis in fact or law), costs, demands, expenses and liabilities, including reasonable attorney's fees, which the Bank may sustain or incur or which may be asserted against the Bank except for any liability which the Bank has assumed pursuant to the immediately preceding section. The Bank shall be deemed not to have acted with negligence and not to have engaged in willful misconduct by reason of or as a result of any action taken or omitted to be taken by the Bank without its own negligence or willful misconduct in reliance upon (i) any provision of this Agreement, (ii) any instrument, order or Share certificate reasonably believed by it to be genuine and to be signed, countersigned or executed by any duly authorized Officer of the Customer, (iii) any Certificate or other written instructions of an Officer, (iv) any opinion of legal counsel for the Customer or the Bank, or (v) any law, act, regulation or any interpretation of the same even though such law, act, or regulation may thereafter have been altered, changed, amended or repealed. Nothing contained herein shall limit or in any way impair the right of the Bank to indemnification under any other provision of this Agreement.
7. Specifically, but not by way of limitation, the Customer shall indemnify and hold harmless the Bank from and against any and all claims (whether with or without basis in fact or law), costs, demands, expenses and liabilities, including reasonable attorney's fees, of any and every nature which the Bank may sustain or incur or which may be asserted against the Bank in connection with the genuineness of a Share certificate, the Bank's due authorization by the Customer to issue Shares and the form and amount of authorized Shares.
8. The Bank shall not incur any liability hereunder if by reason of any act of God or war or other circumstances beyond its control, it, or its employees, officers or directors shall be prevented,
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delayed or forbidden from, or be subject to any civil or criminal penalty on account of, doing or performing any act or thing which by the terms of this Agreement it is provided shall be done or performed or by reason of any nonperformance or delay, caused as aforesaid, in the performance of any act or thing which by the terms of this Agreement it is provided shall or may be done or performed.
9. At any time the Bank may apply to an Officer of the Customer for written instructions with respect to any matter arising in connection with the Bank's duties and obligations under this Agreement, and the Bank shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken by the Bank in good faith in accordance with such written instructions. Such application by the Bank for instructions from an Officer of the Customer may, at the option of the Bank, set forth in writing any action proposed to be taken or omitted to be taken by the Bank with respect to its duties or obligations under this Agreement and the date on and/or after which such action shall be taken, and the Bank shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken in accordance with a proposal included in any such application on or after the date specified therein unless, prior to taking or omitting to take any such action, the Bank has received written instructions in response to such application specifying the action to be taken or omitted. The Bank may consult counsel to the Customer or its own counsel, at the expense of the Customer, and shall be fully protected with respect to anything done or omitted by it in good faith in accordance with the opinion of such counsel.
10. When mail is used for delivery of non-negotiable Share certificates, the value of which does not exceed the limits of the Bank's Blanket Bond, the Bank shall send such non-negotiable Share certificates by first class mail, and such deliveries will be covered while in transit by the Bank's Blanket Bond. Non-negotiable Share certificates, the value of which exceed the limits of the Bank's Blanket Bond, will be sent by insured registered mail. Negotiable Share certificates will be sent by insured registered mail. The Bank shall advise the Customer of any Share certificates returned as undeliverable after being mailed as herein provided for.
11. The Bank may issue new Share certificates in place of Share certificates represented to have been lost, stolen or destroyed upon receiving instructions in writing from an Officer and indemnity satisfactory to the Bank. Such instructions from the Customer shall be in such form as approved by the Board of Directors of the Customer in accordance with applicable law or the By-Laws of the Customer governing such matters. If the Bank receives written notification from the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed Share certificate within a reasonable time after he has notice of it, the Bank shall promptly notify the Customer and shall act pursuant to written instructions signed by an Officer. If the Customer receives such written notification from the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed Share certificate within a reasonable time after he has notice of it, the Customer shall promptly notify the Bank and the Bank shall act pursuant to written instructions signed by an Officer. The Bank shall not be liable for any act done or omitted by it pursuant to the written instructions described herein. The Bank may issue new Share certificates in exchange for, and upon surrender of, mutilated Share certificates.
12. The Bank will issue and mail subscription warrants for Shares, Shares representing stock dividends, exchanges or splits, or act as conversion agent upon receiving written instructions from an Officer and such other documents as the Bank may deem necessary.
13. The Bank will supply shareholder lists to the Customer from time to time upon receiving a request therefor from an Officer of the Customer.
14. In case of any requests or demands for the inspection of the shareholder records of the Customer, the Bank will notify the Customer and endeavor to secure instructions from an Officer as to such inspection. The Bank reserves the right, however, to exhibit the shareholder records to any person whenever it is advised by its counsel that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Bank will be held liable for the failure to exhibit the shareholder records to such person.
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15. At the request of an Officer, the Bank will address and mail such appropriate notices to shareholders as the Customer may direct.
16. Notwithstanding any provisions of this Agreement to the contrary, the Bank shall be under no duty or obligation to inquire into, and shall not be liable for:
(a) The legality of the issue, sale or transfer of any Shares, the sufficiency of the amount to be received in connection therewith, or the authority of the Customer to request such issuance, sale or transfer;
(b) The legality of the purchase of any Shares, the sufficiency of the amount to be paid in connection therewith, or the authority of the Customer to request such purchase;
(c) The legality of the declaration of any dividend by the Customer, or the legality of the issue of any Shares in payment of any stock dividend; or
(d) The legality of any recapitalization or readjustment of the Shares.
17. The Bank shall be entitled to receive and the Customer hereby agrees to pay to the Bank for its performance hereunder (i) out-of-pocket expenses (including legal expenses and attorney's fees) incurred in connection with this Agreement and its performance hereunder, and (ii) the compensation for services as set forth in Schedule I.
18. The Bank shall not be responsible for any money, whether or not represented by any check, draft or other instrument for the payment of money, received by it on behalf of the Customer, until the Bank actually receives and collects such funds.
19. In no event shall the Bank be required to accept or act upon any oral instructions; regardless of the circumstances.
20. The Bank shall have no duties or responsibilities whatsoever except such duties and responsibilities as are specifically set forth in this Agreement, and no covenant or obligation shall be implied against the Bank in connection with this Agreement.
Either of the parties hereto may terminate this Agreement by giving to the other party a notice in writing specifying the date of such termination, which shall be not less than 30 days after the date of receipt of such notice. In the event such notice is given by the Customer, it shall be accompanied by a copy of a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Customer, certified by its Secretary, electing to terminate this Agreement and designating a successor transfer agent or transfer agents. In the event such notice is given by the Bank, the Customer shall, on or before the termination date, deliver to the Bank a copy of a resolution of its Board of Directors certified by its Secretary designating a successor transfer agent or transfer agents. In the absence of such designation by the Customer, the Bank may designate a successor transfer agent. If the Customer fails to designate a successor transfer agent and if the Bank is unable to find a successor transfer agent, the Customer shall, upon the date specified in the notice of termination of this Agreement and delivery of the records maintained hereunder, be deemed to be its own transfer agent and the Bank shall thereafter be relieved of all duties and responsibilities hereunder. Upon termination hereof, the Customer shall pay to the Bank such compensation as may be due to the Bank as of the date of such termination, and shall reimburse the Bank for any disbursements and expenses made or incurred by the Bank and payable or reimbursable hereunder.
