-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, KYC10wib+/LK1CghcscJaVtxXx66ZrIL/GiPOubFRTAehAG/xqSHWaqzNYjf/3jM TTgAyVghOnwgkqdmtyFVuw== 0000950130-99-006890.txt : 19991207 0000950130-99-006890.hdr.sgml : 19991207 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000950130-99-006890 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 497 PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 1 FILED AS OF DATE: 19991206 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: GOLDMAN SACHS TRUST CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000822977 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: UNKNOWN SIC - 0000 [0000] STATE OF INCORPORATION: MA FISCAL YEAR END: 1031 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 497 SEC ACT: SEC FILE NUMBER: 033-17619 FILM NUMBER: 99769365 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 4900 SEARS TWR STREET 2: C/O GOLDMAN SACHS & CO CITY: CHICAGO STATE: IL ZIP: 60606 BUSINESS PHONE: 3126554400 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 85 BROAD ST STREET 2: 85 BROARD STREET CITY: NEW YORK STATE: NY ZIP: 10004 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: GOLDMAN SACHS SHORT INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT FUND DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19910711 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: SHORT INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT FUND DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19900104 497 1 GOLDMAN SACHS EQUITY FUNDS Prospectus Class A, B and C Shares November 30, 1999 GOLDMAN SACHS DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS .Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund .Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund [ART] .Goldman Sachs CORE SM Large Cap Value Fund .Goldman Sachs CORE SM U.S. Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs CORE SM Large Cap Growth Fund .Goldman Sachs CORE SM Small Cap Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund .Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund .Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund .Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund (formerly "Mid Cap Equity") .Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund .Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL. NOT FDIC-INSURED May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee General Investment Management Approach Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a unit of the Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as investment adviser to the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds. Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. serves as investment adviser to the CORE U.S. Equity and Capital Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. are each referred to in this Prospectus as the "Investment Adviser." VALUE STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Value Investment Philosophy: Through intensive, hands-on research our portfolio team seeks to identify: 1. Attractive valuation opportunities where: .The intrinsic value of the business is not reflected in the stock price .The stock price is overdiscounted due to a temporary event 2. Well-positioned businesses that have: .Attractive returns on capital .Sustainable earnings and cash flow .Strong company management focused on long-term returns to shareholders Business quality, conservative valuation, and thoughtful portfolio construc- tion are the key elements of our value approach. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GROWTH STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Growth Investment Philosophy: 1. Invest as if buying the company/business, not simply trading its stock: .Understand the business, management, products and competition. .Perform intensive, hands-on fundamental research. .Seek businesses with strategic competitive advantages. .Over the long-term, expect each company's stock price ultimately to track the growth in the value of the business. 1 2. Buy high-quality growth businesses that possess strong business fran- chises, favorable long-term prospects and excellent management. 3. Purchase superior long-term growth companies at a favorable price--seek to purchase at a fair valuation, giving the investor the potential to fully capture returns from above-average growth rates. Growth companies have earnings expectations that exceed those of the stock market as a whole. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- QUANTITATIVE ("CORE") STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' CORE Investment Philosophy: Goldman Sachs' quantitative style of funds--CORE--emphasizes the two build- ing blocks of active management: stock selection and portfolio construction. I. CORE Stock Selection The CORE Funds use the Goldman Sachs' proprietary multifactor model ("Multifactor Model"), a rigorous computerized rating system, to forecast the returns of securities held in each Fund's portfolio. The Multifactor Model incorporates common variables covering measures of: .Value (price-to-book, price-to-earnings, cash flow to enterprise value) .Momentum (earnings momentum, price momentum, sustainable growth) .Risk (market risk, company-specific risk, earnings risk) .Research (fundamental research ratings of Goldman Sachs and other analysts) All of the above factors are carefully evaluated within the Multifactor Model since each has demonstrated a significant impact on the performance of the securities and markets they were designed to forecast. Stock selection in this process combines both our quantitative and qualitative analysis. II. CORE Portfolio Construction A proprietary computer optimizer calculates every security combination (at every possible weighting) to construct the most efficient risk/return port- folio given each CORE Fund benchmark. In this process, the Investment Adviser manages risk by limiting deviations from the benchmark, running size and sector neutral portfolios. Goldman Sachs CORE Funds are fully invested, broadly diversified and offer consistent overall portfolio characteristics. They may serve as good founda- tions on which to build a portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and current income Benchmarks: S&P 500 Index and Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. stocks and fixed-income securi- ties Investment Style: Asset Allocation, with growth and value (blend) equity components INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks to provide long-term growth of capital and current income. The Fund seeks growth of capital primarily through investments in equity securities (stocks). The Fund seeks to provide current income through investment in fixed-income securities (bonds). PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Historically, stock and bond markets have often had different cycles, with one asset class rising when the other is falling. A balanced objective seeks to reduce the volatility associated with investing in a single market. There is no guarantee, however, that market cycles will move in opposition to one another or that a balanced investment program will successfully reduce vola- tility. The percentage of the portfolio invested in equity and fixed-income securi- ties will vary from time to time as the Investment Adviser evaluates such securities' relative attractiveness based on market valuations, economic growth and inflation prospects. The allocation between equity and fixed- income securities is subject to the Fund's intention to pay regular quar- terly dividends. The amount of quarterly dividends can also be expected to fluctuate in accordance with factors such as prevailing interest rates and the percentage of the Fund's assets invested in fixed-income securities. 3 Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, between 45% and 65% of its total assets in equity securities. Although the Fund's equity investments consist primarily of publicly traded U.S. securities, the Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in the equity securities of foreign issuers, including issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and equity securities quoted in foreign currencies. A portion of the Fund's portfolio of equity securities may be selected primar- ily to provide current income (including interests in real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), convertible securities, preferred stocks, utility stocks, and interests in limited partnerships). Fixed Income Securities. The Fund invests at least 25% of its total assets in fixed-income senior securities. The remainder of the Fund's assets are invested in other fixed-income securities and cash. The Fund's fixed-income securities primarily include: .Securities issued by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises .Securities issued by corporations, banks and other issuers .Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities The Fund may also invest up to 10% of its total assets in debt obligations (U.S. dollar and non-U.S.-dollar denominated) issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities and foreign corporations or other entities. The issuers of these securities may be located in emerging countries. 4 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and growth of income Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. equity securities with an emphasis on undervalued stocks Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and growth of income. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities that the Investment Adviser considers to have favorable prospects for capital appreciation and/or divi- dend-paying ability. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in for- eign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations, that offer the potential to further the Fund's investment objective. 5 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and dividend income Benchmark: Russell 1000 Value Index Investment Focus: Diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap U.S. issuers selling at low to modest valuations Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap value stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and dividend income. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities of large-cap U.S. issuers that are selling at low to modest valua- tions relative to general market measures, such as earnings, book value and other fundamental accounting measures, and that are expected to have favora- ble prospects for capital appreciation and/or dividend-paying ability. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 1000 Value Index. The Fund seeks a portfolio comprised of companies with above average capitalizations and low to moderate valuations as measured by price/earnings ratios, book value and other fundamental accounting measures. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 6 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and dividend income Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap growth and value (blend) stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and dividend income. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of large-cap and blue chip equity securities representing all major sectors of the U.S. economy. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the S&P 500 Index. The Fund seeks a broad repre- sentation in most major sectors of the U.S. economy and a portfolio com- prised of companies with average long-term earnings growth expectations and dividend yields. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 7 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital; dividend income is a secondary consideration Benchmark: Russell 1000 Growth Index Investment Focus: Large-cap, growth-oriented U.S. stocks Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap growth stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap U.S. issuers that are expected to have better prospects for earnings growth than the growth rate of the general domestic economy. Dividend income is a secondary consideration. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Investment Adviser emphasizes a company's growth prospects in analyzing equity securities to be purchased by the Fund. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintain- ing risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 1000 Growth Index. The Fund seeks a portfolio comprised of companies with above average capitalizations and earnings growth expectations and below average dividend yields. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 8 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: Russell 2000 Index Investment Focus: Stocks of small capitalization U.S. companies Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to small-cap growth and value (blend) stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of U.S. issuers which are included in the Russell 2000 Index at the time of investment. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 2000 Index. The Fund seeks a portfo- lio comprised of companies with small market capitalizations, strong expected earnings growth and momentum, and better valuation and risk charac- teristics than the Russell 2000 Index. If the issuer of a portfolio security held by the Fund is no longer included in the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund may, but is not required to, sell the security. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 9 Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities that offer long-term capital appreciation potential Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to have long-term capi- tal appreciation potential. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in for- eign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 10 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities that are considered to be strategically positioned for consistent long-term growth Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be strategically positioned for consistent long-term growth. Although the Fund invests pri- marily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 11 Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P Midcap 400 Index Investment Focus: U.S. equity securities that offer long-term capital appreciation with a primary focus on mid-capitalization companies Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities with a primary focus on mid-cap companies. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity securities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be strategically positioned for long-term growth. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 12 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Russell Midcap Value Index Investment Focus: Mid-capitalization U.S. stocks that are believed to be undervalued or undiscovered by the marketplace Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all of its assets in equity securities and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of mid-cap companies with public stock market capitalizations (based upon shares available for trading on an unrestricted basis) within the range of the market capitalization of companies constitut- ing the Russell Midcap Value Index at the time of investment (currently between $300 million and $15 billion). If the capitalization of an issuer decreases below $300 million or increases above $15 billion after purchase, the Fund may, but is not required to, sell the securities. Dividend income, if any, is an incidental consideration. Although the Fund will invest pri- marily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 13 Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: Russell 2000 Value Index Investment Focus: Small-capitalization U.S. stocks that are believed to be undervalued or undiscovered by the marketplace Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies with public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment. Under normal circumstances, the Fund's investment horizon for ownership of stocks will be two to three years. Dividend income, if any, is an incidental consideration. If the market capitalization of a company held by the Fund increases above $1 billion, the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, continue to hold the security. The Fund invests in companies which the Investment Adviser believes are well- managed niche businesses that have the potential to achieve high or improving returns on capital and/or above average sustainable growth. The Fund may invest in securities of small market capitalization companies which may have experienced financial difficulties. Investments may also be made in companies that are in the early stages of their life and that the Investment Adviser believes have significant growth potential. The Investment Adviser believes that the companies in which the Fund may invest offer greater opportunity for growth of capital than larger, more mature, better known companies. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securi- ties, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in companies with public stock market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion at the time of investment and in fixed-income securities, such as govern- ment, corporate and bank debt obligations. 14 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Russell 1000 Value Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. equity securities that are believed to be undervalued Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks its investment objective by investing in value opportunities that the Investment Adviser defines as companies with identifiable competitive advantages whose intrin- sic value is not reflected in the stock price. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 15 Other Investment Practices and Securities The table below identifies some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by the Funds in seeking to achieve their investment objectives. The table also highlights the differences among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securi- ties. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only; for actual usage, con- sult the Fund's annual/semi-annual reports. For more information see Appendix A. 10Percent of total assets (italic type) 10Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage;limited only by the objectives and strategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
Growth CORE CORE Balanced and Income Large Cap U.S. Equity Fund Fund Value Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Practices Borrowings 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Credit, currency, index, interest rate and mortgage swaps* 15 -- -- -- Cross Hedging of Currencies . -- -- -- Custodial receipts . . . . Equity Swaps* 15 15 15 15 Foreign Currency Transactions** ./1/ . . . Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts . . ./2/ ./3/ Interest rate caps, floors and collars . -- -- -- Investment Company Securities (including World Equity Benchmark Shares and Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts) 10 10 10 10 Loan Participations . -- -- -- Mortgage Dollar Rolls . -- -- -- Options on Foreign Currencies/4/ . . . . Options on Securities and Securities Indices/5/ . . . . Repurchase Agreements . . . . Reverse Repurchase Agreements (for investment purposes) . -- -- -- Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short Sales Against the Box 25 25 -- -- Unseasoned Companies . . . . Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights . . . . When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments . . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. ** Limited by the amount the Fund invests in foreign securities. 1 The Balanced Fund may also enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts to seek to increase total return. 2 The CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds may enter into futures transactions only with respect to a represen- tative index. 3 The CORE U.S. Equity Fund may enter into futures transactions only with respect to the S&P 500 Index. 4 The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options. 5 The Funds may sell covered call and put options and purchase call and put options. 16 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
CORE CORE Capital Strategic Growth Mid Cap Small Cap Large Cap Large Cap Small Cap Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Growth Fund Equity Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 . . . . . . . . ./2/ ./2/ . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 -- -- 25 25 25 25 25 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17 10Percent of total assets (italic type) 10Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited only by the objectives andstrategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
Growth CORE CORE Balanced and Income Large Cap U.S. Equity Fund Fund Value Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Securities American, European and Global Depository Receipts . . ./6/ ./6/ Asset-Backed and Mortgage- Backed Securities/7/ . . -- -- Bank Obligations/7/ . . . . Convertible Securities/8/ . . . . Corporate Debt Obligations/7/ . . . /9/ . /9/ Equity Securities 45-65 65+ 90+ 90+ Emerging Country Securities 10/10/ 25/10/ -- -- Fixed Income Securities/11/ 35-45/17/ 35 10 /9/ 10 /9/ Foreign Securities 10/10/ 25/10/ . /13/ . /13/ Foreign Government Securities/7/ . -- -- -- Municipal Securities . -- -- -- Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities 10/14/ 10/15/ -- -- Real Estate Investment Trusts . . . . Stripped Mortgage Backed Securities/7/ . -- -- -- Structured Securities* . . . . Temporary Investments 100 100 35 35 U.S. Government Securities/7/ . . . . Yield Curve Options and Inverse Floating Rate Securities . -- -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 6 The CORE Funds may not invest in European Depository Receipts. 7 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. 8 Convertible securities purchased by the Balanced Fund must be B or higher by Standard & Poor's Rating Group ("Standard & Poor's") or Moody's Investor's Service, Inc. ("Moody's"). The CORE Funds have no minimum rating criteria and all other Funds use the same rating criteria for convertible and non- convertible debt securities. 9 Cash equivalents only. 10 The Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value and Small Cap Value Funds may invest in the aggregate up to 10%, 25%, 10%, 10%, 10%, 25% and 25%, respectively, of their total assets in foreign securities, including emerging country securities. 11 Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed- income securities must be investment grade (i.e., BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's). 12 The Small Cap Value Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) the equity securities of companies with public stock market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion at the time of investment; and (2) fixed-income securities. 13 Equity securities of foreign issuers must be traded in the United States. 14 Must be at least BB or B by Standard & Poor's or Ba or B by Moody's. 18 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
CORE CORE Capital Strategic Growth Mid Cap Small Cap Large Cap Large Cap Small Cap Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Growth Fund Equity Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ . /6/ . /6/ . . . . . . -- -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . /9/ . /9/ . . . . . . 90+ 90+ 90+ 90+ 90+ 65+ 65+ 90+ -- -- 10/10/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 25/10/ 25/10/ -- 10 /9/ 10 /9/ . . . 35 35/12/ 10 . /13/ . /13/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 25/10/ 25/10/ 25 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10/15/ 10/15/ 10/15/ 10/16/ 35/15/ 10/15/ . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . 35 35 100 100 100 100 100 100 . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. May be BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's. 16 Must be B or higher by Standard & Poor's or B or higher by Moody's. 17 The Balanced Fund invests at least 25% of its total assets in fixed-income senior securities; the remainder is invested in other fixed-income securi- ties and cash. 19 Principal Risks of the Funds Loss of money is a risk of investing in each Fund. An investment in a Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The following summarizes important risks that apply to the Funds and may result in a loss of your investment. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete invest- ment program. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.
CORE CORE CORE Growth Large CORE Large Small and Cap U.S. Cap Cap .Applicable Balanced Income Value Equity Growth Equity - --Not applicable Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Credit/Default . . . . . . Foreign . . . . . . Emerging Countries . . . . . . Small Cap/REIT -- -- -- -- -- . Stock . . . . . . Derivatives . . . . . . Interest Rate . . . . . . Management . . . . . . Market . . . . . . Liquidity . . . . . . Other . . . . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS
Mid Small Large Capital Strategic Growth Cap Cap Cap Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- . . -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21 All Funds: .Credit/Default Risk--The risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities held by a Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. .Foreign Risks--The risk that when a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with domestic issuers. Loss may result because of less foreign government regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social stability. Loss may also result from the imposition of exchange controls, confiscations and other government restrictions. A Fund will also be subject to the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when a Fund invests in issuers located in emerging countries. .Emerging Countries Risk--The securities markets of Asian, Latin American, Eastern European, African and other emerging countries are less liquid, are especially subject to greater price volatility, have smaller market capital- izations, have less government regulation and are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. Further, investment in equity securities of issuers located in Russia and certain other emerging countries involves risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration and cus- tody and substantial economic and political disruptions. These risks are not normally associated with investments in more developed countries. .Stock Risk--The risk that stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. As of the date of this Prospectus, U.S. stock markets and certain foreign stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels. There is no guarantee that such levels will continue. .Derivatives Risk--The risk that loss may result from a Fund's investments in options, futures, swaps, structured securities and other derivative instru- ments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes may produce disproportionate losses to a Fund. .Interest Rate Risk--The risk that when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities held by a Fund will decline in value. Long-term fixed-income secu- rities will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term securities. .Management Risk--The risk that a strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results. .Market Risk--The risk that the value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. 22 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS .Liquidity Risk--The risk that a Fund will not be able to pay redemption pro- ceeds within the time period stated in this Prospectus because of unusual mar- ket conditions, an unusually high volume of redemption requests, or other rea- sons. Funds that invest in non-investment grade fixed-income securities, small capitalization stocks, REITs and emerging country issuers will be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. The Goldman Sachs Asset Allocation Portfolios (the "Asset Allocation Portfolios") expect to invest a significant percentage of their assets in the Funds and other funds for which Goldman Sachs now or in the future acts as investment adviser or underwriter. Redemptions by an Asset Allocation Portfolio of its position in a Fund may further increase liquidity risk and may impact a Fund's net asset value ("NAV"). .Other Risks--Each Fund is subject to other risks, such as the risk that its operations, or the value of its portfolio securities, will be disrupted by the "Year 2000 Problem." Specific Funds: .Small Cap Stock and REIT Risk--The securities of small capitalization stocks and REITs involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more estab- lished companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. More information about the Funds' portfolio securities and investment tech- niques, and their associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should con- sider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice. 23 Fund Performance HOW THE FUNDS HAVE PERFORMED The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of invest- ing in a Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of a Fund's Class A Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of a Fund's Class A, B and C Shares compare to those of broad-based securities market indices. The bar chart and table assume reinvestment of dividends and dis- tributions. A Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. The average annual total return calculation reflects a maximum initial sales charge of 5.5% for Class A Shares, the assumed contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") for Class B Shares (5% maximum declining to 0% after six years), and the assumed CDSC for Class C Shares (1% if redeemed within 12 months of purchase). The bar chart does not reflect the sales loads applicable to Class A Shares. If the sales loads were reflected, returns would be less. Performance reflects expense limitations in effect. If expense limitations were not in place, a Fund's performance would have been reduced. The Large Cap Value Fund com- menced operations as of the date of this Prospectus. The CORE Large Cap Val- ue, Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 24, 1999 and May 24, 1999, respectively. Since these Funds have less than one calendar year's performance, no performance infor- mation is provided in this section. 24 Balanced Fund FUND PERFORMANCE TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 0.64%. Best Quarter Q2 '97 +9.92% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -8.71% [BAR GRAPH] 1995 28.09% 1996 17.68% 1997 19.63% 1998 3.59% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 10/12/94) Including Sales Charges (2.10)% 14.13% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 28.45% Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index** 8.69% 9.52% ----------------------------------------------------------------- Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC (2.32)% 11.77% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 28.94% Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index** 8.69% 9.18% ----------------------------------------------------------------- Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 1.77% 3.18% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.80% Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index** 8.69% 9.67% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged index of bond prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 25 Growth and Income Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was - 2.26%. Best Quarter Q2 '97 +15.18% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -16.97% [BAR GRAPH] 1994 5.91% 1995 33.49% 1996 25.98% 1997 27.89% 1998 -5.44% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year 5 Years Since Inception -------------------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 2/5/93) Including Sales Charges (10.65)% 15.27% 14.24% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.05% 21.42% -------------------------------------------------------------- Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC (10.74)% N/A 12.33% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% N/A 28.94% -------------------------------------------------------------- Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (7.11)% N/A (4.64)% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% N/A 24.80% --------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 26 CORE U.S. Equity Fund FUND PERFORMANCE TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 6.41%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +21.44% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -14.69% [BAR GRAPH] 1992 -0.04% 1993 12.76% 1994 1.30% 1995 35.24% 1996 21.31% 1997 31.80% 1998 21.25% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year 5 Years Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------ Class A (Inception 5/24/91) Including Sales Charges 14.58% 20.21% 16.07% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.05% 19.72% ------------------------------------------------------------ Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC 15.44% N/A 22.91% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% N/A 28.94% ------------------------------------------------------------ Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 19.52% N/A 18.16% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% N/A 24.80% ------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 27 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 9.20%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +25.47% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -13.95% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 30.39% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ---------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 5/1/97) Including Sales Charges 23.26% 27.34% Russell 1000 Growth Index* 38.72% 36.81% ---------------------------------------------------- Class B (Inception 5/1/97) Including CDSC 24.39% 28.74% Russell 1000 Growth Index* 38.72% 36.81% ---------------------------------------------------- Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 28.39% 22.80% Russell 1000 Growth Index* 38.72% 29.91% ----------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 1000 Growth Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 28 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund FUND PERFORMANCE TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 1.19%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +14.49% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -24.34% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -5.96% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------ Class A (Inception 8/15/97) Including Sales Charges (11.17)% (2.93)% Russell 2000 Index* (2.55)% 2.84% ------------------------------------------------------ Class B (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (11.29)% (2.53)% Russell 2000 Index* (2.55)% 2.84% ------------------------------------------------------ Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (7.47)% 0.47% Russell 2000 Index* (2.55)% 2.84% ------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 29 Capital Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 5.56%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +24.31% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -11.44% [BAR GRAPH] 1991 31.92% 1992 23.25% 1993 14.17% 1994 -1.10% 1995 25.75% 1996 21.32% 1997 35.31% 1998 33.87% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year 5 Years Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------ Class A (Inception 4/20/90) Including Sales Charges 26.53% 20.89% 18.99% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.05% 19.14% ------------------------------------------------------------ Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC 27.79% N/A 28.66% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% N/A 28.94% ------------------------------------------------------------ Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 31.95% N/A 28.67% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% N/A 24.80% ------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 30 Mid Cap Value Fund FUND PERFORMANCE TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was - 1.88%. Best Quarter Q1 '98 +11.64% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -20.87% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -5.86% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------ Class A (Inception 8/15/97) Including Sales Charges (11.04)% (6.85)% Russell Midcap Value Index* 5.10% 11.33% Russell Midcap Index** 10.09% 12.52% ------------------------------------------------------ Class B (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (11.18)% (6.34)% Russell Midcap Value Index* 5.10% 11.33% Russell Midcap Index** 10.09% 12.52% ------------------------------------------------------ Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (7.36)% (3.43)% Russell Midcap Value Index* 5.10% 11.33% Russell Midcap Index** 10.09% 12.52% ------------------------------------------------------
*The Russell Midcap Value Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replacing the Russell Midcap Index as the Mid Cap Value Fund's perfor- mance benchmark. The Russell Midcap Value Index includes more value-oriented stocks and, therefore, is expected to be a better benchmark comparison for the Fund's performance. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. **The Russell Midcap Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 31 Small Cap Value Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was - 0.05%. Best Quarter Q2 '96 +15.57% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -32.23% [BAR GRAPH] 1993 31.16% 1994 -14.82% 1995 8.62% 1996 21.77% 1997 30.18% 1998 -16.87% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year 5 Years Since Inception --------------------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 10/22/92) Including Sales Charges (21.44)% 2.89% 9.32% Russell 2000 Value Index* (6.44)% 13.12% 16.64% Russell 2000 Index** (2.55)% 11.89% 14.91% --------------------------------------------------------------- Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC (21.64)% N/A 2.67% Russell 2000 Value Index* (6.44)% N/A 13.29% Russell 2000 Index** (2.55)% N/A 8.86% --------------------------------------------------------------- Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (18.26)% N/A (8.46)% Russell 2000 Value Index* (6.44)% N/A 2.50% Russell 2000 Index** (2.55)% N/A 2.84% ---------------------------------------------------------------
*The Russell 2000 Value Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replacing the Russell 2000 Index as the Small Cap Value Fund's perfor- mance benchmark. The Russell 2000 Value Index includes more value-oriented stocks and, therefore, is expected to be a better benchmark comparison for the Fund's performance. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. **The Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 32 [This page intentionally left blank] 33 Fund Fees and Expenses (Class A, B and C Shares) This table describes the fees and expenses that you would pay if you buy and hold Class A, Class B, or Class C Shares of a Fund.
