FWP 1 d654427dfwp.htm PRELIMINARY TERM SHEET Preliminary Term Sheet

Filed Pursuant to Rule 433

Registration Statement No. 333-180488

(To Prospectus dated March 30, 2012, Prospectus

Supplement dated March 30, 2012 and Product

Supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1 dated October 25, 2013)

Subject to Completion

Preliminary Term Sheet dated January 6, 2014

 

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The notes are being issued by Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”). There are important differences between the notes and a conventional debt security, including different investment risks and certain additional costs. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page TS-6 of this term sheet and beginning on page PS-7 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.

The initial estimated value of the notes as of the pricing date is expected to be between $9.50 and $9.73 per unit, which is less than the public offering price listed below. See “Summary” on the following page, “Risk Factors” beginning on page TS-6 of this term sheet and “Structuring the Notes” on page TS-17 of this term sheet for additional information. The actual value of your notes at any time will reflect many factors and cannot be predicted with accuracy.

None of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), any state securities commission, or any other regulatory body has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Note Prospectus (as defined below) is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

    

Per Unit

      

Total

        

Public offering price (1) (2)

     $10.00           $            

Underwriting discount (1) (2)

     $0.20           $            

Proceeds, before expenses, to BAC

     $9.80           $            

 

  (1)  For any purchase of 500,000 units or more in a single transaction by an individual investor, the public offering price and the underwriting discount will be $9.95 per unit and $0.15 per unit, respectively.

 

  (2)  For any purchase by certain fee-based trusts and discretionary accounts managed by U.S. Trust operating through Bank of America, N.A., the public offering price and underwriting discount will be $9.80 per unit and $0.00 per unit, respectively.

The notes:

 

        Are Not FDIC Insured    Are Not Bank Guaranteed    May Lose Value  

Merrill Lynch & Co.

January     , 2014

 

 

Units Bank of America Enhanced Return
$10 principal amount per unit
CUSIP No.
Pricing Date* January     , 2014 Settlement Date* January     , 2014 Maturity Date* January     , 2016 *Subject to change based on the actual date the notes are priced for initial sale to the public (the “pricing date”)
Market-Linked Step Up Notes Linked to a Global Equity Basket
¡Maturity of approximately two years
¡If the Basket is flat or increases up to the Step Up Value, a return of [12% to 18%]
¡If the Basket increases above the Step Up Value, a return equal to the percentage increase in the Basket
¡The Basket will be comprised of the EURO STOXX 50® Index and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. The EURO STOXX 50® Index will be given an initial weight of 70%, and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index will be given an initial weight of 30%
¡1-to-1 downside exposure to decreases in the Basket, with up to 100% of your principal at risk
¡All payments occur at maturity and are subject to the credit risk of Bank of America Corporation
¡No periodic interest payments
¡Limited secondary market liquidity, with no exchange listing


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

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Summary

The Market-Linked Step Up Notes Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016 (the “notes”) are our senior unsecured debt securities. The notes are not guaranteed or insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or secured by collateral. The notes will rank equally with all of our other unsecured and unsubordinated debt. Any payments due on the notes, including any repayment of principal, will be subject to the credit risk of BAC. The notes provide you with a Step Up Payment if the Ending Value of the Market Measure, which is the Global Equity Basket described below (the “Basket”), is equal to or greater than its Starting Value, but is not greater than the Step Up Value. If the Ending Value is greater than the Step Up Value, you will participate on a 1-for-1 basis in the increase in the level of the Basket above the Starting Value. If the Ending Value is less than the Starting Value, you will lose all or a portion of the principal amount of your notes. Payments on the notes, including the amount you receive at maturity, will be calculated based on the $10 principal amount per unit and will depend on our credit risk and the performance of the Basket. See “Terms of the Notes” below.

The Basket is comprised of the EURO STOXX 50® Index, and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (each, a “Basket Component”). On the pricing date, the EURO STOXX 50® Index will be given an initial weight of 70%, and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index will be given an initial weight of 30%.

The economic terms of the notes (including the Step Up Payment) are based on the rate we would pay to borrow funds through the issuance of market-linked notes and the economic terms of certain related hedging arrangements. The implied borrowing rate for market-linked notes is typically lower than the rate we would pay when we issue conventional fixed or floating rate debt securities. This difference in borrowing rate, as well as the underwriting discount and the hedging related charge described below, will reduce the economic terms of the notes to you and the initial estimated value of the notes on the pricing date. Due to these factors, the public offering price you pay to purchase the notes will be greater than the initial estimated value of the notes.

On the cover page of this term sheet, we have provided the initial estimated value range for the notes. This initial estimated value range was determined based on our and our affiliates’ pricing models, which take into consideration our implied borrowing costs and the market prices for the hedging arrangements related to the notes. The initial estimated value of the notes calculated on the pricing date will be set forth in the final term sheet made available to investors in the notes. For more information about the initial estimated value and the structuring of the notes, see “Structuring the Notes” on page TS-17.

 

Terms of the Notes

 

 

Issuer:

 

 

Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”)

 

Principal Amount:

 

 

$10.00 per unit

 

Term:

 

 

Approximately two years

 

Market Measure:

 

 

A global equity basket comprised of the EURO STOXX 50® Index (Bloomberg symbol: “SX5E”) and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (Bloomberg symbol: “MXEF”). Each Basket Component is a price return index.

 

Starting Value:

 

 

The Starting Value will be set to 100.00 on the pricing date.

 

Ending Value:

 

 

The value of the Market Measure on the scheduled calculation day. The calculation day is subject to postponement in the event of Market Disruption Events, as described beginning on page PS-19 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.

 

Step Up Value:

 

 

[112% to 118%] of the Starting Value. The actual Step Up Value will be determined on the pricing date.

 

Step Up Payment:

 

 

[$1.20 to $1.80] per unit, which represents a return of [12% to 18%] over the principal amount. The actual Step Up Payment will be determined on the pricing date.

 

Threshold Value:

 

 

The Threshold Value will be set to 100.00 on the pricing date.

 

Calculation Day:

 

 

Approximately the fifth scheduled Market Measure Business Day immediately preceding the maturity date.

