FWP 1 dfwp.htm TERM SHEET NO. 687/A Term Sheet No. 687/A

Term sheet No. 687/A†

To prospectus dated October 10, 2006,

prospectus supplement dated November 13, 2006 and

underlying supplement No. 15/A2 dated September 11, 2008

  

Registration Statement No. 333-137902

Dated July 10, 2009; Rule 433

LOGO

Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch

$

3-Year Overlay Strategy Securities due July 19, 2012

Linked to the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return and Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return Indices

General

 

   

The securities are designed for investors who seek a return at maturity or upon early redemption that offers exposure to 100% of the appreciation or depreciation of each of the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return Index and the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return Index, reduced, in each case, by the respective adjustment factor. Investors should be willing to forgo any coupon payments and, if either index depreciates or fails to appreciate sufficiently to offset the effect of the adjustment factors over the term of the securities, to lose some or all of their initial investment. The securities will be redeemed early if the indices depreciate sufficiently to trigger a knock-out event (described below), in which case investors will lose a significant portion of their investment.

   

Senior unsecured obligations of Deutsche Bank AG due July 19, 2012.

   

Minimum denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.

   

The securities are expected to price on or about July 15, 2009 and are expected to settle three business days later on or about July 20, 2009.

Key Terms

 

Issuer:  

Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch

Issue Price:  

100% of the face amount

Basket:  

The Securities are linked to the performance of two indices:

 

•     the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return® Index (the “Total Return Index”), and

 

•     the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return® Index (the “Excess Return Index”)

 

(each, a “Basket Index” and, collectively, the “Basket Indices”)

Redemption Amount:  

You will receive a cash payment on the Maturity Date or an Early Redemption Date, as applicable, per $1,000 security face amount, calculated as follows:

   $1,000  x     (  

Final Basket Level

  )  
       Initial Basket Level    
 

Your investment will be fully exposed to any depreciation in either Basket Index.

Initial Basket Level:  

100

Basket Level:  

On any trading day:

100 × (1 + Total Return Performance + Excess Return Performance)

Final Basket Level:  

The Basket Level as determined by Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch on the Maturity Date, an Early Redemption Date, a Basket Knock-Out Date or a Fee Determination Date, as the case may be.

Total Return

Performance:

  (  

Final Reference Level

  )     x  Total Return Adjustment Factor –1
    Initial Reference Level    

Excess Return

Performance:

  (  

Final Reference Level

  )     x  Excess Return Adjustment Factor –1
    Initial Reference Level    

(cover continued on next page)

†This amended and restated term sheet supersedes term sheet No. 687 in its entirety. We refer to this amended and restated term sheet as “term sheet.”

Investing in the securities involves a number of risks. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page TS-7 of this term sheet.

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the securities or passed upon the accuracy or the adequacy of this term sheet or the accompanying underlying supplement, prospectus supplement and prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

    

Price to

Public

  

Discounts and

Commissions(1)

  

Proceeds

to Us

Per Security

   $    $    $

Total

   $    $    $
(1)  

We expect to pay a portion of the Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor as a commission on a quarterly basis to brokerage firms, which may include Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., and their affiliates, whose clients purchase securities in this offering and who continue to hold their securities. For more detailed information about discounts and commissions, please see “Underwriting” in this term sheet.

The securities are not bank deposits and are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The securities are not guaranteed under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program.

 

Deutsche Bank Securities    Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas


(continued from previous page)

 

Initial Reference Level:  

The closing level for the respective Basket Index on the Trade Date

Final Reference Level:  

For purposes of calculating the Redemption Amount payable on the Maturity Date:

•     the arithmetic average of the closing levels for the respective Basket Index on the five Averaging Dates.

 

For purposes of calculating the Redemption Amount payable on an Early Redemption Date:

 

•     the closing level for the respective Basket Index on the applicable Early Redemption Valuation Date.

 

For purposes of calculating the Redemption Amount payable on a Basket Knock-Out Payment Date:

 

•     the closing level for the respective Basket Index on the Basket Knock-Out Date.

 

For all other purposes:

 

•     the closing level for the respective Basket Index on the applicable trading day.

 

The closing levels on any trading day are subject to adjustment in the event of a Market Disruption Event. See “General Terms of the Securities — Market Disruption Events” herein.

 

Total Return Adjustment Factor:

 

1 – (0.015 x (Days / 365)), where “Days” equals the number of calendar days from the Trade Date to, but excluding, the Final Averaging Date, the Early Redemption Valuation Date or the Basket Knock-Out Date (each, a “Valuation Date”), as applicable.

Excess Return Adjustment Factor:  

1 – (0.015 x (Days / 365)), where “Days” equals the number of calendar days from the Trade Date to, but excluding, the Final Averaging Date, the Early Redemption Valuation Date or the Basket Knock-Out Date (each, a “Valuation Date”), as applicable.

Basket Knock-Out Event:  

If the Basket Level on any trading day falls below 50 (a “Basket Knock-Out Event”), the securities will be redeemed by the Issuer for the Redemption Amount calculated as of the date that is two trading days following such Basket Knock-Out Event (the “Basket Knock-Out Date”), with payment made on the date that is five business days after the Basket Knock-Out Date (the “Basket Knock-Out Payment Date”).

Issuer Early Redemption:  

We will have the right, upon fourteen (14) calendar days’ notice, to redeem the securities, in whole, but not in part, for the Redemption Amount, on any Early Redemption Date, subject to postponement if such day is not a business day or in the event of a Market Disruption Event as described under “General Terms of the Securities — Market Disruption Events” herein. If we exercise our early redemption right, the Redemption Amount payable on the applicable Early Redemption Date will be calculated using the Final Basket Level on the corresponding Early Redemption Valuation Date. See “Issuer Early Redemption” herein.

Investor Early Redemption:  

You will have the right to cause us to redeem your securities, in whole, but not in part, for the Redemption Amount, by submitting a notice of your intention to your broker in accordance with your broker’s instructions so that we receive notification of your intention during the applicable Election Period. The Election Period corresponding to each Early Redemption Date is set forth under the heading “Investor Early Redemption” herein. If you exercise your early redemption right, the Redemption Amount payable on the applicable Early Redemption Date will be calculated using the Final Basket Level on the corresponding Early Redemption Valuation Date. See “Investor Early Redemption” herein.

Averaging Dates:  

The five trading days (each, an “Averaging Date”) prior to and including July 16, 2012 (the “Final Averaging Date”), subject to postponement in the event of a Market Disruption Event as described under “General Terms of the Securities — Market Disruption Events” herein.

Early Redemption Valuation Dates:  

July 16, 2010 and July 14, 2011 or, in each case, if such day is not a trading day, the first succeeding trading day, subject to postponement in the event of a Market Disruption Event as described under “General Terms of the Securities — Market Disruption Events” herein.

Early Redemption Dates:  

July 23, 2010 and July 21, 2011, in each case subject to postponement if such day is not a business day or in the event of a Market Disruption Event as described under “General Terms of the Securities — Market Disruption Events” herein.

Trade Date:  

July 15*, 2009

Settlement Date:  

July 20*, 2009

Maturity Date:  

July 19*, 2012, subject to postponement if such day is not a business day or in the event of a Market Disruption Event as described under “General Terms of the Securities — Market Disruption Events” herein.

CUSIP:  

2515A0 L7 6

ISIN:  

US2515A0L760

*Expected.

In the event that we make any change to the expected Trade Date or Settlement Date, the Maturity Date may be changed so that the stated term of the securities remains the same.


ADDITIONAL TERMS SPECIFIC TO THE SECURITIES

 

   

You should read this term sheet together with the prospectus dated October 10, 2006, as supplemented by the prospectus supplement dated November 13, 2006 relating to our Series A global notes of which these securities are a part, and the more detailed information regarding the Basket Indices contained in underlying supplement no. 15/A2 dated September 11, 2008. You may access these documents on the SEC website at www.sec.gov as follows (or if such address has changed, by reviewing our filings for the relevant date on the SEC website):

 

   

Underlying Supplement No. 15/A2 dated September 11, 2008:

http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1159508/000119312508194800/d424b21.pdf

 

   

Prospectus supplement dated November 13, 2006:

http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1159508/000119312506233129/d424b3.htm

 

   

Prospectus dated October 10, 2006:

http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1159508/000095012306012432/u50845fv3asr.htm

 

   

Our Central Index Key, or CIK, on the SEC website is 0001159508. As used in this term sheet, “we,” “us” or “our” refers to Deutsche Bank AG, including, as the context requires, acting through one of its branches.

 

   

This term sheet, together with the documents listed above, contains the terms of the securities and supersedes all other prior or contemporaneous oral statements as well as any other written materials including preliminary or indicative pricing terms, correspondence, trade ideas, structures for implementation, sample structures, brochures or other educational materials of ours. You should carefully consider, among other things, the matters set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” herein, as the securities involve risks not associated with conventional debt securities. We urge you to consult your investment, legal, tax, accounting and other advisers before deciding to invest in the securities.

 

   

Deutsche Bank AG has filed a registration statement (including a prospectus) with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, for the offering to which this term sheet relates. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus in that registration statement and the other documents relating to this offering that Deutsche Bank AG has filed with the SEC for more complete information about Deutsche Bank AG and this offering. You may obtain these documents without cost by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, Deutsche Bank AG, any agent or any dealer participating in this offering will arrange to send you the prospectus, underlying supplement, and this term sheet if you so request by calling toll-free 1-800-311-4409.

 

   

You may revoke your offer to purchase the securities at any time prior to the time at which we accept such offer by notifying the applicable agent. We reserve the right to change the terms of, or reject any offer to purchase, the securities prior to their issuance. We will notify you in the event of any changes to the terms of the securities, and you will be asked to accept such changes in connection with your purchase of any securities. You may also choose to reject such changes, in which case we may reject your offer to purchase the securities.

 

TS-1


HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLES

The following table illustrates the hypothetical Redemption Amounts per $1,000 security face amount, for hypothetical performances of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index, payable on the Early Redemption Dates and the Maturity Date. The calculations assume 365, 728 and 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the first Early Redemption Valuation Date, second Early Redemption Valuation Date and Final Averaging Date, respectively. The hypothetical Redemption Amounts set forth below are for illustrative purposes only and may not be the actual Redemption Amounts applicable to a purchaser of the securities. The numbers appearing in the following table and examples have been rounded for ease of analysis.