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1. The indemnities contained herein shall be continuing obligations of the Customer, its successors and assigns, notwithstanding the termination of this Agreement.
2. Any notice or other instrument in writing, authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to the Customer shall be sufficiently given if addressed to the Customer and mailed or delivered to it at 1625 Broadway, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, or at such other place as the Customer may from time to time designate in writing.
3. Any notice or other instrument in writing, authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to the Bank shall be sufficiently given if addressed to the Bank and mailed or delivered to it at its office at 101 Barclay Street (12W), New York, New York 10286 or at such other place as the Bank may from time to time designate in writing.
4. This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner except by a written agreement duly authorized and executed by both parties. Any duly authorized Officer may amend any Certificate naming Officers authorized to execute and deliver Certificates, instructions, notices or other instruments, and the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary may amend any Certificate listing the shares of capital stock of the Customer for which the Bank performs Services hereunder.
5. This Agreement shall extend to and shall be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns; provided, however, that this Agreement shall not be assignable by either party without the prior written consent of the other party, and provided, further, that any reorganization, merger, consolidation, or sale of assets, by the Bank shall not be deemed to constitute an assignment of this Agreement.
6. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. The parties agree that, all actions and proceedings arising out of this Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby, shall be brought in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York or in a New York State Court in the County of New York and that, in connection with any such action or proceeding, submit to the jurisdiction of, and venue in, such court. Each of the parties hereto also irrevocably waives all right to trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim arising out of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
7. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts each of which shall be deemed to be an original; but such counterparts, together, shall constitute only one instrument.
8. The provisions of this Agreement are intended to benefit only the Bank and the Customer, and no rights shall be granted to any other person by virtue of this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective corporate officers, thereunto duly authorized and their respective corporate seals to be hereunto affixed, as of the day and year first above written.
Attest: | CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND | ||
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By: |
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Name: Erin E. Douglas | Name: Jeremy O. May | ||
Title: Secretary | Title: Treasurer | ||
Attest: |
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THE BANK OF NEW YORK |
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By: |
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Assistant Treasurer |
Name: Thomas Porrazzo
Title: Vice President |
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NON-PROFILE
STOCK TRANSFER AGENCY AGREEMENT
between
and
THE BANK OF NEW YORK
Dated as of
ACCOUNT NUMBER(S) [ ]
Exhibit 99(k)(2)
ADMINISTRATION, BOOKKEEPING AND
PRICING SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made as of April , 2006, between Clough Global Opportunities Fund, a Delaware Statutory Trust (the "Fund"), and ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc., a Colorado corporation ("ALPS").
WHEREAS, the Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act") as a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company.
WHEREAS, ALPS provides certain administrative, bookkeeping and pricing services to investment companies; and
WHEREAS, the Fund desires to appoint ALPS to perform certain administrative, bookkeeping and pricing services for the Fund, and ALPS has indicated its willingness to so act, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants hereinafter contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. ALPS Appointment and Duties.
2. ALPS Compensation; Expenses .
3. Right to Receive Advice .
4. Liability of ALPS .
5. Reports . Whenever, in the course of performing its duties under this Agreement, ALPS determines, on the basis of information supplied to ALPS by the Fund or its authorized agents, that a violation of applicable law has occurred or that, to its knowledge, a possible violation of applicable law may have occurred or, with the passage of time, would occur, ALPS shall promptly notify the Fund and its counsel.
6. Activities of ALPS . The services of ALPS under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and ALPS shall be free to render similar services to others. The Fund recognizes that from time to time directors, officers and employees of ALPS may serve as directors, officers and employees of other corporations or businesses (including other investment companies) and that such other corporations and funds may include ALPS as part of their name and that ALPS or its affiliates may enter into administrative, bookkeeping, pricing agreements or other agreements with such other corporations and funds.
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7. Accounts and Records . The accounts and records maintained by ALPS shall be the property of the Fund. Such accounts and records shall be prepared, maintained and preserved as required by the 1940 Act and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations. Such accounts and records shall be surrendered to the Fund promptly upon receipt of instructions from the Fund in the form in which such accounts and records have been maintained or preserved. The Fund shall have access to such accounts and records at all times during ALPS' normal business hours. Upon the reasonable request of the Fund, copies of any such books and records shall be provided by ALPS to the Fund at the Fund's expense. ALPS shall assist the Fund, the Fund's independent auditors, or, upon approval of the Fund, any regulatory body, in any requested review of the Fund's accounts and records, and reports by ALPS or its independent accountants concerning its accounting system and internal auditing controls will be open to such entities for audit or inspection upon reasonable request.
8. Confidential and Proprietary Information . ALPS agrees that it will, on behalf of itself and its officers and employees, treat all transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and all records and information relative to the Fund and its shareholders (past, present and future) and other information germane thereto, as confidential and as proprietary information of the Fund and not to use, sell, transfer or divulge such information or records to any person for any purpose other than performance of its duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing from the Fund, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. It may not be withheld where ALPS may be exposed to civil, regulatory or criminal proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Fund. ALPS shall have in place and maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards reasonably designed to protect the security, confidentiality and integrity of, and to prevent unauthorized access to or use of records and information relating to the Fund and its past, present and future shareholders, consumers and customers.
9. Compliance with Rules and Regulations . ALPS shall complyand to the extent ALPS takes or is required to take action on behalf of the Fund hereunder shall cause the Fund to complywith all applicable requirements of the 1940 Act and other applicable laws, rules, regulations, orders and code of ethics, as well as all investment restrictions, policies and procedures adopted by the Fund of which ALPS has knowledge. Except as specifically set forth herein, ALPS assumes no responsibility for such compliance by the Fund.
10. Representations and Warranties of ALPS . ALPS represents and warrants to the Fund that:
Representations and Warranties of the Fund. The Fund represents and warrants to ALPS that:
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11. Liaison with Accountants . ALPS shall act as liaison with the Fund's independent public accountants and shall provide account analysis, fiscal year summaries, and other audit-related schedules with respect to the services provided to the Fund. ALPS shall take all reasonable action in the performance of its duties under this Agreement to assure that the necessary information in ALPS' control is made available to such accountants for the expression of their opinion, as required by the Fund.
12. Business Interruption Plan . ALPS shall maintain in effect a business interruption plan, and enter into any agreements necessary with appropriate parties making reasonable provisions for emergency use of electronic data processing equipment customary in the industry. In the event of equipment failures, ALPS shall, at no additional expense to the Fund, take commercially reasonable steps to minimize service interruptions. ALPS shall have no liability with respect to the loss of data or service interruptions caused by equipment failure provided such loss or interruption is not caused by ALPS' own willful misfeasance, bad faith, negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or obligations under this Agreement.