 

Fees and Charges:

 

 

The underwriting discount of $0.20 per unit listed on the cover page and the hedging related charge of $0.075 per unit described in “Structuring the Notes” on page TS-17.

 

Calculation Agent:

 

 

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S”), a subsidiary of BAC.

 

Redemption Amount Determination

On the maturity date, you will receive a cash payment per unit determined as follows:

 

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Because the Threshold Value for the notes is equal to the Starting Value, you will lose all or a portion of your investment if the Ending Value is less than the Starting Value.

 

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-2


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

The terms and risks of the notes are contained in this term sheet and in the following:

 

  §   Product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1 dated October  25, 2013:

http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/70858/000119312513411179/d617471d424b5.htm

 

  §   Series L MTN prospectus supplement dated March 30, 2012 and prospectus dated March  30, 2012:

http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/70858/000119312512143855/d323958d424b5.htm

These documents (together, the “Note Prospectus”) have been filed as part of a registration statement with the SEC, which may, without cost, be accessed on the SEC website as indicated above or obtained from MLPF&S by calling 1-866-500-5408. Before you invest, you should read the Note Prospectus, including this term sheet, for information about us and this offering. Any prior or contemporaneous oral statements and any other written materials you may have received are superseded by the Note Prospectus. Capitalized terms used but not defined in this term sheet have the meanings set forth in product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1. Unless otherwise indicated or unless the context requires otherwise, all references in this document to “we,” “us,” “our,” or similar references are to BAC.

Investor Considerations

 

You may wish to consider an investment in the notes if:

 

§   You anticipate that the Basket will increase from the Starting Value to the Ending Value.

 

§   You are willing to risk a loss of principal and return if the Basket decreases from the Starting Value to the Ending Value.

 

§   You are willing to forgo the interest payments that are paid on conventional interest bearing debt securities.

 

§   You are willing to forgo dividends or other benefits of owning the stocks included in the Basket Components.

 

§   You are willing to accept a limited market for sales prior to maturity, and understand that the market prices for the notes, if any, will be affected by various factors, including our actual and perceived creditworthiness, the implied borrowing rate and fees and charges on the notes.

 

§   You are willing to assume our credit risk, as issuer of the notes, for all payments under the notes, including the Redemption Amount.

The notes may not be an appropriate investment for you if:

 

§   You believe that the Basket will decrease from the Starting Value to the Ending Value.

 

§   You seek principal protection or preservation of capital.

 

§   You seek interest payments or other current income on your investment.

 

§   You want to receive dividends or other distributions paid on the stocks included in the Basket Components.

 

§   You seek an investment for which there will be a liquid secondary market.

 

§   You are unwilling or are unable to take market risk on the notes or to take our credit risk as issuer of the notes.
 

 

We urge you to consult your investment, legal, tax, accounting, and other advisors before you invest in the notes.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-3


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

Hypothetical Payout Profile and Examples of Payments at Maturity

The below graph is based on hypothetical numbers and values.

 

LOGO  

 

 

This graph reflects the returns on the notes, based on a Step Up Payment of $1.50 (the midpoint of the Step Up Payment range of [$1.20 to $1.80]), a Step Up Value of 115% of the Starting Value (the midpoint of the Step Up Value range of [112% to 118%]) and the Threshold Value of 100% of the Starting Value. The green line reflects the returns on the notes, while the dotted gray line reflects the returns of a direct investment in the stocks included in the Basket Components, excluding dividends.

 

This graph has been prepared for purposes of illustration only.

The following table and examples are for purposes of illustration only. They are based on hypothetical values and show hypothetical returns on the notes. They illustrate the calculation of the Redemption Amount and total rate of return based on the Starting Value of 100, the Threshold Value of 100, a Step Up Value of 115, a Step Up Payment of $1.50 per unit and a range of hypothetical Ending Values. The actual amount you receive and the resulting total rate of return will depend on the actual Ending Value, Step Up Value, Step Up Payment, and whether you hold the notes to maturity. The following examples do not take into account any tax consequences from investing in the notes.

For recent hypothetical levels of the Basket, see “The Global Equity Basket” section below. Each Basket Component is a price return index and as such, the Ending Value will not include any income generated by dividends paid on the stocks included in any of the Basket Components, which you would otherwise be entitled to receive if you invested in those stocks directly. In addition, all payments on the notes are subject to issuer credit risk.

 

Ending Value

 

Percentage Change from
the Starting

Value to the

Ending Value

 

Redemption
Amount per Unit

 

Total Rate
of Return on
the Notes

    0.00         -100.00 %       $0.00         -100.00 %
    50.00         -50.00 %       $5.00         -50.00 %
    80.00         -20.00 %       $8.00         -20.00 %
    90.00         -10.00 %       $9.00         -10.00 %
    94.00         -6.00 %       $9.40         -6.00 %
    97.00         -3.00 %       $9.70         -3.00 %
    100.00  (1)       0.00 %       $11.50  (2)       15.00 %
    102.00         2.00 %       $11.50         15.00 %
    105.00         5.00 %       $11.50         15.00 %
    110.00         10.00 %       $11.50         15.00 %
    115.00  (3)       15.00 %       $11.50         15.00 %
    120.00         20.00 %       $12.00         20.00 %
    130.00         30.00 %       $13.00         30.00 %
    140.00         40.00 %       $14.00         40.00 %
    150.00         50.00 %       $15.00         50.00 %
    160.00         60.00 %       $16.00         60.00 %

 

(1)  The Starting Value and Threshold Value will be set to 100.00 on the pricing date.

 

(2)  This amount represents the sum of the principal amount and the hypothetical Step Up Payment of $1.50.

 

(3)  This is the hypothetical Step Up Value.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-4


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

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Redemption Amount Calculation Examples

Example 1

The Ending Value is 90.00, or 90.00% of the Starting Value:

 

Starting Value:   100.00
Threshold Value:   100.00
Ending Value:   90.00

 

 

$10 –

  [   $10 ×    (    100 –  90 

100

  )   ]   = $9.00   Redemption Amount per unit

Example 2

The Ending Value is 110.00, or 110.00% of the Starting Value:

 

Starting Value:   100.00
Step Up Value:   115.00
Ending Value:   110.00

 

 

$10.00  +  $1.50

    = $11.50   Redemption Amount per unit, the principal amount plus the Step Up Payment, since the Ending Value is equal to or greater than the Starting Value, but less than the Step Up Value.