Balanced Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.42% 0.42% 0.42% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.32% 2.07% 2.07% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be termi- nated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without share- holder approval.
Balanced Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.20% 0.20% 0.20% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.10% 1.85% 1.85% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Growth and Income Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.70% 0.70% 0.70% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.25% 0.25% 0.25% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.20% 1.95% 1.95% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Growth and Income Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.70% 0.70% 0.70% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.24% 0.24% 0.24% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.19% 1.94% 1.94% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
CORE Large Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.60% 0.60% 0.60% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.36% 0.36% 0.36% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.21% 1.96% 1.96% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
CORE Large Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.60% 0.60% 0.60% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.19% 0.19% 0.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.04% 1.79% 1.79% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
CORE U.S. Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees7 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.24% 0.24% 0.24% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.24% 1.99% 1.99% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current waivers and expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The waivers and expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
CORE U.S. Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees7 0.70% 0.70% 0.70% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.19% 0.19% 0.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current waivers and expense limitations) 1.14% 1.89% 1.89% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
CORE Large Cap Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees7 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.26% 0.26% 0.26% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.26% 2.01% 2.01% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current waivers and expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The waivers and expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
CORE Large Cap Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees7 0.60% 0.60% 0.60% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.19% 0.19% 0.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current waivers and expense limitations) 1.04% 1.79% 1.79% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
CORE Small Cap Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.85% 0.85% 0.85% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.57% 0.57% 0.57% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.67% 2.42% 2.42% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
CORE Small Cap Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.85% 0.85% 0.85% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.23% 0.23% 0.23% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.33% 2.08% 2.08% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
39 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
Capital Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.22% 0.22% 0.22% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.47% 2.22% 2.22% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Capital Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.19% 0.19% 0.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.44% 2.19% 2.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Strategic Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 2.56% 2.56% 2.56% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 3.81% 4.56% 4.56% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Strategic Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.19% 0.19% 0.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.44% 2.19% 2.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
41 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
Growth Opportunities Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 2.85% 2.85% 2.85% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 4.10% 4.85% 4.85% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Growth Opportunities Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.19% 0.19% 0.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.44% 2.19% 2.19% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Mid Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.37% 0.37% 0.37% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.37% 2.12% 2.12% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Mid Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.29% 0.29% 0.29% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.29% 2.04% 2.04% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
Small Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.36% 0.36% 0.36% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.61% 2.36% 2.36% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Small Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.25% 0.25% 0.25% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.50% 2.25% 2.25% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
44 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Large Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%/1/ None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None/1/ 5.0%/3/ 1.0%/4/ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 1.16% 1.16% 1.16% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 2.16% 2.91% 2.91% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 46 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current waivers and expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The waivers and expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Large Cap Value Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees 0.25% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses8 0.25% 0.25% 0.25% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current waivers and expense limitations) 1.25% 2.00% 2.00% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
45 Fund Fees and Expenses continued /1/The maximum sales charge is a percentage of the offering price. A CDSC of 1% is imposed on certain redemptions (within 18 months of purchase) of Class A Shares sold without an initial sales charge as part of an invest- ment of $1 million or more. /2/The maximum CDSC is a percentage of the lesser of the NAV at the time of the redemption or the NAV when the shares were originally purchased. /3/A CDSC is imposed upon Class B Shares redeemed within six years of pur- chase at a rate of 5% in the first year, declining to 1% in the sixth year, and eliminated thereafter. /4/A CDSC of 1% is imposed on Class C Shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase. /5/A transaction fee of $7.50 may be charged for redemption proceeds paid by wire. In addition to free reinvestments of dividends and distributions in shares of other Goldman Sachs Funds or shares of the Goldman Sachs Insti- tutional Liquid Assets Portfolios (the "ILA Portfolios") and free auto- matic exchanges pursuant to the Automatic Exchange Program, six free exchanges are permitted in each 12-month period. A fee of $12.50 may be charged for each subsequent exchange during such period. /6/The Fund's operating expenses for the current fiscal year have been annualized for the seven-month period (February 1, 1999 through August 31, 1999). The operating expenses for the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportuni- ties and Large Cap Value Funds are estimated for the current year. /7/The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed not to impose a portion of the management fee on the CORE U.S. Equity Fund and the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund equal to 0.05% and 0.15%, respectively, of such Funds' average daily net assets. As a result of fee waivers, the current management fees of the CORE U.S. Equity Fund and CORE Large Cap Growth Fund are 0.70% and 0.60%, respectively, of such Fund's average daily net assets. The waivers may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. /8/"Other Expenses" include transfer agency fees equal to 0.19% of the aver- age daily net assets of each Fund's Class A, B and C Shares, plus all other ordinary expenses not detailed above. The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce or limit "Other Expenses" (excluding manage- ment fees, distribution and service fees, transfer agency fees, taxes, interest and brokerage fees and litigation, indemnification and other extraordinary expenses) to the following percentages of each Fund's aver- age daily net assets:
Other Fund Expenses --------------------------- Balanced 0.01% Growth and Income 0.05% CORE Large Cap Value 0.00% CORE U.S. Equity 0.00% CORE Large Cap Growth 0.00% CORE Small Cap Equity 0.04% Capital Growth 0.00% Strategic Growth 0.00% Growth Opportunities 0.00% Mid Cap Value 0.10% Small Cap Value 0.06% Large Cap Value 0.06%
46 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES Example The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in a Fund (without the waivers and expense limitations) with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in Class A, B or C Shares of a Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that a Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - --------------------------------------------------------- Balanced Class A Shares $677 $945 $1,234 $2,053 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $710 $949 $1,314 $2,208 - Assuming no redemption $210 $649 $1,114 $2,208 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $310 $649 $1,114 $2,400 - Assuming no redemption $210 $649 $1,114 $2,400 - --------------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income Class A Shares $666 $910 $1,173 $1,925 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $698 $912 $1,252 $2,080 - Assuming no redemption $198 $612 $1,052 $2,080 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $298 $612 $1,052 $2,275 - Assuming no redemption $198 $612 $1,052 $2,275 - --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value Class A Shares $667 $913 1,178 1,935 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $699 $915 1,257 2,091 - Assuming no redemption $199 $615 1,057 2,091 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $299 $615 1,057 2,285 - Assuming no redemption $199 $615 1,057 2,285 - ---------------------------------------------------------
47 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - --------------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity Class A Shares $669 $ 922 $1,194 $1,967 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $702 $ 924 $1,273 $2,123 - Assuming no redemption $202 $ 624 $1,073 $2,123 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $302 $ 624 $1,073 $2,317 - Assuming no redemption $202 $ 624 $1,073 $2,317 - --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth Class A Shares $671 $ 928 $1,204 $1,989 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $704 $ 930 $1,283 $2,144 - Assuming no redemption $204 $ 630 $1,083 $2,144 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $304 $ 630 $1,083 $2,338 - Assuming no redemption $204 $ 630 $1,083 $2,338 - --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity Class A Shares $710 $1,048 $1,407 $2,417 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $745 $1,055 $1,491 $2,571 - Assuming no redemption $245 $ 755 $1,291 $2,571 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $345 $ 755 $1,291 $2,756 - Assuming no redemption $245 $ 755 $1,291 $2,756 - --------------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth Class A Shares $691 $ 989 $1,309 $2,211 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $725 $ 994 $1,390 $2,365 - Assuming no redemption $225 $ 694 $1,190 $2,365 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $325 $ 694 $1,190 $2,554 - Assuming no redemption $225 $ 694 $1,190 $2,554 - --------------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth Class A Shares $912 $1,650 N/A N/A Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $957 $1,677 N/A N/A - Assuming no redemption $457 $1,377 N/A N/A Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $557 $1,377 N/A N/A - Assuming no redemption $457 $1,377 N/A N/A - ---------------------------------------------------------
48 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - --------------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities Class A Shares $930 $1,725 N/A N/A Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $985 $1,758 N/A N/A - Assuming no redemption $485 $1,458 N/A N/A Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $585 $1,458 N/A N/A - Assuming no redemption $485 $1,458 N/A N/A - --------------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value Class A Shares $682 $ 960 $1,259 $2,106 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $715 $ 964 $1,339 $2,261 - Assuming no redemption $215 $ 664 $1,139 $2,261 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $315 $ 664 $1,139 $2,452 - Assuming no redemption $215 $ 664 $1,139 $2,452 - --------------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value Class A Shares $705 $1,030 $1,378 $2,356 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $739 $1,036 $1,460 $2,510 - Assuming no redemption $239 $ 736 $1,260 $2,510 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $339 $ 736 $1,260 $2,696 - Assuming no redemption $239 $ 736 $1,260 $2,696 - --------------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value Class A Shares $757 $1,189 N/A N/A Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $794 $1,201 N/A N/A - Assuming no redemption $294 $ 901 N/A N/A Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $394 $ 901 N/A N/A - Assuming no redemption $294 $ 901 N/A N/A - ---------------------------------------------------------
49 Fund Fees and Expenses continued The hypothetical example assumes that a CDSC will not apply to redemptions of Class A Shares within the first 18 months. Class B Shares convert to Class A Shares eight years after purchase; therefore, Class A expenses are used in the hypothetical example after year eight. Certain institutions that sell Fund shares and/or their salespersons may receive other compensation in connection with the sale and distribution of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares for services to their customers' accounts and/or the Funds. For additional information regarding such compensation, see "What Should I Know When I Purchase Shares Through An Authorized Dealer?" 50 Service Providers INVESTMENT ADVISERS
Investment Adviser Fund --------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM") Balanced 32 Old Slip Growth and Income New York, New York 10005 CORE Large Cap Value CORE Large Cap Growth CORE Small Cap Equity Strategic Growth Growth Opportunities Mid Cap Value Small Cap Value Large Cap Value --------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. ("GSFM") CORE U.S. Equity 32 Old Slip Capital Growth New York, New York 10005 ---------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 1, 1999, the Investment Management Division ("IMD") was established as a new operating division of Goldman Sachs. This newly created entity includes GSAM and GSFM. Goldman Sachs registered as an investment adviser in 1981. GSFM, a registered investment adviser since 1990, is a Del- aware limited partnership which is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P., which controlled the Investment Advisers, merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offer- ing. As of September 30, 1999, GSAM and GSFM, along with other units of IMD, have assets under management of $203 billion. The Investment Adviser provides day-to-day advice regarding the Funds' port- folio transactions. The Investment Adviser makes the investment decisions for the Funds and places purchase and sale orders for the Funds' portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any brokers, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Funds, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates for portfolio decisions and management with respect to certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to the research and certain proprietary technical models developed by Goldman Sachs, and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities. 51 The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Funds: . Supervises all non-advisory operations of the Funds . Provides personnel to perform necessary executive, administrative and clerical services to the Funds . Arranges for the preparation of all required tax returns, reports to shareholders, prospectuses and statements of additional information and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other regulatory authorities . Maintains the records of each Fund . Provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services MANAGEMENT FEES As compensation for its services and its assumption of certain expenses, the Investment Adviser is entitled to the following fees, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rates listed below (as a percentage of each respective Fund's average daily net assets):
Actual Rate For the Fiscal Period Ended Contractual Rate August 31, 1999 --------------------------------------------------------- GSAM: --------------------------------------------------------- Balanced 0.65% 0.65% --------------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income 0.70% 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value 0.60% 0.60% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth 0.75% 0.60% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity 0.85% 0.85% --------------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value 0.75% 0.75% --------------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value 0.75% N/A --------------------------------------------------------- GSFM: --------------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity 0.75% 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth 1.00% 1.00% ---------------------------------------------------------
The difference, if any, between the stated fees and the actual fees paid by the Funds reflects that the Investment Adviser did not charge the full amount of the fees to which it would have been entitled. The Investment Adviser may discontinue or modify any such voluntary limitations in the future at its discretion. 52 SERVICE PROVIDERS FUND MANAGERS M. Roch Hillenbrand, a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs since 1997, is the Head of Global Equities for GSAM, overseeing the United States, Europe, Japan, and non-Japan Asia. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the group as it defines and implements global portfolio management processes that are consistent, reliable and predictable. Since 1981, Mr. Hillenbrand has been President of Commodities Corporation LLC, of which Goldman Sachs is the parent company. Over the course of his 19-year career at Commodities Corporation, Mr. Hillenbrand has had extensive experience in dealing with internal and external investment managers who have managed a range of futures and equities strategies across multiple markets, using a variety of styles. Value Team .Thirteen portfolio managers/analysts compose the Investment Adviser's value investment team .Multi-sector focus provides a balanced perspective .Across all value products, the Investment Adviser leverages the industry research expertise of its small, mid and large cap investment teams - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Value Team
Years Fund Primarily Name and Title Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eileen A. Portfolio Since Ms. Aptman joined the Investment Aptman Manager-- 1996 Adviser as a research analyst in Vice President Mid Cap Value 1997 1993. She became a portfolio Small Cap Value manager in 1996. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Matthew B. Portfolio Since Mr. McLennan joined the McLennan Manager-- 1996 Investment Adviser as a research Vice President Small Cap Value 1998 analyst in 1995 and became a Mid Cap Value portfolio manager in 1996. From 1994 to 1995, he worked in the Investment Banking Division of Goldman Sachs in Australia. From 1991 to 1994, Mr. McLennan worked at Queensland Investment Corporation in Australia. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eileen Rominger Senior Portfolio Since Ms. Rominger joined the Managing Manager-- Growth 1999 Investment Adviser as a senior Director and Income 1999 portfolio manager in 1999. From Mid Cap Value 1999 1981 to 1999, she worked at Small Cap Value 1999 Oppenheimer Capital, most Large Cap Value 1999 recently as a senior portfolio Balanced manager. (Equity) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
53
Years Fund Primarily Name and Title Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Karma Wilson Portfolio Since Ms. Wilson joined the Vice President Manager-- 1998 Investment Adviser as a Balanced 1998 portfolio manager in 1994. (Equity) 1998 Prior to 1994, she was an Growth and 1999 investment analyst with Income Bankers Trust Australia Ltd. Mid Cap Value Large Cap Value - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quantitative Equity Team .A stable and growing team supported by an extensive internal staff .Access to the research ideas of Goldman Sachs' renowned Global Investment Research Department .More than $23 billion in equities currently under management - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quantitative Equity Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Melissa Brown Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Brown joined the Vice President CORE Large Cap Value 1998 Investment Adviser as a CORE U.S. Equity 1998 portfolio manager in CORE Large Cap Growth 1998 1998. From CORE Small Cap Equity 1998 1984 to 1998, she was the director of Quantitative Equity Research and served on the Investment Policy Committee at Prudential Securities. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Kent A. Clark Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Clark joined the Managing CORE U.S. Equity 1996 Investment Adviser as a Director CORE Large Cap Growth 1997 portfolio manager in the CORE Small Cap Equity 1997 quantitative equity CORE Large Cap Value 1998 management team in 1992. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert C. Jones Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Jones joined the Managing CORE U.S. Equity 1991 Investment Adviser as a Director CORE Large Cap Growth 1997 portfolio manager in CORE Small Cap Equity 1997 1989. CORE Large Cap Value 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Victor H. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Pinter joined the Pinter CORE U.S. Equity 1996 Investment Adviser as a Vice President CORE Large Cap Growth 1997 research analyst in CORE Small Cap Equity 1997 1990. He became a CORE Large Cap Value 1998 portfolio manager in 1992. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
54 SERVICE PROVIDERS Growth Equity Investment Team .18 year consistent investment style applied through diverse and complete market cycles .More than $12 billion in equities currently under management .More than 250 client account relationships .A portfolio management and analytical team with more than 150 years com- bined investment experience - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Growth Equity Investment Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ George D. Adler Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Adler joined the Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1997 Investment Adviser as a Capital Growth 1997 portfolio manager in Strategic Growth 1999 1997. From 1990 to 1997, Growth Opportunities 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Liberty Investment Management, Inc. ("Liberty"). - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Steve Barry Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Barry joined the Vice President Growth Opportunities 1999 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in 1999. From 1988 to 1999, he was a portfolio manager at Alliance Capital Management. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert G. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Collins joined the Collins Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager and Strategic Growth 1999 Co-Chair of the Growth Growth Opportunities 1999 Equity Investment Committee in 1997. From 1991 to 1997, he was a portfolio manager at Liberty. His past experience includes work as a special situations analyst with Raymond James & Associates for five years. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Herbert E. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Ehlers joined the Ehlers Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as a Managing Balanced (Equity) 1998 senior portfolio manager Director Strategic Growth 1999 and Chief Investment Growth Opportunities 1999 Officer of the Growth Equity team in 1997. From 1994 to 1997, he was the Chief Investment Officer and Chairman of Liberty. He was a portfolio manager and President at Liberty's predecessor firm, Eagle Asset Management ("Eagle"), from 1984 to 1994. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gregory H. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Ekizian joined the Ekizian Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager and Strategic Growth 1999 Co-Chair of the Growth Growth Opportunities 1999 Equity Investment Committee in 1997. From 1990 to 1997, he was a portfolio manager at Liberty and its predecessor firm, Eagle. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Scott Kolar Portfolio Manager--Capital Since Mr. Kolar joined the Associate Growth 1999 Investment Adviser as an Strategic Growth equity analyst in 1997 and became a portfolio manager in 1999. From 1994 to 1997, he was an equity analyst and information systems specialist at Liberty. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ David G. Shell Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shell joined the Vice President Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as a Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager in Strategic Growth 1999 1997. From 1987 to 1997, Growth Opportunities 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Liberty and its predecessor firm, Eagle. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ernest C. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Segundo joined the Segundo, Jr. Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager in Strategic Growth 1999 1997. From 1992 to 1997, Growth Opportunities 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Liberty. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed-Income Portfolio Management Team .Fixed-income portfolio management is comprised of a deep team of sector specialists .The team strives to maximize risk-adjusted returns by de-emphasizing inter- est rate anticipation and focusing on security selection and sector alloca- tion .The team manages approximately $29 billion in fixed-income assets for retail, institutional and high net worth clients - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed-Income Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jonathan A. Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Beinner joined the Beinner Manager-- 1994 Investment Adviser as a Managing Balanced (Fixed- portfolio manager in 1990. Director and Income) Co-Head U.S. Fixed Income - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C. Richard Lucy Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Lucy joined the Investment Managing Manager-- 1994 Adviser as a portfolio manager Director and Balanced (Fixed- in 1992. Co-Head U.S. Income) Fixed Income - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
56 SERVICE PROVIDERS DISTRIBUTOR AND TRANSFER AGENT Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor (the "Distributor") of each Fund's shares. Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6372, also serves as the Funds' transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent") and, as such, performs various shareholder servicing functions. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares acquired for its own account. ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affili- ates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to a Fund or limit a Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds. The results of a Fund's investment activities, therefore, may differ from those of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and it is possible that a Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affili- ates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Funds may, from time to time, enter into transactions in which other clients of Goldman Sachs have an adverse interest. A Fund's activities may be limited because of regula- tory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. YEAR 2000 Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to signify the year (for example, "98" for "1998"). On January 1, 2000, if these computer systems are not corrected, they may incorrectly interpret "00" as the year "1900" rather than the year "2000," leading to computer shutdowns or errors (commonly 57 known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). To the extent these systems conduct forward-looking calculations, these computer problems may occur prior to January 1, 2000. Like other investment companies and financial and business organizations, the Funds could be adversely affected in their ability to process securities trades, price securities, provide shareholder account services and otherwise conduct normal business operations if the Investment Adviser or other Fund service providers do not adequately address this prob- lem in a timely manner. In order to address the Year 2000 Problem, the Investment Adviser has taken the following measures: .The Investment Adviser has established a dedicated group which analyzed these issues and implemented system modifications to prepare for the Year 2000 Problem. .The Investment Adviser has either tested with or received assurance from the Fund's other service providers to confirm that they are taking reason- able steps to avoid Year 2000 Problems, and the Investment Adviser contin- ues to monitor the situation. .The Investment Adviser has developed broad and comprehensive contingency plans, as well as event management plans that will help manage the Fund through the date change by allowing the Investment Adviser to closely moni- tor and respond to Year 2000-related events as they unfold around the world. Currently, the Investment Adviser does not anticipate that the transition to the 21st century will have any material impact on its ability to continue to service the Funds at current levels. In addition, the Investment Adviser has undertaken measures to appropriately take into account available information concerning the Year 2000 prepared- ness of the issuers of securities held by the Funds. The Investment Adviser may obtain such Year 2000 information from various sources which the Invest- ment Adviser believes to be reliable, including the issuers' public regula- tory filings. However, the Investment Adviser is not in a position to verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. At this time, however, no assurance can be given that the actions taken by the Investment Adviser and the Funds' other service providers will be suffi- cient to avoid any adverse effect on the Funds due to the Year 2000 Problem. 58 Dividends Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains. You may choose to have dividends and distributions paid in: .Cash .Additional shares of the same class of the same Fund .Shares of the same or an equivalent class of another Goldman Sachs Fund. Spe- cial restrictions may apply for certain ILA Portfolios. See the Additional Statement. You may indicate your election on your Account Application. Any changes may be submitted in writing to Goldman Sachs at any time before the record date for a particular dividend or distribution. If you do not indicate any choice, your dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in the applicable Fund. The election to reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by you and then used to purchase the shares. Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are declared and paid as follows:
Investment Capital Gains Fund Income Dividends Distributions - ----------------------------------------------------- Balanced Quarterly Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income Quarterly Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value Quarterly Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value Annually Annually - -----------------------------------------------------
59 DIVIDENDS From time to time a portion of a Fund's dividends may constitute a return of capital. At the time of an investor's purchase of shares of a Fund, a portion of the NAV per share may be represented by undistributed income or undistributed realized appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities. Therefore, subsequent distri- butions on such shares from such income or realized appreciation may be taxable to you even if the NAV of the shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the cost of such shares and the distributions (or portions there- of) represent a return of a portion of the purchase price. 60 Shareholder Guide The following section will provide you with answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding buying and selling the Funds' shares. HOW TO BUY SHARES How Can I Purchase Class A, Class B And Class C Shares Of The Funds? You may purchase shares of the Funds through: . Goldman Sachs; . Authorized Dealers; or . Directly from Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust"). In order to make an initial investment in a Fund, you must furnish to the Fund, Goldman Sachs or your Authorized Dealer the information in the Account Application attached to this Prospectus. To Open an Account: . Complete the enclosed Account Application . Mail your payment and Account Application to: Your Authorized Dealer - Purchases by check or Federal Reserve draft should be made payable to your Authorized Dealer - Your Authorized Dealer is responsible for forwarding payment promptly (within three business days) to the Fund or Goldman Sachs Funds c/o National Financial Data Services, Inc. ("NFDS"), P.O. Box 219711, Kansas City, MO 64121-9711 - Purchases by check or Federal Reserve draft should be made payable to Goldman Sachs Funds - (Name of Fund and Class of Shares) - NFDS will not accept a check drawn on a foreign bank, a third-party check, cash, money orders, travelers checques or credit card checks - Federal funds wire, Automated Clearing House Network ("ACH") transfer or bank wires should be sent to State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") (each Fund's custodian). Please call the Funds at 1-800-526- 7384 to get detailed instructions on how to wire your money. 61 What Is My Minimum Investment In The Funds?