13. Duration and Termination of this Agreement .
The parties agree that the Default Payment is a reasonable forecast of probable actual loss to ALPS and that this sum is agreed to as liquidated damages and not as a penalty.
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the Fund to violateany applicable law, rule, regulation, order or code of ethics, or any investment restriction, policy or procedure adopted by the Fund of which ALPS had knowledge;
14. Assignment . This Agreement shall extend to and shall be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns; provided, however, that this Agreement shall not be assignable by the Fund without the prior written consent of ALPS, or by ALPS without the prior written consent of the Fund.
15. Governing Law . The provisions of this Agreement shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Colorado, and the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder. To the extent that the laws of the State of Colorado conflict with the 1940 Act or such rules, the latter shall control.
16. Names . The obligations of the "Fund" entered into in the name or on behalf thereof by any director, representative or agent thereof are made not individually, but in such capacities, and are not binding upon any of the directors, shareholders, representatives or agents of the Fund personally, but bind only the property of the Fund, and all persons dealing with the Fund must look solely to the property of the Fund for the enforcement of any claims against the Fund.
17. Amendments to this Agreement . This Agreement may only be amended by the parties in writing.
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18. Notices . All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing, shall be deemed to have been given when received or when sent by telex or facsimile, and shall be given to the following addresses (or such other addresses as to which notice is given):
To ALPS:
ALPS
Mutual Funds Services, Inc.
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200
Denver, Colorado 80202
Attn: General Counsel
Fax: (303) 623-7850
To the Fund:
Clough
Global Opportunities Fund
1625 Broadway, Suite 2200
Denver, Colorado 80202
Attn: Secretary
Fax: (303) 623-7850
19. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto on any number of counterparts, and all of said counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
20. Entire Agreement . This Agreement embodies the entire agreement and understanding among the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof; provided, however, that ALPS may embody in one or more separate documents its agreement, if any, with respect to delegated duties and oral instructions.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND | |||
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By: |
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Name: Erin E. Douglas
Title: Secretary |
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ALPS MUTUAL FUNDS SERVICES, INC. |
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By: |
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Name: Jeremy O. May
Title: Managing Director |
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Administrative
ALPS shall not be responsible for the accuracy or adequacy of any information contained in the documents listed in subsections (i) through (iii) above, to the extent such information is provided to ALPS by the Fund, other service providers to the Fund, or any other third party.
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Bookkeeping and Pricing
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Fees paid to ALPS shall be calculated and accrued daily and payable monthly by the Fund at the annual rate of 0.32% of the Fund's average daily total assets.
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Exhibit 99(k)(3)
DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANCE AGREEMENT
This Distribution Assistance Agreement, dated as of April , 2006, is entered into by and between Clough Global Opportunities Fund, a Delaware statutory trust (the "Fund"), and ALPS Distributors, Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Colorado ("ALPS").
In consideration for ALPS' provision of distribution assistance services to the Fund in connection with the offering of common shares of the Fund pursuant to the Fund's prospectus dated April , 2006 (the "Offering"), which services include assistance with coordinating the road show and designing and coordinating the printing of marketing materials, the Fund hereby agrees to pay ALPS up to .10% of the amount of the Offering, up to an amount equal to $.04 per common share of the Fund (the "Reimbursement Cap"), so long as the Fund has not otherwise paid expenses relating to the Offering (exclusive of sales load, but inclusive of the reimbursement of underwriter expenses of $ per common share of the Fund) up to the Reimbursement Cap. Any such amounts paid by the Fund to ALPS shall also include reimbursements to ALPS for its reasonable out of pocket expense related to the road show.
The Fund and ALPS acknowledge and agree that the compensation set forth above shall be the only compensation ALPS will receive from the Fund for its distribution assistance in connection with the Offering.
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND | |
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Name: Title: |
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ALPS DISTRIBUTORS, INC. |
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Name: Title: |
Exhibit 99(n)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the use in this Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement No. 333-131478 of Clough Global Opportunities Fund on Form N-2 of our report dated March 20, 2006 appearing in the Statement of Additional Information, which is part of such Registration Statement, and to the references to us under the headings "Independent Accountants" in the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, which are parts of such Registration Statement.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Denver,
Colorado
March 20, 2006
Exhibit 99(r)(1)
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
(the "Fund")
17j-1 CODE OF ETHICS
I. Purpose of the Code of Ethics
This code is based on the principle that, you as an Access Person of the Fund, will conduct your personal investment activities in accordance with:
In view of the foregoing, the Fund has adopted this Code of Ethics (the "Code") to specify a code of conduct for certain types of personal securities transactions which may involve conflicts of interest or an appearance of impropriety and to establish reporting requirements and enforcement procedures.
II. Legal Requirement
Pursuant to Rule 17j-1(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act"), it is unlawful for any Access Person to:
in connection with the purchase or sale (directly or indirectly) by such Access Person of a security "held or to be acquired" by the Fund.
III. Definitions All definitions shall have the same meaning as explained in Rule 17j-1 or Section 2(a) of the Act and are summarized below.
Access Person means- Any director, officer, general partner, or Advisory Person of a Fund or of a Fund's investment adviser (or of any company in a control relationship to the Fund or investment adviser) who, in connection with his/her regular functions or duties, makes, participates in, or obtains information regarding the purchase or sale of Covered Securities by the Fund, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales.
For purposes of this Code of Ethics, an "Access Person" does not include any person who is subject to the securities transaction pre-clearance requirements and securities transaction reporting requirements of the Code of Ethics adopted by the Fund's investment adviser in compliance with rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and Rule 204A-2 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as applicable.
Automatic Investment Plan A program in which regular purchases (or withdrawals) are made automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and equity. An Automatic Investment Plan includes a dividend reinvestment plan.
Advisory Person of a Fund or of a Fund's investment adviser shall have the same meaning as that set forth in Rule 17j-1 of the Act.
Beneficial ownership shall have the same meaning as that set forth in Rule 16a-1(a)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Control shall have the same meaning as that set forth in Section 2(a)(9) of the Act.
Covered Security shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2(a)(36) of the Act except that it does not include:
Exchange Traded Fund means an open-end registered investment company that is not a unit investment trust, and that operates pursuant to an order from the SEC exempting it from certain provisions of the Investment Company Act permitting it to issue securities that trade on the secondary market. Examples of open-end exchange-traded funds include, but are not limited to: Select Sector SPDRS; iShares; PowerShares; etc.
Fund means an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act.
An Initial Public Offering means an offering of securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933, the issuer of which, immediately before the registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act.
A Limited Offering means an offering that is exempt from registration under the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) or pursuant to Rule 504, Rule 505, or Rule 506 under the Securities Act.
Purchase or Sale of a Covered Security includes, among other things, the writing of an option to purchase or sell a Covered Security.