Example 3

The Ending Value is 140.00, or 140.00% of the Starting Value:

 

Starting Value:   100.00
Step Up Value:   115.00
Ending Value:   140.00

 

 

$10 +

  [   $10 ×    (    140 –  100 

100

  )   ]   = $14.00   Redemption Amount per unit

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-5


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

Risk Factors

There are important differences between the notes and a conventional debt security. An investment in the notes involves significant risks, including those listed below. You should carefully review the more detailed explanation of risks relating to the notes in the “Risk Factors” sections beginning on page PS-7 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1, page S-5 of the MTN prospectus supplement, and page 8 of the prospectus identified above. We also urge you to consult your investment, legal, tax, accounting, and other advisors before you invest in the notes.

 

  §   Depending on the performance of the Basket as measured shortly before the maturity date, your investment may result in a loss; there is no guaranteed return of principal.

 

  §   Your return on the notes may be less than the yield you could earn by owning a conventional fixed or floating rate debt security of comparable maturity.

 

  §   Payments on the notes are subject to our credit risk, and actual or perceived changes in our creditworthiness are expected to affect the value of the notes. If we become insolvent or are unable to pay our obligations, you may lose your entire investment.

 

  §   Your investment return, if any, may be less than a comparable investment directly in the stocks included in the Basket Components.

 

  §   The initial estimated value of the notes is an estimate only, determined as of a particular point in time by reference to our and our affiliates’ pricing models. These pricing models consider certain assumptions and variables, including our credit spreads, our implied borrowing rate on the pricing date, mid-market terms on hedging transactions, expectations on interest rates and volatility, price-sensitivity analysis, and the expected term of the notes. These pricing models rely in part on certain forecasts about future events, which may prove to be incorrect.

 

  §   The public offering price you pay for the notes will exceed the initial estimated value. If you attempt to sell the notes prior to maturity, their market value may be lower than the price you paid for them and lower than the initial estimated value. This is due to, among other things, changes in the level of the Basket, the implied borrowing rate we pay to issue market-linked notes, and the inclusion in the public offering price of the underwriting discount and the hedging related charge, all as further described in “Structuring the Notes” on page TS-17. These factors, together with various credit, market and economic factors over the term of the notes, are expected to reduce the price at which you may be able to sell the notes in any secondary market and will affect the value of the notes in complex and unpredictable ways.

 

  §   The initial estimated value does not represent a minimum or maximum price at which we, MLPF&S or any of our affiliates would be willing to purchase your notes in any secondary market (if any exists) at any time. The value of your notes at any time after issuance will vary based on many factors that cannot be predicted with accuracy, including the performance of the Basket, our creditworthiness and changes in market conditions.

 

  §   A trading market is not expected to develop for the notes. Neither we nor MLPF&S is obligated to make a market for, or to repurchase, the notes. There is no assurance that any party will be willing to purchase your notes at any price in any secondary market.

 

  §   Our business activities as a full service financial institution, including our commercial and investment banking activities, our hedging and trading activities (including trades in shares of companies included in the Basket Components) and any hedging and trading activities we engage in for our clients’ accounts, may affect the market value of the notes and their return and may create conflicts of interest with you.

 

  §   Changes in the value of one of the Basket Components may be offset by changes in the value of the other Basket Components.

 

  §   The index sponsors may adjust each Basket Component in a way that affects its level, and the index sponsors have no obligation to consider your interests.

 

  §   You will have no rights of a holder of the securities included in the Basket Components, and you will not be entitled to receive securities or dividends or other distributions by the issuers of those securities.

 

  §   While we or our affiliates may from time to time own shares of the companies included in the Basket Components, we do not control any company included in any Basket Component, and are not responsible for any disclosure made by any other company.

 

  §   Your return on the notes and the value of the notes may be affected by exchange rate movements and factors affecting the international securities markets.

 

  §   There may be potential conflicts of interest involving the calculation agent. We have the right to appoint and remove the calculation agent.

 

  §   The U.S. federal income tax consequences of the notes are uncertain, and may be adverse to a holder of the notes. See “Summary Tax Consequences” below and “U.S. Federal Income Tax Summary” beginning on page PS-25 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-6


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

Other Terms of the Notes

Market Measure Business Day

The following definition shall supersede and replace the definition of a “Market Measure Business Day” set forth in product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1 dated October 25, 2013.

A “Market Measure Business Day” means a day on which:

(A) each of the Eurex (as to the EURO STOXX 50® Index), and the London Stock Exchange, Hong Kong Stock Exchange, São Paulo Stock Exchange and Korea Stock Exchange (as to the MSCI Emerging Markets Index) (or any successor to the foregoing exchanges) are open for trading; and

(B) the Basket Components or any successors thereto are calculated and published.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-7


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

The Global Equity Basket

The Basket is designed to allow investors to participate in the percentage changes in the levels of the Basket Components from the Starting Value to the Ending Value of the Basket. The Basket Components are described in the section “The Basket Components” below. Each Basket Component will be assigned an initial weight on the pricing date, as set forth in the table below.

For more information on the calculation of the value of the Basket, please see the section entitled “Description of the Notes – Basket Market Measures” beginning on page PS-20 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.

If December 30, 2013 were the pricing date, for each Basket Component, the Initial Component Weight, the closing level, the hypothetical Component Ratio and the initial contribution to the Basket value would be as follows:

 

Basket Component

   Bloomberg
Symbol
   Initial
Component
Weight
   Closing
Level(1)(2)
   Component
Ratio(1)(3)
   Initial Basket
Value
Contribution

EURO STOXX 50® Index

       SX5E          70.00          3,100.93          0.02257387          70.00  

MSCI Emerging Markets Index

       MXEF          30.00          1,001.90          0.02994311          30.00  
                      Starting Value          100.00  

 

(1) The actual closing level of each Basket Component and the resulting actual Component Ratios will be determined on the pricing date, subject to adjustment as more fully described in the section entitled “Description of the Notes – Basket Market Measures Determination of the Component Ratio for Each Basket Component” beginning on page PS-21 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.
(2)  These were the closing levels of the Basket Components on December 30, 2013.
(3) Each hypothetical Component Ratio equals the Initial Component Weight of the relevant Basket Component (as a percentage) multiplied by 100, and then divided by the closing level of that Basket Component on December 30, 2013 and rounded to eight decimal places.