Initial Additional ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regular Accounts $1,000 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tax-Sheltered Retirement Plans (excluding SIMPLE IRAs and Education IRAs) $250 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Uniform Gift to Minors Act Accounts/Uniform Transfer to Minors Act Accounts $250 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 403(b) Plan Accounts $200 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SIMPLE IRAs and Education IRAs $50 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Automatic Investment Plan Accounts $50 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Alternative Sales Arrangements Are Available? The Funds offer three classes of shares through this Prospectus. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maximum Amount You Can Buy In The Class A No limit Aggregate Across Funds ------------------------------------------------ Class B $250,000 ------------------------------------------------ Class C $1,000,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Initial Sales Charge Class A Applies to purchases of less than $1 million--varies by size of investment with a maximum of 5.5% ------------------------------------------------ Class B None ------------------------------------------------ Class C None ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CDSC Class A 1.00% on certain investments of $1 million or more if you sell within 18 months ------------------------------------------------ Class B 6 year declining CDSC with a maximum of 5% ------------------------------------------------ Class C 1% if shares are redeemed within 12 months of purchase ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Conversion Feature Class A None ------------------------------------------------ Class B Class B Shares convert to Class A Shares after 8 years ------------------------------------------------ Class C None ------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Else Should I Know About Share Purchases? The Trust reserves the right to: . Refuse to open an account if you fail to (i) provide a social security number or other taxpayer identification number; or (ii) certify that such number is correct (if required to do so under applicable law). . Reject or restrict any purchase or exchange order by a particular pur- chaser (or group of related purchasers). This may occur, for example, when a pattern of 62 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE frequent purchases, sales or exchanges of shares of a Fund is evident, or if purchases, sales or exchanges are, or a subsequent abrupt redemption might be, of a size that would disrupt management of a Fund. . Modify or waive the minimum investment amounts. . Modify the manner in which shares are offered. . Modify the sales charge rates applicable to future purchases of shares. The Funds may allow you to purchase shares with securities instead of cash if consistent with a Fund's investment policies and operations and if approved by the Fund's Investment Adviser. How Are Shares Priced? The price you pay or receive when you buy, sell or exchange shares is deter- mined by a Fund's NAV and share class. Each class calculates its NAV as fol- lows: (Value of Assets of the Class) - (Liabilities of the Class) NAV = __________________________________________________ Number of Outstanding Shares of the Class The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations or if accurate quotations are not readily available, the fair value of the Fund's invest- ments may be determined in good faith under procedures established by the Trustees. . NAV per share of each share class is calculated by the Fund's custodian on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Fund shares will not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed. . When you buy shares, you pay the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form, plus any applicable sales charge. . When you sell shares, you receive the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form, less any applicable CDSC. Note: The time at which transactions and shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange is stopped at a time other than 4:00 p.m. New York time. Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days a Fund is closed. As a result, the NAV of a Fund that holds foreign securities may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or redeem Fund shares. In addition, the impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next 63 determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discretion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund opera- tions and other relevant factors. COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF CLASS A SHARES What Is The Offering Price Of Class A Shares? The offering price of Class A Shares of each Fund is the next determined NAV per share plus an initial sales charge paid to Goldman Sachs at the time of purchase of shares. The sales charge varies depending upon the amount you purchase. In some cases, described below, the initial sales charge may be eliminated altogether, and the offering price will be the NAV per share. The current sales charges and commissions paid to Authorized Dealers are as fol- lows:
Sales Charge Maximum Dealer Sales Charge as as Percentage Allowance as Amount of Purchase Percentage of of Net Amount Percentage of (including sales charge, if any) Offering Price Invested Offering Price* --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than $50,000 5.50% 5.82% 5.00% $50,000 up to (but less than) $100,000 4.75 4.99 4.00 $100,000 up to (but less than) $250,000 3.75 3.90 3.00 $250,000 up to (but less than) $500,000 2.75 2.83 2.25 $500,000 up to (but less than) $1 million 2.00 2.04 1.75 $1 million or more 0.00** 0.00** *** ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Dealer's allowance may be changed periodically. During special promo- tions, the entire sales charge may be allowed to Authorized Dealers. Authorized Dealers to whom substantially the entire sales charge is allowed may be deemed to be "underwriters" under the Securities Act of 1933. ** No sales charge is payable at the time of purchase of Class A Shares of $1 million or more, but a CDSC of 1% may be imposed in the event of certain redemptions within 18 months of purchase. *** The Distributor pays a one-time commission to Authorized Dealers who initiate or are responsible for purchases of $1 million or more of shares of the Funds equal to 1.00% of the amount under $3 million, 0.50% of the next $2 million, and 0.25% thereafter. The Distributor may also pay, with respect to all or a portion of the amount purchased, a commission in accordance with the foregoing schedule to Authorized Dealers who initiate or are responsible for purchases of $500,000 or more by certain pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-sponsored benefit plans investing in the Funds which sat- isfy the criteria set forth below in "When Are Class A Shares Not Sub- ject To A Sales Load?" or $1 million or more by certain "wrap" accounts. Purchases by such plans will be made at NAV with no initial sales charge, but if all of the shares held are redeemed within 18 months after the end of the calendar month in which such purchase was made, a CDSC of 1% may be imposed upon the plan sponsor or the third party administrator. In addition, Authorized Dealers will remit to the Distributor such payments received in connection with "wrap" accounts in the event that shares are redeemed within 18 months after the end of the calendar month in which the purchase was made. 64 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE What Else Do I Need To Know About Class A Shares' CDSC? Purchases of $1 million or more of Class A Shares will be made at NAV with no initial sales charge. However, if you redeem shares within 18 months after the end of the calendar month in which the purchase was made, exclud- ing any period of time in which the shares were exchanged into and remained invested in an equivalent class of an ILA Portfolio, a CDSC of 1% may be imposed. The CDSC may not be imposed if your Authorized Dealer enters into an agreement with the Distributor to return all or an applicable prorated portion of its commission to the Distributor. The CDSC is waived on redemp- tions in certain circumstances. See "In What Situations May The CDSC On Class A, B Or C Shares Be Waived Or Reduced?" below. When Are Class A Shares Not Subject To A Sales Load? Class A Shares of the Funds may be sold at NAV without payment of any sales charge to the following individuals and entities: . Goldman Sachs, its affiliates or their respective officers, partners, directors or employees (including retired employees and former partners), any partnership of which Goldman Sachs is a general partner, any Trustee or officer of the Trust and designated family members of any of these individuals; . Qualified retirement plans of Goldman Sachs; . Trustees or directors of investment companies for which Goldman Sachs or an affiliate acts as sponsor; . Any employee or registered representative of any Authorized Dealer or their respective spouses, children and parents; . Banks, trust companies or other types of depository institutions investing for their own account or investing for discretionary or non-discretionary accounts; . Any state, county or city, or any instrumentality, department, authority or agency thereof, which is prohibited by applicable investment laws from paying a sales charge or commission in connection with the purchase of shares of a Fund; . Pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-spon- sored benefit plans that: . Buy shares of Goldman Sachs Funds worth $500,000 or more; or . Have 100 or more eligible employees at the time of purchase; or . Certify that they expect to have annual plan purchases of shares of Goldman Sachs Funds of $200,000 or more; or . Are provided administrative services by certain third-party administra- tors that have entered into a special service arrangement with Goldman Sachs relating to such plans; or . Have at the time of purchase aggregate assets of at least $2,000,000; 65 . "Wrap" accounts for the benefit of clients of broker-dealers, financial institutions or financial planners, provided they have entered into an agreement with GSAM specifying aggregate minimums and certain operating policies and standards; . Registered investment advisers investing for accounts for which they receive asset-based fees; . Accounts over which GSAM or its advisory affiliates have investment dis- cretion; or . Shareholders receiving distributions from a qualified retirement plan invested in the Goldman Sachs Funds and reinvesting such proceeds in a Goldman Sachs IRA. You must certify eligibility for any of the above exemptions on your Account Application and notify the Fund if you no longer are eligible for the exemp- tion. The Fund will grant you an exemption subject to confirmation of your entitlement. You may be charged a fee if you effect your transactions through a broker or agent. How Can The Sales Charge On Class A Shares Be Reduced? . Right of Accumulation: When buying Class A Shares in Goldman Sachs Funds, your current aggregate investment determines the initial sales load you pay. You may qualify for reduced sales charges when the current market value of holdings (shares at current offering price), plus new purchases, reaches $50,000 or more. Class A Shares of any of the Goldman Sachs Funds may be combined under the Right of Accumulation. To qualify for a reduced sales load, you or your Authorized Dealer must notify the Funds' Transfer Agent at the time of investment that a quantity discount is applicable. Use of this service is subject to a check of appropriate records. The Additional Statement has more information about the Right of Accumulation. . Statement of Intention: You may obtain a reduced sales charge by means of a written Statement of Intention which expresses your non-binding commit- ment to invest in the aggregate $50,000 or more (not counting reinvest- ments of dividends and distributions) within a period of 13 months in Class A Shares of one or more Goldman Sachs Fund. Any investments you make during the period will receive the discounted sales load based on the full amount of your investment commitment. If the investment commitment of the Statement of Intention is not met prior to the expiration of the 13-month period, the entire amount will be subject to the higher applicable sales charge. By signing the Statement of Intention, you authorize the Transfer Agent to escrow and redeem Class A Shares in your account to pay this additional charge. The Additional Statement has more information about the Statement of Intention, which you should read carefully. 66 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF CLASS B SHARES What Is The Offering Price Of Class B Shares? You may purchase Class B Shares of the Funds at the next determined NAV without an initial sales charge. However, Class B Shares redeemed within six years of purchase will be subject to a CDSC at the rates shown in the table below based on how long you held your shares. The CDSC schedule is as follows:
CDSC as a Percentage of Dollar Amount Year Since Purchase Subject to CDSC ---------------------------------------- First 5% Second 4% Third 3% Fourth 3% Fifth 2% Sixth 1% Seventh and thereafter None ----------------------------------------
Proceeds from the CDSC are payable to the Distributor and may be used in whole or in part to defray the Distributor's expenses related to providing distribution-related services to the Funds in connection with the sale of Class B Shares, including the payment of compensation to Authorized Dealers. A commission equal to 4% of the amount invested is paid to Authorized Deal- ers. What Should I Know About The Automatic Conversion Of Class B Shares? Class B Shares of a Fund will automatically convert into Class A Shares of the same Fund at the end of the calendar quarter that is eight years after the purchase date. If you acquire Class B Shares of a Fund by exchange from Class B Shares of another Goldman Sachs Fund, your Class B Shares will convert into Class A Shares of such Fund based on the date of the initial purchase and the CDSC schedule of that purchase. If you acquire Class B Shares through reinvestment of distributions, your Class B Shares will convert into Class A Shares based on the date of the initial purchase of the shares on which the distribution was paid. The conversion of Class B Shares to Class A Shares will not occur at any time the Funds are advised that such conversions may constitute taxable events for federal tax purposes, which the Funds believe is unlikely. If conversions do not occur as a 67 result of possible taxability, Class B Shares would continue to be subject to higher expenses than Class A Shares for an indeterminate period. A COMMON QUESTION ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF CLASS C SHARES What Is The Offering Price Of Class C Shares? You may purchase Class C Shares of the Funds at the next determined NAV without paying an initial sales charge. However, if you redeem Class C Shares within 12 months of purchase, a CDSC of 1% will normally be deducted from the redemption proceeds; provided that in connection with purchases by pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-sponsored benefit plans, where all of the Class C Shares are redeemed within 12 months of purchase, a CDSC of 1% may be imposed upon the plan sponsor or third party administrator. Proceeds from the CDSC are payable to the Distributor and may be used in whole or in part to defray the Distributor's expenses related to providing distribution-related services to the Funds in connection with the sale of Class C Shares, including the payment of compensation to Authorized Dealers. An amount equal to 1% of the amount invested is normally paid by the Dis- tributor to Authorized Dealers. COMMON QUESTIONS APPLICABLE TO THE PURCHASE OF CLASS A, B AND C SHARES What Else Do I Need To Know About The CDSC On Class A, B Or C Shares? . The CDSC is based on the lesser of the NAV of the shares at the time of redemption or the original offering price (which is the original NAV). . No CDSC is charged on shares acquired from reinvested dividends or capi- tal gains distributions. . No CDSC is charged on the per share appreciation of your account over the initial purchase price. . When counting the number of months since a purchase of Class B or Class C Shares was made, all payments made during a month will be combined and considered to have been made on the first day of that month. . To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell shares, the Funds will first sell any shares in your account that do not carry a CDSC and then the shares in your account that have been held the longest. 68 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE In What Situations May The CDSC On Class A, B Or C Shares Be Waived Or Reduced? The CDSC on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares that are subject to a CDSC may be waived or reduced if the redemption relates to: . Retirement distributions or loans to participants or beneficiaries from pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-spon- sored benefit plans (each a "Retirement Plan"); . The death or disability (as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code")) of a participant or benefi- ciary in a Retirement Plan; . Hardship withdrawals by a participant or beneficiary in a Retirement Plan; . Satisfying the minimum distribution requirements of the Code; . Establishing "substantially equal periodic payments" as described under Section 72(t)(2) of the Code; . The separation from service by a participant or beneficiary in a Retire- ment Plan; . The death or disability (as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Code) of a shareholder if the redemption is made within one year of the event; . Excess contributions distributed from a Retirement Plan; . Distributions from a qualified Retirement Plan invested in the Goldman Sachs Funds which are being rolled over to a Goldman Sachs IRA; or . Redemption proceeds which are to be reinvested in accounts or non-regis- tered products over which GSAM or its advisory affiliates have investment discretion. In addition, Class A, B and C Shares subject to a systematic withdrawal plan may be redeemed without a CDSC. The Funds reserve the right to limit such redemptions, on an annual basis, to 12% each of the value of your Class B and C Shares and 10% of the value of your Class A Shares. How Do I Decide Whether To Buy Class A, B Or C Shares? The decision as to which Class to purchase depends on the amount you invest, the intended length of the investment and your personal situation. . Class A Shares. If you are making an investment of $50,000 or more that qualifies for a reduced sales charge, you should consider purchasing Class A Shares. . Class B Shares. If you plan to hold your investment for at least six years and would prefer not to pay an initial sales charge, you might consider purchasing Class B Shares. By not paying a front-end sales charge, your entire investment in Class B Shares is available to work for you from the time you make your initial investment. However, the distribution and serv- ice fee paid by Class B 69 Shares will cause your Class B Shares (until conversion to Class A Shares) to have a higher expense ratio, and thus lower performance and lower divi- dend payments (to the extent dividends are paid) than Class A Shares. A maximum purchase limitation of $250,000 in the aggregate normally applies to Class B Shares. . Class C Shares. If you are unsure of the length of your investment or plan to hold your investment for less than six years and would prefer not to pay an initial sales charge, you may prefer Class C Shares. By not paying a front-end sales charge, your entire investment in Class C Shares is available to work for you from the time you make your initial investment. However, the distribution and service fee paid by Class C Shares will cause your Class C Shares to have a higher expense ratio, and thus lower performance and lower dividend payments (to the extent dividends are paid) than Class A Shares (or Class B Shares after conversion to Class A Shares). Although Class C Shares are subject to a CDSC for only 12 months, Class C Shares do not have the conversion feature applicable to Class B Shares and your investment will therefore pay higher distribution fees indefinitely. A maximum purchase limitation of $1,000,000 in the aggregate normally applies to purchases of Class C Shares. Note: Authorized Dealers may receive different compensation for selling Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. In addition to Class A, Class B and Class C Shares, each Fund also offers other classes of shares to investors. These other share classes are subject to different fees and expenses (which affect performance), have different minimum investment requirements and are entitled to different services. Information regarding these other share classes may be obtained from your sales representative or from Goldman Sachs by calling the number on the back cover of this Prospectus. HOW TO SELL SHARES How Can I Sell Class A, Class B And Class C Shares Of The Funds? You may arrange to take money out of your account by selling (redeeming) some or all of your shares. Each Fund will redeem its shares upon request on any business day at the NAV next determined after receipt of such request in proper form, subject to any applicable CDSC. You may request that redemption proceeds be sent to you by check or by wire (if the wire instructions are on record). Redemptions may be requested in writing or by telephone. 70 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE
Instructions For Redemptions: -------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund name and Class of Shares .The dollar amount you want to sell .How and where to send the proceeds .Obtain a signature guarantee (see details below) .Mail your request to: Goldman Sachs Funds c/o NFDS P.O. Box 219711 Kansas City, MO 64121-9711 -------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have not declined the telephone redemption privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-526-7384 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) .You may redeem up to $50,000 of your shares within any 7 calendar day period .Proceeds which are sent directly to a Goldman Sachs brokerage account are not subject to the $50,000 limit --------------------------------------------------------------------
When Do I Need A Signature Guarantee To Redeem Shares? A signature guarantee is required if: . You are requesting in writing to redeem shares in an amount over $50,000; . You would like the redemption proceeds sent to an address that is not your address of record; or . You would like to change the bank designated on your Account Application. A signature guarantee is designed to protect you, the Funds and Goldman Sachs from fraud. You may obtain a signature guarantee from a bank, securi- ties broker or dealer, credit union having the authority to issue signature guarantees, savings and loan association, building and loan association, cooperative bank, federal savings bank or association, national securities exchange, registered securities association or clearing agency, provided that such institution satisfies the standards established by Goldman Sachs. Additional documentation may be required for executors, trustees or corpora- tions or when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests? The Trust, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent will not be liable for any loss you may incur in the event that the Trust accepts unauthorized tele- phone redemption requests that the Trust reasonably believes to be genuine. The Trust may accept telephone redemption instructions from any person iden- tifying himself 71 or herself as the owner of an account or the owner's registered representa- tive where the owner has not declined in writing to use this service. Thus, you risk possible losses if a telephone redemption is not authorized by you. In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption and exchange requests by telephone, Goldman Sachs and NFDS each employ reasonable proce- dures specified by the Trust to confirm that such instructions are genuine. If reasonable procedures are not employed, the Trust may be liable for any loss due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. The following general policies are currently in effect: . All telephone requests are recorded. . Proceeds of telephone redemption requests will be sent only to your address of record or authorized bank account designated in the Account Application (unless you provide written instructions and a signature guar- antee, indicating another address or account) and exchanges of shares nor- mally will be made only to an identically registered account. . Telephone redemptions will not be accepted during the 30-day period fol- lowing any change in your address of record. . The telephone redemption option does not apply to shares held in a "street name" account. "Street name" accounts are accounts maintained and serviced by your Authorized Dealer. If your account is held in "street name," you should contact your registered representative of record, who may make tel- ephone redemptions on your behalf. . The telephone redemption option may be modified or terminated at any time. Note: It may be difficult to make telephone redemptions in times of drastic economic or market conditions. How Are Redemption Proceeds Paid? By Wire: You may arrange for your redemption proceeds to be wired as federal funds to the bank account designated in your Account Application. The fol- lowing general policies govern wiring redemption proceeds: . Redemption proceeds will normally be wired on the next business day in federal funds (for a total of one business day delay), but may be paid up to three business days following receipt of a properly executed wire transfer redemption request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. If the Federal Reserve Bank is closed on the day that the redemption proceeds would ordinarily be wired, wiring the redemption proceeds may be delayed one additional business day. . A transaction fee of $7.50 may be charged for payments of redemption pro- ceeds by wire. Your bank may also charge wiring fees. You should contact your bank directly to learn whether it charges such fees. 72 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE . To change the bank designated on your Account Application, you must send written instructions (with your signature guaranteed) to the Transfer Agent. . Neither the Trust, Goldman Sachs nor any Authorized Dealer assumes any responsibility for the performance of your bank or any intermediaries in the transfer process. If a problem with such performance arises, you should deal directly with your bank or any such intermediaries. By Check: You may elect to receive your redemption proceeds by check. Redemption proceeds paid by check will normally be mailed to the address of record within three business days of a properly executed redemption request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. What Else Do I Need To Know About Redemptions? The following generally applies to redemption requests: . Additional documentation may be required when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. A redemption request will not be in proper form until such additional documentation has been received. The Trust reserves the right to: . Redeem your shares if your account balance is less than $50 as a result of a redemption. The Funds will not redeem your shares on this basis if the value of your account falls below the minimum account balance solely as a result of market conditions. The Funds will give you 60 days' prior writ- ten notice to allow you to purchase sufficient additional shares of the Fund in order to avoid such redemption. . Redeem your shares in other circumstances determined by the Board of Trustees to be in the best interests of the Trust. . Pay redemptions by a distribution in-kind of securities (instead of cash). If you receive redemption proceeds in-kind, you should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of those securities. Can I Reinvest Redemption Proceeds In The Same Or Another Goldman Sachs Fund? You may redeem shares of a Fund and reinvest a portion or all of the redemp- tion proceeds (plus any additional amounts needed to round off purchases to the nearest full share) at NAV. To be eligible for this privilege, you must hold the shares you want to redeem for at least 30 days and you must rein- vest the share proceeds within 90 days after you redeem. You may reinvest as follows: . Class A or B Shares--Class A Shares of the same Fund or any other Goldman Sachs Fund . Class C Shares--Class C Shares of the same Fund or any other Goldman Sachs Fund 73 . You should obtain and read the applicable prospectuses before investing in any other Funds. . If you pay a CDSC upon redemption of Class A or Class C Shares and then reinvest in Class A or Class C Shares as described above, your account will be credited with the amount of the CDSC you paid. The reinvested shares will, however, continue to be subject to a CDSC. The holding period of the shares acquired through reinvestment will include the holding period of the redeemed shares for purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon a subsequent redemption. For Class B Shares, you may reinvest the redemption proceeds in Class A Shares at NAV but the amount of the CDSC paid upon redemption of the Class B Shares will not be credited to your account. . The reinvestment privilege may be exercised at any time in connection with transactions in which the proceeds are reinvested at NAV in a tax-shel- tered retirement plan. In other cases, the reinvestment privilege may be exercised once per year upon receipt of a written request. . You may be subject to tax as a result of a redemption. You should consult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of a redemption and rein- vestment. Can I Exchange My Investment From One Fund To Another? You may exchange shares of a Fund at NAV without the imposition of an ini- tial sales charge or CDSC at the time of exchange for shares of the same class or an equivalent class of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. The exchange privilege may be materially modified or withdrawn at any time upon 60 days' written notice to you.