Security held or to be Acquired by a Fund means:
IV. Policies of the Fund Regarding Personal Securities Transactions
General
No Access Person of the Fund shall engage in any act, practice or course of business that would violate the provisions of Rule 17j-1 as set forth above, or in connection with any personal investment activity, engage in conduct inconsistent with this Code.
Specific Policies
No Access Person shall purchase or sell, directly or indirectly, any security in which he/she has, or by reason of such transaction acquires, any direct or indirect beneficial ownership and which he/she knows or should have known at the time of such purchase or sale:
Pre-approval of Investments in IPOs and Limited Offerings
Access Persons must obtain approval from the Fund or the Fund's investment adviser before directly or indirectly acquiring beneficial ownership in any securities in an initial public offering or in a private placement or other limited offering.
V. Reporting Procedures
The Fund shall notify each person (annually in January of each year) considered to be an Access Person of the Fund that he/she is subject to the reporting requirements detailed in Sections (a), (b) and (c) below and shall deliver a copy of this Code to such Access Person.
In order to provide the Fund with information to enable it to determine with reasonable assurance whether the provisions of this Code are being observed, every Access Person of the Fund must report to the Fund the following:
a) Initial Holdings Reports . Every Access Person must report on Exhibit A, attached hereto, no later than 10 days after becoming an Access Person, the following information:
This information must be current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to the date the person becomes an access person.
b) Quarterly Transaction Reports . Every Access Person must report on Exhibit B, attached hereto, no later than 30 days after the end of a calendar quarter, the following information with respect to any transaction during the quarter in a Covered Security in which the Access Person had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership:
Furthermore, an Access Person need not make a quarterly transaction report under section V.b. of this Code of Ethics with respect to transactions effected pursuant to an Automatic Investment Plan.
With respect to any account established by the Access Person in which any securities were held during the quarter for the direct or indirect benefit of the Access Person, each Access Person must report on Exhibit B, attached hereto, no later than 30 days after the end of a calendar quarter the following information:
c) Annual Holdings Reports . Every Access Person must report on Exhibit C, attached hereto, annually, the following information (which information must be current as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted):
d) Exceptions from reporting Requirements. Each trustee who is not an "interested person" of the Trust need not make an initial or annual holdings report but shall submit the same quarterly report as required under paragraphs V.b to the administrator, but only for a transaction in a Covered Security where he or she knew at the time of the transaction or, in the ordinary course of fulfilling his or her official duties as a trustee or officer, should have known that during the 15-day period immediately preceding or after the date of the transaction, such Covered Security is or was purchased or sold, or considered for purchase or sale, by the Trust.
These exceptions do not exclude the Trustee from reporting any holdings or transactions in shares of the fund in the reports under sections V.a, V.b, or V.c of this Code of Ethics.
VI. Review of Reports
The Legal Department of ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc., the administrator to the Fund ("ALPS"), shall be responsible for reviewing the reports received, maintaining a record of the names of the persons responsible for reviewing these reports, and as appropriate, comparing the reports with this Code, and reporting to ALPS' senior management:
ALPS' senior management shall review the reports made to them hereunder and shall determine whether the policies established in Sections IV and V of this Code have been violated, and what sanctions, if any, should be imposed on the violator. Sanctions include but are not limited to a letter of censure, suspension or termination of the employment of the violator, or the unwinding of the transaction and the disgorgement of any profits.
ALPS' senior management and the Board of Trustees of the Fund shall review the operation of this Code at least annually. All material violations of this Code and any sanctions imposed with respect thereto shall periodically be reported to the Board of Trustees of the Fund with respect to the securities being considered for purchase or sale by, or held or to be acquired by the Fund.
VII. Certification
Each Access Person will be required to certify annually that he/she has read and understood the provisions of this Code and will abide by them. Each Access Person will further certify that he/she has disclosed or reported all personal securities transactions required to be reported under the Code. A form of such certification is attached hereto as Exhibit D.
Before the Board of Trustees of the Fund may approve the code of ethics, the Fund must certify to the Board that the Fund has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent Access Persons from violating its Code of Ethics. Such certification shall be submitted to the Board of Trustees at least annually.
Sources:
Section 17j-1 (as amended) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act");
Section 16 (as amended) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act");
The "Report of the Advisory Group on Personal Investing" issued by the Investment Company Institute on May 9, 1994; and,
The Securities and Exchange Commission's September 1994 Report on "Personal Investment Activities of Investment Company Personnel."
Dated: March 15, 2006
EXHIBIT A
CLOUGH GLOBAL EQUITY fUND
INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT
To: ALPS Mutual Funds Services, as Administrator of the Clough Global Equity Fund (the "Fund")
At the time I became an Access Person, I had a direct or indirect beneficial ownership interest in the securities listed below which are required to be reported pursuant to the Code of Ethics of the Fund:
Security
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Number of Shares
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Principal Amount
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The name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom I maintain an account in which my securities are held for my direct or indirect benefit are as follows:
This report (i) excludes transactions with respect to which I had no direct or indirect influence or control, (ii) excludes other transactions not required to be reported, and (iii) is not an admission that I have or had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the securities listed above. I understand that this information must be reported no later than ten (10) days after I became an Access Person.
Date |
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Print Name |
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Signature |
EXHIBIT B
CLOUGH GLOBAL EQUITY FUND
Quarterly Transaction Report
For the Calendar Quarter
Ended
To: ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc. as Administrator of the above listed Fund
A. Securities Transactions . During the quarter referred to above, the following transactions were effected in securities of which I had, or by reason of such transactions acquired, direct or indirect beneficial ownership, and which are required to be reported pursuant to the Code of Ethics of the Fund. I understand that this information must be reported no later than .
Title of
Security |
Date of
Transaction |
Number of
Shares or Principal Amount |
Dollar
Amount of Transaction |
Interest Rate
and Maturity Date (if applicable) |
Nature of
Transaction (Purchase, Sale, Other) |
Price
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Broker/Dealer
or Bank Through Whom Effected |
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B. New Brokerage Accounts . During the quarter referred to above, I established the following accounts in which securities were held during the quarter for my direct or indirect benefit:
Name of Broker, Dealer or Bank
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Date Account Was Established:
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C. Other Matters . This report (i) excludes transactions with respect to which I had no direct or indirect influence or control, (ii) excludes other transactions not required to be reported, and (iii) is not an admission that I have or had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the securities listed above.
Date: |
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Signature: |
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Print Name: |
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CLOUGH GLOBAL EQUITY FUND
ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORT
For the following period:
January 1, 200[ ]December 31,
200[ ]
To: ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc. as Administrator of the above listed Fund
As of the period referred to above, I have a direct or indirect beneficial ownership interest in the securities listed below which are required to be reported pursuant to the Code of Ethics of the Fund:
Security
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Number of Shares
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Principal Amount
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The name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom I maintain an account in which my securities are held for my direct or indirect benefit are as follows:
This report (i) excludes transactions with respect to which I had no direct or indirect influence or control, (ii) excludes other transactions not required to be reported, and (iii) is not an admission that I have or had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the securities listed above.