The calculation agent will calculate the value of the Basket by summing the products of the closing level for each Basket Component on the calculation day and the Component Ratio applicable to such Basket Component. If a Market Disruption Event occurs as to any Basket Component on the scheduled calculation day, the closing level of that Basket Component will be determined as more fully described beginning on page PS-22 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1 in the section “Description of the Notes — Basket Market Measures — Observation Level or Ending Value of the Basket.”

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-8


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

While actual historical information on the Basket will not exist before the pricing date, the following graph sets forth the hypothetical historical performance of the Basket from January 2008 through December 2013. The graph is based upon actual month-end historical levels of the Basket Components, hypothetical Component Ratios based on the closing levels of the Basket Components as of December 31, 2007, and a Basket value of 100.00 as of that date. This hypothetical historical data on the Basket is not necessarily indicative of the future performance of the Basket or what the value of the notes may be. Any historical upward or downward trend in the value of the Basket during any period set forth below is not an indication that the value of the Basket is more or less likely to increase or decrease at any time over the term of the notes.

 

 

LOGO

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-9


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

The Basket Components

All disclosures contained in this term sheet regarding the Basket Components, including, without limitation, their make-up, method of calculation, and changes in their components, have been derived from publicly available sources. The information reflects the policies of, and is subject to change by, the applicable index sponsor. The index sponsors have no obligation to continue to publish, and may discontinue publication of, any Basket Component. The consequences of an index sponsor discontinuing publication of a Basket Component are discussed in the section of the product supplement entitled “Description of the Notes — Discontinuance of an Index” beginning on page PS-20 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1. None of us, the calculation agent, or the selling agent accepts any responsibility for the calculation, maintenance or publication of any Basket Component or any successor index.

The EURO STOXX 50® Index

The EURO STOXX 50® Index was created by STOXX, the index sponsor. STOXX is a joint venture between Deutsche Börse AG and SIX Group AG. Publication of the EURO STOXX 50® Index began in February 1998, based on an initial index level of 1,000 at December 31, 1991. On March 1, 2010, STOXX announced the removal of the “Dow Jones” prefix from all of its indices, including the EURO STOXX 50® Index.

Index Composition and Maintenance

For each of the 19 EURO STOXX regional supersector indices, the stocks are ranked in terms of free-float market capitalization. The largest stocks are added to the selection list until the coverage is close to, but still less than, 60% of the free-float market capitalization of the corresponding supersector index. If the next highest-ranked stock brings the coverage closer to 60% in absolute terms, then it is also added to the selection list. All current stocks in the EURO STOXX 50® Index are then added to the selection list. All of the stocks on the selection list are then ranked in terms of free-float market capitalization to produce the final index selection list. The largest 40 stocks on the selection list are selected; the remaining 10 stocks are selected from the largest remaining current stocks ranked between 41 and 60; if the number of stocks selected is still below 50, then the largest remaining stocks are selected until there are 50 stocks. In exceptional cases, STOXX’s management board can add stocks to and remove them from the selection list.

The EURO STOXX 50® Index components are subject to a capped maximum index weight of 10%, which is applied on a quarterly basis.

The EURO STOXX 50® Index is composed of 50 component stocks of market sector leaders from within the 19 EURO STOXX® Supersector indices, which represent the Eurozone portion of the STOXX Europe 600® Supersector indices. Set forth below are the country weightings and market sector weightings of the securities included in the EURO STOXX 50® Index as of October 31, 2013:

 

Country Weightings

  

Sector Weightings

France

     36.4%          Banks      16.2%      

Germany

     32.3%          Industrial Goods & Services      10.1%      

Spain

     12.6%          Insurance      9.4%      

Italy

     7.9%          Chemicals      9.4%      

Netherlands

     7.1%          Oil & Gas      8.9%      

Belgium

     3.0%          Food & Beverage      7.2%      

Ireland

     0.7%          Automobiles & Parts      6.0%      
         Utilities      6.0%      
         Health Care      5.9%      
         Telecommunications      5.6%      
         Technology      4.3%      
         Personal & Household Goods      3.6%      
         Construction & Materials      2.9%      
         Retail      2.2%      
         Media      1.3%      
         Real Estate      1.0%      

The composition of the EURO STOXX 50® Index is reviewed annually, based on the closing stock data on the last trading day in August. Changes in the composition of the EURO STOXX 50® Index are made to ensure that the EURO STOXX® Index includes the 50 market sector leaders from within the EURO STOXX® Index.

The free float factors for each component stock used to calculate the EURO STOXX 50® Index, as described below, are reviewed, calculated, and implemented on a quarterly basis and are fixed until the next quarterly review.

The EURO STOXX 50® Index is subject to a “fast exit rule.” The EURO STOXX 50® Index components are monitored for any changes based on the monthly selection list ranking. A stock is deleted from the EURO STOXX 50® Index if: (a) it ranks 75 or below on the monthly selection list and (b) it has been ranked 75 or below for a consecutive period of two months in the monthly selection list. The highest-ranked stock that is not an index component will replace it. Changes will be implemented on the close of the fifth trading day of the month, and are effective the next trading day.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-10


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

The EURO STOXX 50® Index is also subject to a “fast entry rule.” All stocks on the latest selection lists and initial public offering (IPO) stocks are reviewed for a fast-track addition on a quarterly basis. A stock is added, if (a) it qualifies for the latest STOXX blue-chip selection list generated end of February, May, August or November and (b) it ranks within the “lower buffer” on this selection list.

The EURO STOXX 50® Index is also reviewed on an ongoing basis. Corporate actions (including initial public offerings, mergers and takeovers, spin-offs, delistings, and bankruptcy) that affect the EURO STOXX® Index composition are immediately reviewed. Any changes are announced, implemented, and effective in line with the type of corporate action and the magnitude of the effect.