Instructions For Exchanging Shares: ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund names and Class of Shares .The dollar amount you want to exchange .Obtain a signature guarantee (see details above) .Mail the request to: Goldman Sachs Funds c/o NFDS P.O. Box 219711 Kansas City, MO 64121-9711 or for overnight delivery - Goldman Sachs Funds c/o NFDS 330 West 9th St. Poindexter Bldg., 1st Floor Kansas City, MO 64105 ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have not declined the telephone exchange privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-526-7384 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -------------------------------------------------------------------
74 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE You should keep in mind the following factors when making or considering an exchange: . You should obtain and carefully read the prospectus of the Fund you are acquiring before making an exchange. . Six free exchanges are allowed in each 12 month period. . A $12.50 fee may be charged for each subsequent exchange. . There is no charge for exchanges made pursuant to the Automatic Exchange Program. . The exchanged shares may later be exchanged for shares of the same class (or an equivalent class) of the original Fund at the next determined NAV without the imposition of an initial sales charge or CDSC if the amount in the Fund resulting from such exchanges is less than the largest amount on which you have previously paid the applicable sales charge. . When you exchange shares subject to a CDSC, no CDSC will be charged at that time. The exchanged shares will be subject to the CDSC of the shares originally held. For purposes of determining the amount of the applicable CDSC, the length of time you have owned the shares will be measured from the date you acquired the original shares subject to a CDSC and will not be affected by a subsequent exchange. . Eligible investors may exchange certain classes of shares for another class of shares of the same Fund. For further information, call Goldman Sachs Funds at 1-800-526-7384. . All exchanges which represent an initial investment in a Fund must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirements of that Fund. . Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made. . It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic eco- nomic or market conditions. . Goldman Sachs and NFDS may use reasonable procedures described under "What Do I Need to Know About Telephone Redemption Requests?" in an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent telephone exchange requests. . Telephone exchanges normally will be made only to an identically regis- tered account. Shares may be exchanged among accounts with different names, addresses and social security or other taxpayer identification num- bers only if the exchange instructions are in writing and accompanied by a signature guarantee. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange is treated as a redemption of the shares surrendered in the exchange, on which you may be subject to tax, followed by a purchase of shares received in the exchange. You should con- sult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of an exchange. 75 SHAREHOLDER SERVICES Can I Arrange To Have Automatic Investments Made On A Regular Basis? You may be able to make systematic cash investments through your bank via ACH transfer or your checking account via bank draft each month. Forms for this option are available from Goldman Sachs, your Authorized Dealer or you may check the appropriate box on the Account Application. Can My Dividends And Distributions From A Fund Be Invested In Other Funds? You may elect to cross-reinvest dividends and capital gain distributions paid by a Fund in shares of the same class or an equivalent class of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. . Shares will be purchased at NAV. . No initial sales charge or CDSC will be imposed. . You may elect cross-reinvestment into an identically registered account or an account registered in a different name or with a different address, social security number or taxpayer identification number provided that the account has been properly established, appropriate signature guarantees obtained and the minimum initial investment has been satisfied. Can I Arrange To Have Automatic Exchanges Made On A Regular Basis? You may elect to exchange automatically a specified dollar amount of shares of a Fund for shares of the same class or an equivalent class of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. . Shares will be purchased at NAV. . No initial sales charge is imposed. . Shares subject to a CDSC acquired under this program may be subject to a CDSC at the time of redemption from the Fund into which the exchange is made depending upon the date and value of your original purchase. . Automatic exchanges are made monthly on the 15th day of each month or the first business day thereafter. . Minimum dollar amount: $50 per month. What Else Should I Know About Cross-Reinvestments And Automatic Exchanges? Cross-reinvestments and automatic exchanges are subject to the following conditions: . You must hold $5,000 or more in the Fund which is paying the dividend or from which the exchange is being made. 76 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE . You must invest an amount in the Fund into which cross-reinvestments or automatic exchanges are being made that is equal to that Fund's minimum initial investment or continue to cross-reinvest or to make automatic exchanges until such minimum initial investment is met. . You should obtain and read the prospectus of the Fund into which dividends are invested or automatic exchanges are made. Can I Have Automatic Withdrawals Made On A Regular Basis? You may draw on your account systematically via check or ACH transfer in any amount of $50 or more. . It is normally undesirable to maintain a systematic withdrawal plan at the same time that you are purchasing additional Class A, Class B or Class C Shares because of the sales charge imposed on your purchases of Class A Shares or the imposition of a CDSC on your redemptions of Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. . You must have a minimum balance of $5,000 in a Fund. . Checks are mailed on or about the 25th day of each month. . Each systematic withdrawal is a redemption and therefore a taxable trans- action. . The CDSC applicable to Class A, Class B or Class C Shares redeemed under the systematic withdrawal plan may be waived. What Types of Reports Will I Be Sent Regarding My Investment? You will be provided with a printed confirmation of each transaction in your account and an individual quarterly account statement. A year-to-date state- ment for your account will be provided upon request made to Goldman Sachs. If your account is held in "street name" you may receive your statement and confirmations on a different schedule. You will also receive an annual shareholder report containing audited finan- cial statements and a semi-annual shareholder report. If you have consented to the delivery of a single copy of shareholder reports, prospectuses and other information to all shareholders who share the same mailing address with your account, you may revoke your consent at any time by contacting Goldman Sachs Funds by phone at 1-800-526-7384 or by mail at Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372. The Funds will begin sending individual copies to you within 30 days after receipt of your revocation. The Funds do not generally provide sub-accounting services. What Should I Know When I Purchase Shares Through An Authorized Dealer? Authorized Dealers and other financial intermediaries may provide varying arrangements for their clients to purchase and redeem Fund shares. They may charge additional fees not described in this Prospectus to their customers for such services. 77 If shares of a Fund are held in a "street name" account with an Authorized Dealer, all recordkeeping, transaction processing and payments of distribu- tions relating to your account will be performed by the Authorized Dealer, and not by the Fund and its Transfer Agent. Since the Funds will have no record of your transactions, you should contact the Authorized Dealer to purchase, redeem or exchange shares, to make changes in or give instructions concerning the account or to obtain information about your account. The transfer of shares in a "street name" account to an account with another dealer or to an account directly with the Fund involves special procedures and will require you to obtain historical purchase information about the shares in the account from the Authorized Dealer. Authorized Dealers and other financial intermediaries may be authorized to accept, on behalf of the Trust, purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers, and if approved by the Trust, to designate other intermediaries to accept such orders. In these cases: . A Fund will be deemed to have received an order that is in proper form when the order is accepted by an Authorized Dealer or intermediary on a business day, and the order will be priced at the Fund's NAV per share (adjusted for any applicable sales charge) next determined after such acceptance. . Authorized Dealers and intermediaries are responsible for transmitting accepted orders to the Funds within the time period agreed upon by them. You should contact your Authorized Dealer or intermediary to learn whether it is authorized to accept orders for the Trust. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay addi- tional compensation from time to time, out of their assets and not as an additional charge to the Funds, to selected Authorized Dealers and other persons in connection with the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of the Funds and other Goldman Sachs Funds. Additional compensation based on sales may, but is currently not expected to, exceed 0.50% (annualized) of the amount invested. DISTRIBUTION SERVICES AND FEES What Are The Different Distribution And Service Fees Paid By Class A, B and C Shares? The Trust has adopted distribution and service plans (each a "Plan") under which Class A, Class B and Class C Shares bear distribution and service fees paid to Authorized Dealers and Goldman Sachs. If the fees received by Goldman Sachs pursuant to the Plans exceed its expenses, Goldman Sachs may realize a profit from their arrangements. Goldman Sachs pays the distribu- tion and service fees on a quarterly basis. 78 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE Under the Plans, Goldman Sachs is entitled to a monthly fee from each Fund for distribution services equal, on an annual basis, to 0.25%, 0.75% and 0.75%, respectively, of a Fund's average daily net assets attributed to Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund's assets on an ongoing basis, over time, these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of such charges. The distribution fees are subject to the requirements of Rule 12b-1 under the Act, and may be used (among other things) for: . Compensation paid to and expenses incurred by Authorized Dealers, Goldman Sachs and their respective officers, employees and sales representatives; . Commissions paid to Authorized Dealers; . Allocable overhead; . Telephone and travel expenses; . Interest and other costs associated with the financing of such compensa- tion and expenses; . Printing of prospectuses for prospective shareholders; . Preparation and distribution of sales literature or advertising of any type; and . All other expenses incurred in connection with activities primarily intended to result in the sale of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. In connection with the sale of Class C Shares, Goldman Sachs normally begins paying the 0.75% distribution fee as an ongoing commission to Authorized Dealers after the shares have been held for one year. PERSONAL ACCOUNT MAINTENANCE SERVICES AND FEES Under the Plans, Goldman Sachs is also entitled to receive a separate fee equal on an annual basis to 0.25% of each Fund's average daily net assets attributed to Class B or Class C Shares. This fee is for personal and account maintenance services, and may be used to make payments to Goldman Sachs, Authorized Dealers and their officers, sales representatives and employees for responding to inquiries of, and furnishing assistance to, shareholders regarding ownership of their shares or their accounts or simi- lar services not otherwise provided on behalf of the Funds. If the fees received by Goldman Sachs pursuant to the Plans exceed its expenses, Goldman Sachs may realize a profit from this arrangement. In connection with the sale of Class C Shares, Goldman Sachs normally begins paying the 0.25% ongoing service fee to Authorized Dealers after the shares have been held for one year. 79 Taxation TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Funds will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the Additional Statement. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax con- sequences of your investment in the Funds. Unless your investment is an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund shares. TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS Distributions you receive from the Funds are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Funds' income dividend distribu- tions and short-term capital gain distributions are taxable to you as ordi- nary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are taxable as long- term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund shares. Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December. A percentage of the Funds' dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. The Funds will inform sharehold- ers of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. Each Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Funds may deduct these taxes in computing their taxable income. If you buy shares of a Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend." 80 TAXATION TAXES ON SALES Your sale of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. For tax purpos- es, the exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Goldman Sachs Fund is the same as a sale. When you sell your shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the shares and the amount received. Gen- erally, this gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds twelve months, except that any loss realized on shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the shares. OTHER INFORMATION When you open your account, you should provide your social security or tax identification number on your Account Application. By law, each Fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and any redemption proceeds if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. 81 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques A. General Portfolio Risks The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity securities. "Equity securities" include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock pur- chase rights. In general, stock values fluctuate in response to the activi- ties of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the value of the stocks that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cycli- cal, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. The volatility of equity securities means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. As of the date of this Prospectus, certain stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels and there can be no guarantee that such levels will continue. To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed-income securities, that Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed-income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to increase (al- though many mortgage related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to decline. Credit risk involves the risk that an issuer could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its invest- ment. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (exten- sion risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall suffi- ciently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to invest- ors. The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a lim- iting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of port- folio turn- 82 APPENDIX A over (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calcu- lated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a state- ment of the Funds' historical portfolio turnover rates. The following sections provide further information on certain types of secu- rities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Among other things, the Addi- tional Statement describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether that Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs. B. Other Portfolio Risks Risks of Investing in Small Capitalization Companies and REITs. Each Fund may invest in small capitalization companies and REITs. Investments in small capitalization companies and REITs involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the rea- sons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less cer- tain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Small capitalization companies and REITs may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current mar- ket prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient mar- ket liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Small capitalization companies and REITs include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited prod- uct lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments 83 in small capitalization companies and REITs may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes. Risks of Foreign Investments. Certain Funds may invest in foreign invest- ments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such invest- ments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the cur- rency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the port- folio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives divi- dends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends. The introduction of a single currency, the euro, on January 1, 1999 for par- ticipating nations in the European Economic and Monetary Union presents unique uncertainties, including the legal treatment of certain outstanding financial contracts after January 1, 1999 that refer to existing currencies rather than the euro; the establishment and maintenance of exchange rates for currencies being converted into the euro; the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies during the transition period from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2001 and beyond; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union ("EU"), may have an impact on the euro. These or other factors, including political and economic risks, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Funds. Because of the number of countries using this single currency, a significant portion of the assets held by the Funds may be denominated in the euro. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such proce- dures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transac- tions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may 84 APPENDIX A be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and secu- rities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than secu- rities of comparable domestic issuers. Efforts in foreign countries to reme- diate potential Year 2000 problems are not as extensive as those in the United States. As a result, the operations of foreign markets, foreign issuers and foreign governments may be disrupted by the Year 2000 Problem, and the investment portfolio of a Fund may be adversely affected. Further- more, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of with- holding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the Funds, and political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries. Concentration of a Fund's assets in one or a few countries and currencies will subject a Fund to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geo- graphically concentrated. Investment in sovereign debt obligations by certain Funds involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obliga- tions of U.S. issuers. A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the avail- ability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sov- ereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"). Certain Funds may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the United States. EDRs and GDRs are receipts 85 evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank. EDRs and GDRs are not neces- sarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. Risks of Emerging Countries. Certain Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging coun- tries are generally located in the Asia-Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Latin and South America and Africa. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates and their respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement vol- ume limitations have been reached. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a spe- cific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportuni- ties in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents. Due to restrictions on direct invest- ment in equity securities in certain Asian countries, it is anticipated that a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries. Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substan- tial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation, which have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. 86 APPENDIX A Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodi- cally used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffec- tion, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Invest- ing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropria- tion, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return from an investment in such country to the Fund. Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and often may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addi- tion, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to com- plete its contractual obligations. The creditworthiness of the local securi- ties firms used by the Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerg- ing countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those coun- tries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities mar- kets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor per- ceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Invest- 87 ments in emerging countries may be more difficult to price precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes. A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. Due to the limited market for these instruments in emerging countries, the Investment Adviser does not currently anticipate that a sig- nificant portion of the Funds' currency exposure in emerging countries, if any, will be covered by such instruments. Risks of Derivative Investments. A Fund's transactions, if any, in options, futures, options on futures, swaps, interest rate caps, floors and collars, structured securities and currency transactions involve additional risk of loss. Loss can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, or the risks arising from margin requirements and related leverage factors associated with such transactions. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates or currency prices. Each Fund may also invest in derivative investments for non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return). Investing for non- hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents even greater risk of loss. Risks of Illiquid Securities. Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities which cannot be disposed of in seven days in the ordinary course of business at fair value. Illiquid securities include: .Both domestic and foreign securities that are not readily marketable .Certain stripped mortgage-backed securities .Repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days .Certain over-the-counter options .Certain structured securities and all swap transactions .Certain restricted securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 ("144A Securities") and, therefore, is liquid. Investing in 144A Securities may decrease the liquidity of a Fund's portfo- lio to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities. The purchase price and subsequent valuation of restricted and illiquid securities normally reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of com- parable securities for which a liquid market exists. 88 APPENDIX A Credit Risks. Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include securities (including zero coupon bonds) issued by the U.S. government (and its agen- cies, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises), foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Further informa- tion is provided in the Additional Statement. Debt securities rated BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality. Certain Funds may invest in fixed-income securities rated BB or Ba or below (or comparable unrated securities) which are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered predominantly speculative and may be ques- tionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, invest- ment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associ- ated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rat- ing organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected. Temporary Investment Risks. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain percentage of its total assets in: .U.S. government securities .Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's or P-2 by Moody's .Certificates of deposit .Bankers' acceptances .Repurchase agreements .Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective. 89 C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associ- ated risks. Further information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Convertible Securities. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Con- vertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are con- vertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar qual- ity. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed-income securities. Con- vertible securities have both equity and fixed-income risk characteristics. Like all fixed-income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible secu- rity, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed-income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Foreign Currency Transactions. A Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to pur- chase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which is con- sidered a speculative practice. Some Funds may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of cor- relation between the two currencies. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (e.g., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar). 90 APPENDIX A Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obli- gations. Since these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clear- inghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized prof- its, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. Structured Securities. Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Struc- tured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be posi- tively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may pro- duce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Refer- ence. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than other types of fixed-income securities and may be more vol- atile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. REITs. Each Fund may invest in REITS. REITS are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with invest- ments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other 91 respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests. Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument dur- ing the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase put and call options on any securities in which they may invest or on any securities index comprised of securities in which they may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which is con- sidered a speculative activity). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctu- ations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over- the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks. Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or pur- chase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A futures contract may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Funds may engage in futures transac- tions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges. Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent a Fund 92 APPENDIX A invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise man- age their term structures, sector selection and durations in accordance with their investment objectives and policies. Each Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options. A Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as defined in regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. A Fund may not purchase or sell futures con- tracts or purchase or sell related options to seek to increase total return, except for closing purchase or sale transactions, if immediately thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on the Fund's outstanding positions in futures and related options entered into for the purpose of seeking to increase total return would exceed 5% of the mar- ket value of the Fund's net assets. Futures contracts and related options present the following risks: .While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. .Because perfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio posi- tion that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss. .The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writ- ing call options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. .Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV. .As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trad- ing, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund. .Futures contracts and options on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day. .Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. Equity Swaps. Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other compo- nents of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps are 93 derivatives and their value can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, a Fund may suffer a loss. The value of some components of an equity swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in inter- est rates. Furthermore, a Fund may suffer a loss if the counterparty defaults. When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments. Each Fund may purchase when- issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a con- tract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, a Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate. Repurchase Agreements. Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securi- ties subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agree- ment. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable. In evaluating whether to enter into a repurchase agreement, the Investment Adviser will carefully consider the creditworthiness of the seller. Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may trans- fer uninvested cash 94 APPENDIX A balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers. The borrowers are required to secure their loan continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested in cash equivalents. To the extent that cash collateral is invested in other investment securities, such collateral will be subject to market deprecia- tion or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund. Short Sales Against-the-Box. Certain Funds may make short sales against-the- box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short posi- tion is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any fur- ther consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short. Preferred Stock, Warrants and Rights. Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and rights. Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earn- ings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. Other Investment Companies. Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies (including SPDRs and WEBs, as defined below) subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act. These limitations include a prohibition on 95 any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in securities of all investment companies. A Fund will indi- rectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies. Such other investment com- panies will have investment objectives, policies and restrictions substan- tially similar to those of the acquiring Fund and will be subject to sub- stantially the same risks. .Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts. The Funds may, consistent with their investment policies, purchase Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts ("SPDRs"). SPDRs are securities traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX") that represent ownership in the SPDR Trust, a trust which has been established to accumulate and hold a portfolio of common stocks that is intended to track the price performance and dividend yield of the S&P 500. The SPDR Trust is sponsored by a subsidiary of the AMEX. SPDRs may be used for several reasons, including, but not limited to, facilitating the han- dling of cash flows or trading, or reducing transaction costs. The price movement of SPDRs may not perfectly parallel the price action of the S&P 500. .World Equity Benchmark Shares. World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") are shares of an investment company that invests substantially all of its assets in securities included in the MSCI indices for specified countries. WEBS are listed on the AMEX and were initially offered to the public in 1996. The market prices of WEBS are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and supply and demand of WEBS on the AMEX. To date, WEBS have traded at relatively modest discounts and premiums to their NAVs. However, WEBS have a limited operat- ing history and information is lacking regarding the actual performance and trading liquidity of WEBS for extended periods or over complete market cycles. In addition, there is no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will continue to be met or will remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting WEBS should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of a Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected. If such disruptions were to occur, a Fund could be required to reconsider the use of WEBS as part of its investment strategy. Unseasoned Companies. Each Fund may invest in companies (including predeces- sors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such com- panies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned compa- 96 APPENDIX A nies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. Corporate Debt Obligations. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal, and include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obliga- tions issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and suprana- tional entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.). Bank Obligations. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitations, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be gen- eral obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. U.S. Government Securities and Related Custodial Receipts. Each Fund may invest in U.S. government securities and related custodial receipts. U.S. government securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or spon- sored enterprises. U.S. government securities may be supported by (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae")); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury (such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to pur- chase certain obligations of the issuer (such as the Federal National Mort- gage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac")); or (d) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. government securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. government securities, where the interest and principal compo- nents of stripped U.S. government securities are traded independently. Interests in U.S. government securities may be purchased in the form of cus- todial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, princi- pal payments 97 or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. government. Mortgage-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect partici- pations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are normally structured with one or more types of "credit enhancement." However, these mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage- backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturi- ties, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in cer- tain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives sub- stantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are gener- ally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securi- ties because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Asset-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in asset-backed securi- ties. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities are often sub- 98 APPENDIX A ject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the under- lying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. According- ly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities gener- ally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. There is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support pay- ments on these securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. Borrowings. Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial insti- tutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes. A Fund may not make additional investments if borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. Mortgage Dollar Rolls. Certain Funds may enter into mortgage dollar rolls. A mortgage dollar roll involves the sale by a Fund of securities for delivery in the current month. The Fund simultaneously contracts with the same counterparty to repurchase substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) but not identical securities on a specified future date. During the roll period, the Fund loses the right to receive principal and interest paid on the securities sold. However, the Fund benefits to the extent of any difference between (a) the price received for the securities sold and (b) the lower forward price for the future purchase and/or fee income plus the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the securities sold. Unless the ben- efits of a mortgage dollar roll exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss due to mortgage prepayments that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the roll, the use of this technique will diminish the Fund's performance. Successful use of mortgage dollar rolls depends upon the Investment Advis- er's ability to predict correctly interest rates and mortgage prepayments. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its prediction, a Fund may experi- ence a loss. For financial reporting and tax purposes, the Funds treat mort- gage dollar rolls as two separate transactions: one involving the purchase of a security and a separate transaction involving a sale. The Funds do not currently intend to enter into mortgage dollar rolls that are accounted for as a financing and do not treat them as borrowings. 99 Yield Curve Options. Certain Funds may enter into options on the yield "spread" or differential between two securities. Such transactions are referred to as "yield curve" options. In contrast to other types of options, a yield curve option is based on the difference between the yields of desig- nated securities, rather than the prices of the individual securities, and is settled through cash payments. Accordingly, a yield curve option is prof- itable to the holder if this differential widens (in the case of a call) or narrows (in the case of a put), regardless of whether the yields of the underlying securities increase or decrease. The trading of yield curve options is subject to all of the risks associated with the trading of other types of options. In addition, such options pres- ent a risk of loss even if the yield of one of the underlying securities remains constant, or if the spread moves in a direction or to an extent which was not anticipated. Reverse Repurchase Agreements. Certain Funds may enter into reverse repur- chase agreements. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the sale of securi- ties held by a Fund subject to the Fund's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price (including interest). These transactions may be entered into as a temporary measure for emergency purposes or to meet redemption requests. Reverse repurchase agreements may also be entered into when the Investment Adviser expects that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the transaction proceeds will be greater than the related interest expense. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leveraging. If the securities held by a Fund decline in value while these transactions are outstanding, the NAV of the Fund's outstanding shares will decline in value by proportionately more than the decline in value of the securities. In addition, reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the inter- est income earned by a Fund (from the investment of the proceeds) will be less than the interest expense of the transaction, that the market value of the securities sold by a Fund will decline below the price the Fund is obli- gated to pay to repurchase the securities, and that the securities may not be returned to the Fund. Municipal Securities. Certain Funds may invest in securities and instruments issued by state and local government issuers. Municipal securities in which a Fund may invest consist of bonds, notes, commercial paper and other instruments (including participating interests in such securities) issued by or on behalf of states, territories and possessions of the United States (including the District of Columbia) and their political subdivisions, agen- cies or instrumentalities. Such securities may pay fixed, variable or float- ing rates of interest. Municipal securities are often issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities such as bridges, highways, housing, hospitals, mass trans- portation, schools, streets and water and sewer works. Other public 100 APPENDIX A purposes for which municipal securities may be issued include refunding out- standing obligations, obtaining funds for general operating expenses, and obtaining funds to lend to other public institutions and facilities. Munici- pal securities in which a Fund may invest include private activity bonds, municipal leases, certificates of participation, pre-funded municipal secu- rities and auction rate securities. Interest Rate Swaps, Mortgage Swaps, Credit Swaps, Currency Swaps and Inter- est Rate Caps, Floors and Collars. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, such as an exchange of fixed-rate payments for floating rate payments. Mortgage swaps are similar to interest rate swaps in that they represent commitments to pay and receive interest. The notional princi- pal amount, however, is tied to a reference pool or pools of mortgages. Credit swaps involve the receipt of floating or fixed rate payments in exchange for assuming potential credit losses of an underlying security. Credit swaps give one party to a transaction the right to dispose of or acquire an asset (or group of assets), or the right to receive or make a payment from the other party, upon the occurrence of specified credit events. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the parties' respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate, to receive payment of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling such interest rate cap. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. An interest rate collar is the combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest rates. Certain Funds may enter into swap transactions for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. The use of interest rate, mortgage, credit and currency swaps, as well as interest rate caps, floors and collars, is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transac- tions. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market value, interest rates and currency exchange rates, the investment perfor- mance of a Fund would be less favorable than it would have been if these investment techniques were not used. Loan Participations. Certain Funds may invest in loan participations. A loan participation is an interest in a loan to a U.S. or foreign company or other borrower which is administered and sold by a financial intermediary. A Fund may only invest in loans to issuers in whose obligations it may otherwise invest. Loan participation interests may take the form of a direct or co- lending relationship with the 101 corporate borrower, an assignment of an interest in the loan by a co-lender or another participant, or a participation in the seller's share of the loan. When a Fund acts as co-lender in connection with a participation interest or when it acquires certain participation interests, the Fund will have direct recourse against the borrower if the borrower fails to pay scheduled principal and interest. In cases where the Fund lacks direct recourse, it will look to the agent bank to enforce appropriate credit reme- dies against the borrower. In these cases, the Fund may be subject to delays, expenses and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if the Fund had purchased a direct obligation (such as commercial paper) of such borrower. Moreover, under the terms of the loan participa- tion, the Fund may be regarded as a creditor of the agent bank (rather than of the underlying corporate borrower), so that the Fund may also be subject to the risk that the agent bank may become insolvent. Inverse Floaters. Certain Funds may invest in inverse floating rate debt securities ("inverse floaters"). The interest rate on inverse floaters resets in the opposite direction from the market rate of interest to which the inverse floater is indexed. An inverse floater may be considered to be leveraged to the extent that its interest rate varies by a magnitude that exceeds the magnitude of the change in the index rate of interest. The higher the degree of leverage of an inverse floater, the greater the vola- tility of its market value. 102 [This page intentionally left blank] 103 Appendix B Financial Highlights The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand a Fund's financial performance for the past five years (or less if the Fund has not been in operation for less than five years). Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an invest- ment in a Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, whose report, along with a Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's annual report (available upon request). No financial highlights are included for the Large Cap Value Fund because it had no operating history prior to the date of this prospectus. BALANCED FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period income gain (loss) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $20.48 $0.32 $(0.19) 1999 - Class B Shares 20.37 0.22 (0.18) 1999 - Class C Shares 20.34 0.23 (0.19) 1999 - Institutional Shares 20.48 0.53 (0.35) 1999 - Service Shares 20.47 1.22 (1.14) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 20.29 0.58 0.20 1999 - Class B Shares 20.20 0.41 0.21 1999 - Class C Shares 20.17 0.41 0.21 1999 - Institutional Shares 20.29 0.64 0.20 1999 - Service Shares 20.28 0.53 0.21 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 18.78 0.57 2.66 1998 - Class B Shares 18.73 0.50 2.57 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.10 0.25 0.24 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.18 0.26 0.32 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.18 0.22 0.32 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 17.31 0.66 2.47 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 17.46 0.42 2.34 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 14.22 0.51 3.43 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. 104 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $(0.23) $ -- $ -- $(0.10) $20.38 0.62%d $169,395 1.10%c (0.15) -- -- (0.11) 20.26 0.20d 40,515 1.85c (0.15) -- -- (0.11) 20.23 0.18d 11,284 1.85c (0.27) -- -- (0.09) 20.39 0.86d 2,361 0.70c (0.18) -- -- (0.10) 20.37 0.39d 15 1.20c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.59) -- -- 0.19 20.48 3.94 192,453 1.04 (0.45) -- -- 0.17 20.37 3.15 43,926 1.80 (0.45) -- -- 0.17 20.34 3.14 14,286 1.80 (0.65) -- -- 0.19 20.48 4.25 8,010 0.73 (0.55) -- -- 0.19 20.47 3.80 490 1.23 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.56) -- (1.16) 1.51 20.29 17.54 163,636 1.00 (0.42) (0.02) (1.16) 1.47 20.20 16.71 23,639 1.76 (0.22) (0.04) (1.16) (0.93) 20.17 2.49d 8,850 1.77c (0.23) (0.08) (1.16) (0.89) 20.29 2.93d 8,367 0.76c (0.22) (0.06) (1.16) (0.90) 20.28 2.66d 16 1.26c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.66) -- (1.00) 1.47 18.78 18.59 81,410 1.00 (0.42) (0.07) (1.00) 1.27 18.73 16.22d 2,110 1.75c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.50) -- (0.35) 3.09 17.31 28.10 50,928 1.00 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Includes the effect of mortgage dollar roll transactions. 105 BALANCED FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income to expenses to income to Portfolio average net average average net turnover assets net assets assets rate/e/ - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 2.58%c 1.32%c 2.36%c 90.41%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.83c 2.07c 1.61c 90.41d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.84c 2.07c 1.62c 90.41d 1999 - Institutional Shares 2.96c 0.92c 2.74c 90.41d 1999 - Service Shares 2.46c 1.42c 2.24c 90.41d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 2.90 1.45 2.49 175.06 1999 - Class B Shares 2.16 2.02 1.94 175.06 1999 - Class C Shares 2.17 2.02 1.95 175.06 1999 - Institutional Shares 3.22 0.95 3.00 175.06 1999 - Service Shares 2.77 1.45 2.55 175.06 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 2.94 1.57 2.37 190.43 1998 - Class B Shares 2.14 2.07 1.83 190.43 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.13c 2.08c 1.82c 190.43 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 3.13c 1.07c 2.82c 190.43 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.58c 1.57c 2.27c 190.43 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 3.76 1.77 2.99 208.11 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.59c 2.27c 2.07c 208.11 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 3.65 1.90 2.75 197.10 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
106 [This page intentionally left blank] 107 GROWTH AND INCOME FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ Distributions to shareholders ------------------------- ------------------------------ Net realized Net asset and In excess value, Net unrealized From net of net From net beginning investment gain investment investment realized of period income (loss) (loss) income income gains - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $24.33 $ 0.19 $0.31 $(0.15) $ -- $ -- 1999 - Class B Shares 24.13 0.08 0.31 (0.06) -- -- 1999 - Class C Shares 24.08 0.08 0.30 (0.05) -- -- 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.35 0.34 0.23 (0.20) -- -- 1999 - Service Shares 24.33 0.17 0.32 (0.14) -- -- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 25.93 0.20 (1.60) (0.19) (0.01) -- 1999 - Class B Shares 25.73 0.02 (1.58) (0.04) -- -- 1999 - Class C Shares 25.70 0.02 (1.59) (0.05) -- -- 1999 - Institutional Shares 25.95 0.29 (1.58) (0.30) (0.01) -- 1999 - Service Shares 25.92 0.17 (1.58) (0.17) (0.01) -- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 23.18 0.11 5.27 (0.11) -- (2.52) 1998 - Class B Shares 23.10 0.04 5.14 -- (0.03) (2.52) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 28.20 (0.01) 0.06 -- (0.03) (2.52) 1998 - Institutional Shares 23.19 0.27 5.23 (0.22) -- (2.52) 1998 - Service Shares 23.17 0.14 5.23 (0.06) (0.04) (2.52) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 19.98 0.35 5.18 (0.35) (0.01) (1.97) 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.82 0.17 4.31 (0.17) (0.06) (1.97) 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 3, 1996) 21.25 0.29 3.96 (0.30) (0.04) (1.97) 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 20.71 0.28 4.50 (0.28) (0.07) (1.97) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 15.80 0.33 4.75 (0.30) -- (0.60) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 108 APPENDIX B
Ratio of Net increase Net assets Ratio of net investment (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses income (loss) in net value, end Total period to average to average net asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets assets - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ 0.35 $24.68 2.05%d $ 855,174 1.19%c 1.26%c 0.33 24.46 1.60d 271,912 1.94c 0.51c 0.33 24.41 1.58d 31,328 1.94c 0.51c 0.37 24.72 2.32d 32,181 0.79c 1.72c 0.35 24.68 2.01d 10,008 1.29c 1.16c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1.60) 24.33 (5.40) 1,122,157 1.22 0.78 (1.60) 24.13 (6.07) 349,662 1.92 0.09 (1.62) 24.08 (6.12) 48,146 1.92 0.10 (1.60) 24.35 (5.00) 173,696 0.80 1.25 (1.59) 24.33 (5.44) 11,943 1.30 0.72 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2.75 25.93 23.71 1,216,582 1.25 0.43 2.63 25.73 22.87 307,815 1.94 (0.35) (2.50) 25.70 0.51d 31,686 1.99c (0.48)c 2.76 25.95 24.24 36,225 0.83 0.76 2.75 25.92 23.63 8,893 1.32 0.32 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3.20 23.18 28.42 615,103 1.22 1.60 2.28 23.10 22.23d 17,346 1.93c 0.15c 1.94 23.19 20.77d 193 0.82c 1.36c 2.46 23.17 23.87d 3,174 1.32c 0.94c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4.18 19.98 32.45 436,757 1.20 1.67 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
109 GROWTH AND INCOME FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of expenses to net investment Portfolio average net income (loss) to turnover assets average net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.20%c 1.25%c 55.43%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.95c 0.50c 55.43d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.95c 0.50c 55.43d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.80c 1.71c 55.43d 1999 - Service Shares 1.30c 1.15c 55.43d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.32 0.68 125.79 1999 - Class B Shares 1.92 0.09 125.79 1999 - Class C Shares 1.92 0.10 125.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.80 1.25 125.79 1999 - Service Shares 1.30 0.72 125.79 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.42 0.26 61.95 1998 - Class B Shares 1.94 (0.35) 61.95 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.99c (0.48)c 61.95 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.83 0.76 61.95 1998 - Service Shares 1.32 0.32 61.95 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.43 1.39 53.03 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 1.93c 0.15c 53.03 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 3, 1996) 0.82c 1.36c 53.03 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 1.32c 0.94c 53.03 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.45 1.42 57.93 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 110 [This page intentionally left blank] 111 CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period income gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.15 $0.04 $0.40 1999 - Class B Shares 10.15 0.01 0.36 1999 - Class C Shares 10.15 0.01 0.37 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.16 0.06 0.38 1999 - Service Shares 10.16 0.02 0.40 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.01 0.14 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.15 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.15 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.01 0.15 1999 - Service Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.02 0.14 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 112 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- Net assets From net Net increase Net asset at end of Ratio of investment From net in net asset value, end Total period net expenses to income realized gains value of period return/b/,/d/ (in 000s) average net assets/c/ - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $(0.04) $ -- $0.40 $10.55 4.31% 91,072 1.04% (0.02) -- 0.35 10.50 3.68 14,464 1.79 (0.02) -- 0.36 10.51 3.73 8,032 1.79 (0.05) -- 0.39 10.55 4.35 189,540 0.64 (0.03) -- 0.39 10.55 4.11 13 1.14 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 6,665 1.08 -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 340 1.82 -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 268 1.83 -- -- 0.16 10.16 1.60 53,396 0.66 -- -- 0.16 10.16 1.60 2 1.16 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
113 CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income to expenses to income to Portfolio average net average net average net turnover assets/c/ assets/c/ assets/c/ rate/d/ - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.87% 1.21% 0.70% 36.10% 1999 - Class B Shares 0.05 1.96 (0.12) 36.10 1999 - Class C Shares 0.09 1.96 (0.08) 36.10 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.29 0.81 1.12 36.10 1999 - Service Shares 0.72 1.31 0.55 36.10 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 1.45 8.03 (5.50) 0.00 1999 - Class B Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 0.84 8.77 (6.11) 0.00 1999 - Class C Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 0.70 8.78 (6.25) 0.00 1999 - Institutional Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 1.97 7.61 (4.98) 0.00 1999 - Service Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 2.17 8.11 (4.78) 0.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 114 [This page intentionally left blank] 115 CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $32.98 $ 0.03 $1.20 1999 - Class B Shares 32.50 (0.11) 1.17 1999 - Class C Shares 32.40 (0.10) 1.16 1999 - Institutional Shares 33.29 0.11 1.21 1999 - Service Shares 32.85 0.01 1.19 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 26.59 0.04 7.02 1999 - Class B Shares 26.32 (0.10) 6.91 1999 - Class C Shares 26.24 (0.10) 6.89 1999 - Institutional Shares 26.79 0.20 7.11 1999 - Service Shares 26.53 0.06 7.01 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 23.32 0.11 5.63 1998 - Class B Shares 23.18 0.11 5.44 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 27.48 0.03 1.22 1998 - Institutional Shares 23.44 0.30 5.65 1998 - Service Shares 23.27 0.19 5.57 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 19.66 0.16 4.46 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.44 0.04 3.70 1997 - Institutional Shares 19.71 0.30 4.51 1997 - Service Shares (commenced June 7, 1996) 21.02 0.13 3.15 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 14.61 0.19 5.43 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 15, 1995) 16.97 0.16 3.23 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 116 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- Ratio of In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of net investment From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses income (loss) investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets net assets - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 1.23 $34.21 3.73%d $614,310 1.14%c 0.15%c -- -- -- 1.06 33.56 3.26d 214,087 1.89c (0.60)c -- -- -- 1.06 33.46 3.27d 43,361 1.89c (0.61)c -- -- -- 1.32 34.61 3.97d 335,465 0.74c 0.54c -- -- -- 1.20 34.05 3.65d 11,204 1.24c 0.06c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.03) (0.01) (0.63) 6.39 32.98 26.89 605,566 1.23 0.15 -- -- (0.63) 6.18 32.50 26.19 152,347 1.85 (0.50) -- -- (0.63) 6.16 32.40 26.19 26,912 1.87 (0.53) (0.15) (0.03) (0.63) 6.50 33.29 27.65 307,200 0.69 0.69 (0.10) (0.02) (0.63) 6.32 32.85 27.00 11,600 1.19 0.19 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- (2.35) 3.27 26.59 24.96 398,393 1.28 0.51 -- (0.06) (2.35) 3.14 26.32 24.28 59,208 1.79 (0.05) -- (0.14) (2.35) (1.24) 26.24 4.85d 6,267 1.78c (0.21)c (0.24) (0.01) (2.35) 3.35 26.79 25.76 202,893 0.65 1.16 (0.07) (0.08) (2.35) 3.26 26.53 25.11 7,841 1.15 0.62 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.16) -- (0.80) 3.66 23.32 23.75 225,968 1.29 0.91 (0.04) (0.16) (0.80) 2.74 23.18 18.59d 17,258 1.83c 0.06c (0.28) -- (0.80) 3.73 23.44 24.63 148,942 0.65 1.52 (0.13) (0.10) (0.80) 2.25 23.27 15.92d 3,666 1.15c 0.69c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.16) -- (0.41) 5.05 19.66 38.63 129,045 1.25 1.01 (0.24) -- (0.41) 2.74 19.71 20.14d 64,829 0.65c 1.49c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
117 CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment expenses to income (loss) to Portfolio average net average turnover assets net assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.24%c 0.05%c 41.84%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.99c (0.70)c 41.84d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.99c (0.71)c 41.84d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.84c 0.44c 41.84d 1999 - Service Shares 1.34c (0.04)c 41.84d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.36 0.02 63.79 1999 - Class B Shares 1.98 (0.63) 63.79 1999 - Class C Shares 2.00 (0.66) 63.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.82 0.56 63.79 1999 - Service Shares 1.32 0.06 63.79 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.47 0.32 65.89 1998 - Class B Shares 1.96 (0.22) 65.89 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.95c (0.38)c 65.89 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.82 0.99 65.89 1998 - Service Shares 1.32 0.45 65.89 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.53 0.67 37.28 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.00c (0.11)c 37.28 1997 - Institutional Shares 0.85 1.32 37.28 1997 - Service Shares (commenced June 7, 1996) 1.35c 0.49c 37.28 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.55 0.71 39.35 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 15, 1995) 0.96c 1.18c 39.35 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 118 [This page intentionally left blank] 119 CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $16.17 $(0.01) $0.86 1999 - Class B Shares 15.98 (0.07) 0.84 1999 - Class C Shares 15.99 (0.07) 0.83 1999 - Institutional Shares 16.21 0.03 0.86 1999 - Service Shares 16.11 (0.02) 0.86 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 11.97 0.01 4.19 1999 - Class B Shares 11.92 (0.06) 4.12 1999 - Class C Shares 11.93 (0.05) 4.11 1999 - Institutional Shares 11.97 0.02 4.23 1999 - Service Shares 11.95 (0.01) 4.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 0.01 2.35 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 (0.03) 2.33 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 11.80 (0.02) 0.54 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 0.01 2.35 1998 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) 2.35 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 120 APPENDIX B
Distributions to Shareholders --------------------------------- From In excess Net Net asset Net assets Ratio of Net of net From net increase value, at end of net expenses Investment investment realized in net end of Total period to average Income income gains asset value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.85 $17.02 5.26%d $300,684 1.04%c -- -- -- 0.77 16.75 4.82d 181,626 1.79c -- -- -- 0.76 16.75 4.75d 75,502 1.79c -- -- -- 0.89 17.10 5.49d 310,704 0.64c -- -- -- 0.84 16.95 5.21d 2,510 1.14c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 4.20 16.17 35.10 175,510 0.97 -- -- -- 4.06 15.98 34.07 93,711 1.74 -- -- -- 4.06 15.99 34.04 37,081 1.74 -- (0.01) -- 4.24 16.21 35.54 295,734 0.65 -- -- -- 4.16 16.11 34.85 1,663 1.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.01) -- (0.38) 1.97 11.97 23.79d 53,786 0.91c -- -- (0.38) 1.92 11.92 23.26d 13,857 1.67c -- (0.01) (0.38) 0.13 11.93 4.56d 4,132 1.68c (0.01) -- (0.38) 1.97 11.97 23.89d 4,656 0.72c -- -- (0.38) 1.95 11.95 23.56d 115 1.17c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
121 CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) to expenses to (loss) to Portfolio average net average net average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.11)%c 1.26%c (0.33)%c 32.74%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.87)c 2.01c (1.09)c 32.74d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.87)c 2.01c (1.09)c 32.74d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.31c 0.86c 0.09c 32.74d 1999 - Service Shares (0.21)c 1.36c (0.43)c 32.74d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.05 1.46 (0.44) 63.15 1999 - Class B Shares (0.73) 2.11 (1.10) 63.15 1999 - Class C Shares (0.74) 2.11 (1.11) 63.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.35 1.02 (0.02) 63.15 1999 - Service Shares (0.16) 1.52 (0.53) 63.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 0.12 c 2.40c (1.37)c 74.97d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) (0.72)c 2.91c (1.96)c 74.97d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.76)c 2.92c (2.00)c 74.97d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 0.42 c 1.96c (0.82)c 74.97d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) (0.21)c 2.41c (1.45)c 74.97d - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 122 [This page intentionally left blank] 123 CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ----------------------- Net asset Net Net value, investment realized and beginning income unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.16 $(0.01) $0.08 1999 - Class B Shares 10.07 (0.05) 0.07 1999 - Class C Shares 10.08 (0.05) 0.07 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.20 0.02 0.08 1999 - Service Shares 10.16 (0.01) 0.07 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 10.59 0.01 (0.43) 1999 - Class B Shares 10.56 (0.05) (0.44) 1999 - Class C Shares 10.57 (0.04) (0.45) 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.61 0.04 (0.43) 1999 - Service Shares 10.60 0.01 (0.44) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.01) 0.65 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.03) 0.64 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) 0.64 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 0.65 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 0.64 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 124 APPENDIX B
Distributions to Shareholders ---------------------------- From Net Net asset Net assets Ratio of net increase value, at end of net expenses investment From net in net end of Total period to average income realized gains asset value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $0.07 $10.23 0.69%d $52,660 1.33%c -- -- 0.02 10.09 0.20d 13,711 2.08c -- -- 0.02 10.10 0.20d 6,274 2.08c -- -- 0.10 10.30 0.98d 62,633 0.93c -- -- 0.06 10.22 0.59d 64 1.43c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.01) -- (0.43) 10.16 (3.97) 64,087 1.31 -- -- (0.49) 10.07 (4.64) 15,406 2.00 -- -- (0.49) 10.08 (4.64) 6,559 2.01 (0.02) -- (0.41) 10.20 (3.64) 62,763 0.94 (0.01) -- (0.44) 10.16 (4.07) 54 1.44 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (0.05) 0.59 10.59 6.37d 11,118 1.25c -- (0.05) 0.56 10.56 6.07d 9,957 1.95c -- (0.05) 0.57 10.57 6.17d 2,557 1.95c -- (0.05) 0.61 10.61 6.57d 9,026 0.95c -- (0.05) 0.60 10.60 6.47d 2 1.45c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
125 CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of net Ratio of net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) expenses to loss Portfolio to average average net to average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.12)%c 1.67%c (0.46)%c 52.03%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.86)c 2.42c (1.20)c 52.03d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.86)c 2.42c (1.20)c 52.03d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.28c 1.27c (0.06)c 52.03d 1999 - Service Shares (0.22)c 1.77c (0.56)c 52.03d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.08 2.00 (0.61) 75.38 1999 - Class B Shares (0.55) 2.62 (1.17) 75.38 1999 - Class C Shares (0.56) 2.63 (1.18) 75.38 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.60 1.56 (0.02) 75.38 1999 - Service Shares 0.01 2.06 (0.61) 75.38 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.36)c 3.92c (3.03)c 37.65d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.04)c 4.37c (3.46)c 37.65d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.07)c 4.37c (3.49)c 37.65d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.15c 3.37c (2.27)c 37.65d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.40c 3.87c (2.02)c 37.65d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 126 [This page intentionally left blank] 127 CAPITAL GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $24.03 $(0.08) $1.01 1999 - Class B Shares 23.57 (0.17) 0.97 1999 - Class C Shares 23.52 (0.16) 0.97 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.07 (0.02) 1.01 1999 - Service Shares 23.96 (0.08) 1.00 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 18.48 (0.03) 6.35 1999 - Class B Shares 18.27 (0.12) 6.19 1999 - Class C Shares 18.24 (0.10) 6.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.45 0.01 6.38 1999 - Service Shares 18.46 (0.04) 6.31 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 16.73 0.02 4.78 1998 - Class B Shares 16.67 0.02 4.61 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.73 (0.02) 1.60 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.88 0.02 1.66 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.88 (0.01) 1.66 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 14.91 0.10 3.56 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 15.67 0.01 2.81 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 13.67 0.12 3.93 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 128 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset Total at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net value, end return/b/ period to average income income realized gain asset value of period (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.93 $24.96 3.87%d $1,971,097 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.80 24.37 3.39d 329,870 2.19c -- -- -- 0.81 24.33 3.44d 87,284 2.19c -- -- -- 0.99 25.06 4.11d 255,210 1.04c -- -- -- 0.92 24.88 3.84d 6,466 1.54c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- (0.77) 5.55 24.03 34.58 1,992,716 1.42 -- -- (0.77) 5.30 23.57 33.60 236,369 2.19 -- -- (0.77) 5.28 23.52 33.55 60,234 2.19 -- -- (0.77) 5.62 24.07 35.02 41,817 1.07 -- -- (0.77) 5.50 23.96 34.34 3,085 1.57 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.01) (0.01) (3.03) 1.75 18.48 29.71 1,256,595 1.40 -- -- (3.03) 1.60 18.27 28.73 40,827 2.18 -- (0.04) (3.03) (1.49) 18.24 8.83d 5,395 2.21c (0.01) (0.07) (3.03) (1.43) 18.45 9.31d 7,262 1.16c -- (0.04) (3.03) (1.42) 18.46 9.18d 2 1.50c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.10) (0.02) (1.72) 1.82 16.73 25.97 920,646 1.40 (0.01) (0.09) (1.72) 1.00 16.67 19.39d 3,221 2.15c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- (2.69) 1.24 14.91 30.45 881,056 1.36 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
129 CAPITAL GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations -------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) expenses to income (loss) Portfolio to average average net to average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.53)%c 1.47%c (0.56)%c 18.16%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.29)c 2.22c (1.32)c 18.16d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.29)c 2.22c (1.32)c 18.16d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.20)c 1.07c (0.23)c 18.16d 1999 - Service Shares (0.65)c 1.57c (0.68)c 18.16d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.18) 1.58 (0.34) 30.17 1999 - Class B Shares (0.98) 2.21 (1.00) 30.17 1999 - Class C Shares (1.00) 2.21 (1.02) 30.17 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.11 1.09 0.09 30.17 1999 - Service Shares (0.37) 1.59 (0.39) 30.17 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 0.08 1.65 (0.17) 61.50 1998 - Class B Shares (0.77) 2.18 (0.77) 61.50 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.86)c 2.21c (0.86)c 61.50 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.18c 1.16c 0.18c 61.50 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.16)c 1.50c (0.16)c 61.50 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 0.62 1.65 0.37 52.92 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (0.39)c 2.15c (0.39)c 52.92 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 0.65 1.61 0.40 63.90 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 130 [This page intentionally left blank] 131 STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ --------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment beginning income Net realized and of period (loss) unrealized gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) $10.00 $ -- $0.06 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.07e 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.08e 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 0.01 0.06 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.01) 0.07 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 132 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net assets From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of Ratio of investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period net expenses to income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) average net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.06 $10.06 0.60%d $10,371 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.04 10.04 0.40d 3,393 2.19c -- -- -- 0.05 10.05 0.50d 2,388 2.19c -- -- -- 0.07 10.07 0.70d 5,981 1.04c -- -- -- 0.06 10.06 0.60d 2 1.54c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
133 STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations -------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of investment expenses net income to investment (loss) to average loss to Portfolio average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) (0.17)%c 11.70%c (10.43)%c 6.98%d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) (0.97)c 12.45c (11.23)c 6.98d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) (0.99)c 12.45c (11.25)c 6.98d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 0.24c 11.30c (10.02)c 6.98d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) (0.24)c 11.80c (10.50)c 6.98d - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 134 [This page intentionally left blank] 135 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) $10.00 $(0.01)e $0.14e 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.21e 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.13e 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 0.01 0.12 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 -- 0.12 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 136 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net assets Ratio of From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.13 $10.13 1.30%d $8,204 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.18 10.18 1.80d 520 2.19c -- -- -- 0.10 10.10 1.00d 256 2.19c -- -- -- 0.13 10.13 1.30d 5,223 1.04c -- -- -- 0.12 10.12 1.20d 2 1.54c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
137 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio Ratio of net of net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) expenses to loss to Portfolio to average average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) (0.27)%c 14.15%c (12.98)%c 26.53%d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) (1.04)c 14.90c (13.75)c 26.53d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) (1.12)c 14.90c (13.83)c 26.53d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 0.39c 13.75c (12.32)c 26.53d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 0.03c 14.25c (12.68)c 26.53d - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 138 [This page intentionally left blank] 139 MID CAP VALUE FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $18.38 $0.06 $1.71 1999 - Class B Shares 18.29 (0.04) 1.71 1999 - Class C Shares 18.30 (0.04) 1.71 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.37 0.09 1.72 1999 - Service Shares 18.29 0.05 1.70 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 21.61 0.10 (2.38) 1999 - Class B Shares 21.57 (0.05) (2.35) 1999 - Class C Shares 21.59 (0.05) (2.34) 1999 - Institutional Shares 21.65 0.19 (2.38) 1999 - Service Shares 21.62 0.03 (2.31) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.09 0.76 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.06 0.74 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.06 0.76 1998 - Institutional Shares 18.73 0.16 5.66 1998 - Service Shares (commenced July 18, 1997) 23.01 0.09 1.40 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Institutional Shares 15.91 0.24 3.77 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 1, 1995) 15.00 0.13 0.90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 140 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $(1.73) $ 0.04 $18.42 9.04%d $49,081 1.29%c -- -- (1.73) (0.06) 18.23 8.53d 31,824 2.04c -- -- (1.73) (0.06) 18.24 8.52d 9,807 2.04c -- -- (1.73) 0.08 18.45 9.26d 190,549 0.89c -- -- (1.73) 0.02 18.31 8.97d 190 1.39c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.07) -- (0.88) (3.23) 18.38 (10.48) 70,578 1.33 -- -- (0.88) (3.28) 18.29 (11.07) 37,821 1.93 (0.02) -- (0.88) (3.29) 18.30 (11.03) 10,800 1.93 (0.21) -- (0.88) (3.28) 18.37 (10.07) 196,512 0.87 (0.17) -- (0.88) (3.33) 18.29 (10.48) 289 1.37 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.06) (0.04) (2.77) (2.02) 21.61 3.42d 90,588 1.35c (0.09) -- (2.77) (2.06) 21.57 3.17d 28,743 1.85c (0.09) -- (2.77) (2.04) 21.59 3.27d 6,445 1.85c (0.13) -- (2.77) 2.92 21.65 30.86 236,440 0.85 (0.11) -- (2.77) (1.39) 21.62 6.30d 8 1.35c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.24) (0.93) (0.02) 2.82 18.73 25.63 145,253 0.85 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- -- 0.91 15.91 6.89d 135,671 0.85c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
141 MID CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no expense limitations -------------------------- Ratio of net investment Ratio of income Ratio of net investment (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.43%c 1.37%c 0.35%c 68.84%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.33)c 2.12c (0.41)c 68.84d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.34)c 2.12c (0.42)c 68.84d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.79c 0.97c 0.71c 68.84d 1999 - Service Shares 0.38c 1.47c 0.30c 68.84d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.38 1.41 0.30 92.18 1999 - Class B Shares (0.22) 2.01 (0.30) 92.18 1999 - Class C Shares (0.22) 2.01 (0.30) 92.18 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.83 0.95 0.75 92.18 1999 - Service Shares 0.32 1.45 0.24 92.18 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.33c 1.47c 0.21c 62.60 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.20)c 1.97c (0.32)c 62.60 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.23)c 1.97c (0.35)c 62.60 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.78 0.97 0.66 62.60 1998 - Service Shares (commenced July 18, 1997) 0.63c 1.43c 0.51c 62.60 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Institutional Shares 1.35 0.91 1.29 74.03 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 1, 1995) 1.67c 0.98c 1.54c 58.77d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 142 [This page intentionally left blank] 143 SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
Income (loss) from investment operations/a/ ------------------------------ Net asset value, Net Net realized and beginning investment unrealized of period income (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $18.51 $(0.05) $1.34 1999 - Class B Shares 18.10 (0.12) 1.29 1999 - Class C Shares 18.12 (0.11) 1.27 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.62 -- 1.33 1999 - Service Shares 18.50 (0.13) 1.39 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 24.05 (0.06) (4.48) 1999 - Class B Shares 23.73 (0.21) (4.42) 1999 - Class C Shares 23.73 (0.18) (4.43) 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.09 0.03 (4.50) 1999 - Service Shares 24.05 (0.04) (4.51) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 20.91 0.14 5.33 1998 - Class B Shares 20.80 (0.01) 5.27 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.69 (0.06) 1.43 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.91 0.03 1.48 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.91 (0.01) 1.48 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 17.29 (0.21) 4.92 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.79 (0.11) 1.21 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 16.14 (0.23) 1.39 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 144 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- In excess Net increase Net asset Net assets Ratio of of net (decrease) value, Total at end of net expenses investment From net in net asset end of return/b/ period to average income realized gains value period (in 000s) net assets - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $1.29 $19.80 6.97%d $210,500 1.50%c -- -- 1.17 19.27 6.46d 37,386 2.25c -- -- 1.16 19.28 6.40d 8,079 2.25c -- -- 1.33 19.95 7.14d 27,023 1.10c -- -- 1.26 19.76 6.81d 57 1.60c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (1.00) (5.54) 18.51 (17.37) 261,661 1.50 -- (1.00) (5.63) 18.10 (18.00) 42,879 2.25 -- (1.00) (5.61) 18.12 (17.91) 8,212 2.25 -- (1.00) (5.47) 18.62 (17.04) 15,351 1.13 -- (1.00) (5.55) 18.50 (17.41) 261 1.62 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (2.33) 3.14 24.05 26.17 370,246 1.54 -- (2.33) 2.93 23.73 25.29 42,677 2.29 (0.34) (1.99) (0.96) 23.73 5.51d 5,604 2.09c (0.28) (2.05) (0.82) 24.09 6.08d 14,626 1.16c (0.31) (2.02) (0.86) 24.05 5.91d 2 1.45c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (1.09) 3.62 20.91 27.28 212,061 1.60 -- (1.09) 0.01 20.80 5.39d 3,674 2.35c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (0.01) 1.15 17.29 7.20 204,994 1.41 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
145 SMALL CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.35)%c 1.61%c (0.46)%c 46.95%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.10)c 2.36c (1.21)c 46.95d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.10)c 2.36c (1.21)c 46.95d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.05c 1.21c (0.06)c 46.95d 1999 - Service Shares (0.41)c 1.71c (0.52)c 46.95d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.24) 1.74 (0.48) 98.46 1999 - Class B Shares (0.99) 2.29 (1.03) 98.46 1999 - Class C Shares (0.99) 2.29 (1.03) 98.46 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.13 1.17 0.09 98.46 1999 - Service Shares (0.47) 1.66 (0.51) 98.46 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (0.28) 1.76 (0.50) 84.81 1998 - Class B Shares (0.92) 2.29 (0.92) 84.81 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.79)c 2.09c (0.79)c 84.81 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.27c 1.16c 0.27c 84.81 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.07)c 1.45c (0.07)c 84.81 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares (0.72) 1.85 (0.97) 99.46 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (1.63)c 2.35c (1.63)c 99.46 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares (0.59) 1.66 (0.84) 57.58 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 146 Appendix C Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND The following table sets forth the Investment Adviser's composite perfor- mance data relating to the historical performance of all discretionary pri- vate accounts managed by the Investment Adviser that have investment objec- tives, policies, and strategies substantially similar to the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. The information is provided to illustrate the past performance of the Investment Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts as mea- sured against the Russell 1000 Value Index and does not represent the per- formance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. Investors should not consider this performance data as a substitute for the performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund nor should investors consider this data as an indication of future performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund or of the Investment Adviser. The Russell 1000 Value Index is unmanaged and investors cannot invest directly in the Index.