For purposes of this table, it is assumed that a Basket Knock-Out Event does not occur. If a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, you will lose a significant portion of your investment in the securities.

 

Redemption Amount

 

 

Early Redemption Valuation Date or Final Averaging Date

 

July 16, 2010

 

July 14, 2011

 

July 16, 2012

     Index Performance
excluding Adjustment
Factors
  Index Performance including Adjustment Factors

Total Return Performance

  60.00%   57.60%   55.21%   52.79%

Excess Return Performance

  40.00%   37.90%   35.81%   33.69%

Final Basket Level

      195.50   191.02   186.49

Redemption Amount

      $1,955.00   $1,910.25   $1,864.88

Total Return Performance

  20.00%   18.20%   16.41%   14.60%

Excess Return Performance

  -10.56%   -11.90%   -13.24%   -14.60%

Final Basket Level

      106.30   103.17   100.00

Redemption Amount

      $1,062.98   $1,031.74   $1,000.00

Total Return Performance

  -10.00%   -11.35%   -12.69%   -14.05%

Excess Return Performance

  -30.00%   -31.05%   -32.09%   -33.15%

Final Basket Level

      57.60   55.21   52.79

Redemption Amount

      $576.00   $552.13   $527.93

The following table illustrates the degree to which the Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor reduce the performances of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index, respectively, depending on whether the securities are held to the Maturity Date or redeemed on an Early Redemption Date. The calculations assume 365, 728 and 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the first Early Redemption Valuation Date, second Early Redemption Valuation Date and Final Averaging Date, respectively. The numbers appearing in the following table and examples have been rounded for ease of analysis.

For purposes of this table, it is assumed that a Basket Knock-Out Event does not occur. If a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, you will lose a significant portion of your investment in the securities.

 

Early Redemption
Valuation Date or

Final Averaging

Date

  Total Return
Adjustment
Factor
  Percentage by
which the Total
Return
Adjustment
Factor Reduces
the performance
of the Total
Return Index
  Percentage
growth required
by the Total
Return Index for
the Total Return
Performance to
equal zero
  Excess Return
Adjustment
Factor
  Percentage by
which the Excess
Return
Adjustment
Factor Reduces
the performance
of the Excess
Return Index
  Percentage
growth required
by the Excess
Return Index for
the Excess
Return
Performance to
equal zero
July 16, 2010   0.9850   1.50%   101.52%   0.9850   1.50%   101.52%
July 14, 2011   0.9700   3.00%   103.09%   0.9700   3.00%   103.09%
July 16, 2012   0.9550   4.50%   104.71%   0.9550   4.50%   104.71%

 

TS-2


The following table illustrates the dollar amount by which each adjustment factor reduces the Redemption Amount per $1,000 security face amount as the Final Reference Level of the respective Basket Index increases, depending on whether the securities are held to the Maturity Date or redeemed on an Early Redemption Date. The calculations assume Initial Reference Levels of 2,900.00 and 2,060.00 for the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index, respectively, and 365, 728 and 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the first Early Redemption Valuation Date, second Early Redemption Valuation Date and Final Averaging Date, respectively. The numbers appearing in the following table and examples have been rounded for ease of analysis.

For purposes of this table, it is assumed that a Basket Knock-Out Event does not occur. If a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, you will lose a significant portion of your investment in the securities.

 

     For Total Return Index   For Excess Return Index

Early

Redemption

Valuation Date or

Final Averaging

Date

  Final Reference
Level = 1,450
(50% of Initial
Reference Level)
  Final Reference
Level = 2,900
(100% of Initial
Reference Level)
  Final Reference
Level = 4,350
(150% of Initial
Reference Level)
  Final Reference
Level = 1,030
(50% of Initial
Reference Level)
  Final Reference
Level = 2,060
(100% of Initial
Reference Level)
  Final Reference
Level = 3,090
(150% of Initial
Reference Level)
July 16, 2010     $7.50   $15.00   $22.50     $7.50   $15.00   $22.50
July 14, 2011   $15.00   $30.00   $45.00   $15.00   $30.00   $45.00
July 16, 2012   $22.50   $45.00   $67.50   $22.50   $45.00   $67.50

The following table illustrates the hypothetical Redemption Amounts at maturity per $1,000 security face amount, for hypothetical performances of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index. The hypothetical Redemption Amounts set forth below assume Initial Reference Levels of 2,900.00 and 2,060.00 for the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index, respectively, a period of 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Final Averaging Date, that we do not exercise our early redemption right and that you do not exercise your early redemption right. The hypothetical Redemption Amounts set forth below are for illustrative purposes only and may not be the actual Redemption Amounts applicable to a purchaser of the securities. The numbers appearing in the following table and examples have been rounded for ease of analysis.

For purposes of this table and these examples, it is assumed that a Basket Knock-Out Event does not occur. If a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, you will lose a significant portion of your investment in the securities.

 

Total Return Index   Excess Return Index   Final
Basket
Level
  Redemption
Amount
  Return on
Securities
Final
Reference
Level
  Final
Reference
Level /
Initial
Reference
Level
  Total
Return
Adjustment
Factor
  Total Return
Performance
  Final
Reference
Level
  Final
Reference
Level /
Initial
Reference
Level
  Excess
Return
Adjustment
Factor
  Excess
Return
Performance
     
5,800.00   200.00%   0.954959    0.9099   4,120.00   200.00%   0.954959    0.9099   281.98   $2,819.84   181.98%
5,220.00   180.00%   0.954959    0.7189   2,472.00   120.00%   0.954959    0.1460   186.49   $1,864.88     86.49%
3,036.88   104.72%   0.954959    0.0000   2,157.23   104.72%   0.954959    0.0000   100.00   $1,000.00       0.00%
2,958.00   102.00%   0.954959   -0.0259   2,101.20   102.00%   0.954959   -0.0259     94.81      $948.12     -5.19%
2,900.00   100.00%   0.954959   -0.0450   2,060.00   100.00%   0.954959   -0.0450     90.99      $909.92     -9.01%
3,480.00   120.00%   0.954959    0.1460   1,236.00     60.00%   0.954959   -0.4270     71.89      $718.93   -28.11%

Example 1: The Final Reference Level of the Total Return Index increases to 5,220.00 from the Initial Reference Level of 2,900.00, and the Final Reference Level of the Excess Return Index increases to 2,472.00 from the Initial Reference Level of 2,060.00. Assuming a period of 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Final Averaging Date, you would receive a payment at maturity of $1,864.88 per $1,000.00 security face amount, calculated as follows:

$1,000 x [1 + (180% x (1 – 0.015 x (1,096 / 365)) – 1) + (120% x (1 – 0.015 x (1,096 / 365)) – 1)] = $1,864.88

 

TS-3


Example 2: The Final Reference Level of the Total Return Index increases to 2,958.00 from the Initial Reference Level of 2,900.00, and the Final Reference Level of the Excess Return Index increases to 2,101.20 from the Initial Reference Level of 2,060.00. In this case, even though the Final Reference Levels of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index are both greater than the Initial Reference Levels, you would receive a payment at maturity that is less than $1,000.00 security face amount because the increases in the Final Reference Levels are not sufficient to offset the effect of the Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor. Assuming a period of 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Final Averaging Date, you would receive a payment at maturity of $948.12 per $1,000.00 security face amount, calculated as follows:

$1,000 x [1 + (102% x (1 – 0.015 x (1,096 / 365)) – 1) + (102% x (1 – 0.015 x (1,096 / 365)) – 1)] = $948.12

Example 3: The Final Reference Level of the Total Return Index increases to 3,480.00 from the Initial Reference Level of 2,900.00, and the Final Reference Level of the Excess Return Index decreases to 1,236.00 from the Initial Reference Level of 2,060.00. In this case, even though the Final Reference Level of the Total Return Index is greater than the Initial Reference Level, you would receive a payment at maturity that is significantly less than $1,000.00 per $1,000.00 security face amount because the increase in the level of the Total Return Index is offset by an even greater decrease in the level of the Excess Return Index. Assuming a period of 1,096 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Final Averaging Date, you would receive a payment at maturity of $718.93 per $1,000.00 security face amount, calculated as follows:

$1,000 x [1 + (120% x (1 – 0.015 x (1,096 / 365)) – 1) + (60% x (1 – 0.015 x (1,096 / 365)) – 1)] = $718.93

The following table illustrates the hypothetical Redemption Amounts per $1,000 security face amount on a hypothetical Basket Knock-Out Payment Date for hypothetical performances of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index. The hypothetical Redemption Amounts set forth below assume Initial Reference Levels of 2,900.00 and 2,060.00 for the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index, respectively, a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs on July 20, 2010, July 22, 2010 is the Basket Knock-Out Date, July 29, 2010 is the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date, a period of 371 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Basket Knock-Out Date and that we do not exercise our early redemption right nor do you exercise your early redemption right before the Basket Knock-Out Event occurs. The hypothetical Redemption Amounts set forth below are for illustrative purposes only and may not be the actual Redemption Amounts applicable to a purchaser of the securities. The numbers appearing in the following table and examples have been rounded for ease of analysis.