Index Calculation

The EURO STOXX 50® Index is calculated with the “Laspeyres formula,” which measures the aggregate price changes in the component stocks against a fixed base quantity weight. The formula for calculating the EURO STOXX 50® Index value can be expressed as follows:

 

 

Index  =

 

   

Free float market capitalization of the Index

  x  1,000

 

   
      Adjusted base date market capitalization of the Index      

The “free float market capitalization of the Index” is equal to the sum of the product of the closing price, number of shares outstanding, free float factor, and weighting cap factor, for each component stock as of the time the Index is being calculated.

The EURO STOXX 50® Index is also subject to a divisor, which is adjusted to maintain the continuity of the EURO STOXX 50® Index values across changes due to corporate actions, such as the deletion and addition of stocks, the substitution of stocks, stock dividends, and stock splits.

Neither we nor any of our affiliates, including the selling agent, accepts any responsibility for the calculation, maintenance, or publication of, or for any error, omission, or disruption in, the EURO STOXX 50® Index or any successor to the EURO STOXX 50® Index. STOXX does not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of the EURO STOXX 50® Index or any data included in the EURO STOXX 50® Index. STOXX assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, or disruption in the calculation and dissemination of the EURO STOXX 50® Index. STOXX disclaims all responsibility for any errors or omissions in the calculation and dissemination of the EURO STOXX 50® Index or the manner in which the EURO STOXX 50® Index is applied in determining the amount payable on the notes at maturity.

The following graph shows the historical performance of the EURO STOXX 50® Index in the period from January 2008 through December 2013. We obtained this historical data from Bloomberg L.P. We have not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of the information obtained from Bloomberg L.P. On December 30, 2013, the closing level of the EURO STOXX 50® Index was 3,100.93.

 

 

LOGO

This historical data on the EURO STOXX 50® Index is not necessarily indicative of the future performance of the EURO STOXX 50® Index or what the value of the notes may be. Any historical upward or downward trend in the level of the EURO STOXX 50® Index during any period set forth above is not an indication that the level of the EURO STOXX 50® Index is more or less likely to increase or decrease at any time over the term of the notes.

Before investing in the notes, you should consult publicly available sources for the levels and trading pattern of the EURO STOXX 50® Index.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-11


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

License Agreement

We have entered into a non-exclusive license agreement with STOXX providing for the license to us and certain of our affiliated or subsidiary companies, in exchange for a fee, of the right to use indices owned and published by STOXX (including the EURO STOXX 50® Index) in connection with certain securities, including the notes.

The license agreement between us and STOXX requires that the following language be stated in this term sheet:

STOXX has no relationship to us, other than the licensing of the EURO STOXX 50® Index and the related trademarks for use in connection with the notes. STOXX does not:

 

  §   sponsor, endorse, sell, or promote the notes;

 

  §   recommend that any person invest in the notes or any other securities;

 

  §   have any responsibility or liability for or make any decisions about the timing, amount, or pricing of the notes;

 

  §   have any responsibility or liability for the administration, management, or marketing of the notes; or

 

  §   consider the needs of the notes or the holders of the notes in determining, composing, or calculating the EURO STOXX 50® Index, or have any obligation to do so.

STOXX will not have any liability in connection with the notes. Specifically:

 

  §   STOXX does not make any warranty, express or implied, and disclaims any and all warranty concerning:

 

  §   the results to be obtained by the notes, the holders of the notes or any other person in connection with the use of the Index and the data included in the EURO STOXX 50® Index;

 

  §   the accuracy or completeness of the EURO STOXX 50® Index and its data;

 

  §   the merchantability and the fitness for a particular purpose or use of the EURO STOXX 50® Index and its data;

 

  §   STOXX will have no liability for any errors, omissions, or interruptions in the EURO STOXX 50® Index or its data; and

 

  §   Under no circumstances will STOXX be liable for any lost profits or indirect, punitive, special, or consequential damages or losses, even if STOXX knows that they might occur.

The licensing agreement between us and STOXX is solely for their benefit and our benefit, and not for the benefit of the holders of the notes or any other third parties.

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index is intended to measure equity market performance in the global emerging markets. The MSCI Emerging Markets Index is a free float–adjusted market capitalization index with a base date of December 31, 1987 and an initial value of 100. The MSCI Emerging Markets Index is calculated daily in U.S. dollars and published in real time every 60 seconds during market trading hours. The MSCI Emerging Markets Index currently consists of the following 21 emerging market country indices: Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Greece, Egypt, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Turkey. As of November 29, 2013, the five largest country weights were China (20.2%), South Korea (16.1%), Taiwan (11.3%), Brazil (11.1%), and South Africa (7.2%) and the five largest sector weights were Financials (27.1%), Information Technology (15.7%), Energy (11.5%), Materials (9.5%), and Consumer Discretionary (8.9%).

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index is part of the MSCI Regional Equity Indices series and is an MSCI Global Investable Market Index, which is a family within the MSCI International Equity Indices.

General – MSCI Indices

MSCI Inc. (“MSCI”), the index sponsor, provides global equity indices intended to measure equity performance in international markets and the MSCI International Equity Indices are designed to serve as global equity performance benchmarks. In constructing these indices, MSCI applies its index construction and maintenance methodology across developed, emerging and frontier markets.

MSCI enhanced the methodology used in its MSCI International Equity Indices. The MSCI Standard and MSCI Small Cap Indices, along with the other MSCI equity indices based on them, transitioned to the global investable market indices methodology described below. The transition was completed at the end of May 2008. The Enhanced MSCI Standard Indices are composed of the MSCI Large Cap and Mid Cap Indices. The MSCI Global Small Cap Index transitioned to the MSCI Small Cap Index resulting from the Global Investable Market Indices methodology and contains no overlap with constituents of the transitioned MSCI Standard Indices. Together, the relevant MSCI Large Cap, Mid Cap, and Small Cap Indices will make up the MSCI investable market index for each country, composite, sector, and style index that MSCI offers.

Constructing the MSCI Global Investable Market Indices. MSCI undertakes an index construction process, which involves:

 

  §   defining the equity universe;

 

  §   determining the market investable equity universe for each market;

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-12


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

  §   determining market capitalization size segments for each market;

 

  §   applying index continuity rules for the MSCI Standard Index;

 

  §   creating style segments within each size segment within each market; and

 

  §   classifying securities under the Global Industry Classification Standard (the “GICS”).