Private Account Private Account Private Account Private Account Net Composite Net Composite Net Composite Net Composite Russell Performance Performance Performance Performance 1000 (including Class A (including Class B (including Class C (excluding Value sales charge) sales charge) sales charge) sales charges) Index - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 5.27% 6.40% 10.40% 11.40% 15.64% 1997 25.30% 27.59% 31.59% 32.59% 35.18% 1996 19.46% 21.41% 25.41% 26.41% 21.64% 1995 30.34% 32.92% 36.92% 37.92% 38.35% 1994 (7.55)% (7.06)% (3.14)% (2.17)% (2.01)% 1993 10.48% 11.90% 15.90% 16.90% 18.12% 8/1/92 - 12/31/92 (0.41)% 0.39% 4.39% 5.39% 4.01% - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
147
Average Annual Total Return for the Period Ended 12/31/98 Since Inception 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years (8/1/92) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Account Net Composite Performance (including Class A sales charge) 5.27% 20.82% 18.92% 18.67% Private Account Net Composite Performance (including Class B sales charge) 6.40% 22.61% 20.11% 19.30% Private Account Net Composite Performance (including Class C sales charge) 10.40% 23.13% 20.30% 19.30% Private Account Net Composite Performance (excluding sales charges) 11.40% 23.13% 20.30% 19.30% Russell 1000 Value Index 15.64% 23.88% 20.85% 19.68% - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Investment Adviser's composite performance information was calculated on a time-weighted and asset-weighted total return basis which includes real- ized and unrealized gains and losses plus income, as recommended by the Association for Investment Management and Research ("AIMR"). The composite performance is net of applicable investment management fees, brokerage com- missions, execution costs and custodial fees, without provision for federal and state taxes, if any. Total return performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund will be calculated in accordance with the regulations of the SEC. The SEC standardized average annualized total return is neither time- weighted nor asset-weighted and is determined for specified periods by com- puting the annualized percentage change in the value of an initial amount that is invested in a share class of the Fund at the maximum public offering price. Investors should be aware that the differences in methodology between AIMR and SEC requirements could result in different performance data for identical time periods. Performance reflects the deduction of the maximum 5.5% front-end sales charge with respect to Class A Shares and the maximum CDSC with respect to Class B (5%) and Class C Shares (1%). All returns presented reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other earnings. The weighted-average expenses of the private accounts used in calculating the Investment Adviser's net composite performance data were 0.59% annualized, which are lower than the estimated expenses of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund stated under "Fund Fees and Expenses" above. The performance of the private accounts 148 APPENDIX C would have been lower if they had been subject to the expenses of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. In addition, the private accounts are not subject to the same diversification requirements, specific tax restrictions and invest- ment limitations imposed on the CORE Large Cap Value Fund by the Act and Subchapter M of the Code. Consequently, the performance results of the Investment Adviser's composite could have been adversely affected if the private accounts had been regulated as investment companies under the fed- eral securities laws. 149 Appendix D Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND The following table sets forth the Investment Adviser's composite perfor- mance data relating to the historical performance of all discretionary pri- vate accounts managed by the Investment Adviser that have investment objec- tives, policies, and strategies substantially similar to the Strategic Growth Fund. The information is provided to illustrate the past performance of the Investment Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts as mea- sured against the S&P 500 Index and does not represent the performance of the Strategic Growth Fund. Investors should not consider this performance data as a substitute for the performance of the Strategic Growth Fund nor should investors consider this data as an indication of future performance of the Strategic Growth Fund or of the Investment Adviser. The S&P 500 Index is unmanaged and investors cannot invest directly in the Index.
Private Account Private Account Private Account Private Account Net Composite Net Composite Net Composite Net Composite Performance Performance Performance Performance (including Class A (including Class B (including Class C (excluding S&P 500 sales charge) sales charge) sales charge) sales charges) Index - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 27.91% 30.35% 34.35% 35.35% 28.57% 1997 33.37% 36.14% 40.14% 41.14% 33.37% 1996 15.12% 16.79% 20.79% 21.79% 22.95% 1995 21.02% 23.07% 27.07% 28.07% 37.58% 1994 -7.11% -6.69% -2.69% -1.69% 1.32% 1993 10.66% 12.10% 16.10% 17.10% 10.08% 1992 3.21% 4.22% 8.22% 9.22% 7.62% 1991 29.88% 32.44% 36.44% 37.44% 30.47% 1990 -14.31% -14.32% -10.32% -9.32% -3.05% 1989 26.46% 28.82% 32.82% 33.82% 31.70% 1988 16.83v% 18.63% 22.63% 23.63% 16.61% 1987 -0.45% 0.34% 4.34% 5.34% 5.25% 1986 12.44% 13.99% 17.99% 18.99% 18.67% 1985 30.39% 32.98% 36.98% 37.98% 31.73% 1984 2.55v% 3.52% 7.52% 8.52% 6.19% 1983 27.02% 29.41% 33.41% 34.41% 22.56% 1982 27.04% 29.43% 33.43% 34.43% 21.55% 1981 -4.54% -3.98% 0.02% 1.02% -4.97% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150 APPENDIX D
Average Annual Total Return for the Period Ended 12/31/98 Since Inception 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years (1/1/81) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Account Net Composite Performance (including Class A sales charge) 27.91% 30.01% 22.56% 19.43% 19.57% Private Account Net Composite Performance (including Class B sales charge) 30.35% 32.07% 23.37% 20.11% 19.96% Private Account Net Composite Performance (including Class C sales charge) 34.35% 32.51% 23.98% 20.11% 19.96% Private Account Net Composite Performance (excluding sales charges) 35.35% 32.51% 23.98% 20.11% 19.96% S&P 500 Index 28.57% 28.23% 24.06% 19.22% 16.94% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Investment Adviser's composite performance information was calculated on a time-weighted and asset-weighted total return basis which includes real- ized and unrealized gains and losses plus income, as recommended by the Association for Investment Management and Research ("AIMR"). The composite performance is net of applicable investment management fees, brokerage com- missions, execution costs and custodial fees, without provision for federal and state taxes, if any. Total return performance of the Strategic Growth Fund will be calculated in accordance with the regulations of the SEC. The SEC standardized average annual total return is neither time-weighted nor asset-weighted and is determined for specified periods by computing the annualized percentage change in the value of an initial amount that is invested in a share class of the Fund at the maximum public offering price. Investors should be aware that the differences in methodology between AIMR and SEC requirements could result in different performance data for identi- cal time periods. Performance reflects the deduction of the maximum 5.5% front-end sales charge with respect to Class A Shares and the maximum CDSC with respect to Class B (5%) and Class C Shares (1%). All returns presented reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other earnings. The weighted-average expenses of the private accounts used in calculating the Investment Adviser's net composite performance data were 0.76% annualized, which are lower than the estimated expenses of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares of the Strategic Growth Fund stated under "Fund Fees and Expenses" above. The performance of the private accounts 151 would have been lower if they had been subject to the expenses of the Stra- tegic Growth Fund. In addition, the private accounts are not subject to the same diversification requirements, specific tax restrictions and investment limitations imposed on the Strategic Growth Fund by the Act and Subchapter M of the Code. Consequently, the performance results of the Investment Advis- er's composite could have been adversely affected if the private accounts had been regulated as investment companies under the federal securities laws. 152 Index 1 General Investment Management Approach 3 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies 3 Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund 5 Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund 6 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund 7 Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund 8 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 9 Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 10 Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund 11 Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund 12 Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund 13 Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund 14 Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund 15 Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund
16 Other Investment Practices and Securities 20 Principal Risks of the Funds 24 Fund Performance 34 Fund Fees and Expenses 51 Service Providers 59 Dividends 61 Shareholder Guide 61 How To Buy Shares 70 How To Sell Shares 80 Taxation 82 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques 104 Appendix B Financial Highlights 147 Appendix C CORE Large Cap Value Fund-Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser 150 Appendix D Strategic Growth Fund- Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser
Domestic Equity Funds Prospectus (Class A, B and C Shares) FOR MORE INFORMATION Annual/Semi-annual Report Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds' annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during the last fiscal year. Statement of Additional Information Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in the Funds' Additional Statement. The Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (is legally considered part of this Pro- spectus). The Funds' annual and semi-annual reports, and the Additional Statement, are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs at 1-800-526-7384. To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries: By telephone - Call 1-800-526-7384 By mail - Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower - 60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372 By e-mail - gs-funds@gs.com On the Internet - Text-only versions of the Funds' documents are located online and may be downloaded from: SEC EDGAR database - http://www.sec.gov Goldman Sachs - http://www.gs.com (Prospectus Only) You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents, after paying a duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102 or by electronic request to: publicinfo@sec.gov. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (202) 942-8090. [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] The Funds' investment company registration number is 811-5349. CORESM is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. 511044 EQDOMPROABC Prospectus Institutional Shares November 30, 1999 GOLDMAN SACHS DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS .Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund .Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ Large Cap Value Fund .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ U.S. Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ Large Cap Growth Fund [ART] .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ Small Cap Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund .Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund .Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund .Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund (formerly Mid Cap Equity) .Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund .Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL. NOT FDIC-INSURED May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee General Investment Management Approach Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a unit of the Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as investment adviser to the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds. Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. serves as investment adviser to the CORE U.S. Equity and Capital Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. are each referred to in this Prospectus as the "Investment Adviser." VALUE STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Value Investment Philosophy: Through intensive, hands-on research our portfolio team seeks to identify: 1. Attractive valuation opportunities where: .The intrinsic value of the business is not reflected in the stock price .The stock price is overdiscounted due to a temporary event 2. Well-positioned businesses that have: .Attractive returns on capital .Sustainable earnings and cash flow .Strong company management focused on long-term returns to shareholders Business quality, conservative valuation, and thoughtful portfolio construc- tion are the key elements of our value approach. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GROWTH STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Growth Investment Philosophy: 1. Invest as if buying the company/business, not simply trading its stock: .Understand the business, management, products and competition. .Perform intensive, hands-on fundamental research. .Seek businesses with strategic competitive advantages. .Over the long-term, expect each company's stock price ultimately to track the growth in the value of the business. 1 2. Buy high-quality growth businesses that possess strong business fran- chises, favorable long-term prospects and excellent management. 3. Purchase superior long-term growth companies at a favorable price--seek to purchase at a fair valuation, giving the investor the potential to fully capture returns from above-average growth rates. Growth companies have earnings expectations that exceed those of the stock market as a whole. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- QUANTITATIVE ("CORE") STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' CORE Investment Philosophy: Goldman Sachs' quantitative style of funds--CORE--emphasizes the two build- ing blocks of active management: stock selection and portfolio construction. I. CORE Stock Selection The CORE Funds use the Goldman Sachs' proprietary multifactor model ("Multifactor Model"), a rigorous computerized rating system, to forecast the returns of securities held in each Fund's portfolio. The Multifactor Model incorporates common variables covering measures of: .Value (price-to-book, price-to-earnings, cash flow to enterprise value) .Momentum (earnings momentum, price momentum, sustainable growth) .Risk (market risk, company-specific risk, earnings risk) .Research (fundamental research ratings of Goldman Sachs and other analysts) All of the above factors are carefully evaluated within the Multifactor Model since each has demonstrated a significant impact on the performance of the securities and markets they were designed to forecast. Stock selection in this process combines both our quantitative and qualitative analysis. II. CORE Portfolio Construction A proprietary computer optimizer calculates every security combination (at every possible weighting) to construct the most efficient risk/return port- folio given each CORE Fund benchmark. In this process, the Investment Adviser manages risk by limiting deviations from the benchmark, running size and sector neutral portfolios. Goldman Sachs CORE Funds are fully invested, broadly diversified and offer consistent overall portfolio characteristics. They may serve as good founda- tions on which to build a portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and current income Benchmarks: S&P 500 Index and Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. stocks and fixed-income securi- ties Investment Style: Asset Allocation, with growth and value (blend) equity components INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks to provide long-term growth of capital and current income. The Fund seeks growth of capital primarily through investments in equity securities (stocks). The Fund seeks to provide current income through investment in fixed-income securities (bonds). PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Historically, stock and bond markets have often had different cycles, with one asset class rising when the other is falling. A balanced objective seeks to reduce the volatility associated with investing in a single market. There is no guarantee, however, that market cycles will move in opposition to one another or that a balanced investment program will successfully reduce vola- tility. The percentage of the portfolio invested in equity and fixed-income securi- ties will vary from time to time as the Investment Adviser evaluates such securities' relative attractiveness based on market valuations, economic growth and inflation prospects. The allocation between equity and fixed- income securities is subject to the Fund's intention to pay regular quar- terly dividends. The amount of quarterly dividends can also be expected to fluctuate in accordance with factors such as prevailing interest rates and the percentage of the Fund's assets invested in fixed-income securities. 3 Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, between 45% and 65% of its total assets in equity securities. Although the Fund's equity investments consist primarily of publicly traded U.S. securities, the Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in the equity securities of foreign issuers, including issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and equity securities quoted in foreign currencies. A portion of the Fund's portfolio of equity securities may be selected primar- ily to provide current income (including interests in real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), convertible securities, preferred stocks, utility stocks, and interests in limited partnerships). Fixed Income Securities. The Fund invests at least 25% of its total assets in fixed-income senior securities. The remainder of the Fund's assets are invested in other fixed-income securities and cash. The Fund's fixed-income securities primarily include: .Securities issued by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises .Securities issued by corporations, banks and other issuers .Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities The Fund may also invest up to 10% of its total assets in debt obligations (U.S. dollar and non-U.S.-dollar denominated) issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities and foreign corporations or other entities. The issuers of these securities may be located in emerging countries. 4 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and growth of income Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. equity securities with an emphasis on undervalued stocks Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and growth of income. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities that the Investment Adviser considers to have favorable prospects for capital appreciation and/or divi- dend-paying ability. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in for- eign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations, that offer the potential to further the Fund's investment objective. 5 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and dividend income Benchmark: Russell 1000 Value Index Investment Focus: Diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap U.S. issuers selling at low to modest valuations Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap value stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and dividend income. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities of large-cap U.S. issuers that are selling at low to modest valua- tions relative to general market measures, such as earnings, book value and other fundamental accounting measures, and that are expected to have favora- ble prospects for capital appreciation and/or dividend-paying ability. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 1000 Value Index. The Fund seeks a portfolio comprised of companies with above average capitalizations and low to moderate valuations as measured by price/earnings ratios, book value and other fundamental accounting measures. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 6 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and dividend income Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap growth and value (blend) stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and dividend income. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of large-cap and blue chip equity securities representing all major sectors of the U.S. economy. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the S&P 500 Index. The Fund seeks a broad repre- sentation in most major sectors of the U.S. economy and a portfolio com- prised of companies with average long-term earnings growth expectations and dividend yields. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 7 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital; dividend income is a secondary consideration Benchmark: Russell 1000 Growth Index Investment Focus: Large-cap, growth-oriented U.S. stocks Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap growth stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap U.S. issuers that are expected to have better prospects for earnings growth than the growth rate of the general domestic economy. Dividend income is a secondary consideration. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Investment Adviser emphasizes a company's growth prospects in analyzing equity securities to be purchased by the Fund. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintain- ing risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 1000 Growth Index. The Fund seeks a portfolio comprised of companies with above average capitalizations and earnings growth expectations and below average dividend yields. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 8 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: Russell 2000 Index Investment Focus: Stocks of small capitalization U.S. companies Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to small-cap growth and value (blend) stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of U.S. issuers which are included in the Russell 2000 Index at the time of investment. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 2000 Index. The Fund seeks a portfo- lio comprised of companies with small market capitalizations, strong expected earnings growth and momentum, and better valuation and risk charac- teristics than the Russell 2000 Index. If the issuer of a portfolio security held by the Fund is no longer included in the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund may, but is not required to, sell the security. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 9 Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities that offer long-term capital appreciation potential Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to have long-term capi- tal appreciation potential. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in for- eign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 10 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities that are considered to be strategically positioned for consistent long-term growth Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be strategically positioned for consistent long-term growth. Although the Fund invests pri- marily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 11 Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P Midcap 400 Index Investment Focus: U.S. equity securities that offer long-term capital appreciation with a primary focus on mid-capitalization companies Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities with a primary focus on mid-cap companies. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity securities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be strategically positioned for long-term growth. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 12 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Russell Midcap Value Index Investment Focus: Mid-capitalization U.S. stocks that are believed to be undervalued or undiscovered by the marketplace Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all of its assets in equity securities and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of mid-cap companies with public stock market capitalizations (based upon shares available for trading on an unrestricted basis) within the range of the market capitalization of companies constitut- ing the Russell Midcap Value Index at the time of investment (currently between $300 million and $15 billion). If the capitalization of an issuer decreases below $300 million or increases above $15 billion after purchase, the Fund may, but is not required to, sell the securities. Dividend income, if any, is an incidental consideration. Although the Fund will invest pri- marily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 13 Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: Russell 2000 Value Index Investment Focus: Small-capitalization U.S. stocks that are believed to be undervalued or undiscovered by the marketplace Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies with public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment. Under normal circumstances, the Fund's investment horizon for ownership of stocks will be two to three years. Dividend income, if any, is an incidental consideration. If the market capitalization of a company held by the Fund increases above $1 billion, the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, continue to hold the security. The Fund invests in companies which the Investment Adviser believes are well- managed niche businesses that have the potential to achieve high or improving returns on capital and/or above average sustainable growth. The Fund may invest in securities of small market capitalization companies which may have experienced financial difficulties. Investments may also be made in companies that are in the early stages of their life and that the Investment Adviser believes have significant growth potential. The Investment Adviser believes that the companies in which the Fund may invest offer greater opportunity for growth of capital than larger, more mature, better known companies. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securi- ties, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in companies with public stock market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion at the time of investment and in fixed-income securities, such as govern- ment, corporate and bank debt obligations. 14 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Russell 1000 Value Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. equity securities that are believed to be undervalued Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks its investment objective by investing in value opportunities that the Investment Adviser defines as companies with identifiable competitive advantages whose intrin- sic value is not reflected in the stock price. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 15 Other Investment Practices and Securities The table below identifies some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by the Funds in seeking to achieve their investment objectives. The table also highlights the differences among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securi- ties. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only; for actual usage, con- sult the Fund's annual/semi-annual reports. For more information see Appendix A. 10Percent of total assets (italic type) 10Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage;limited only by the objectives and strategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
Growth CORE CORE Balanced and Income Large Cap U.S. Equity Fund Fund Value Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Practices Borrowings 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Credit, currency, index, interest rate and mortgage swaps* 15 -- -- -- Cross Hedging of Currencies . -- -- -- Custodial receipts . . . . Equity Swaps* 15 15 15 15 Foreign Currency Transactions** ./1/ . . . Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts . . ./2/ ./3/ Interest rate caps, floors and collars . -- -- -- Investment Company Securities (including World Equity Benchmark Shares and Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts) 10 10 10 10 Loan Participations . -- -- -- Mortgage Dollar Rolls . -- -- -- Options on Foreign Currencies/4/ . . . . Options on Securities and Securities Indices/5/ . . . . Repurchase Agreements . . . . Reverse Repurchase Agreements (for investment purposes) . -- -- -- Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short Sales Against the Box 25 25 -- -- Unseasoned Companies . . . . Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights . . . . When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments . . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. ** Limited by the amount the Fund invests in foreign securities. 1 The Balanced Fund may also enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts to seek to increase total return. 2 The CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds may enter into futures transactions only with respect to a represen- tative index. 3 The CORE U.S. Equity Fund may enter into futures transactions only with respect to the S&P 500 Index. 4 The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options. 5 The Funds may sell covered call and put options and purchase call and put options. 16 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
CORE CORE Capital Strategic Growth Mid Cap Small Cap Large Cap Large Cap Small Cap Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Growth Fund Equity Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 . . . . . . . . ./2/ ./2/ . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 -- -- 25 25 25 25 25 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17 10Percent of total assets (italic type) 10Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited only by the objectives andstrategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
Growth CORE CORE Balanced and Income Large Cap U.S. Equity Fund Fund Value Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Securities American, European and Global Depository Receipts . . ./6/ ./6/ Asset-Backed and Mortgage- Backed Securities/7/ . . -- -- Bank Obligations/7/ . . . . Convertible Securities/8/ . . . . Corporate Debt Obligations/7/ . . . /9/ . /9/ Equity Securities 45-65 65+ 90+ 90+ Emerging Country Securities 10/10/ 25/10/ -- -- Fixed Income Securities/11/ 35-45/17/ 35 10 /9/ 10 /9/ Foreign Securities 10/10/ 25/10/ . /13/ . /13/ Foreign Government Securities/7/ . -- -- -- Municipal Securities . -- -- -- Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities 10/14/ 10/15/ -- -- Real Estate Investment Trusts . . . . Stripped Mortgage Backed Securities/7/ . -- -- -- Structured Securities* . . . . Temporary Investments 100 100 35 35 U.S. Government Securities/7/ . . . . Yield Curve Options and Inverse Floating Rate Securities . -- -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 6 The CORE Funds may not invest in European Depository Receipts. 7 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. 8 Convertible securities purchased by the Balanced Fund must be B or higher by Standard & Poor's Rating Group ("Standard & Poor's") or Moody's Investor's Service, Inc. ("Moody's"). The CORE Funds have no minimum rating criteria and all other Funds use the same rating criteria for convertible and non- convertible debt securities. 9 Cash equivalents only. 10 The Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value and Small Cap Value Funds may invest in the aggregate up to 10%, 25%, 10%, 10%, 10%, 25% and 25%, respectively, of their total assets in foreign securities, including emerging country securities. 11 Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed- income securities must be investment grade (i.e., BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's). 12 The Small Cap Value Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) the equity securities of companies with public stock market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion at the time of investment; and (2) fixed-income securities. 13 Equity securities of foreign issuers must be traded in the United States. 14 Must be at least BB or B by Standard & Poor's or Ba or B by Moody's. 18 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
CORE CORE Capital Strategic Growth Mid Cap Small Cap Large Cap Large Cap Small Cap Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Growth Fund Equity Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ . /6/ . /6/ . . . . . . -- -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . /9/ . /9/ . . . . . . 90+ 90+ 90+ 90+ 90+ 65+ 65+ 90+ -- -- 10/10/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 25/10/ 25/10/ -- 10 /9/ 10 /9/ . . . 35 35/12/ 10 . /13/ . /13/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 25/10/ 25/10/ 25 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10/15/ 10/15/ 10/15/ 10/16/ 35/15/ 10/15/ . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . 35 35 100 100 100 100 100 100 . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. May be BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's. 16 Must be B or higher by Standard & Poor's or B or higher by Moody's. 17 The Balanced Fund invests at least 25% of its total assets in fixed-income senior securities; the remainder is invested in other fixed-income securi- ties and cash. 19 Principal Risks of the Funds Loss of money is a risk of investing in each Fund. An investment in a Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The following summarizes important risks that apply to the Funds and may result in a loss of your investment. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete invest- ment program. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.