 

On Day of Basket Knock-Out Event (July 20, 2010)   On Basket Knock-Out Date (July 22, 2010)   On Basket Knock-Out Payment
Date (July 29, 2010)
Final
Reference
Level (Total
Index Return)
  Final
Reference
Level (Excess
Return Index)
  Basket Level   Final
Reference
Level (Total
Return Index)
  Final
Reference
Level (Excess
Return Index)
 

Final

Basket Level

  Redemption
Amount
  Return on
Securities
2,230.00   1,550.00   49.82   2,220.00   1,530.00   48.52   $485.24   -51.48%
2,230.00   1,550.00   49.82   2,235.00   1,560.00   50.46   $504.67   -49.53%

Example 1: The Final Reference Level of the Total Return Index decreases from the Initial Reference Level of 2,900.00 to 2,230.00 on July 20, 2010 and then decreases to 2,220.00 on July 22, 2010, and the Final Reference Level of the Excess Return Index decreases from the Initial Reference Level of 2,060.00 to 1,550.00 on July 20, 2010 and then decreases to 1,530.00 on July 22, 2010. In this case, assuming the Basket Level has stayed at or above 50.00 prior to July 20, 2010, a Basket Knock-Out Event would have occurred on July 20, 2010, making July 22, 2010 the Basket Knock-Out Date and July 29, 2010 the Basket Knock-Out Payment

 

TS-4


Date. Assuming a period of 371 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Basket Knock-Out Date, you would receive a payment on the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date of $485.24 per $1,000.00 security face amount, calculated as follows:

$1,000 x [1 + (2,220/2,900) x (1 – 0.015 x (371/365)) – 1) + (1,530/2,060) x (1 – 0.015 x (371/365)) – 1)] = $485.24

Example 2: The Final Reference Level of the Total Return Index decreases from the Initial Reference Level of 2,900.00 to 2,230.00 on July 20, 2010 and then increases to 2,235.00 on July 22, 2010, and the Final Reference Level of the Excess Return Index decreases from the Initial Reference Level of 2,060.00 to 1,550.00 on July 20, 2010 and then increases to 1,560.00 on July 22, 2010. In this case, assuming the Basket Level has stayed at or above 50.00 prior to July 20, 2010, a Basket Knock-Out Event would have occurred on July 20, 2010, making July 22, 2010 the Basket Knock-Out Date and July 29, 2010 the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date. Here, even though the Final Basket Level on the Basket Knock-Out Date is above 50, your securities will still be redeemed early because the Basket Level has fallen below 50 on July 20, 2010, triggering a Basket Knock-Out Event. Assuming a period of 371 calendar days from the Trade Date to the Basket Knock-Out Date, you would receive a payment on the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date of $504.67 per $1,000.00 security face amount, calculated as follows:

$1,000 x [1 + (2,235/2,900) x (1 – 0.015 x (371/365)) – 1) + (1,560/2,060) x (1 – 0.015 x (371/365)) – 1)] = $504.67

Selected Purchase Considerations

 

   

APPRECIATION POTENTIAL — The securities provide the opportunity for enhanced returns because any positive Total Return Performance and Excess Return Performance will be combined in calculating the Redemption Amount. Because the securities are our senior obligations, payment of any amount at maturity is subject to our ability to pay our obligations as they become due.

 

   

ACCELERATED LOSS AND NO PROTECTION AGAINST LOSS — The securities offer 100% participation in the appreciation or depreciation in each of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index, each reduced by the respective adjustment factor. Any negative Total Return Performance and Excess Return Performance will be combined in calculating the Redemption Amount, resulting in a leveraged loss on your investment. Your payment at maturity or upon early redemption will be further reduced by the Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor.

 

   

POTENTIAL EARLY EXIT WITH MANDATORY LOSS DUE TO BASKET KNOCK-OUT FEATURE — The securities will be redeemed early by us if a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, in which case you will lose a significant portion of your initial investment in the securities. The early redemption upon such a Basket Knock-Out Event will be automatic, and you will be entitled only to the applicable Redemption Amount payable on the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date based on the Final Basket Level on the Basket Knock-Out Date, even if the Basket Indices subsequently appreciate. If a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, you will not be able to hold your securities to maturity or benefit from any appreciation of the Basket that may occur after the Basket Knock-Out Date, and you will lose a significant portion of your initial investment.

 

   

RETURN LINKED TO THE PERFORMANCE OF TWO INDICES — The return on the securities, which may be positive or negative, is fully exposed to the performance of two indices: the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index.

Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return® Index

The Total Return Index is intended to reflect the combined total return performance of a number of indices referred to as Index Constituents selected from among a pool of available indices

 

TS-5


referred to as Selection Pool Indices. The Selection Pool Indices are proprietary indices of Deutsche Bank or Standard & Poor’s and are categorized into one of five asset classes: equity, rates, commodities, FX and cash. The Index Constituents comprising the Total Return Index and their weights are selected by a process involving Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch or any duly appointed successor as Index Sponsor (the “Index Sponsor”) using a computer-based model (the “Model”), designed, owned and controlled by Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch. The Model is intended, on each Index Selection Date (as defined in the accompanying underlying supplement), to identify a notional portfolio of the Selection Pool Indices that, if the Total Return Index had comprised such notional portfolio over the period of 60 business days immediately preceding the relevant Index Selection Date, would have generated the highest level of annualized return for the Total Return Index during such period at a predetermined level of volatility. Certain of the Selection Pool Indices involve a dynamic allocation to underlying reference assets reflecting an alpha investment strategy. “Alpha” refers to the difference in the performance of an asset relative to a benchmark asset and an alpha investment strategy is a strategy that aims to generate returns without regard to the direction of the benchmark asset. For additional information about the Total Return Index, see the information set forth under “The Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha Indices” in this term sheet and “The Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return® Index and the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return® Index” in the accompanying underlying supplement.

Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return® Index

The Excess Return Index is intended to reflect the performance of the Total Return Index relative to the performance of the Deutsche Bank Fed Funds Total Return Index (the “Fed Funds Index”). For additional information about the Excess Return Index, see the information set forth under “The Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha Indices” in this term sheet and “The Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return® Index and the Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return® Index” in the accompanying underlying supplement.

 

   

THE ADJUSTMENT FACTORS REDUCE THE PAYMENT AT MATURITY OR UPON EARLY REDEMPTION — The payment at maturity or upon early redemption will be reduced by the adjustment factors. The Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor are applied to the Total Return Performance and the Excess Return Performance, respectively, on the applicable Valuation Date and will reduce the return on the securities regardless of whether the Final Reference Level on the applicable Valuation Date is greater than, less than or equal to the Initial Reference Level for either Basket Index. Because the securities are our senior unsecured obligations, payment of any amount at maturity or upon an early redemption is subject to our ability to pay our obligations as they become due.

 

   

TAX CONSIDERATIONS — You should review carefully the section in this term sheet entitled “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences.”

Under current law, the United Kingdom will not impose withholding tax on payments made with respect to the securities.

For a discussion of certain German tax considerations relating to the securities, you should refer to the section in the accompanying prospectus supplement entitled “Taxation by Germany of Non-Resident Holders.”

We do not provide any advice on tax matters. Both U.S. and non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisers regarding all aspects of the U.S. federal tax consequences of investing in the securities, as well as any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local or non-U.S. taxing jurisdiction.

 

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RISK FACTORS

An investment in the securities involves significant risks. Investing in the securities is not equivalent to investing directly in the Basket Indices, the Index Constituents or any of the components underlying the Index Constituents. You should consider carefully the following discussion of risks together with the risk information contained in the accompanying prospectus supplement and prospectus before you decide that an investment in the securities is suitable for you.

 

   

YOUR INVESTMENT IN THE SECURITIES MAY RESULT IN A LOSS ON AN ACCELERATED BASIS — The securities do not guarantee any return of your initial investment. The return on the securities at maturity or upon an early redemption is linked to the performance of the Basket Indices and will depend on whether, and the extent to which, the Final Basket Level is greater than the Initial Basket Level. Your investment will be fully exposed to any decline in the Final Basket Level, determined on the applicable Valuation Date, as compared to the Initial Basket Level. In addition, as a result of the adjustment factors, the performance of the Basket Indices will need to reflect, on a combined basis, a positive performance of at least 9.44% for you to receive your initial investment back at maturity. You will lose some or all of your initial investment if the Final Basket Level is less than the Initial Basket Level, and your loss may be accelerated because your investment is fully exposed to any negative Total Return Performance and Excess Return Performance, which are combined in calculating the Redemption Amount.

 

   

YOUR SECURITIES ARE FULLY EXPOSED TO THE PERFORMANCE OF EACH BASKET INDEX — The Redemption Amount payable at maturity or upon early redemption will reflect 100% participation in any appreciation or depreciation in each of the Basket Indices, each reduced by the respective adjustment factor. The performance of each Basket Index is combined in calculating the Redemption Amount, with the effect of magnifying losses if the levels of the Basket Indices decline.

 

   

THE SECURITIES ARE SUBJECT TO THE ISSUER’S CREDITWORTHINESS — An actual or anticipated downgrade in the Issuer’s credit rating will likely have an adverse effect on the market value of the securities. The payment at maturity on the securities is subject to the creditworthiness of the Issuer.

 

   

THE INCLUSION OF THE ADJUSTMENT FACTORS REDUCES THE PAYMENT AT MATURITY OR UPON EARLY REDEMPTION — The payment at maturity or upon early redemption will be reduced for each year the securities remain outstanding. The adjustment factors reduce the performance of each of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index by approximately 1.5% each year the securities remain outstanding. The dollar amount by which the adjustment factors reduce the Redemption Amount increases as the Final Reference Levels of the Basket Indices increase. The Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor are applied to the Total Return Performance and the Excess Return Performance, respectively, on the applicable Valuation Date and will reduce the return on the securities regardless of whether or not the Final Reference Level is greater than the Initial Reference Level for either Basket Index. At maturity or upon early redemption, you will receive less than your original investment unless the sum of the Total Return Performance and the Excess Return Performance, taking into account the adjustment factors, is equal to or greater than zero.

 

   

LIQUID ALPHA INDICES STRATEGY RISK — The Total Return Index is intended to reflect the combined total return performance of a number of indices referred to as Index Constituents while the Excess Return Index is intended to reflect the performance

 

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of the Total Return Index relative to the performance of the Fed Funds Index. The Index Constituents and their weights are selected by a process involving the Index Sponsor using a computer-based model, the Model, designed, owned and controlled by the Index Sponsor. The Model is intended, on each Index Selection Date (as defined in the accompanying underlying supplement), to identify a notional portfolio of the Selection Pool Indices that, if the Total Return Index had comprised such notional portfolio over the period of 60 business days immediately preceding the relevant Index Selection Date, would have generated the highest level of annualized return for the Total Return Index during such period at a predetermined level of annualized volatility of 5.00%. The selection by the Model of the Index Constituents and their weights is based on a retrospective calculation, and there is no assurance that the Index Constituents and weights selected by the Model will cause the level of the Total Return Index or that of the Excess Return Index to increase.