Date |
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Print Name |
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Signature |
EXHIBIT D
CLOUGH GLOBAL EQUITY FUND
ANNUAL CERTIFICATE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Code of Ethics of the Clough Global Equity Fund, the undersigned hereby certifies as follows:
Date |
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Print Name |
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Signature |
Exhibit 99(r)(2)
CLOUGH CAPITAL PARTNERS, LP
CODE OF ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Adopted June 4, 2004
(Latest Revision August 29, 2005)
Clough Capital Partners, LP and affiliated companies (herein referred to as the "Company") have adopted a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (the "Code"). This Code has been adopted based on the principle that each Employee of the Company should conduct his or her affairs, including personal securities transactions, in such a manner as to avoid serving his or her own personal interests ahead of the funds and accounts managed by the Company (the "Funds") and to avoid conflicts of interest. This Code cannot address every circumstance that may give rise to a conflict, a potential conflict, or an appearance of a conflict of interest. Therefore, each Employee is expected to be alert to such conflicts of interest with the Funds and to conduct him/herself with good judgment. Employees are also reminded that they are responsible for understanding and following all Company Policies and Procedures, and that failure to act in accordance with those Policies and Procedures may have serious consequences for the Employee and the Company. This Code is subject to change from time to time by the Company. Any questions or comments concerning this Code should be directed to Daniel Gillis, Chief Compliance Officer or, in his absence, James Canty or Eric Brock (the three of which constitute the "Compliance Committee").
Certain terms used herein shall have the definitions ascribed to them in Appendix A attached hereto.
A. Governing Standards
The standards and procedures embodied in the Code are governed by the following overriding principles, which shall apply to all Employees in their conduct on behalf of the Company.
1. Compliance with Federal Securities Laws
All Employees are required to comply with all applicable federal securities laws, whether acting in their official capacity on behalf of the Company or acting in their own interests or those of related persons.
2. Employee Personal Securities Transactions
No Employee shall, in connection with the purchase or sale, directly or indirectly, by such Employee of a security held or acquired by any Fund:
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B. Prohibited Transactions
In addition to the prohibited transactions set forth in Section B.1 above, no Employee shall, for his or her own account, or for an account as to which he or she has direct or indirect beneficial ownership:
Employees responsible for making investment recommendations or decisions for the Funds must put the Funds' interest before his or her own interests and, therefore, promptly make the investment recommendation or decision in the Funds' interest rather than delay the recommendation or decision for the Funds until after the seventh day of the transaction for his or her own account to avoid conflict with this blackout provision. The Company recognizes that failure to do so may occur in good faith and will not require disgorgement of profits in such instances if it appears that the Employee acted in good faith and in the best interests of the Funds.
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The prohibitions in Section B of this Code and the preclearance requirements in Section C herein shall not apply to:
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C. Prior Approval for Covered Securities
Each Employee is required to receive prior approval from the Compliance Officer before purchasing, selling, or otherwise transferring Covered Securities in which he or she has a beneficial interest. The following procedures will apply:
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D. Reporting and Certification
Every Employee shall provide reports to the Compliance Officer as follows, provided that no holdings or transaction reports are required with respect to Exempt Accounts:
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E. Review and Enforcement
If the Compliance Officer determines that a Reviewable Transaction or other possible violations of this Code may have occurred, he shall then determine whether an actual violation of this Code may have occurred, taking into account any exemptions hereunder. Before making any determination that a violation has occurred, the Compliance Officer shall give the person whose transaction is in question an opportunity to supply additional information regarding such transaction.
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F. Gifts
No Employee shall seek or accept anything of value, either directly or indirectly, from broker-dealers or other persons providing services to the Company in exchange for any action being taken by such person on behalf of the Company or any of the Funds or that might otherwise create a conflict of interest or interfere with the impartial discharge of his or her responsibilities to the Funds. Cash gifts of any kind are prohibited, including cash equivalents such as gift certificates, bonds, securities or other items that may be readily converted to cash. For the purpose of this provision, unsolicited gifts from broker-dealers or other persons providing services to the Company without regard to any specified transaction or action (or if in connection with a transaction, is a gift also provided to other participants) including, but not limited to, those in the following categories, will not be considered to be in violation of this section:
If there are any questions about a proposed gift or activity, each person is urged to err on the side of caution and obtain prior approval from the Compliance Officer.
In appropriate circumstances, it may be acceptable for an Employee to extend gifts to clients or others who do business with the Company, but Employees should be certain that the gift does not give rise to a conflict of interest, or give the appearance of a conflict of interest. In all instances, the giving of cash or cash equivalents is prohibited. The gift should be of reasonable value under the circumstances, must be lawful and in accordance with regulatory rules, and be generally accepted under the business practices of the governing jurisdiction.
If there are any questions about a proposed gift, the Employee is urged to contact the Compliance Officer
G. Proprietary Information and Developments Policy
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contracts, agreements, literature or other documents and (iii) the identity of any investors in any of the Funds or other information about such investors or the investments made or to be made by such Funds. Employees shall not disclose any Proprietary Information to others outside of the Company or use the same for any unauthorized purposes without the prior written approval by the Compliance Officer, either during or after such period of time as the Employee is performing duties and responsibilities for the Company, unless and until such Proprietary Information has become public knowledge without fault by the Employee or the Employee is required to do so by law or court order, whereupon the Employee (or former Employee) shall promptly inform the Company in writing.
The policies regarding non-disclosure, the return of proprietary information and inventions set forth in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 above also extend to such types of information, records and tangible property of investors of the Company or vendors to the Company or other third parties who may have disclosed or entrusted the same to the Company or to the Employee in the course of his or her employment. Employees shall not disclose or use Proprietary Information and records of the type set forth in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 above, both during and after the termination of the employment or independent contractor relationship with the Company. Employees shall not accept future employment or enter into any contractual or business relationship with any business or other entity if that employment or relationship will cause the Employee to violate this Proprietary Information and Developments policy. Except as specifically provided herein, any other policies of the Company or any agreement between the Company and an Employee, the Company does not prohibit nor restrict an Employee's future use of the knowledge or skills he or she may develop while an Employee of the Company.
Equitable Remedies. The Company believes that the restrictions contained in this Section G are necessary for the protection of the business and goodwill of the Company and are reasonable for such purpose. Employees should be aware that any breach of this policy is likely to cause the Company substantial and irrevocable damage and therefore, in the event of any such breach, the Company, in addition to such other remedies which may be available, may pursue, and shall have
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the right to pursue, specific performance and other injunctive relief without having to prove actual damages.
Employees should not sign any confidentiality agreements with other parties without the prior approval of the Compliance Officer.