CORE CORE CORE Growth Large CORE Large Small and Cap U.S. Cap Cap .Applicable Balanced Income Value Equity Growth Equity - --Not applicable Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Credit/Default . . . . . . Foreign . . . . . . Emerging Countries . . . . . . Small Cap/REIT -- -- -- -- -- . Stock . . . . . . Derivatives . . . . . . Interest Rate . . . . . . Management . . . . . . Market . . . . . . Liquidity . . . . . . Other . . . . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS
Mid Small Large Capital Strategic Growth Cap Cap Cap Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- . . -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21 All Funds: .Credit/Default Risk--The risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities held by a Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. .Foreign Risks--The risk that when a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with domestic issuers. Loss may result because of less foreign government regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social stability. Loss may also result from the imposition of exchange controls, confiscations and other government restrictions. A Fund will also be subject to the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when a Fund invests in issuers located in emerging countries. .Emerging Countries Risk--The securities markets of Asian, Latin American, Eastern European, African and other emerging countries are less liquid, are especially subject to greater price volatility, have smaller market capital- izations, have less government regulation and are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. Further, investment in equity securities of issuers located in Russia and certain other emerging countries involves risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration and cus- tody and substantial economic and political disruptions. These risks are not normally associated with investments in more developed countries. .Stock Risk--The risk that stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. As of the date of this Prospectus, U.S. stock markets and certain foreign stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels. There is no guarantee that such levels will continue. .Derivatives Risk--The risk that loss may result from a Fund's investments in options, futures, swaps, structured securities and other derivative instru- ments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes may produce disproportionate losses to a Fund. .Interest Rate Risk--The risk that when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities held by a Fund will decline in value. Long-term fixed-income secu- rities will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term securities. .Management Risk--The risk that a strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results. .Market Risk--The risk that the value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. 22 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS .Liquidity Risk--The risk that a Fund will not be able to pay redemption pro- ceeds within the time period stated in this Prospectus because of unusual mar- ket conditions, an unusually high volume of redemption requests, or other rea- sons. Funds that invest in non-investment grade fixed-income securities, small capitalization stocks, REITs and emerging country issuers will be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. The Goldman Sachs Asset Allocation Portfolios (the "Asset Allocation Portfolios") expect to invest a significant percentage of their assets in the Funds and other funds for which Goldman Sachs now or in the future acts as investment adviser or underwriter. Redemptions by an Asset Allocation Portfolio of its position in a Fund may further increase liquidity risk and may impact a Fund's net asset value ("NAV"). .Other Risks--Each Fund is subject to other risks, such as the risk that its operations, or the value of its portfolio securities, will be disrupted by the "Year 2000 Problem." Specific Funds: .Small Cap Stock and REIT Risk--The securities of small capitalization stocks and REITs involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more estab- lished companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. More information about the Funds' portfolio securities and investment tech- niques, and their associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should con- sider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice. 23 Fund Performance HOW THE FUNDS HAVE PERFORMED The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of invest- ing in a Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of a Fund's Insti- tutional Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of a Fund's Institutional Shares compare to those of broad-based securities market indices. The bar chart and table assume reinvestment of dividends and distributions. A Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Performance reflects expense limi- tations in effect. If expense limitations were not in place, a Fund's per- formance would have been reduced. The Large Cap Value Fund commenced opera- tions as of the date of this Prospectus. The CORE Large Cap Value, Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 24, 1999 and May 24, 1999, respectively. Since these Funds have less than one calendar year's performance, no performance information is provided in this section. 24 FUND PERFORMANCE Balanced Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 0.94%. Best Quarter Q4 "98 +8.12% Worst Quarter Q3 "98 -8.69% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 3.90% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 8/15/97) 3.90% 4.23% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.80% Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index** 8.69% 9.67% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged index of bond prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 25 Growth and Income Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was - 2.00%. Best Quarter Q2 '97 +15.24% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -16.86% [BAR GRAPH] 1997 28.44% 1998 3.90% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 6/3/96) (4.98)% 14.35% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 28.82% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 26 FUND PERFORMANCE CORE U.S. Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 6.73%. Best Quarter Q4 "98 +21.60% Worst Quarter Q3 "98 -14.57% [BAR GRAPH] 1996 22.09% 1997 32.67% 1998 21.95% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 6/15/95) 21.95% 26.23% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 28.75% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 27 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 9.58%. Best Quarter Q4 "98 +25.61% Worst Quarter Q3 "98 -13.87% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 30.64% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ---------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 5/1/97) 30.64% 31.98% Russell 1000 Growth Index* 38.72% 36.81% ----------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 1000 Growth Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 28 FUND PERFORMANCE CORE Small Cap Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 1.58%. Best Quarter Q4 "98 +14.48% Worst Quarter Q3 "98 -24.25% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -5.63% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------------ Institutional Shares (Inception 8/15/97) (5.63)% 1.44% Russell 2000 Index* (2.55)% 2.84% ------------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 29 Capital Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 5.89%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +24.46% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -11.40% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 34.34% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 8/15/97) 34.34% 30.00% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.80% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 30 FUND PERFORMANCE Mid Cap Value Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was - 1.61%. Best Quarter Q2 '97 +19.64% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -20.78% [BAR GRAPH] 1996 21.34% 1997 36.04% 1998 -5.43% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 8/1/95) (5.43)% 15.53% Russell Midcap Value Index* 5.10% 19.73% Russell Midcap Index** 10.09% 18.95% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell Midcap Value Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replacing the Russell Midcap Index as the Mid Cap Value Fund's perfor- mance benchmark. The Russell Midcap Value Index includes more value-ori- ented stocks and, therefore, is expected to be a better benchmark compari- son for the Fund's performance. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Russell Midcap Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 31 Small Cap Value Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 0.21%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +13.43% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -32.16% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -16.56% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 8/15/97) (16.56)% (7.50)% Russell 2000 Value Index * (6.44)% 2.50% Russell 2000 Index ** (2.55)% 2.84% -------------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 2000 Value Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replacing the Russell 2000 Index as the Small Cap Value Fund's performance benchmark. The Russell 2000 Value Index includes more value-oriented stocks and, therefore, is expected to be a better benchmark comparison for the Fund's performance. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 32 [This page intentionally left blank] 33 Fund Fees and Expenses (Institutional Shares) This table describes the fees and expenses that you would pay if you buy and hold Institutional Shares of a Fund.
CORE Growth and Large Cap CORE Balanced Income Value U.S. Equity Fund Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases None None None None Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None None Redemption Fees None None None None Exchange Fees None None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):1 Management Fees2 0.65% 0.70% 0.60% 0.75% Distribution and Service Fees None None None None Other Expenses3 0.27% 0.10% 0.21% 0.09% - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses* 0.92% 0.80% 0.81% 0.84% - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 36 for all other footnotes. * As a result of current waivers and expense limita- tions, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Funds which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The waivers and expense limi- tations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
CORE Growth and Large Cap CORE Balanced Income Value U.S. Equity Fund Fund Fund Fund ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):1 Management Fees/2/ 0.65% 0.70% 0.60% 0.70% Distribution and Services Fees None None None None Other Expenses3 0.05% 0.09% 0.04% 0.04% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current waivers and expense limitations) 0.70% 0.79% 0.64% 0.74% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
34 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
CORE CORE Large Cap Small Cap Capital Strategic Growth Mid Cap Small Cap Large Cap Growth Equity Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None 0.75% 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 0.75% 1.00% 0.75% None None None None None None None None 0.11% 0.42% 0.07% 2.41% 2.70% 0.22% 0.21% 1.01% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.86% 1.27% 1.07% 3.41% 3.70% 0.97% 1.21% 1.76% - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CORE CORE Large Cap Small Cap Capital Strategic Growth Mid Cap Small Cap Large Cap Growth Equity Growth Growth Opportunities Value Value Value Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.60% 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 0.75% 1.00% 0.75% None None None None None None None None 0.04% 0.08% 0.04% 0.04% 0.04% 0.14% 0.10% 0.10% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.64% 0.93% 1.04% 1.04% 1.04% 0.89% 1.10% 0.85% - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35 Fund Fees and Expenses continued /1/The Fund's operating expenses for the current fiscal year have been annualized for the seven-month period (February 1, 1999 through August 31, 1999). The operating expenses for the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities and Large Cap Value Funds are estimated for the current year. /2/The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed not to impose a portion of the management fee on the CORE U.S. Equity Fund and the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund equal to 0.05% and 0.15%, respectively, of such Funds' average daily net assets. As a result of fee waivers, the current management fees of the CORE U.S. Equity Fund and CORE Large Cap Growth Fund are 0.70% and 0.60%, respec- tively, of such Funds' average daily net assets. The waivers may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. /3/"Other Expenses" include transfer agency fees equal to 0.04% of the average daily net assets of each Fund's Institutional Shares plus all other ordinary expenses not detailed above. The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce or limit "Other Expenses"(excluding management fees, transfer agency fees, taxes, interest and brokerage fees and litigation, indemnification and other extraordinary expenses) to the following percentages of each Fund's aver- age daily net assets:
Other Fund Expenses - -------------------------- Balanced 0.01% Growth and Income 0.05% CORE Large Cap Value 0.00% CORE U.S. Equity 0.00% CORE Large Cap Growth 0.00% CORE Small Cap Equity 0.04% Capital Growth 0.00% Strategic Growth 0.00% Growth Opportunities 0.00% Mid Cap Value 0.10% Small Cap Value 0.06% Large Cap Value 0.06%
36 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES Example The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in a Fund (without the waivers and expense limitations) with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in Institu- tional Shares of a Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that a Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - ------------------------------------------------------ Balanced $ 94 $ 293 $509 $1,131 - ------------------------------------------------------ Growth and Income $ 82 $ 255 $444 $ 990 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE Large Cap Value $ 83 $ 259 $450 $1,002 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE U.S. Equity $ 86 $ 268 $466 $1,037 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE Large Cap Growth $ 88 $ 274 $477 $1,061 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE Small Cap Equity $129 $ 403 $697 $1,534 - ------------------------------------------------------ Capital Growth $109 $ 340 $590 $1,306 - ------------------------------------------------------ Strategic Growth $344 $1,048 N/A N/A - ------------------------------------------------------ Growth Opportunities $372 $1,132 N/A N/A - ------------------------------------------------------ Mid Cap Value $ 99 $ 309 $536 $1,190 - ------------------------------------------------------ Small Cap Value $123 $ 384 $665 $1,466 - ------------------------------------------------------ Large Cap Value $179 $ 554 N/A N/A - ------------------------------------------------------
Institutions that invest in Institutional Shares on behalf of their customers may charge other fees directly to their customer accounts in connection with their investments. You should contact your institution for information regard- ing such charges. Such fees, if any, may affect the return such customers real- ize with respect to their investments. Certain institutions that invest in Institutional Shares may receive other com- pensation in connection with the sale and distribution of Institutional Shares or for services to their customers' accounts and/or the Funds. For additional information regarding such compensation, see "Shareholder Guide" in the Pro- spectus and "Other Information" in the Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). 37 Service Providers INVESTMENT ADVISERS
Investment Adviser Fund --------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM") Balanced 32 Old Slip Growth and Income New York, New York 10005 CORE Large Cap Value CORE Large Cap Growth CORE Small Cap Equity Strategic Growth Growth Opportunities Mid Cap Value Small Cap Value Large Cap Value --------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. ("GSFM") CORE U.S. Equity 32 Old Slip Capital Growth New York, New York 10005 ---------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 1, 1999, the Investment Management Division ("IMD") was established as a new operating division of Goldman Sachs. This newly created entity includes GSAM and GSFM. Goldman Sachs registered as an investment adviser in 1981. GSFM, a registered investment adviser since 1990, is a Del- aware limited partnership which is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P., which controlled the Investment Advisers, merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offer- ing. As of September 30, 1999, GSAM and GSFM, along with other units of IMD, had assets under management of $203 billion. The Investment Adviser provides day-to-day advice regarding the Funds' port- folio transactions. The Investment Adviser makes the investment decisions for the Funds and places purchase and sale orders for the Funds' portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any brokers, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Funds, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates for portfolio decisions and management with respect to certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to the research and certain proprietary technical models developed by Goldman Sachs, and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities. 38 SERVICE PROVIDERS The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Funds: . Supervises all non-advisory operations of the Funds . Provides personnel to perform necessary executive, administrative and clerical services to the Funds . Arranges for the preparation of all required tax returns, reports to shareholders, prospectuses and statements of additional information and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other regulatory authorities . Maintains the records of each Fund . Provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services MANAGEMENT FEES As compensation for its services and its assumption of certain expenses, the Investment Adviser is entitled to the following fees, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rates listed below (as a percentage of each respective Fund's average daily net assets):
Actual Rate For the Fiscal Period Ended Contractual Rate August 31, 1999 --------------------------------------------------------- GSAM: --------------------------------------------------------- Balanced 0.65% 0.65% --------------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income 0.70% 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value 0.60% 0.60% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth 0.75% 0.60% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity 0.85% 0.85% --------------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value 0.75% 0.75% --------------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value 0.75% N/A --------------------------------------------------------- GSFM: --------------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity 0.75% 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth 1.00% 1.00% ---------------------------------------------------------
The difference, if any, between the stated fees and the actual fees paid by the Funds reflects that the Investment Adviser did not charge the full amount of the fees to which it would have been entitled. The Investment Adviser may discontinue or modify any such voluntary limitations in the future at its discretion. 39 FUND MANAGERS M. Roch Hillenbrand, a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs since 1997, is the Head of Global Equities for GSAM, overseeing the United States, Europe, Japan, and non-Japan Asia. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the group as it defines and implements global portfolio management processes that are consistent, reliable and predictable. Since 1981, Mr. Hillenbrand has been President of Commodities Corporation LLC, of which Goldman Sachs is the parent company. Over the course of his 19-year career at Commodities Corporation, Mr. Hillenbrand has had extensive experience in dealing with internal and external investment managers who have managed a range of futures and equities strategies across multiple markets, using a variety of styles. Value Team .Thirteen portfolio managers/analysts compose the Investment Adviser's value investment team .Multi-sector focus provides a balanced perspective .Across all value products, the Investment Adviser leverages the industry research expertise of its small, mid and large cap investment teams - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Value Team
Years Fund Primarily Name and Title Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eileen A. Portfolio Since Ms. Aptman joined the Investment Aptman Manager-- 1996 Adviser as a research analyst in Vice President Mid Cap Value 1997 1993. She became a portfolio Small Cap Value manager in 1996. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Matthew B. Portfolio Since Mr. McLennan joined the McLennan Manager-- 1996 Investment Adviser as a research Vice President Small Cap Value 1998 analyst in 1995 and became a Mid Cap Value portfolio manager in 1996. From 1994 to 1995, he worked in the Investment Banking Division of Goldman Sachs in Australia. From 1991 to 1994, Mr. McLennan worked at Queensland Investment Corporation in Australia. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eileen Rominger Senior Portfolio Since Ms. Rominger joined the Managing Manager-- Growth 1999 Investment Adviser as a senior Director and Income 1999 portfolio manager in 1999. From Mid Cap Value 1999 1981 to 1999, she worked at Small Cap Value 1999 Oppenheimer Capital, most Large Cap Value 1999 recently as a senior portfolio Balanced manager. (Equity) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40 SERVICE PROVIDERS
Years Fund Primarily Name and Title Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Karma Wilson Portfolio Since Ms. Wilson joined the Vice President Manager-- 1998 Investment Adviser as a Balanced 1998 portfolio manager in 1994. (Equity) 1998 Prior to 1994, she was an Growth and 1999 investment analyst with Income Bankers Trust Australia Ltd. Mid Cap Value Large Cap Value - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quantitative Equity Team .A stable and growing team supported by an extensive internal staff .Access to the research ideas of Goldman Sachs' renowned Global Investment Research Department .More than $23 billion in equities currently under management - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quantitative Equity Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Melissa Brown Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Brown joined the Vice President CORE Large Cap Value 1998 Investment Adviser as a CORE U.S. Equity 1998 portfolio manager in CORE Large Cap Growth 1998 1998. From CORE Small Cap Equity 1998 1984 to 1998, she was the director of Quantitative Equity Research and served on the Investment Policy Committee at Prudential Securities. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Kent A. Clark Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Clark joined the Managing CORE U.S. Equity 1996 Investment Adviser as a Director CORE Large Cap Growth 1997 portfolio manager in the CORE Small Cap Equity 1997 quantitative equity CORE Large Cap Value 1998 management team in 1992. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert C. Jones Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Jones joined the Managing CORE U.S. Equity 1991 Investment Adviser as a Director CORE Large Cap Growth 1997 portfolio manager in CORE Small Cap Equity 1997 1989. CORE Large Cap Value 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Victor H. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Pinter joined the Pinter CORE U.S. Equity 1996 Investment Adviser as a Vice President CORE Large Cap Growth 1997 research analyst in CORE Small Cap Equity 1997 1990. He became a CORE Large Cap Value 1998 portfolio manager in 1992. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
41 Growth Equity Investment Team .18 year consistent investment style applied through diverse and complete market cycles .More than $12 billion in equities currently under management .More than 250 client account relationships .A portfolio management and analytical team with more than 150 years com- bined investment experience - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Growth Equity Investment Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ George D. Adler Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Adler joined the Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1997 Investment Adviser as a Capital Growth 1997 portfolio manager in Strategic Growth 1999 1997. From 1990 to 1997, Growth Opportunities 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Liberty Investment Management, Inc. ("Liberty"). - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Steve Barry Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Barry joined the Vice President Growth Opportunities 1999 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in 1999. From 1988 to 1999, he was a portfolio manager at Alliance Capital Management. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert G. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Collins joined the Collins Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager and Strategic Growth 1999 Co-Chair of the Growth Growth Opportunities 1999 Equity Investment Committee in 1997. From 1991 to 1997, he was a portfolio manager at Liberty. His past experience includes work as a special situations analyst with Raymond James & Associates for five years. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Herbert E. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Ehlers joined the Ehlers Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as a Managing Balanced (Equity) 1998 senior portfolio manager Director Strategic Growth 1999 and Chief Investment Growth Opportunities 1999 Officer of the Growth Equity team in 1997. From 1994 to 1997, he was the Chief Investment Officer and Chairman of Liberty. He was a portfolio manager and President at Liberty's predecessor firm, Eagle Asset Management ("Eagle"), from 1984 to 1994. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42 SERVICE PROVIDERS
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gregory H. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Ekizian joined the Ekizian Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager and Strategic Growth 1999 Co-Chair of the Growth Growth Opportunities 1999 Equity Investment Committee in 1997. From 1990 to 1997, he was a portfolio manager at Liberty and its predecessor firm, Eagle. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Scott Kolar Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Kolar joined the Associate Capital Growth 1999 Investment Adviser as an Strategic Growth 1999 equity analyst in 1997 and became a portfolio manager in 1999. From 1994 to 1997, he was an equity analyst and information systems specialist at Liberty. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ David G. Shell Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shell joined the Vice President Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as a Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager in Strategic Growth 1999 1997. From 1987 to 1997, Growth Opportunities 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Liberty and its predecessor firm, Eagle. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ernest C. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Segundo joined the Segundo, Jr. Capital Growth 1997 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Balanced (Equity) 1998 portfolio manager in Strategic Growth 1999 1997. From 1992 to 1997, Growth Opportunities 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Liberty. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed-Income Portfolio Management Team .Fixed-income portfolio management is comprised of a deep team of sector specialists .The team strives to maximize risk-adjusted returns by de-emphasizing inter- est rate anticipation and focusing on security selection and sector alloca- tion .The team manages approximately $29 billion in fixed-income assets for retail, institutional and high net worth clients - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed-Income Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jonathan A. Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Beinner joined the Beinner Manager-- 1994 Investment Adviser as a Managing Balanced (Fixed- portfolio manager in 1990. Director and Income) Co-Head U.S. Fixed Income - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C. Richard Lucy Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Lucy joined the Investment Managing Manager-- 1994 Adviser as a portfolio manager Director and Balanced (Fixed- in 1992. Co-Head U.S. Income) Fixed Income - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43 DISTRIBUTOR AND TRANSFER AGENT Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor (the "Distributor") of each Fund's shares. Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6372, also serves as the Funds' transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent") and, as such, performs various shareholder servicing functions. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares acquired for its own account. ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affili- ates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to a Fund or limit a Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds. The results of a Fund's investment activities, therefore, may differ from those of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and it is possible that a Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affili- ates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Funds may, from time to time, enter into transactions in which other clients of Goldman Sachs have an adverse interest. A Fund's activities may be limited because of regula- tory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. YEAR 2000 Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to signify the year (for example, "98" for "1998"). On January 1, 2000, if these computer systems are not corrected, they may incorrectly interpret "00" as the year "1900" rather than the year "2000," leading to computer shutdowns or errors (commonly 44 SERVICE PROVIDERS known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). To the extent these systems conduct forward-looking calculations, these computer problems may occur prior to January 1, 2000. Like other investment companies and financial and business organizations, the Funds could be adversely affected in their ability to process securities trades, price securities, provide shareholder account services and otherwise conduct normal business operations if the Investment Adviser or other Fund service providers do not adequately address this prob- lem in a timely manner. In order to address the Year 2000 Problem, the Investment Adviser has taken the following measures: .The Investment Adviser has established a dedicated group which analyzed these issues and implemented system modifications to prepare for the Year 2000 Problem. .The Investment Adviser has either tested with or received assurance from the Fund's other service providers to confirm that they are taking reason- able steps to avoid Year 2000 Problems, and the Investment Adviser contin- ues to monitor the situation. .The Investment Adviser has developed broad and comprehensive contingency plans, as well as event management plans that will help manage the Fund through the date change by allowing the Investment Adviser to closely moni- tor and respond to Year 2000-related events as they unfold around the world. Currently, the Investment Adviser does not anticipate that the transition to the 21st century will have any material impact on its ability to continue to service the Funds at current levels. In addition, the Investment Adviser has undertaken measures to appropriately take into account available information concerning the Year 2000 prepared- ness of the issuers of securities held by the Funds. The Investment Adviser may obtain such Year 2000 information from various sources which the Invest- ment Adviser believes to be reliable, including the issuers' public regula- tory filings. However, the Investment Adviser is not in a position to verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. At this time, however, no assurance can be given that the actions taken by the Investment Adviser and the Funds' other service providers will be suffi- cient to avoid any adverse effect on the Funds due to the Year 2000 Problem. 45 Dividends Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains. You may choose to have dividends and distributions paid in: .Cash .Additional shares of the same class of the same Fund .Shares of the same or an equivalent class of another Goldman Sachs Fund. Spe- cial restrictions may apply for certain ILA Portfolios. See the Additional Statement. You may indicate your election on your Account Application. Any changes may be submitted in writing to Goldman Sachs at any time before the record date for a particular dividend or distribution. If you do not indicate any choice, your dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in the applicable Fund. The election to reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by you and then used to purchase the shares. Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are declared and paid as follows:
Investment Capital Gains Fund Income Dividends Distributions - ----------------------------------------------------- Balanced Quarterly Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income Quarterly Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value Quarterly Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value Annually Annually - ----------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value Annually Annually - -----------------------------------------------------
46 DIVIDENDS From time to time a portion of a Fund's dividends may constitute a return of capital. At the time of an investor's purchase of shares of a Fund, a portion of the NAV per share may be represented by undistributed income or undistributed realized appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities. Therefore, subsequent distri- butions on such shares from such income or realized appreciation may be taxable to you even if the NAV of the shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the cost of such shares and the distributions (or portions there- of) represent a return of a portion of the purchase price. 47 Shareholder Guide The following section will provide you with answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding buying and selling the Funds' Institutional Shares. HOW TO BUY SHARES How Can I Purchase Institutional Shares Of The Funds? You may purchase Institutional Shares on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of an order. No sales load is charged. You should place an order with Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550 and either: .Wire federal funds to The Northern Trust Company ("Northern"), as subcustodian for State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") (each Fund's custodian) on the next business day; or .Send a check or Federal Reserve draft payable to Goldman Sachs Funds--(Name of Fund and Class of Shares), 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372. The Fund will not accept a check drawn on a foreign bank or a third-party check. In order to make an initial investment in a Fund, you must furnish to the Fund or Goldman Sachs the Account Application attached to this Prospectus. Purchases of Institutional Shares must be settled within three business days of receipt of a complete purchase order. How Do I Purchase Shares Through A Financial Institution? Certain institutions (including banks, trust companies, brokers and invest- ment advisers) that provide recordkeeping, reporting and processing services to their customers may be authorized to accept, on behalf of Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust"), purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers, and may designate other intermediaries to accept such orders, if approved by the Trust. In these cases: .A Fund will be deemed to have received an order in proper form when the order is accepted by the authorized institution or intermediary on a busi- ness day, and the order will be priced at the Fund's NAV next determined after such acceptance. .Authorized institutions and intermediaries will be responsible for trans- mitting accepted orders and payments to the Trust within the time period agreed upon by them. 48 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE You should contact your institution or intermediary to learn whether it is authorized to accept orders for the Trust. These institutions may receive payments from the Funds or Goldman Sachs for the services provided by them with respect to the Funds' Institutional Shares. These payments may be in addition to other payments borne by the Funds. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay addi- tional compensation from time to time, out of their assets and not as an additional charge to the Funds, to certain institutions and other persons in connection with the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of the Funds and other Goldman Sachs Funds. Additional compensation based on sales may, but is currently not expected to, exceed 0.50% (annualized) of the amount invested. In addition to Institutional Shares, each Fund also offers other classes of shares to investors. These other share classes are subject to different fees and expenses (which affect performance), have different minimum investment requirements and are entitled to different services than Institutional Shares. Information regarding these other share classes may be obtained from your sales representative or from Goldman Sachs by calling the number on the back cover of this Prospectus. 49 What is My Minimum Investment in the Funds?