 

   

THE YIELD ON THE SECURITIES MAY BE LOWER THAN THE YIELD ON DEBT SECURITIES OF COMPARABLE MATURITY AND MAY BE ZERO OR NEGATIVE — The yield to the Maturity Date on the securities may be lower than the yield on our conventional debt securities of a comparable maturity and credit rating. If your securities have not been redeemed prior to maturity, at maturity, you will receive a positive return on your investment only if the Final Basket Level as measured on the Final Averaging Date exceeds the Initial Basket Level. If we choose to exercise our early redemption right, you will receive a positive return on your investment only if the Final Basket Level on the applicable Early Redemption Valuation Date exceeds the Initial Basket Level. Similarly, if you choose to exercise your early redemption right, you will receive a positive return on your investment only if the Final Basket Level on the applicable Early Redemption Valuation Date exceeds the Initial Basket Level. Even if the Final Basket Level on the applicable Valuation Date is greater than the Initial Basket Level, the yield to the Maturity Date may not fully compensate you for any opportunity cost, taking into account inflation and other factors relating to the time value of money.

 

   

WE MAY REDEEM THE SECURITIES PRIOR TO THE MATURITY DATE — We will have the right, in our sole discretion, to redeem the securities, in whole, but not in part, for the Redemption Amount, upon fourteen (14) calendar days’ notice, on any Early Redemption Date. If we choose to exercise our early redemption right, the Redemption Amount payable on the Early Redemption Date will be calculated using the Final Basket Level on the corresponding Early Redemption Valuation Date. Such Redemption Amount could be less, and potentially substantially less, than your initial investment in the securities. In addition, you will not benefit from any appreciation of the Basket that may occur after the Early Redemption Valuation Date, and you will not be able to hold your securities to maturity. We have no obligation to consider your interests in determining whether to redeem the securities prior to the maturity date.

 

   

WE WILL REDEEM THE SECURITIES PRIOR TO THE MATURITY DATE IF A BASKET KNOCK-OUT EVENT OCCURS — If a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, we will redeem the securities for the Redemption Amount on the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date. The Redemption Amount payable on the Basket Knock-Out Payment Date will be calculated using the Final Basket Level on the Basket Knock-Out Date. Such Redemption Amount will be substantially less than your initial investment in the securities. The Basket Level must stay at or above 50 to avoid the occurrence of a Basket Knock-Out Event. Once a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, the early redemption by us will be automatic, and you will lose a significant portion of your initial investment. In addition, you will not benefit from any appreciation of the Basket that may occur after the Basket Knock-Out Date, and you will not be able to hold your securities to maturity.

 

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CERTAIN BUILT-IN COSTS ARE LIKELY TO ADVERSELY AFFECT THE VALUE OF THE SECURITIES PRIOR TO MATURITY — While the payment at maturity described in this term sheet is based on the full face amount of your securities, the issue price of the securities includes the commissions, discounts and fees, if any, and the expected cost of hedging our obligations under the securities through one or more of our affiliates. The hedging costs also include the projected profit that the Issuer or its affiliates may realize in consideration for assuming the risks inherent in managing the hedging transactions. The fact that the issue price of the securities includes these commissions and hedging costs may adversely affect the price at which the Issuer or its affiliates may be willing to purchase the securities in the secondary market, if any. In addition, the hedging activity of the Issuer or its affiliates may result in the Issuer or its affiliates receiving a profit from hedging, even if the market value of the securities declines.

 

   

NO COUPON PAYMENTS — As a holder of the securities, you will not receive coupon payments.

 

   

LACK OF LIQUIDITY — The securities will not be listed on any securities exchange. Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. (“DBSI“) may offer to purchase the securities in the secondary market but is not required to do so. Because other dealers are not likely to make a secondary market for the securities, the price at which you may be able to sell your securities is likely to depend on the price, if any, at which DBSI is willing to buy the securities.

 

   

POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST EXIST BECAUSE WE, THE CALCULATION AGENT AND THE SPONSOR OF THE BASKET INDICES AND CERTAIN OF THE CONSTITUENT INDICES ARE THE SAME LEGAL ENTITY — Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch is the Issuer of the securities, the Calculation Agent for the securities, the sponsor of the Basket Indices and the sponsor of certain of the Index Constituents. We, as Index Sponsor, will determine whether there has been a Market Disruption Event with respect to a Basket Index or any Index Constituent. In the event of any such Market Disruption Event, we may use an alternate method to calculate the closing level of the applicable Basket Index. As the Index Sponsor, we carry out calculations necessary to promulgate the Basket Indices and certain of the Index Constituents, and we maintain some discretion as to how such calculations are made. In particular, we have discretion in selecting among methods of how to calculate a Basket Index or any Index Constituent in the event the regular means of determining a Basket Index or any Index Constituent is unavailable at the time such determination is scheduled to take place. While we will act in good faith and in a commercially reasonable manner in making all determinations with respect to the securities, the Basket Indices and the Index Constituents, there can be no assurance that any determinations made by Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch in these various capacities will not affect the value of the securities, the Index or the Index Constituents. Because determinations made by Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch as the Calculation Agent for the securities, the sponsor of the Basket Indices and the sponsor of certain of the Index Constituents may affect the Redemption Amount you receive at maturity or upon early redemption, potential conflicts of interest may exist between Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and you, as a holder of the securities.

Furthermore, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch or one or more of its affiliates may have published, and may in the future publish, research reports on the Index Constituents, investment strategies reflected by the Index Constituents or any components of the Index Constituents (or various contracts or products related to the Index Constituents or any components thereof). This research is modified from time to

 

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time without notice and may express opinions or provide recommendations that are inconsistent with purchasing or holding the securities. Any of these activities may affect the value of the Basket Indices and, therefore, the value of the securities or the potential payout on the securities.

 

   

THE BROKERAGE FIRM THROUGH WHICH YOU HOLD YOUR SECURITIES AND YOUR BROKER MAY HAVE ECONOMIC INTERESTS THAT ARE DIFFERENT FROM YOURS — We expect to pay a portion of the Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor as a commission on a quarterly basis to brokerage firms, which may include DBSI, and their affiliates, whose clients purchase securities in this offering and who continue to hold their securities. We expect that the brokerage firm through which you hold your securities will pay a portion of these commissions to your broker.

As a result of these arrangements, the brokerage firm through which you hold your securities and your broker may have economic interests that are different than yours. As with any security or investment for which the commission is paid over time, your brokerage firm and your broker may have an incentive to encourage you to continue to hold the securities because they will no longer receive these quarterly commissions if you sell or redeem your securities. You should take the above arrangements and the potentially different economic interests they create into account when considering an investment in the securities. For more information about the payment of these commissions, see “Underwriting” in this term sheet.

 

   

THE VALUE OF THE SECURITIES WILL BE AFFECTED BY A NUMBER OF UNPREDICTABLE FACTORS — We expect that, generally, the levels of the Basket Indices on any day will affect the value of the securities more than any other single factor. While the value of the securities in the secondary market should vary in proportion to changes in the levels of the Basket Indices, the value of the securities will be affected by a number of other factors that may either offset or magnify each other, including: the volatility of the Basket Indices and the Index Constituents; the closing levels of the Index Constituents; the currency markets generally and any currency exchange rates reflected in any of the Index Constituents; the value of Treasury Bills; interest and yield rates generally; monetary policies of the Federal Reserve Board and other central banks of various countries; inflation and expectations concerning inflation; the equity markets generally and any stock prices and dividend rates reflected in any of the Index Constituents; the financial condition and results of operations of any companies whose shares comprise any of the Index Constituents and conditions generally in the industries in which such companies operate; the commodity markets (including markets for commodity futures contracts) generally and the prices of commodities or commodity futures contracts reflected in any of the Index Constituents; supply and demand for the securities; a variety of economic, financial, political, regulatory or judicial events including wars, acts of terrorism; and natural disasters; and our creditworthiness, including actual or anticipated downgrades in our credit ratings.

 

   

THE CORRELATION AMONG THE INDEX CONSTITUENTS COULD CHANGE UNPREDICTABLY — Correlation is the extent to which the values of the Index Constituents increase or decrease to the same degree at the same time. The value of the securities may be adversely affected by increased correlation among the Index Constituents, in particular in a down market. The value of the securities may also be adversely affected by decreased correlation between the Basket Indices, meaning the positive performance of one Basket Index could be entirely offset by the negative performance of the other.

 

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THE RETURN ON YOUR INVESTMENT COULD BE SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN THE PERFORMANCE OF ANY INDIVIDUAL ELEMENT INCLUDED IN THE BASKET INDICES — The return on your investment in the securities could be less than the return on an alternative investment with similar risk characteristics, even if some of the Index Constituents have generated significant returns. The levels of the Index Constituents may move in different directions at different times compared to each other, and underperformance by one or more of the Index Constituents may reduce the performance of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index.

 

   

THE BASKET INDICES HAVE LIMITED PERFORMANCE HISTORY — Calculation of the Basket Indices began on April 17, 2008. Therefore, they have very limited performance history and no actual investment which allowed tracking of the performance of the Basket Indices was possible before that date.

 

   

THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF AN INVESTMENT IN THE SECURITIES ARE UNCLEAR — There is no direct legal authority regarding the proper U.S. federal income tax treatment of the securities, and we do not plan to request a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS“). Consequently, significant aspects of the tax treatment of the securities are uncertain and no assurance can be given that the IRS or a court will agree with the treatment of the securities as prepaid financial contracts, as described in the section of this term sheet entitled “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences.” If the IRS were successful in asserting an alternative treatment, the tax consequences of ownership and disposition of the securities might be affected materially and adversely. As described in “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences,” in December 2007, the Department of the Treasury (“Treasury“) and the IRS released a notice requesting comments on various issues regarding the U.S. federal income tax treatment of “prepaid forward contracts” and similar instruments, such as the securities. Any Treasury regulations or other guidance promulgated after consideration of these issues could materially and adversely affect the tax consequences of an investment in the securities, possibly with retroactive effect.

Both U.S. and non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisers regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the securities (including possible alternative treatments and the issues presented by the December 2007 notice), as well as any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local or non-U.S. taxing jurisdiction.