H. Insider Trading Policy
Employees may from time to time be in possession of material, non-public information concerning the Funds or companies that they invest in. Under federal securities laws, such persons are prohibited from buying or selling securities of such companies (or securities whose value is determined with reference to the securities of such companies) while in possession of such inside information, and may not otherwise use the information for their own advantage or the advantage of others. Violations of this rule may subject those involved to disciplinary action, as well as severe civil or criminal penalties. Any such legal proceedings would result in adverse publicity and embarrassment to the Company and the individuals involved. The Company has adopted Policies and Procedures with Respect to Insider Trading to avoid even the appearance of improper conduct on the part of any Employee (not just so-called insiders). These Policies and Procedures are attached hereto as Appendix B and are a part of this Code. It is critical that all Employees read and understand such Policies and Procedures and to consult with the Compliance Officer if there are any questions or concerns.
I. Copyright and Software distribution
The Company has expended considerable resources on the internal development of its computer software and the acquisition of licenses to third party computer software. The Company views such computer software and licenses to be valuable intellectual property of the Company. The Company also seeks to ensure compliance with copyright and trade secret laws and the various license and subscription agreements binding on the Company. The United States Copyright Act and license agreements from licensors limit the making of copies of computer software and associated documentation. Trade secret law and license and confidentiality agreements from licensors and other third parties limit unauthorized use or disclosure of the Company's or such third parties' trade secrets and other confidential information, including computer software, associated documentation and other information. Taking steps to protect the equity that the Company has built up in its own software and its licenses to third party software, and compliance with such laws and agreements is the responsibility of every Employee of the Company. To this end, the following guidelines have been established:
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J. Retention of Records
This Code, a copy of each report filed by Employees, any written report relating to the interpretation of this Code, or violations thereunder, shall be preserved with records of the Company for the period required by Rule 204A-1 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act").
K. Confidentiality under the Code
All reports of securities transactions and any other information collected or produced pursuant to this Code shall be treated as confidential, except as otherwise required by law or in connection with appropriate examinations by representatives of the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other authorized governmental body or self-regulatory organization.
L. Outside Business Affiliations and Duties
Due to the potential for conflicts of interest or the appearance of conflicts of interest, all Employees maintaining outside business activities (e.g. officer, director, governor, trustee, etc.) or executorships, trusteeships, custodianships, or powers of attorney for other than family members, must annually report such positions on the Annual Report of Outside Activities. This Report will be reviewed together by the Compliance Committee, and any Employee holding a position that, in the opinion of the Compliance Committee, could conflict with a duty to a Fund or the Company, may be asked to refrain from or curtail activities in connection with such position.
M. Other Matters
Whenever prior consent or approval by a person is required under this Code, it is understood that such person shall not pass upon a situation in which he or she has a personal interest, except as expressly provided herein.
The Compliance Officer or the Compliance Committee has the authority to grant written waivers of the provisions of this Code in appropriate instances, provided, that such waivers are granted only in rare instances and are not in violation of applicable rules and regulations.
The Compliance Officer or the Compliance Committee shall have the authority to request additional information from one or more Employees concerning their compliance with this Code, including, without limitation, duplicate brokerage statements for any account and copies of trade confirmations for certain transactions.
Employees are required to promptly report violations of this Code to the Chief Compliance Officer or another member of the Compliance Committee. All efforts will be made to maintain the confidentiality of the employee making the report, and retaliation against an Employee making such a report will not be tolerated.
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" Beneficial ownership " shall be interpreted in the same manner as it would be under Section 16a-1(a)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act") in determining whether a person is the beneficial owner of a security for purposes of Section 16 under the 1934 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder from time to time in effect. In general, a person is deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities owned by the Employee's spouse, by children residing in the person's household or by children who are financially dependent on the person, or other securities over which the person has control. Some examples of forms of beneficial ownership include:
" Covered Security " means a security as defined in Section 202(a)(18) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, except that it does not include direct obligations of the Government of the United States, bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, high quality short-term debt instruments (including repurchase agreements), and shares of money market mutual funds, transactions and holdings in shares issued by registered open-ended investment companies (except those for which Clough Capital or a control affiliate acts as the investment adviser), transactions in units of a unit investment trust if the unit investment trust is invested exclusively in unaffiliated mutual funds, or such other securities as may be excepted under the provisions of Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act from time to time in effect. Covered Securities include, but are not limited to, stocks, bonds, closed-end funds, options and warrants.
" Employee " means any officer, member or employee of the Company or any independent contractor of the Company performing material services for the Company meeting the definition of "Access Person" as defined under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Temporary employees, including part-time workers, interns, and others may be deemed to be an Employee under this Code by the Compliance Committee, depending on their access to sensitive, non-public, or confidential information, including portfolio holdings of the Funds. If the Compliance Committee finds that a temporary employee should be deemed an Employee for purposes of the Code, then such person will be asked to comply with the provisions of the Code, including the holdings and transactions reporting and pre-clearance requirements.
" Exempt Account " means (i) a "blind trust" or similar arrangement under which the person is prohibited by contract from communicating with or providing specific instructions to the manager of
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the Account regarding the purchase or sale of specific securities for the Account, (ii) any private investment partnership or company in which the Company is a general partner or for which the Company provides investment management services ("Company Funds"), (iii) any partnership interests or shares issued by any Company Funds, and (iv) any securities issued by any Company. An account shall be deemed an Exempt Account if the Compliance Officer makes such determination after reviewing all relevant facts.
" Limited Offering " means an offering that is exempt from registration under the Securities Act pursuant to Section 4(2) or 4(6) or pursuant to Rule 504, Rule 505 or Rule 506 under the Securities Act.
" Purchase or sale of a Covered Security " includes, among other things, the writing of an option to purchase or sell a Covered Security.
A security is " being considered for purchase or sale " when a recommendation is made (or if no recommendation is made, an order is made) to purchase or sell a security or with respect to the person making the recommendation, when such person seriously considers making such recommendation.
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APPENDIX B
POLICY AND PROCEDURES WITH RESPECT TO INSIDER TRADING
I. Policy Statement on Insider Trading and Background
The Company forbids any Employee from trading, either personally or on behalf of others (including Funds) on material nonpublic information or communicating material nonpublic information to others in violation of the law. This conduct is frequently referred to as "insider trading." The Company's policy applies to every Employee and extends to activities within and outside their duties at the Company. Every Employee must read and retain this policy statement. Any questions regarding the Company's policy and procedures should be referred to the Compliance Officer. Capitalized terms not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Company's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
The term "insider trading" is not defined in the federal securities law, but generally is used to refer not only to the use of material nonpublic information to trade in securities (whether or not the user is an "insider"), but also to communications of material nonpublic information to others, commonly referred to as "tipping". The law concerning insider trading can and does change, but as a general matter the law prohibits, among other things:
The concept of "insider" is broad. It includes officers, directors and employees of an issuer. In addition, a person can be a "temporary insider" if he or she enters into a special confidential relationship in the conduct of an issuer's affairs and as a result is given access to information solely for the issuer's purposes. A temporary insider can include, among others, an issuer's attorneys, accountants, consultants, bank lending officers, and the employees of such organizations.