Defining the Equity Universe. The equity universe is defined by:

 

  §   Identifying Eligible Equity Securities: the equity universe initially looks at securities listed in any of the countries in the MSCI Global Index Series, which will be classified as either Developed Markets (“DM”) or Emerging Markets (“EM”). All listed equity securities, or listed securities that exhibit characteristics of equity securities, except mutual funds, ETFs, equity derivatives, limited partnerships, and most investment trusts, are eligible for inclusion in the equity universe. Real Estate Investment Trusts (“REITs”) in some countries and certain income trusts in Canada are also eligible for inclusion.

 

  §   Classifying Eligible Securities into the Appropriate Country: each company and its securities (i.e., share classes) are classified in only one country.

Determining the Market Investable Equity Universes. A market investable equity universe for a market is derived by applying investability screens to individual companies and securities in the equity universe that are classified in that market. A market is equivalent to a single country, except in DM Europe, where all DM countries in Europe are aggregated into a single market for index construction purposes. Subsequently, individual DM Europe country indices within the MSCI Europe Index are derived from the constituents of the MSCI Europe Index under the global investable market indices methodology.

The investability screens used to determine the investable equity universe in each market are as follows:

 

  §   Equity Universe Minimum Size Requirement: this investability screen is applied at the company level. In order to be included in a market investable equity universe, a company must have the required minimum full market capitalization.

 

  §   Equity Universe Minimum Free Float-Adjusted Market Capitalization Requirement: this investability screen is applied at the individual security level. To be eligible for inclusion in a market investable equity universe, a security must have a free float-adjusted market capitalization equal to or higher than 50% of the equity universe minimum size requirement.

 

  §   DM and EM Minimum Liquidity Requirement: this investability screen is applied at the individual security level. To be eligible for inclusion in a market investable equity universe, a security must have adequate liquidity. The twelve-month and three-month Annual Traded Value Ratio (“ATVR”), a measure that screens out extreme daily trading volumes and takes into account the free float-adjusted market capitalization size of securities, together with the three-month frequency of trading are used to measure liquidity. In the calculation of the ATVR, the trading volumes in depository receipts associated with that security, such as ADRs or GDRs, are also considered. A minimum liquidity level of 20% of three- and twelve-month ATVR and 90% of three-month frequency of trading over the last four consecutive quarters are required for inclusion of a security in a market investable equity universe of a DM, and a minimum liquidity level of 15% of three- and twelve-month ATVR and 80% of three-month frequency of trading over the last four consecutive quarters are required for inclusion of a security in a market investable equity universe of an EM.

 

  §   Global Minimum Foreign Inclusion Factor Requirement: this investability screen is applied at the individual security level. To be eligible for inclusion in a market investable equity universe, a security’s Foreign Inclusion Factor (“FIF”) must reach a certain threshold. The FIF of a security is defined as the proportion of shares outstanding that is available for purchase in the public equity markets by international investors. This proportion accounts for the available free float of and/or the foreign ownership limits applicable to a specific security (or company). In general, a security must have an FIF equal to or larger than 0.15 to be eligible for inclusion in a market investable equity universe.

 

  §   Minimum Length of Trading Requirement: this investability screen is applied at the individual security level. For an initial public offering (“IPO”) to be eligible for inclusion in a market investable equity universe, the new issue must have started trading at least four months before the implementation of the initial construction of the index or at least three months before the implementation of a semi-annual index review (as described below). This requirement is applicable to small new issues in all markets. Large IPOs are not subject to the minimum length of trading requirement and may be included in a market investable equity universe and the MSCI Standard Index outside of a Quarterly or Semi-Annual Index Review (as defined below).

Defining Market Capitalization Size Segments for Each Market. Once a market investable equity universe is defined, it is segmented into the following size-based indices:

 

  §   Investable Market Index (Large + Mid + Small);

 

  §   Standard Index (Large + Mid);

 

  §   Large Cap Index;

 

  §   Mid Cap Index; or

 

  §   Small Cap Index.

Creating the size segment indices in each market involves the following steps:

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-13


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

  §   defining the market coverage target range for each size segment;

 

  §   determining the global minimum size range for each size segment;

 

  §   determining the market size-segment cutoffs and associated segment number of companies;

 

  §   assigning companies to the size segments; and

 

  §   applying final size-segment investability requirements.

Index Continuity Rules for the Standard Indices. In order to achieve index continuity, as well as to provide some basic level of diversification within a market index, and notwithstanding the effect of other index construction rules described in this section, a minimum number of five constituents will be maintained for a DM Standard Index and a minimum number of three constituents will be maintained for an EM Standard Index.

Creating Style Indices within Each Size Segment. All securities in the investable equity universe are classified into value or growth segments using the MSCI Global Value and Growth methodology.

Classifying Securities under the Global Industry Classification Standard. All securities in the global investable equity universe are assigned to the industry that best describes their business activities. To this end, MSCI has designed, in conjunction with Standard & Poor’s®, the GICS. Under the GICS, each company is assigned to one sub-industry according to its principal business activity. Therefore, a company can belong to only one industry grouping at each of the four levels of the GICS.

Index Maintenance

The MSCI global investable market indices are maintained with the objective of reflecting the evolution of the underlying equity markets and segments on a timely basis, while seeking to achieve index continuity, continuous investability of constituents and replicability of the indices, index stability, and low index turnover. In particular, index maintenance involves:

(i) Semi-Annual Index Reviews (“SAIRs”) in May and November of the Size Segment and Global Value and Growth Indices which include:

 

  §   updating the indices on the basis of a fully refreshed equity universe;

 

  §   taking buffer rules into consideration for migration of securities across size and style segments; and

 

  §   updating FIFs and Number of Shares (“NOS”).

(ii) Quarterly Index Reviews (“QIRs”) in February and August of the Size Segment Indices aimed at:

 

  §   including significant new eligible securities (such as IPOs that were not eligible for earlier inclusion) in the index;

 

  §   allowing for significant moves of companies within the Size Segment Indices, using wider buffers than in the SAIR; and

 

  §   reflecting the impact of significant market events on FIFs and updating NOS.