 

   

AN INVESTMENT IN THE SECURITIES IS NOT THE SAME AS AN INVESTMENT IN THE INDEX CONSTITUENTS — The closing levels of the Basket Indices on any trading day will depend on the performance of the Index Constituents. The weighting of each Index Constituent is determined by the Model, which seeks to maximize returns for a given level of volatility. You should carefully consider the composition and calculation of each Index Constituent before deciding that an investment in the securities is suitable for you.

 

   

THE INDEX CONSTITUENTS ARE NOT EQUALLY WEIGHTED AND MAY OFFSET EACH OTHER — The Index Constituents are assigned different weightings by the Model and such weightings are periodically adjusted in accordance with the Model. The same return generated by two Index Constituents, whether positive or negative, may have a different effect on the performance of the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index. Additionally, positive returns generated by one or more of the Index Constituents may be moderated or more than offset by smaller positive returns or negative returns generated by the other Index Constituents, particularly if the Index Constituents that generate positive returns are assigned relatively low weightings.

 

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THE ACTUAL EXPERIENCED VOLATILITY OF EACH INDEX CONSTITUENT AND INDEX MAY NOT EQUAL THE TARGET VOLATILITY, WHICH MAY HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE BASKET INDICES — The weighting of each Index Constituent is adjusted to target a volatility level of 5.00%. Because this adjustment is based on the volatility of the previous 60 business days, the actual volatility realized on the Index Constituents and the Total Return Index will not necessarily equal the volatility target, which could have an adverse effect on the Basket Indices and consequently the value of your securities.

 

   

THE CALCULATION OF THE CLOSING LEVELS OF THE BASKET INDICES WILL INCLUDE A DEDUCTION OF COSTS FROM THE CONSTITUENT INDICES — On each trading day, the calculation of the closing levels of the Basket Indices will include a deduction of costs from the Index Constituents, currently ranging between a minimum of 21 basis points per annum and a maximum of 63 basis points per annum, depending on the individual weightings of the Index Constituents.

Risks Relating to the Index Constituents

 

   

THE S&P X-ALPHA USD TOTAL RETURN STRATEGY INDEX HAS LIMITED PERFORMANCE HISTORY — Publication of the S&P X-Alpha USD Total Return Strategy Index (the “X-Alpha Index“) began on October 31, 2007. Therefore, the X-Alpha Index has very limited performance history, and no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the X-Alpha Index was possible before that date.

 

   

THE X-ALPHA INDEX CONSTITUENT PAIRS ARE NOT EQUALLY WEIGHTED IN THE X-ALPHA MODEL AND MAY OFFSET EACH OTHER — The X-Alpha Index uses a rules-based, mathematical model (the “X-Alpha Model“) that reflects the performance of eight Deutsche Bank proprietary equity indices (collectively, the “DB Regional Style Indices“) relative to the performance of four well known regional equity benchmark indices maintained by third-party sponsors (collectively, the “Benchmark Indices“ and, together with the DB Regional Style Indices, the “X-Alpha Index Constituents“). The closing level of the X-Alpha Index on any trading day will depend on the performance, in relation to each pair of X-Alpha Index Constituents which consists of a DB Regional Style Index and a Benchmark Index (each, an “X-Alpha Index Constituent Pair“), of each DB Regional Style Index compared to the Benchmark Index with which it is paired. The X-Alpha Index Constituent Pairs are assigned different weightings in the X-Alpha Index. Positive returns generated by one or more X-Alpha Index Constituent Pairs may be moderated or more than offset by smaller positive returns or negative returns generated by the other X-Alpha Index Constituent Pairs, particularly if the X-Alpha Index Constituent Pairs that generate positive returns are assigned relatively low weightings in the X-Alpha Model.

 

   

THE RETURNS OF THE X-ALPHA INDEX CONSTITUENT PAIRS WILL BE EXPOSED TO FLUCTUATIONS IN EXCHANGE RATES — For the purposes of determining the returns of the X-Alpha Index Constituent Pairs (each consisting of a DB Regional Style Index together with a Benchmark Index), the currency in which any DB Regional Style Index or Benchmark Index (if such currency is not U.S. dollars) will be converted into U.S. dollars at the relevant spot exchange rate. Any positive or negative return that is generated as a result of the performance of a DB Regional Style Index compared to that of a Benchmark Index with which it is paired is exposed to fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the currency in which such DB Regional Style Index and such Benchmark Index are publicly quoted.

 

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THE ACTUAL EXPERIENCED VOLATILITY OF EACH X-ALPHA INDEX CONSTITUENT PAIR AND THE X-ALPHA MODEL MAY NOT EQUAL TARGET VOLATILITY, WHICH MAY HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE X-ALPHA INDEX — The weighting of each X-Alpha Index Constituent Pair in the X-Alpha Model and the X-Alpha Model are adjusted to target a volatility level of 8%. Because this adjustment is based on recently experienced volatility and is subject to a minimum of 50% and a maximum of 150%, the actual volatility realized on the X-Alpha Index Constituent Pairs and the X-Alpha Model will not necessarily equal the volatility target, which could have an adverse effect on the value of the X-Alpha Index.

 

   

THE CALCULATION OF THE CLOSING LEVEL OF THE X-ALPHA INDEX WILL INCLUDE THE DEDUCTION OF A BORROW FEE — On each trading day, the calculation of the closing level of the X-Alpha Index will include the deduction of a borrow fee to defray transaction costs incurred in relation to the X-Alpha Index on such day.

 

   

THE DEUTSCHE BANK COMMODITY HARVEST USD TOTAL RETURN INDEX HAS LIMITED PERFORMANCE HISTORY — Publication of the Deutsche Bank Commodity Harvest USD Total Return Index (the “Commodity Harvest Index”) began on December 17, 2007. Therefore, the Commodity Harvest Index has very limited performance history, and no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Commodity Harvest Index was possible before that date.

 

   

COMMODITY HARVEST INDEX STRATEGY RISK — The Commodity Harvest Index reflects a strategy that takes a long position in the Deutsche Bank Commodity Booster Index (the “Booster Index”) and a short position in the S&P GSCI™ Light Energy Index (the “S&P Light Energy Index”). With respect to certain of its constituent commodity futures contracts, the Booster Index employs a rule-based approach when it replaces constituent futures contracts approaching expiration with futures contracts having a later expiration (a process referred to as “rolling”). Rather than select new futures contracts for certain constituent commodities based on a predefined schedule (e.g., monthly), as does the S&P Light Energy Index, the Booster Index rolls to those futures contracts (from the list of tradable futures which expire in the next thirteen months), that seek to generate the maximum implied roll yield. The Booster Index aims to maximize the potential roll benefits in backwardated markets (where futures contracts prices are less than spot prices) and minimize losses in contango markets (where futures contracts prices are greater than spot prices). This strategy may not be successful. The value of the Commodity Harvest Index will be adversely affected if the Booster Index does not outperform the benchmark S&P Light Energy Index.

 

   

COMMODITY MARKETS MAY BE HIGHLY VOLATILE — Commodity markets may be highly volatile and prices of commodities and commodity futures contracts can fluctuate rapidly based on numerous factors, including: changes in supply and demand relationships (whether actual, perceived, anticipated, unanticipated or unrealized); weather; agriculture; trade; fiscal, monetary and exchange control programs; domestic and foreign political and economic events and policies; disease; pestilence; technological developments; changes in interest rates, whether through governmental action or market movements; and monetary and other governmental policies, action and inaction. In addition, certain commodities may be produced in a limited number of countries and may be controlled by a small number of producers. Political, economic and supply related events in such countries could have a disproportionate impact on the prices of such commodities. Any of these factors could have an adverse effect on the performance of the Commodity Harvest Index.

 

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THE DEUTSCHE BANK BALANCED CURRENCY HARVEST (USD-FUNDED) INDEX HAS LIMITED PERFORMANCE HISTORY — Publication of the Deutsche Bank Balanced Currency Harvest (USD-Funded) Index (the “Currency Harvest Index”) began on October 19, 2005. Therefore, the Currency Harvest Index has limited performance history, and no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Currency Harvest Index was possible before that date.

 

   

CURRENCY HARVEST INDEX STRATEGY RISK — The strategy reflected in the Currency Harvest Index takes the view that by taking long positions in high yielding currencies and short positions in low yielding currencies, an investor’s gain from interest rate differentials in the high yielding jurisdictions will exceed any potential losses from exchange rate risk. This strategy may not be successful and there is no assurance that this expectation is or will remain valid. Various market factors and circumstances at any time and over any period could cause and have in the past caused investors to become more risk averse to high yielding currencies. Such risk aversion is greater with respect to the non-G10 currencies, which may be volatile and subject to large fluctuations, devaluations, exchange controls and inconvertibility.

 

   

GAINS IN COMPONENTS OF THE CURRENCY HARVEST INDEX MAY BE OFFSET BY LOSSES IN OTHER INDEX COMPONENTS — The Currency Harvest Index is composed of multiple currency positions. Any gain in one position may be offset by a loss in another position.

 

   

CURRENCY MARKETS MAY BE HIGHLY VOLATILE — Currency markets may be highly volatile, particularly in relation to emerging or developing nations’ currencies and, in certain market conditions, also in relation to developed nations’ currencies. The Currency Harvest Index components may include emerging market countries that are more exposed to the risk of swift political change and economic downturns than their industrialized counterparts. Political or economic instability is likely to have an adverse effect on the performance of the Currency Harvest Index.

 

   

THE DEUTSCHE BANK SMART USD INDEX HAS LIMITED PERFORMANCE HISTORY — Publication of the Deutsche Bank SMART USD Index (the “SMART Index”) began on July 15, 2007. Therefore, the SMART Index has very limited actual performance history, and no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the SMART Index was possible before that date.

 

   

SMART INDEX STRATEGY RISK — The SMART Index reflects an investment strategy that systematically selects steepening or flattening positions with respect to the USD yield curve. In order to capture returns generated by changes in the slope of the USD yield curve, the positions reflected in the SMART Index are determined on the basis of signals that indicate a rate cutting or rate hiking cycle, or, if such signals are inconclusive, on the basis of the yield of holding two forward starting interest rate swaps, receiving fixed payments of a 2-year maturity and making fixed payments of a 10-year maturity for one month’s time. This strategy may not be successful. If the slope of the USD yield curve does not behave in the manner indicated by the signals or remains flat or nearly flat for extended periods, the value of the SMART Index could be adversely affected.