Trading on insider information is not a basis for liability unless the information is material. "Material information" generally is defined as information which a reasonable investor would be likely to consider important in making his or her investment decisions, or information that is reasonably certain to have a substantial effect on the price of an issuer's securities. Information that officers, directors and employees should consider material includes, but is not limited to: dividend changes, earnings estimates, changes in previously released earnings estimates, significant merger or acquisition proposals or agreements, major litigation, liquidity problems, and extraordinary management or business developments.
Material information does not have to relate to an issuer's business or come from a source inside the issuer. For example, in a case involving a Wall Street Journal reporter, the Supreme Court considered as material certain information about the contents of a forthcoming column that was expected to affect the market price of a security. In that case, the reporter was found criminally liable for disclosing to others the dates that reports on various companies would appear in the column and whether those reports would be favorable or not.
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Information is nonpublic until it has been effectively communicated to the marketplace. A person should not trade on material nonpublic information until the investing public has been afforded the time to receive the information and act upon it. One must be able to point to some fact to show that the information is generally public. For example, information found in a report filed with the SEC, or appearing in The Wall Street Journal or other publications of general circulation would generally be considered public.
Penalties for trading on or communicating material nonpublic information are severe, both for individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and their employers. A person can be subject to some or all of the penalties below even if he or she does not personally benefit from the violation. Penalties could include.
In addition, any violation of this policy statement can be expected to result in serious sanctions by the Company, including possible dismissal of the persons involved.
II. Procedures to Implement the Company's Policy Against Insider Trading
The following procedures have been established to aid the Employees of the Company in avoiding insider trading, and to aid the Company in preventing, detecting and imposing sanctions against insider trading. These Procedures cannot cover all circumstances and Employees are asked to be cautious in all situations involving the potential for insider trading and consult with the Compliance Officer if such Employee has any questions.
Before an Employee trades for himself or herself or others, including Funds managed by the Company, in the securities of an issuer about which such Employee may have potential inside information, the Employee should ask at least the following questions of himself or herself:
If, after consideration of the above, the Employee believes that the information is material and nonpublic, or if the Employee has questions as to whether the information is material and nonpublic, he or she should take the following steps.
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Employees should be aware that these restrictions also apply to "tipping" information to others and apply to each Employee's family members and others living in your household
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Exhibit 99(r)(3)
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
CODE OF ETHICS FOR PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE AND FINANCIAL OFFICERS
I. PURPOSE OF THE CODE
The Clough Global Opportunities Fund (the "Fund") code of ethics (this "Code") is intended to serve as the code of ethics described in Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Item 2 of Form N-CSR. This Code shall be the sole code of ethics adopted by the Fund for purposes of Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the rules and forms applicable to registered investment companies thereunder. Insofar as other policies or procedures of the Fund, the Fund's adviser, principal underwriter, or other service providers govern or purport to govern the behavior or activities of the Covered Officers, as defined herein, who are subject to this Code, they are superseded by this Code to the extent that they overlap or conflict with the provisions of this Code. The Fund's and its investment adviser's, and principal underwriter's codes of ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act") are separate requirements applying to the Covered Officers and others, and are not part of this Code.
All Covered Officers must become familiar and fully comply with this Code. Because this Code cannot and does not cover every applicable law or provide answers to all questions that might arise, all Covered Officers are expected to use common sense about what is right and wrong, including a sense of when it is proper to seek guidance from others on the appropriate course of conduct.
The purpose of this Code is to set standards for the Covered Officers that are reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote:
II. COVERED PERSONS
This Code applies to the Fund's Principal Executive Officers and Principal Financial Officers, or any persons performing similar functions on behalf of the Fund (the "Covered Officers"). Each Covered Person should adhere to a high standard of business ethics and should be sensitive to situations that may give rise to actual as well as apparent conflicts of interest. Covered Officers are expected to act in accordance with the standards set forth in this Code.
III. HONEST AND ETHICAL CONDUCT
A. Honesty, Diligence and Professional Responsibility
Covered Officers are expected to observe both the form and the spirit of the ethical principles contained in this Code. Covered Officers must perform their duties and responsibilities for the Fund:
Covered Officers who are certified public accountants are expected to carry out their duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with the principles governing the accounting profession, including any guidelines or principles issued by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board or the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants from time to time.
B. Objectivity/Avoidance of Undisclosed Conflicts of Interest
Covered Officers are expected to maintain objectivity and avoid undisclosed conflicts of interest. In the performance of their duties and responsibilities for the Fund, Covered Officers must not subordinate their judgment to personal gain and advantage, or be unduly influenced by their own interests or by the interests of others. Covered Officers must avoid participation in any activity or relationship that constitutes a conflict of interest unless that conflict has been completely disclosed to affected parties and waived by the Trustees on behalf of the Fund. Further, Covered Officers should avoid participation in any activity or relationship that could create the appearance of a conflict of interest.
A conflict of interest would generally arise if, for instance, a Covered Officer directly or indirectly participates in any investment, interest, association, activity or relationship that may impair or appear to impair the Covered Officer's objectivity or interfere with the interests of, or the Covered Officer's service to, the Fund.
Any Covered Officer who may be involved in a situation or activity that might be a conflict of interest or give the appearance of a conflict of interest must report such situation or activity using the reporting procedures set forth in Section VI of this Code.
Each Covered Officer must not:
Each Covered Officer is responsible for his or her compliance with this conflict of interest policy.
C. Preparation of Financial Statements
Covered Officers must not knowingly make any misrepresentations regarding the Fund's financial statements or any facts in the preparation of the Fund's financial statements, and must comply with all applicable laws, standards, principles, guidelines, rules and regulations in the preparation of the Fund's financial statements. This section is intended to prohibit:
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Covered Officers must be scrupulous in their application of generally accepted accounting principles. No Covered Officer may (i) express an opinion or state affirmatively that the financial statements or other financial data of the Fund are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, or (ii) state that he or she is not aware of any material modifications that should be made to such statements or data in order for them to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, if such statements or data contain any departure from generally accepted accounting principles then in effect in the United States.
Covered Officers must follow the laws, standards, principles, guidelines, rules and regulations established by all applicable governmental bodies, commissions or other regulatory agencies in the preparation of financial statements, records and related information. If a Covered Officer prepares financial statements, records or related information for purposes of reporting to such bodies, commissions or regulatory agencies, the Covered Officer must follow the requirements of such organizations in addition to generally accepted accounting principles.
If a Covered Officer and his or her supervisor have a disagreement or dispute relating to the preparation of financial statements or the recording of transactions, the Covered Officer should take the following steps to ensure that the situation does not constitute an impermissible subordination of judgment:
D. Obligations to the Independent Auditor of the Fund
In dealing with the Fund's independent auditor, Covered Officers must be candid and not knowingly misrepresent facts or knowingly fail to disclose material facts, and must respond to specific inquiries and requests by the Fund's independent auditor.
Covered Officers must not take any action, or direct any person to take any action, to fraudulently influence, coerce, manipulate or mislead the Fund's independent auditor in the performance of an audit of the Fund's financial statements for the purpose of rendering such financial statements materially misleading.