(iii) Ongoing Event-Related Changes: changes of this type are generally implemented in the indices as they occur. Significantly large IPOs are included in the indices after the close of the company’s tenth day of trading.

Neither we nor any of our affiliates, including MLPF&S, accepts any responsibility for the calculation, maintenance, or publication of, or for any error, omission, or disruption in, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index or any successor to the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. MSCI does not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, or any data included in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. MSCI assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, or disruption in the calculation and dissemination of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. MSCI disclaims all responsibility for any errors or omissions in the calculation and dissemination of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, or the manner in which the MSCI Emerging Markets Index is applied in determining the amount payable on the notes at maturity.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-14


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

The following graph shows the historical performance of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index in the period from January 2008 through December 2013. We obtained this historical data from Bloomberg L.P. We have not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of the information obtained from Bloomberg L.P. On December 30, 2013, the closing level of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index was 1,001.90.

 

LOGO

This historical data on the MSCI Emerging Markets Index is not necessarily indicative of the future performance of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index or what the value of the notes may be. Any historical upward or downward trend in the level of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index during any period set forth above is not an indication that the level of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index is more or less likely to increase or decrease at any time over the term of the notes.

Before investing in the notes, you should consult publicly available sources for the levels and trading pattern of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index.

License Agreement

Our right to use the MSCI Emerging Markets Index in connection with the notes is subject to a license agreement between us and MSCI. In connection with that license, please note the following:

THE NOTES ARE NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED, SOLD, OR PROMOTED BY MSCI, ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES, ANY OF ITS INFORMATION PROVIDERS, OR ANY OTHER THIRD PARTY INVOLVED IN, OR RELATED TO, COMPILING, COMPUTING, OR CREATING THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX (COLLECTIVELY, THE “MSCI PARTIES”). THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX IS THE EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF MSCI. MSCI AND THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX ARE SERVICE MARKS OF MSCI OR ITS AFFILIATES AND HAVE BEEN LICENSED TO US FOR USE FOR CERTAIN PURPOSES. THE NOTES HAVE NOT BEEN PASSED ON BY ANY OF THE MSCI PARTIES AS TO THEIR LEGALITY OR SUITABILITY WITH RESPECT TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY AND NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES MAKES ANY WARRANTIES OR BEARS ANY LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO THE NOTES. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, TO US OR OWNERS OF THE NOTES OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY REGARDING THE ADVISABILITY OF INVESTING IN ANY SECURITIES GENERALLY OR IN THIS OFFERING PARTICULARLY OR THE ABILITY OF THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX TO TRACK CORRESPONDING STOCK MARKET PERFORMANCE. MSCI OR ITS AFFILIATES ARE THE LICENSORS OF CERTAIN TRADEMARKS, SERVICE MARKS, AND TRADE NAMES AND OF THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX, WHICH ARE DETERMINED, COMPOSED, AND CALCULATED BY MSCI WITHOUT REGARD TO THE NOTES, TO US, TO THE OWNERS OF THE NOTES, OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY. NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES HAS ANY OBLIGATION TO TAKE THE NEEDS OF US OR OWNERS OF THE NOTES OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY INTO CONSIDERATION IN DETERMINING, COMPOSING, OR CALCULATING THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX. NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OR HAS PARTICIPATED IN THE DETERMINATION OF THE TIMING OF, PRICES AT, OR QUANTITIES OF THE NOTES TO BE ISSUED OR IN THE DETERMINATION OR CALCULATION OF THE AMOUNT THAT MAY BE PAID AT MATURITY ON THE NOTES. NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES HAS ANY OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY TO US OR TO OWNERS OF THE NOTES OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY IN CONNECTION WITH THE ADMINISTRATION, MARKETING OR, OFFERING OF THE NOTES.

ALTHOUGH MSCI SHALL OBTAIN INFORMATION FOR INCLUSION IN OR FOR USE IN THE CALCULATION OF THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX FROM SOURCES THAT MSCI CONSIDERS RELIABLE, NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES WARRANTS

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-15


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

OR GUARANTEES THE ORIGINALITY, ACCURACY, AND/OR COMPLETENESS OF THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX, OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN OR THE RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED BY US, OWNERS OF THE NOTES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY, FROM THE USE OF THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX, OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN AND NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES SHALL HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS, OR INTERRUPTIONS OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX, OR ANY DATA INCLUDED THEREIN. FURTHER, NONE OF THE MSCI PARTIES MAKES ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND AND THE MSCI PARTIES HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION AND FOR PURPOSES OF EXAMPLE ONLY, ALL WARRANTIES OF TITLE, SEQUENCE, AVAILABILITY, ORIGINALITY, ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, TIMELINESS, NON-INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARISING FROM TRADE USAGE, COURSE OF DEALING, AND COURSE OF PERFORMANCE) WITH RESPECT TO THE MSCI EMERGING MARKETS INDEX AND ALL DATA INCLUDED THEREIN. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF ANY OF THE FOREGOING, IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY OF THE MSCI PARTIES HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY FOR ANY DAMAGES, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, CONSEQUENTIAL (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOSS OF USE, LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUES, OR OTHER ECONOMIC LOSS), AND WHETHER IN TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, STRICT LIABILITY, AND NEGLIGENCE), CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF IT MIGHT HAVE ANTICIPATED, OR WAS ADVISED OF, THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

No purchaser, seller, or holder of the notes, or any other person or entity, should use or refer to any MSCI trade name, trademark, or service mark to sponsor, endorse, market, or promote the notes without first contacting MSCI to determine whether MSCI’s permission is required. Under no circumstances may any person or entity claim any affiliation with MSCI without the prior written permission of MSCI.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-16


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

Supplement to the Plan of Distribution; Conflicts of Interest

Under our distribution agreement with MLPF&S, MLPF&S will purchase the notes from us as principal at the public offering price indicated on the cover of this term sheet, less the indicated underwriting discount.

MLPF&S, a broker-dealer subsidiary of BAC, is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (“FINRA”) and will participate as selling agent in the distribution of the notes. Accordingly, offerings of the notes will conform to the requirements of Rule 5121 applicable to FINRA members. MLPF&S may not make sales in this offering to any of its discretionary accounts without the prior written approval of the account holder.