 

   

LEVERAGED EXPOSURE TO THE SMART USD INDEX — Positive or negative returns generated by the SMART Index are five times leveraged before being assigned a weighting in the Index by the Model. If the investment strategy reflected by the SMART Index does not generate positive results, the contribution of the SMART Index to Index will be the weighted, leveraged negative performance of the SMART USD Index.

 

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ISSUER EARLY REDEMPTION

We will have the right, upon fourteen (14) calendar days’ notice, to redeem the securities, in whole, but not in part, for the Redemption Amount, on any Early Redemption Date, subject to postponement if such day is not a business day or in the event of a Market Disruption Event as described under “General Terms of the Securities – Market Disruption Events” herein. If we exercise our early redemption right, the Redemption Amount payable on the applicable Early Redemption Date will be calculated using the Final Basket Level on the corresponding Early Redemption Valuation Date.

Because the securities are represented by a global security, the Depository Trust Company (the “Depositary”) or the Depositary’s nominee will be the holder of the securities. We will notify only the Depositary or the Depositary’s nominee at least fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the Early Redemption Date of our intention to exercise our early redemption right. We expect that the Depositary or the Depositary’s nominee will notify the broker or other direct or indirect participant through which you hold your securities and that your broker will notify you of our intention to exercise our early redemption right. Different firms have different policies for transmitting notices to their customers and, accordingly, you should consult the broker or other direct or indirect participant through which you hold your securities in order to ascertain how and when you will receive a notice of early redemption if we issue such a notice to the Depositary or its nominee. You may receive such notice less than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the Early Redemption Date and we take no responsibility for any failure by the Depositary or the Depositary’s nominee to transmit such notice to your broker or by your broker to transmit such notice to you in a timely manner or at all.

 

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INVESTOR EARLY REDEMPTION

You will have the right to cause us to redeem your securities, in whole, but not in part, for the Redemption Amount, by submitting a notice of your intention to your broker in accordance with your broker’s instructions so that we receive notification of your intention during the applicable Election Period. The Election Period corresponding to each Early Redemption Date is set forth in the table below and includes the specified Election Start Date and Election End Date:

 

Election Start Date

  

Election End Date

  

Early Redemption Date

June 24, 2010

   July 9, 2010    July 23, 2010

June 22, 2011

   July 7, 2011    July 21, 2011

Any Election End Date that is not a business day will be postponed to the next following business day. If you exercise your early redemption right, the Redemption Amount payable on the applicable Early Redemption Date will be calculated using the Final Basket Level on the corresponding Early Redemption Valuation Date.

Because the securities are represented by a global security, the Depositary or the Depositary’s nominee will be the holder of the securities and therefore will be the only entity that can exercise the investor early redemption right. In order to ensure that the Depositary’s nominee will timely exercise the investor early redemption right, you must instruct the broker through which you hold your securities to notify the Depositary of your intention to exercise the investor early redemption right so we are notified of your intention during the applicable Election Period. Different firms have different cut-off times for accepting instructions from their customers and, accordingly, you should consult the broker or other direct or indirect participant through which you hold your securities in order to ascertain the cut-off time by which an instruction must be given in order for timely notice to be delivered to the Depositary, which will in turn notify us of the exercise of your early redemption right. We take no responsibility for any failure by your broker to transmit such notice to the Depositary in a manner that results in a timely notification to us.

 

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THE DEUTSCHE BANK LIQUID ALPHA INDICES

This section is a summary only of the Basket Indices. You should carefully read and consider the full descriptions of the Basket Indices that appears in Underlying Supplement No. 15/A2 before deciding that an investment in the securities is suitable for you. The Basket Indices have been calculated on an actual basis from April 17, 2008 and, for the period prior to that date, has been retrospectively calculated from January 21, 1999 (the “Index Commencement Date“).

The Total Return Index is intended to reflect the combined total return performance of a number of indices referred to as Index Constituents selected from among a pool of available indices referred to as Selection Pool Indices. The Excess Return Index is intended to reflect the performance of the Total Return Index relative to the performance of the Fed Funds Index.

The Index Constituents comprising the Total Return Index and their weights are selected by a process involving Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch or any duly appointed successor as Index Sponsor using a computer-based model, referred to as the Model, designed, owned and controlled by Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch. The Model is intended, on each Index Selection Date (as defined in the accompanying underlying supplement), to identify a notional portfolio of the Selection Pool Indices that, if the Total Return Index had comprised such notional portfolio over the period of 60 business days immediately preceding the relevant Index Selection Date, would have generated the highest level of annualized return for the Total Return Index during such period at a predetermined level of volatility.

The Selection Pool Indices are proprietary indices of Deutsche Bank or Standard & Poor’s and are categorized into one of five asset classes: equity, rates, commodities, FX and cash. The current Index Constituents, together with details of their Selection Pool Index Type, are set out below.

 

Index Constituents

   Selection Pool
Index Type
   Bloomberg
Code

S&P X-Alpha USD Total Return Strategy Index

   Equity    SPXADT

Deutsche Bank Commodity Harvest USD Total Return Index

   Commodity    DBCMHLTU

Deutsche Bank Balanced Currency Harvest (USD-Funded) Index

   FX    DBHVBUSF

Deutsche Bank SMART USD Index

   Rates    DBSMARTD

Fed Funds Total Return Index

   Cash    DBMMFED1

Certain of the Selection Pool Indices involve a dynamic allocation to underlying reference assets reflecting an alpha investment strategy. “Alpha” refers to the difference in the performance of an asset relative to a benchmark asset, and an alpha investment strategy is a strategy that aims to generate returns without regard to the direction of the benchmark asset.

The Bloomberg pages relating to the Total Return Index and the Excess Return Index are DBLAUT5J and DBLAUE5J, respectively, or any successors to such pages or services as selected by the Index Sponsor from time to time. Certain details as to levels of the Basket Indices and adjustments made in respect of the Basket Indices may be made available on such pages.

 

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Historical Information

The Deutsche Bank Fed Funds Total Return Index

The “Fed Funds Index” has existed only since October 8, 2007. The historical performance data below from October 8, 2007 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of such index. The historical performance data prior to October 8, 2007 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the Fed Funds Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the Fed Funds Index. The closing level of the Fed Funds Index on July 8, 2009 was 171.181. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Fed Funds Index was possible at any time prior to October 8, 2007.

LOGO

 

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The Deutsche Bank Balanced Currency Harvest (USD-Funded) Index

The Currency Harvest Index has existed only since October 19, 2005. The historical performance data below from October 19, 2005 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of such index. The historical performance data prior to October 19, 2005 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the Currency Harvest Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the Currency Harvest Index. The closing level of the Currency Harvest Index on July 8, 2009 was 299.07. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Currency Harvest Index was possible at any time prior to October 19, 2005.

LOGO

 

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The Deutsche Bank SMART USD Index

The SMART Index has existed only since July 15, 2007. The historical performance data below from July 15, 2007 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of such index. The historical performance data prior to July 15, 2007 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the SMART Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the SMART Index. The closing level of the SMART Index on July 8, 2009 was 109.6221. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the SMART Index was possible at any time prior to July 15, 2007.

LOGO

 

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The Deutsche Bank Commodity Harvest USD Total Return Index

The Commodity Harvest Index has existed only since December 17, 2007. The historical performance data below from December 17, 2007 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of such index. The historical performance data prior to December 17, 2007 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the Commodity Harvest Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the Commodity Harvest Index. The closing level of the Commodity Harvest Index on July 8, 2009 was 285.80. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Commodity Harvest Index was possible at any time prior to December 17, 2007.

LOGO

 

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The Standard and Poor’s X-Alpha USD Total Return Strategy Index

The X-Alpha Index has existed only since October 31, 2007. The historical performance data below from October 31, 2007 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of such index. The historical performance data prior to October 31, 2007 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the X-Alpha Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the X-Alpha Index. The closing level of the X-Alpha Index on July 8, 2009 was 3,025.481. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the X-Alpha Index was possible at any time prior to October 31, 2007.

LOGO

 

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The Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Total Return® Index

The Total Return Index has existed only since April 17, 2008 and publication of the Total Return Index began on April 23, 2008. The historical performance data below from April 17, 2008 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of the Total Return Index. The historical performance data prior to April 17, 2008 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the Total Return Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the Total Return Index. The closing level of the Total Return Index on July 8, 2009 was 2,899.619. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Total Return Index was possible at any time prior to April 17, 2008.

LOGO

 

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The Deutsche Bank Liquid Alpha USD 5 Excess Return® Index

The Excess Return Index has existed only since April 17, 2008 and publication of the Excess Return Index began on April 23, 2008. The historical performance data below from April 17, 2008 through July 8, 2009 represent the actual performance of the Excess Return Index. The historical performance data prior to April 17, 2008 reflect a retrospective calculation of the levels of the Excess Return Index using archived data and the current methodology for the calculation of the Excess Return Index. The closing level of the Excess Return Index on July 8, 2009 was 2,059.849. All prospective investors should be aware that no actual investment which allowed a tracking of the performance of the Excess Return Index was possible at any time prior to April 17, 2008.

LOGO

 

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GENERAL TERMS OF THE SECURITIES

Market Disruption Events

In this term sheet, we refer to any Market Disruption Event or Additional Disruption Event, each as defined in the accompanying underlying supplement, as a “Market Disruption Event.”

If a closing level for a Basket Index is not available on any Averaging Date, Early Redemption Valuation Date or Basket Knock-Out Date due to the occurrence or continuation of a Market Disruption Event, then such Averaging Date, Early Redemption Valuation Date or Basket Knock-Out Date will be postponed to the next trading day upon which a closing level for the applicable Basket Index is available.

Upon postponement of any Valuation Date, the Maturity Date, Early Redemption Date or Basket Knock-Out Payment Date, as applicable, will be postponed in order to maintain the same number of business days that originally had been scheduled between such Valuation Date and the Maturity Date, Early Redemption Date or Basket Knock-Out Payment Date, as applicable.

“Business day” and “trading day” each have the meaning given to that term in the underlying supplement.