IV. FULL, FAIR, ACCURATE, TIMELY AND UNDERSTANDABLE DISCLOSURE
It is the Fund's policy to provide full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that the Fund files with, or submits to, the SEC and in any other public communications by the Fund. The Fund has designed and implemented Disclosure Controls and Procedures to carry out this policy.
Covered Officers are expected to familiarize themselves with the disclosure requirements generally applicable to the Fund, and to use their best efforts to promote, facilitate, and prepare full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in all reports and documents that the Fund files with, or submits to, the SEC and in any other public communications by the Fund.
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Covered Officers must review the Fund's Disclosure Controls and Procedures to ensure they are aware of and carry out their duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Disclosure Controls and Procedures and the disclosure obligations of the Fund. Covered Officers are responsible for monitoring the integrity and effectiveness of the Fund's Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
V. COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS
Covered Officers are expected to know, respect and comply with all laws, rules and regulations applicable to the conduct of the Fund's business. If a Covered Officer is in doubt about the legality or propriety of an action, business practice or policy, the Covered Officer should seek advice from the Covered Officer's supervisor or the Fund's legal counsel.
In the performance of their work, Covered Officers must not knowingly be a party to any illegal activity or engage in acts that are discreditable to the Fund.
Covered Officers are expected to promote the Fund's compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. To promote such compliance, Covered Officers may establish and maintain mechanisms to educate employees carrying out the finance and compliance functions of the Fund about any applicable laws, rules or regulations that affect the operation of the finance and compliance functions and the Fund generally.
VI. REPORTING AND ACCOUNTABILITY
All Covered Officers will be held accountable for adherence to this Code. Each Covered Officer must, upon the Fund's adoption of this Code (or thereafter as applicable, upon becoming a Covered Officer), affirm in writing to the Board that he/she has received, read, and understands this Code by signing the Acknowledgement Form attached hereto as Appendix A. Thereafter, each Covered Officer, on an annual basis, must affirm to the Board that he/she has complied with the requirements of this Code.
Covered Officers may not retaliate against any other Covered Officer of the Fund or their affiliated persons for reports of potential violations that are made in good faith.
The Fund will follow these procedures in investigating and enforcing this Code:
A. Any Covered Officer who knows of any violation of this Code or who questions whether a situation, activity or practice is acceptable must immediately report such practice to the Fund's Audit Committee. The Audit Committee shall take appropriate action to investigate any reported potential violations. If, after such investigation, the Audit Committee believes that no violation has occurred, the Audit Committee is not required to take any further action. Any matter that the Audit Committee believes is a violation will be reported to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The Audit Committee shall respond to the Covered Officer within a reasonable period of time.
B. If the Covered Officer is not satisfied with the response of the Audit Committee, the Covered Officer shall report the matter to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. If the Chairman is unavailable, the Covered Officer may report the matter to any other member of the Board of Trustees. The person receiving the report shall consider the matter, refer it to the full Board of Trustees if he or she deems appropriate, and respond to the Covered Officer within a reasonable amount of time. If the Board of Trustees concurs that a violation has occurred, it will consider appropriate action, which may include review of and appropriate modifications to applicable policies and procedures or notification to appropriate personnel of the investment adviser or its board.
C. If the Board of Trustees determines that a Covered Officer violated this Code, failed to report a known or suspected violation of this Code, or provided intentionally false or malicious information in connection with an alleged violation of this Code, the Board of Trustees may take disciplinary action
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against any such Covered Officer to the extent the Board of Trustees deems appropriate. No Covered Officer will be disciplined for reporting a concern in good faith.
To the extent possible and as allowed by law, reports will be treated as confidential. The Fund may report violations of the law to the appropriate authorities.
VII. DISCLOSURE OF THIS CODE
This Code shall be disclosed to the public by at least one of the following methods in the manner prescribed by the SEC, unless otherwise required by law:
VIII. WAIVERS
Any waiver of this Code, including an implicit waiver, granted to a Covered Officer may be made only by the Board of Trustees or a committee of the Board to which such responsibility has been delegated, and must be disclosed by the Fund in the manner prescribed by law and as set forth above in Section VII (Disclosure of this Code).
IX. AMENDMENTS
This Code may be amended by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the independent Trustees. Any amendment of this Code must be disclosed by the Fund in the manner prescribed by law and as set forth above in Section VII (Disclosure of this Code), unless such amendment is deemed to be technical, administrative, or otherwise non-substantive. Any amendments to this Code will be provided to the Covered Officers.
X. CONFIDENTIALITY
All reports and records prepared or maintained pursuant to this Code will be considered confidential and shall be maintained and protected accordingly. Except as otherwise required by law or this Code, such matters shall not be disclosed to anyone other than the Board of Trustees of the Fund, the Audit Committee, the legal counsel to the Fund, legal counsel to the independent trustees and such other persons as a majority of the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the independent Trustees, shall determine to be appropriate.
Appendix A
CLOUGH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Certification and Acknowledgment of Receipt of Code of Ethics for Principal Executive Officers and Principal Financial Officers
I acknowledge and certify that I have received a copy of the Clough Global Opportunities Fund's Code of Ethics for Principal Executive Officers and Principal Financial Officers (the "Code"). I understand and agree that it is my responsibility to read and familiarize myself with the policies and procedures contained in the Code and to abide by those policies and procedures.
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I acknowledge and certify that I have read and understand the Code.
Officer Name (Please Print) |
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Officer Signature |
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Date |
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Exhibit 99(s)
We, the undersigned trustees of the Clough Global Opportunities Fund, a Delaware statutory trust (the "Fund"), do hereby severally constitute and appoint Erin E. Douglas, with full power of substitution, and with full power to sign for him/her and in his/her name in the appropriate capacities, any registration statements on Form N-2 filed by the Fund in connection with the initial public offering of its common shares, including any and all pre-effective and post-effective amendments to such registration statements and supplements or other instruments in connection therewith, and generally to do all such things in our names and behalf in connection therewith as said attorney-in-fact deems necessary or appropriate, to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and all related requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. 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 dates indicated.
Signature
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Title
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Date
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/s/
EDMUND J. BURKE
Edmund J. Burke |
Initial Trustee
President |
March 15, 2006 | ||
/s/ JEREMY O. MAY Jeremy O. May |
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Principal Financial and Accounting Officer |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ W. ROBERT ALEXANDER W. Robert Alexander |
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Trustee and Chairman |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ JAMES E. CANTY James E. Canty |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ ANDREW C. BOYNTON Andrew C. Boynton |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ ROBERT BUTLER Robert Butler |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ ADAM D. CRESCENZI Adam D. Crescenzi |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ JOHN F. MEE John F. Mee |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ RICHARD C. RANTZOW Richard C. Rantzow |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |
/s/ JERRY G. RUTLEDGE Jerry G. Rutledge |
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Trustee |
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March 15, 2006 |