We may deliver the notes against payment therefor in New York, New York on a date that is greater than three business days following the pricing date. Under Rule 15c6-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, trades in the secondary market generally are required to settle in three business days, unless the parties to any such trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, if the initial settlement of the notes occurs more than three business days from the pricing date, purchasers who wish to trade the notes more than three business days prior to the original issue date will be required to specify alternative settlement arrangements to prevent a failed settlement.

The notes will not be listed on any securities exchange. In the original offering of the notes, the notes will be sold in minimum investment amounts of 100 units. If you place an order to purchase the notes, you are consenting to MLPF&S acting as a principal in effecting the transaction for your account.

MLPF&S will not receive an underwriting discount for notes sold to certain fee-based trusts and fee-based discretionary accounts managed by U.S. Trust operating through Bank of America, N.A.

MLPF&S may repurchase and resell the notes, with repurchases and resales being made at prices related to then-prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices, and these will include MLPF&S’s trading commissions and mark-ups. MLPF&S may act as principal or agent in these market-making transactions; however, it is not obligated to engage in any such transactions. At MLPF&S’s discretion, for a short, undetermined initial period after the issuance of the notes, any purchase price paid by MLPF&S in the secondary market may be, in certain circumstances, closer to the amount that you paid for the notes than to the initial estimated value. However, neither we nor any of our affiliates is obligated to purchase your notes at any price, or at a price that exceeds the initial estimated value.

The value of the notes shown on your account statement will be based on MLPF&S’s estimate of the value of the notes if MLPF&S or another of our affiliates were to make a market in the notes, which it is not obligated to do. That estimate will be based upon the price that MLPF&S may pay for the notes in light of then-prevailing market conditions, our creditworthiness and transaction costs. At certain times, this price may be higher than or lower than the initial estimated value of the notes.

Structuring the Notes

The notes are our debt securities, the return on which is linked to the performance of the Basket. As is the case for all of our debt securities, including our market-linked notes, the economic terms of the notes reflect our actual or perceived creditworthiness at the time of pricing. In addition, because market-linked notes result in increased operational, funding and liability management costs to us, we typically borrow the funds under these notes at a rate that is more favorable to us than the rate that we might pay for a conventional fixed or floating rate debt security. This rate is generally lower by an amount that we do not expect to exceed 0.50% per annum (equivalent to not more than $0.10 per unit). This generally relatively lower implied borrowing rate, which is reflected in the economic terms of the notes, along with the fees and charges associated with market-linked notes, typically results in the initial estimated value of the notes on the pricing date being less than their public offering price.

At maturity, we are required to pay the Redemption Amount to holders of the notes, which will be calculated based on the performance of the Basket and the $10 per unit principal amount. In order to meet these payment obligations, at the time we issue the notes, we may choose to enter into certain hedging arrangements (which may include call options, put options or other derivatives) with MLPF&S or one of its affiliates. The terms of these hedging arrangements are determined by seeking bids from market participants, including MLPF&S and its affiliates, and take into account a number of factors, including our creditworthiness, interest rate movements, the volatility of the Basket Components, the tenor of the note and the tenor of the hedging arrangements. The economic terms of the notes and their initial estimated value depend in part on the terms of these hedging arrangements.

MLPF&S has advised us that the hedging arrangements will include a hedging related charge of approximately $0.075 per unit, reflecting an estimated profit to be credited to MLPF&S from these transactions. Since hedging entails risk and may be influenced by unpredictable market forces, additional profits and losses from these hedging arrangements may be realized by MLPF&S or any third party hedge providers.

For further information, see “Risk Factors — General Risks Relating to the Notes” beginning on page PS-7 and “Use of Proceeds” on page PS-15 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-17


Market-Linked Step Up Notes

Linked to a Global Equity Basket, due January     , 2016

    LOGO        

 

Summary Tax Consequences

You should consider the U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the notes, including the following:

 

    There is no statutory, judicial, or administrative authority directly addressing the characterization of the notes.

 

    You agree with us (in the absence of an administrative determination, or judicial ruling to the contrary) to characterize and treat the notes for all tax purposes as a single financial contract with respect to the Basket.

 

    Under this characterization and tax treatment of the notes, a U.S. Holder (as defined beginning on page 62 of the prospectus) generally will recognize capital gain or loss upon maturity or upon a sale or exchange of the notes prior to maturity. This capital gain or loss generally will be long-term capital gain or loss if you held the notes for more than one year.

 

    No assurance can be given that the IRS or any court will agree with this characterization and tax treatment.

You should consult your own tax advisor concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences to you of acquiring, owning, and disposing of the notes, as well as any tax consequences arising under the laws of any state, local, foreign, or other tax jurisdiction and the possible effects of changes in U.S. federal or other tax laws. You should review carefully the discussion under the section entitled “U.S. Federal Income Tax Summary” beginning on page PS-25 of product supplement EQUITY INDICES SUN-1.

Where You Can Find More Information

We have filed a registration statement (including a product supplement, a prospectus supplement, and a prospectus) with the SEC for the offering to which this term sheet relates. Before you invest, you should read the Note Prospectus, including this term sheet, and the other documents that we have filed with the SEC, for more complete information about us and this offering. You may get these documents without cost by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, we, any agent, or any dealer participating in this offering will arrange to send you these documents if you so request by calling MLPF&S toll-free at 1-866-500-5408.

Market-Linked Investments Classification

 

LOGO

MLPF&S classifies certain market-linked investments (the “Market-Linked Investments”) into categories, each with different investment characteristics. The following description is meant solely for informational purposes and is not intended to represent any particular Enhanced Return Market-Linked Investment or guarantee any performance.

Enhanced Return Market-Linked Investments are short- to medium-term investments that offer you a way to enhance exposure to a particular market view without taking on a similarly enhanced level of market downside risk. They can be especially effective in a flat to moderately positive market (or, in the case of bearish investments, a flat to moderately negative market). In exchange for the potential to receive better-than market returns on the linked asset, you must generally accept market downside risk and capped upside potential. As these investments are not market downside protected, and do not assure full repayment of principal at maturity, you need to be prepared for the possibility that you may lose all or part of your investment.

 

 

Market-Linked Step Up Notes    TS-18