Calculation Agent

Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch will act as the “Calculation Agent“ for the securities. The Calculation Agent will determine all values and levels required for the purposes of the securities, whether there has been a Market Disruption Event or a discontinuation of a Basket Index and whether there has been a material change in the method of calculating a Basket Index. All determinations made by the Calculation Agent will be at the sole discretion of the Calculation Agent and will, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive for all purposes and binding on you and on us. We may appoint a different Calculation Agent from time to time after the Trade Date without your consent and without notifying you.

The Calculation Agent will provide written notice to the trustee at its New York office, on which notice the trustee may conclusively rely, of the amount to be paid at maturity or upon early redemption or a Basket Knock-Out Event on or prior to 11:00 a.m. on the business day preceding the Maturity Date, Early Redemption Date or Basket Knock-Out Payment Date, as applicable.

All calculations with respect to the levels of the Basket Indices will be rounded to the nearest one hundred-thousandth, with five one-millionths rounded upward (e.g., 0.876545 would be rounded to 0.87655); all dollar amounts related to determination of the payment per security, if any, at maturity or upon early redemption or a Basket Knock-Out Event will be rounded to the nearest ten-thousandth, with five one hundred-thousandths rounded upward (e.g., 0.76545 would be rounded up to 0.7655); and all dollar amounts paid on the aggregate initial investment amount of securities per holder will be rounded to the nearest cent, with one-half cent rounded upward.

Events of Default

Under the heading “Description of Debt Securities – Events of Default” in the accompanying prospectus is a description of events of default relating to debt securities including the securities.

 

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Payment Upon an Event of Default

In case an event of default with respect to the securities will have occurred and be continuing, the amount declared due and payable per security upon any acceleration of the securities will be determined by the Calculation Agent and will be an amount in cash equal to the amount payable at maturity per security as described herein, calculated as if the five trading days prior to and including the date of acceleration were the Averaging Dates.

If the maturity of the securities is accelerated because of an event of default as described above, we will, or will cause the Calculation Agent to, provide written notice to the trustee at its New York office, on which notice the trustee may conclusively rely, and to DTC of the cash amount due with respect to the securities as promptly as possible and in no event later than two business days after the date of acceleration.

Modification

Under the heading “Description of Debt Securities – Modification of the Indenture” in the accompanying prospectus is a description of when the consent of each affected holder of debt securities is required to modify the indenture.

Defeasance

The provisions described in the accompanying prospectus under the heading “Description of Debt Securities – Discharge and Defeasance” are not applicable to the securities.

Listing

The securities will not be listed on any securities exchange.

DBSI intends to offer to purchase the securities in the secondary market, although it is not required to do so and may discontinue such activity at any time.

Book-Entry Only Issuance – The Depository Trust Company

The Depository Trust Company, or DTC, will act as securities depositary for the securities. The securities will be issued only as fully-registered securities registered in the name of Cede & Co. (DTC’s nominee). One or more fully-registered global securities certificates, representing the total aggregate initial investment amount of the securities, will be issued and will be deposited with DTC. See the descriptions contained in the accompanying prospectus supplement under the headings “Description of Notes — Form, Legal Ownership and Denomination of Notes.”

Registrar, Transfer Agent and Paying Agent

Payment of amounts due at maturity on the securities will be payable and the transfer of the securities will be registrable at the office of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (“DBTCA“) in The City of New York.

DBTCA or one of its affiliates will act as registrar and transfer agent for the securities. DBTCA will also act as paying agent and may designate additional paying agents.

Registration of transfers of the securities will be effected without charge by or on behalf of DBTCA, but upon payment (with the giving of such indemnity as DBTCA may require) in respect of any tax or other governmental charges that may be imposed in relation to it.

Governing Law

The securities will be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

 

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CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

The following is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of ownership and disposition of the securities.

The following discussion only applies to an investor who holds the securities as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended to the date hereof (the “Code“). This discussion is based on the Code, administrative pronouncements, judicial decisions and currently effective and proposed Treasury regulations, changes to any of which subsequent to the date of this term sheet may affect the tax consequences described below, possibly retroactively. This summary does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to an investor in light of the investor’s particular circumstances or to certain types of investors subject to special treatment under the U.S. federal income tax laws, such as certain former citizens or residents of the United States, certain financial institutions, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, tax-exempt entities, dealers and certain traders in securities, partnerships or other entities classified as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes, persons who hold the securities as a part of a hedging transaction, straddle, conversion or integrated transaction, U.S. holders (as defined below) who have a “functional currency” other than the U.S. dollar, or any individual non-U.S. investor who is present in the United States for 183 days or more in a taxable year in which the investor’s securities are sold or retired.

Tax Treatment of the Securities

We believe it is reasonable to treat the securities as prepaid financial contracts for U.S. federal income tax purposes, with the consequences described below. Due to the absence of authorities that directly address instruments that are similar to the securities, significant aspects of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the securities are uncertain. We do not plan to request a ruling from the IRS, and no assurance can be given that the IRS or a court will agree with the treatment described herein. Accordingly, you should consult your tax adviser regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the securities (including possible alternative treatments, some of which are discussed below) and with respect to any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local or non-U.S. taxing jurisdiction. Unless otherwise stated, the following discussion assumes that the above treatment of the securities will be respected.

Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders

You are a “U.S. holder” if, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, you are a beneficial owner of the securities who is: (i) a citizen or resident of the United States; (ii) a corporation created or organized under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof; or (iii) an estate or trust the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source.

Assuming the treatment of the securities described above is respected, the following are certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the securities under current law.

Tax Treatment Prior to Maturity. You should not recognize taxable income or loss over the term of the securities prior to maturity, other than pursuant to a sale or exchange, as described below.

 

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Sale, Exchange or Retirement of the Securities. Upon a sale, exchange or retirement of the securities, you will recognize taxable gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized on such sale, exchange or retirement and your tax basis in the securities. Your tax basis in the securities generally should equal the amount you paid to acquire them. This gain or loss generally should be capital gain or loss and should be long-term capital gain or loss if you have held the securities for more than one year. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to certain limitations.

Possible Alternative Tax Treatments of an Investment in the Securities. Due to the absence of authorities that directly address the proper tax treatment of the securities, no assurance can be given that the IRS will accept, or that a court will uphold, the treatment described above. Alternative U.S. federal income tax treatments of the securities are possible that, if applied, could materially and adversely affect the timing and/or character of income or loss with respect to the securities. It is possible, for example, that the securities could be treated as debt instruments issued by us. Under this treatment, the securities would be governed by Treasury regulations relating to the taxation of contingent payment debt instruments. In that event, even if you are a cash-method taxpayer, in each year that you held the securities you would be required to accrue into income “original issue discount” based on our comparable yield for similar non-contingent debt, determined as of the time of issuance of the securities, even though no cash will be received on the securities other than the redemption amount. In addition, any gain on the sale, exchange or retirement of the securities would generally be treated as ordinary in character. Moreover, if you were to recognize a loss above certain thresholds, you could be required to file a disclosure statement with the IRS.

Other alternative U.S. federal income tax characterizations of the securities might also require you to include amounts in income during the term of the securities and/or might treat all or a portion of the gain or loss on the sale or settlement of the securities as ordinary income or loss or as short-term capital gain or loss, without regard to how long you held the securities. For instance, it is possible that any reconstitution, rebalancing, recomposition, change in methodology of or substitution of a successor to a Basket Index, Index Constituents or indices underlying the Index Constituents could be treated as a “deemed” taxable exchange that could cause you to recognize gain or loss (subject, in the case of loss, to possible application of the “wash sale” rules) as if you had sold or exchanged the securities.

Because part of the Redemption Amount is determined by reference to the Currency Harvest Index, it is also possible that certain rules and regulations relating to foreign currency instruments under Section 988 of the Code could apply to the securities. If these rules were to apply, all or a portion of your gain or loss on the securities that would otherwise be treated as capital gain or loss could be treated as ordinary income or loss, unless on or before the date on which you acquired your securities you made a valid election pursuant to the applicable Treasury regulations to treat such gain or loss as capital gain or loss. We believe that it is reasonable to treat the election as available to the extent that Section 988 would otherwise apply and that there should be no adverse consequences as a result of having made a protective election under Section 988. To make the election, you must, in accordance with detailed procedures set forth in the regulations under Section 988 of the Code, either (a) clearly identify the transaction on your books and records on the date you acquire your securities as being subject to such an election and file the relevant statement verifying such election with your federal income tax return or (b) otherwise obtain independent verification. You should consult your tax adviser regarding the availability of the election, the advisability of making it and the conditions and procedures for doing so.

 

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In December 2007, Treasury and the IRS released a notice requesting comments on various issues regarding the U.S. federal income tax treatment of “prepaid forward contracts” and similar instruments, such as the securities. The notice focuses in particular on whether to require holders of these instruments to accrue income over the term of their investment. It also asks for comments on a number of related topics, including the character of income or loss with respect to these instruments; the relevance of factors such as the nature of the underlying property to which the instruments are linked; and whether these instruments are or should be subject to the “constructive ownership” regime, which very generally can operate to recharacterize certain long-term capital gain as ordinary income that is subject to an interest charge. While the notice requests comments on appropriate transition rules and effective dates, any Treasury regulations or other guidance promulgated after consideration of these issues could materially and adversely affect the tax consequences of an investment in the securities, possibly with retroactive effect.

You should consult your tax adviser regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the securities, including possible alternative treatments and the issues presented by this notice, as well as any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local or non-U.S. taxing jurisdiction.

Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Holders

The following discussion applies to you only if you are a non-U.S. holder. You are a “non-U.S. holder” if, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, you are a beneficial owner of the securities who is: (i) a nonresident alien individual, (ii) a foreign corporation or (iii) a foreign estate or trust.

Sale, Exchange or Retirement of the Securities. Under current law any gain from the sale, exchange or retirement of the securities should not be subject to U.S. federal income tax, including withholding tax, unless such gain is effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States, as described below.

Tax Consequences Under Possible Alternative Treatments. If the securities were treated as indebtedness, any income from the securities would not be subject to U.S. federal income tax, including withholding tax, provided generally that (i) you certify on IRS Form W-8BEN, under penalties of perjury, that you are not a United States person and otherwise satisfy applicable requirements; and (ii) any income from the securities is not effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States.

As described above under “— Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders — Possible Alternative Tax Treatments of an Investment in the Securities,” in December 2007, Treasury and the IRS released a notice requesting comments on various issues regarding the U.S. federal income tax treatment of “prepaid forward contracts” and similar instruments, such as the securities. The notice focuses, among other things, on the degree, if any, to which income realized with respect to such instruments by non-U.S. holders should be subject to withholding tax. It is possible that any Treasury regulations or other guidance promulgated after consideration of these issues might require non-U.S. holders to accrue income, subject to withholding tax, over the term of the securities, possibly on a retroactive basis. You should consult your tax adviser regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the securities, including possible alternative treatments and the issues presented by this notice.

 

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Income Effectively Connected with a Trade or Business in the United States. If you are engaged in a trade or business in the United States, and income from the securities is effectively connected with your conduct of that trade or business, you generally will be taxed in the same manner as a U.S. holder. In this case, you will be required to provide a properly executed IRS Form W-8ECI in order to claim an exemption from withholding. If this paragraph applies to you, you should consult your tax adviser with respect to other U.S. tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the securities, including the possible imposition of a 30% branch profits tax if you are a corporation.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

The cash proceeds received from a sale, exchange or retirement of the securities will be subject to information reporting unless you are an exempt recipient (such as a domestic corporation) and may also be subject to backup withholding at the rate specified in the Code if you fail to provide certain identifying information (such as an accurate taxpayer identification number, if you are a U.S. holder) or meet certain other conditions. If you are a non-U.S. holder and you file a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8ECI, as applicable, you will generally establish an exemption from backup withholding.

Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules are not additional taxes and may be refunded or credited against your U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is furnished to the IRS.

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS; HEDGING

The net proceeds we receive from the sale of the securities will be used for general corporate purposes and, in part, by us or by one or more of our affiliates in connection with hedging our obligations under the securities as more particularly described in “Use of Proceeds” in the accompanying prospectus. The issue price of the securities includes each agent’s commissions (as shown on the cover page of this term sheet) paid with respect to the securities which commissions, as to agents affiliated with us, include the reimbursement of certain issuance costs and the estimated cost of hedging our obligations under the securities. The estimated cost of hedging includes the projected profit that our affiliates expect to realize in consideration for assuming the risks inherent in hedging our obligations under the securities. Because hedging our obligations entails risk and may be influenced by market forces beyond our or our affiliates’ control, the actual cost of such hedging may result in a profit that is more or less than expected, or could result in a loss.

On or prior to the Trade Date, we, through our affiliates or others, may hedge some or all of our anticipated exposure in connection with the securities by taking positions in the Basket Indices, the Index Constituents, the components underlying the Index Constituents, or securities whose value is derived from the Basket Indices or their constituents. While we cannot predict an outcome, such hedging activity or other hedging or investment activity of ours could potentially increase the level of the Basket, and therefore effectively establish a higher level that the Basket must achieve for you to obtain a return on your investment or avoid a loss of your initial investment at maturity or upon early redemption. From time to time, prior to maturity of the securities, we may pursue a dynamic hedging strategy which may involve taking long or short positions in the Basket Indices, the Index Constituents, the components underlying the Index Constituents, or securities whose value is derived from the Basket Indices or its constituents. Although we have no reason to believe that any of these activities will have a material impact on the levels of the Basket Indices or the value of the securities, we cannot assure you that these activities will not have such an effect.

We have no obligation to engage in any manner of hedging activity and will do so solely at our discretion and for our own account. No security holder shall have any rights or interest in our hedging activity or any positions we may take in connection with our hedging activity.

 

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UNDERWRITING

Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in Distribution Agreements to be entered into between Deutsche Bank AG and each of Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. (“DBSI“) and DBTCA as agents and certain other agents that may be party to either Distribution Agreement from time to time (each an “Agent“ and collectively with DBSI and DBTCA, the “Agents“), each Agent participating in an offering of securities has agreed to purchase, and we have agreed to sell, the face amount of securities set forth on the cover page of the relevant pricing supplement. Each Agent proposes initially to offer the securities directly to the public at the public offering price set forth in the relevant pricing supplement.

DBSI and DBTCA, acting as agents for Deutsche Bank AG, will not receive a commission in connection with the sale of the securities. However, we expect to pay a portion of the Total Return Adjustment Factor and the Excess Return Adjustment Factor as a commission on a quarterly basis to brokerage firms, which may include DBSI, and their affiliates, whose clients purchased securities in this offering and who continue to hold their securities. After the initial offering of the securities, the Agents may vary the offering price and other selling terms from time to time. For each $1,000 face amount of securities purchased by clients of DBSI or DBTCA, as applicable, in the initial distribution and held by such clients on the applicable Fee Determination Date, the selling commission or fee applicable on a Fee Determination Date will be equal to the face amount times the sum of (a) 0.1875% times the sum of 1 plus the Total Return Performance and (b) 0.1875% times the sum of 1 plus the Excess Return Performance. A “Fee Determination Date” is (i) the first trading day of each March, June, September and December during which any securities remain outstanding, beginning on September 1, 2009, (ii) the Final Averaging Date, if any securities remain outstanding on such date, and (iii) with respect to any securities to be redeemed early, each Early Redemption Valuation Date and, if a Basket Knock-Out Event occurs, the Basket Knock-Out Date. The fee on the first Fee Determination Date will be based on the number of days from the Trade Date up to and including the first Fee Determination Date. The fee on the Final Averaging Date will be determined based on the number of days from the first business day following the immediately preceding Fee Determination Date up to and including the Final Averaging Date. The fee in respect of any securities redeemed prior to maturity will be prorated from the first business day following the Fee Determination Date immediately preceding the applicable Early Redemption Valuation Date to and including such Early Redemption Valuation Date. For purposes of calculating the fee during any period, each quarter will be deemed to comprise 91.25 days. For example, if the Total Return Performance and the Excess Return Performance on the first Fee Determination Date, September 1, 2009, were both equal to 0, the selling commission per $1,000 face amount would be calculated as follows (the number of days from the Trade Date up to and including the first Fee Determination Date is 49 days): $1,000 × [0.1875% × (1 + 0) + 0.1875% × (1 + 0)] × 49/91.25 = $2.01.

The aggregate selling commissions and fees paid during the term of the securities will not exceed 8% of the aggregate amount of securities issued. DBSI or DBTCA may pay a portion of these selling commissions or fees to the brokers or placement agents through whom the securities were purchased and are held. To find out the amount of selling commissions or fees paid or payable in respect of each $1,000 face amount of securities on any Fee Determination Date or in the aggregate, the security holder should contact the Issuer at (212) 454-9947. See “Risk Factors — Certain Built-in Costs Are Likely To Adversely Affect The Value Of The Securities Prior To Maturity” and “Risk Factors — The Brokerage Firm Through Which You Hold Your Securities And Your Broker May Have Economic Interests That Are Different From Yours.” The issue price of the securities includes commissions paid with respect to the securities and the cost of hedging the Issuer’s obligations under the securities.

 

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We own, directly or indirectly, all of the outstanding equity securities of DBSI and DBTCA. The underwriting arrangements for this offering comply with the requirements of Rule 2720 of the Conduct Rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) regarding a FINRA member firm’s underwriting of securities of an affiliate. In accordance with Rule 2720, no underwriter may make sales in this offering to any discretionary account without the prior approval of the customer.

DBSI or another Agent may act as principal or agent in connection with offers and sales of the securities in the secondary market. Secondary market offers and sales will be made at prices related to market prices at the time of such offer or sale; accordingly, the Agents or a dealer may change the public offering price, concession and discount after the offering has been completed.

In order to facilitate the offering of the securities, DBSI may engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the securities. Specifically, DBSI may sell more securities than it is obligated to purchase in connection with the offering, creating a naked short position in the securities for its own account. DBSI must close out any naked short position by purchasing the securities in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if DBSI is concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the securities in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. As an additional means of facilitating the offering, DBSI may bid for, and purchase, securities in the open market to stabilize the price of the securities. Any of these activities may raise or maintain the market price of the securities above independent market levels or prevent or retard a decline in the market price of the securities. DBSI is not required to engage in these activities, and may end any of these activities at any time.

To the extent the total aggregate face amount of securities offered pursuant to a pricing supplement is not purchased by investors, one or more of our affiliates may agree to purchase for investment the unsold portion. As a result, upon completion of this offering, our affiliates may own up to approximately 10% of the securities offered in this offering.

No action has been or will be taken by us, DBSI, DBTCA or any dealer that would permit a public offering of the securities or possession or distribution of this term sheet or the accompanying prospectus supplement, prospectus or underlying supplement, other than in the United States, where action for that purpose is required. No offers, sales or deliveries of the securities, or distribution of this term sheet or the accompanying prospectus supplement, prospectus or underlying supplement or any other offering material relating to the securities, may be made in or from any jurisdiction except in circumstances which will result in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations and will not impose any obligations on us, the Agents or any dealer.

Each Agent has represented and agreed, and each dealer through which we may offer the securities has represented and agreed, that it (i) will comply with all applicable laws and regulations in force in each non-U.S. jurisdiction in which it purchases, offers, sells or delivers the securities or possesses or distributes this term sheet and the accompanying prospectus supplement, prospectus and underlying supplement and (ii) will obtain any consent, approval or permission required by it for the purchase, offer or sale by it of the securities under the laws and regulations in force in each non-U.S. jurisdiction to which it is subject or in which it makes purchases, offers or sales of the securities. We shall not have responsibility for any Agent’s or any dealer’s compliance with the applicable laws and regulations or obtaining any required consent, approval or permission.

 

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Settlement

We expect to deliver the securities against payment for the securities on the Settlement Date indicated above, which may be a date that is greater than three business days following the Trade Date. Under Rule 15c6-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, trades in the secondary market generally are required to settle in three business days, unless the parties to a trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, purchasers who wish to transact in securities more than three business days prior to the original issue date will be required to specify alternative settlement arrangements to prevent a failed settlement if the securities are to be issued more than three business days after the Trade Date.

 

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