Type of Investor Minimum Investment ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Banks, trust companies or $1,000,000 in Institutional Shares of a Fund other depository alone or in combination with other assets institutions investing for under the management of GSAM and its affiliates their own account or on behalf of clients .Pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-sponsored benefit plans .State, county, city or any instrumentality, department, authority or agency thereof .Corporations with at least $100 million in assets or in outstanding publicly traded securities ."Wrap" account sponsors (provided they have an agreement covering the arrangement with GSAM) .Registered investment advisers investing for accounts for which they receive asset-based fees ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Individual investors $10,000,000 .Qualified non-profit organizations, charitable trusts, foundations and endowments .Accounts over which GSAM or its advisory affiliates have investment discretion -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The minimum investment requirement may be waived for current and former officers, partners, directors or employees of Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates or for other investors at the discretion of the Trust's officers. No minimum amount is required for subsequent investments. What Else Should I Know About Share Purchases? The Trust reserves the right to: .Modify or waive the minimum investment amounts. .Reject or restrict any purchase or exchange orders by a particular pur- chaser (or group of related purchasers). This may occur, for example, when a pattern of frequent purchases, sales or exchanges of Institutional Shares of a Fund is evident, or if purchases, sales or exchanges are, or a subse- quent abrupt redemption might be, of a size that would disrupt the manage- ment of a Fund. 50 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE The Funds may allow you to purchase shares with securities instead of cash if consistent with a Fund's investment policies and operations and if approved by the Fund's Investment Adviser. How Are Shares Priced? The price you pay or receive when you buy, sell or exchange Institutional Shares is determined by a Fund's NAV. The Funds calculate NAV as follows: (Value of Assets of the Class) - (Liabilities of the Class) NAV = ----------------------------------------------- Number of Outstanding Shares of the Class The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations or, if accurate quotations are not readily available, the fair value of the Fund's invest- ments may be determined in good faith under procedures established by the Trustees. .NAV per share of each class is calculated by State Street on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (nor- mally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Fund shares will not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed. .When you buy shares, you pay the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. .When you sell shares, you receive the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. Note: The time at which transactions and shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange is stopped at a time other than 4:00 p.m. New York time. Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days a Fund is closed. As a result, the NAV of a Fund that holds foreign securities may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or redeem Fund shares. In addition, the impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discre- tion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund operations and other relevant factors. 51 HOW TO SELL SHARES How Can I Sell Institutional Shares Of The Funds? You may arrange to take money out of your account by selling (redeeming) some or all of your shares. Generally, each Fund will redeem its Institu- tional Shares upon request on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of such request in proper form. You may request that redemp- tion proceeds be sent to you by check or by wire (if the wire instructions are on record). Redemptions may be requested in writing or by telephone.
Instructions For Redemptions: ----------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund name and Class of Shares .The dollar amount you want to sell .How and where to send the proceeds .Mail your request to: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have elected the telephone redemption privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain institutions and intermediaries are authorized to accept redemption requests on behalf of the Funds as described under "How Do I Purchase Shares Through A Financial Institution?" What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests? The Trust, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent will not be liable for any loss you may incur in the event that the Trust accepts unauthorized tele- phone redemption requests that the Trust reasonably believes to be genuine. In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption and exchange requests by telephone, Goldman Sachs employs reasonable procedures specified by the Trust to confirm that such instructions are genuine. If reasonable procedures are not employed, the Trust may be liable for any loss due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. The following general policies are currently in effect: .All telephone requests are recorded. .Any redemption request that requires money to go to an account or address other than that designated on the Account Application must be in writing and signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. The 52 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE written request may be confirmed by telephone with both the requesting party and the designated bank account to verify instructions. .The telephone redemption option may be modified or terminated at any time. Note: It may be difficult to make telephone redemptions in times of drastic economic or market conditions. How Are Redemption Proceeds Paid? By Wire: You may arrange for your redemption proceeds to be wired as federal funds to the bank account designated in your Account Application. The fol- lowing general policies govern wiring redemption proceeds: .Redemption proceeds will normally be wired on the next business day in fed- eral funds (for a total of one business day delay), but may be paid up to three business days following receipt of a properly executed wire transfer redemption request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. If the Federal Reserve Bank is closed on the day that the redemption proceeds would ordinarily be wired, wiring the redemption pro- ceeds may be delayed one additional business day. .To change the bank designated on your Account Application, you must send written instructions signed by an authorized person designated on the account application to the Transfer Agent. .Neither the Trust, Goldman Sachs nor any other institution assumes any responsibility for the performance of your bank or any intermediaries in the transfer process. If a problem with such performance arises, you should deal directly with your bank or any such intermediaries. By Check: You may elect in writing to receive your redemption proceeds by check. Redemption proceeds paid by check will normally be mailed to the address of record within three business days of a properly executed redemp- tion request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. What Else Do I Need To Know About Redemptions? The following generally applies to redemption requests: .Additional documentation may be required when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. A redemption request will not be in proper form until such additional documentation has been received. .Institutions (including banks, trust companies, brokers and investment advisers) are responsible for the timely transmittal of redemption requests by their customers to the Transfer Agent. In order to facilitate the timely transmittal of redemption requests, these institutions may set times by which they must receive 53 redemption requests. These institutions may also require additional docu- mentation from you. The Trust reserves the right to: .Redeem your shares if your account balance falls below $50 as a result of earlier redemptions. The Funds will not redeem your shares on this basis if the value of your account falls below the minimum account balance solely as a result of market conditions. The Fund will give you 60 days' prior writ- ten notice to allow you to purchase sufficient additional shares of the Fund in order to avoid such redemption. .Redeem your shares in other circumstances determined by the Board of Trust- ees to be in the best interest of the Trust. .Pay redemptions by a distribution in-kind of securities (instead of cash). If you receive redemption proceeds in-kind, you should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of those securities. Can I Exchange My Investment From One Fund To Another? You may exchange Institutional Shares of a Fund at NAV for Institutional Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. The exchange privilege may be mate- rially modified or withdrawn at any time upon 60 days' written notice to you.
Instructions For Exchanging Shares: ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund names and Class of Shares .The dollar amount to be exchanged .Mail the request to: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have elected the telephone exchange privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -------------------------------------------------------------------
You should keep in mind the following factors when making or considering an exchange: .You should obtain and carefully read the prospectus of the Fund you are acquiring before making an exchange. .All exchanges which represent an initial investment in a Fund must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirements of that Fund, except that this requirement may be waived at the discretion of the Trust. 54 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE .Telephone exchanges normally will be made only to an identically registered account. .Shares may be exchanged among accounts with different names, addresses and social security or other taxpayer identification numbers only if the exchange instructions are in writing and are signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. .Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made. .It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic eco- nomic or market conditions. .Goldman Sachs may use reasonable procedures described under "What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests?" in an effort to prevent unau- thorized or fraudulent telephone exchange requests. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange is treated as a redemption of the shares surrendered in the exchange, on which you may be subject to tax, followed by a purchase of shares received in the exchange. You should con- sult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of an exchange. What Types of Reports Will I Be Sent Regarding Investments In Institutional Shares? You will receive an annual report containing audited financial statements and a semi-annual report. To eliminate unnecessary duplication, only one copy of such reports will be sent to shareholders with the same mailing address. If you would like a duplicate copy to be mailed to you, please con- tact Goldman Sachs Funds at 1-800-621-2550. You will also be provided with a printed confirmation for each transaction in your account and a monthly account statement. The Funds do not generally provide sub-accounting servic- es. 55 Taxation TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Funds will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the Additional Statement. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax con- sequences of your investment in the Funds. Unless your investment is an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund shares. TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS Distributions you receive from the Funds are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Funds' income dividend distribu- tions and short-term capital gain distributions are taxable to you as ordi- nary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are taxable as long- term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund shares. Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December. A percentage of the Funds' dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. The Funds will inform sharehold- ers of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. Each Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Funds may deduct these taxes in computing their taxable income. If you buy shares of a Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend." 56 TAXATION TAXES ON SALES Your sale of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. For tax purpos- es, the exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Goldman Sachs Fund is the same as a sale. When you sell your shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the shares and the amount received. Gen- erally, this gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds twelve months, except that any loss realized on shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the shares. OTHER INFORMATION When you open your account, you should provide your social security or tax identification number on your Account Application. By law, each Fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and any redemption proceeds if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. 57 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques A. General Portfolio Risks The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity securities. "Equity securities" include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock pur- chase rights. In general, stock values fluctuate in response to the activi- ties of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the value of the stocks that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cycli- cal, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. The volatility of equity securities means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. As of the date of this Prospectus, certain stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels and there can be no guarantee that such levels will continue. To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed-income securities, that Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed-income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to increase (al- though many mortgage related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to decline. Credit risk involves the risk that an issuer could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its invest- ment. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (exten- sion risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall suffi- ciently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to invest- ors. The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a lim- iting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of port- folio turn- 58 APPENDIX A over (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calcu- lated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a state- ment of the Funds' historical portfolio turnover rates. The following sections provide further information on certain types of secu- rities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Among other things, the Addi- tional Statement describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether that Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs. B. Other Portfolio Risks Risks of Investing in Small Capitalization Companies and REITs. Each Fund may invest in small capitalization companies and REITs. Investments in small capitalization companies and REITs involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the rea- sons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less cer- tain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Small capitalization companies and REITs may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current mar- ket prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient mar- ket liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Small capitalization companies and REITs include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited prod- uct lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments 59 in small capitalization companies and REITs may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes. Risks of Foreign Investments. Certain Funds may invest in foreign invest- ments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such invest- ments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the cur- rency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the port- folio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives divi- dends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends. The introduction of a single currency, the euro, on January 1, 1999 for par- ticipating nations in the European Economic and Monetary Union presents unique uncertainties, including the legal treatment of certain outstanding financial contracts after January 1, 1999 that refer to existing currencies rather than the euro; the establishment and maintenance of exchange rates for currencies being converted into the euro; the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies during the transition period from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2001 and beyond; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union ("EU"), may have an impact on the euro. These or other factors, including political and economic risks, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Funds. Because of the number of countries using this single currency, a significant portion of the assets held by the Funds may be denominated in the euro. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such proce- dures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transac- tions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may 60 APPENDIX A be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and secu- rities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than secu- rities of comparable domestic issuers. Efforts in foreign countries to reme- diate potential Year 2000 problems are not as extensive as those in the United States. As a result, the operations of foreign markets, foreign issuers and foreign governments may be disrupted by the Year 2000 Problem, and the investment portfolio of a Fund may be adversely affected. Further- more, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of with- holding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the Funds, and political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries. Concentration of a Fund's assets in one or a few countries and currencies will subject a Fund to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geo- graphically concentrated. Investment in sovereign debt obligations by certain Funds involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obliga- tions of U.S. issuers. A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the avail- ability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sov- ereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"). Certain Funds may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the United States. EDRs and GDRs are receipts 61 evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank. EDRs and GDRs are not neces- sarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. Risks of Emerging Countries. Certain Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging coun- tries are generally located in the Asia-Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Latin and South America and Africa. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates and their respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement vol- ume limitations have been reached. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a spe- cific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportuni- ties in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents. Due to restrictions on direct invest- ment in equity securities in certain Asian countries, it is anticipated that a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries. Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substan- tial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation, which have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. 62 APPENDIX A Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodi- cally used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffec- tion, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Invest- ing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropria- tion, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return from an investment in such country to the Fund. Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and often may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addi- tion, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to com- plete its contractual obligations. The creditworthiness of the local securi- ties firms used by the Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerg- ing countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those coun- tries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities mar- kets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor per- ceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Invest- 63 ments in emerging countries may be more difficult to price precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes. A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. Due to the limited market for these instruments in emerging countries, the Investment Adviser does not currently anticipate that a sig- nificant portion of the Funds' currency exposure in emerging countries, if any, will be covered by such instruments. Risks of Derivative Investments. A Fund's transactions, if any, in options, futures, options on futures, swaps, interest rate caps, floors and collars, structured securities and currency transactions involve additional risk of loss. Loss can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, or the risks arising from margin requirements and related leverage factors associated with such transactions. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates or currency prices. Each Fund may also invest in derivative investments for non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return). Investing for non- hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents even greater risk of loss. Risks of Illiquid Securities. Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities which cannot be disposed of in seven days in the ordinary course of business at fair value. Illiquid securities include: .Both domestic and foreign securities that are not readily marketable .Certain stripped mortgage-backed securities .Repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days .Certain over-the-counter options .Certain structured securities and all swap transactions .Certain restricted securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 ("144A Securities") and, therefore, is liquid. Investing in 144A Securities may decrease the liquidity of a Fund's portfo- lio to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities. The purchase price and subsequent valuation of restricted and illiquid securities normally reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of com- parable securities for which a liquid market exists. 64 APPENDIX A Credit Risks. Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include securities (including zero coupon bonds) issued by the U.S. government (and its agen- cies, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises), foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Further informa- tion is provided in the Additional Statement. Debt securities rated BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality. Certain Funds may invest in fixed-income securities rated BB or Ba or below (or comparable unrated securities) which are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered predominantly speculative and may be ques- tionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, invest- ment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associ- ated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rat- ing organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected. Temporary Investment Risks. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain percentage of its total assets in: .U.S. government securities .Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's or P-2 by Moody's .Certificates of deposit .Bankers' acceptances .Repurchase agreements .Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective. 65 C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associ- ated risks. Further information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Convertible Securities. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Con- vertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are con- vertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar qual- ity. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed-income securities. Con- vertible securities have both equity and fixed-income risk characteristics. Like all fixed-income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible secu- rity, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed-income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Foreign Currency Transactions. A Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to pur- chase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which is con- sidered a speculative practice. Some Funds may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of cor- relation between the two currencies. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (e.g., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar). 66 APPENDIX A Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obli- gations. Since these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clear- inghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized prof- its, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. Structured Securities. Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Struc- tured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be posi- tively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may pro- duce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Refer- ence. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than other types of fixed-income securities and may be more vol- atile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. REITs. Each Fund may invest in REITS. REITS are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with invest- ments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other 67 respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests. Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument dur- ing the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase put and call options on any securities in which they may invest or on any securities index comprised of securities in which they may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which is con- sidered a speculative activity). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctu- ations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over- the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks. Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or pur- chase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A futures contract may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Funds may engage in futures transac- tions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges. Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent a Fund 68 APPENDIX A invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise man- age their term structures, sector selection and durations in accordance with their investment objectives and policies. Each Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options. A Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as defined in regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. A Fund may not purchase or sell futures con- tracts or purchase or sell related options to seek to increase total return, except for closing purchase or sale transactions, if immediately thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on the Fund's outstanding positions in futures and related options entered into for the purpose of seeking to increase total return would exceed 5% of the mar- ket value of the Fund's net assets. Futures contracts and related options present the following risks: .While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. .Because perfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio posi- tion that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss. .The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writ- ing call options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. .Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV. .As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trad- ing, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund. .Futures contracts and options on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day. .Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. Equity Swaps. Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other compo- nents of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps are 69 derivatives and their value can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, a Fund may suffer a loss. The value of some components of an equity swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in inter- est rates. Furthermore, a Fund may suffer a loss if the counterparty defaults. When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments. Each Fund may purchase when- issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a con- tract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, a Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate. Repurchase Agreements. Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securi- ties subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agree- ment. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable. In evaluating whether to enter into a repurchase agreement, the Investment Adviser will carefully consider the creditworthiness of the seller. Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may trans- fer uninvested cash 70 APPENDIX A balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers. The borrowers are required to secure their loan continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested in cash equivalents. To the extent that cash collateral is invested in other investment securities, such collateral will be subject to market deprecia- tion or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund. Short Sales Against-the-Box. Certain Funds may make short sales against-the- box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short posi- tion is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any fur- ther consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short. Preferred Stock, Warrants and Rights. Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and rights. Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earn- ings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. Other Investment Companies. Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies (including SPDRs and WEBs, as defined below) subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act. These limitations include a prohibition on 71 any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in securities of all investment companies. A Fund will indi- rectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies. Such other investment com- panies will have investment objectives, policies and restrictions substan- tially similar to those of the acquiring Fund and will be subject to sub- stantially the same risks. .Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts. The Funds may, consistent with their investment policies, purchase Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts ("SPDRs"). SPDRs are securities traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX") that represent ownership in the SPDR Trust, a trust which has been established to accumulate and hold a portfolio of common stocks that is intended to track the price performance and dividend yield of the S&P 500. The SPDR Trust is sponsored by a subsidiary of the AMEX. SPDRs may be used for several reasons, including, but not limited to, facilitating the han- dling of cash flows or trading, or reducing transaction costs. The price movement of SPDRs may not perfectly parallel the price action of the S&P 500. .World Equity Benchmark Shares. World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") are shares of an investment company that invests substantially all of its assets in securities included in the MSCI indices for specified countries. WEBS are listed on the AMEX and were initially offered to the public in 1996. The market prices of WEBS are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and supply and demand of WEBS on the AMEX. To date, WEBS have traded at relatively modest discounts and premiums to their NAVs. However, WEBS have a limited operat- ing history and information is lacking regarding the actual performance and trading liquidity of WEBS for extended periods or over complete market cycles. In addition, there is no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will continue to be met or will remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting WEBS should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of a Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected. If such disruptions were to occur, a Fund could be required to reconsider the use of WEBS as part of its investment strategy. Unseasoned Companies. Each Fund may invest in companies (including predeces- sors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such com- panies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned compa- 72 APPENDIX A nies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. Corporate Debt Obligations. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal, and include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obliga- tions issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and suprana- tional entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.). Bank Obligations. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitations, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be gen- eral obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. U.S. Government Securities and Related Custodial Receipts. Each Fund may invest in U.S. government securities and related custodial receipts. U.S. government securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or spon- sored enterprises. U.S. government securities may be supported by (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae")); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury (such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to pur- chase certain obligations of the issuer (such as the Federal National Mort- gage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac")); or (d) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. government securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. government securities, where the interest and principal compo- nents of stripped U.S. government securities are traded independently. Interests in U.S. government securities may be purchased in the form of cus- todial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, princi- pal payments 73 or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. government. Mortgage-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect partici- pations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are normally structured with one or more types of "credit enhancement." However, these mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage- backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturi- ties, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in cer- tain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives sub- stantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are gener- ally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securi- ties because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Asset-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in asset-backed securi- ties. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities are often sub- 74 APPENDIX A ject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the under- lying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. According- ly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities gener- ally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. There is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support pay- ments on these securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. Borrowings. Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial insti- tutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes. A Fund may not make additional investments if borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. Mortgage Dollar Rolls. Certain Funds may enter into mortgage dollar rolls. A mortgage dollar roll involves the sale by a Fund of securities for delivery in the current month. The Fund simultaneously contracts with the same counterparty to repurchase substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) but not identical securities on a specified future date. During the roll period, the Fund loses the right to receive principal and interest paid on the securities sold. However, the Fund benefits to the extent of any difference between (a) the price received for the securities sold and (b) the lower forward price for the future purchase and/or fee income plus the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the securities sold. Unless the ben- efits of a mortgage dollar roll exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss due to mortgage prepayments that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the roll, the use of this technique will diminish the Fund's performance. Successful use of mortgage dollar rolls depends upon the Investment Advis- er's ability to predict correctly interest rates and mortgage prepayments. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its prediction, a Fund may experi- ence a loss. For financial reporting and tax purposes, the Funds treat mort- gage dollar rolls as two separate transactions: one involving the purchase of a security and a separate transaction involving a sale. The Funds do not currently intend to enter into mortgage dollar rolls that are accounted for as a financing and do not treat them as borrowings. 75 Yield Curve Options. Certain Funds may enter into options on the yield "spread" or differential between two securities. Such transactions are referred to as "yield curve" options. In contrast to other types of options, a yield curve option is based on the difference between the yields of desig- nated securities, rather than the prices of the individual securities, and is settled through cash payments. Accordingly, a yield curve option is prof- itable to the holder if this differential widens (in the case of a call) or narrows (in the case of a put), regardless of whether the yields of the underlying securities increase or decrease. The trading of yield curve options is subject to all of the risks associated with the trading of other types of options. In addition, such options pres- ent a risk of loss even if the yield of one of the underlying securities remains constant, or if the spread moves in a direction or to an extent which was not anticipated. Reverse Repurchase Agreements. Certain Funds may enter into reverse repur- chase agreements. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the sale of securi- ties held by a Fund subject to the Fund's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price (including interest). These transactions may be entered into as a temporary measure for emergency purposes or to meet redemption requests. Reverse repurchase agreements may also be entered into when the Investment Adviser expects that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the transaction proceeds will be greater than the related interest expense. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leveraging. If the securities held by a Fund decline in value while these transactions are outstanding, the NAV of the Fund's outstanding shares will decline in value by proportionately more than the decline in value of the securities. In addition, reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the inter- est income earned by a Fund (from the investment of the proceeds) will be less than the interest expense of the transaction, that the market value of the securities sold by a Fund will decline below the price the Fund is obli- gated to pay to repurchase the securities, and that the securities may not be returned to the Fund. Municipal Securities. Certain Funds may invest in securities and instruments issued by state and local government issuers. Municipal securities in which a Fund may invest consist of bonds, notes, commercial paper and other instruments (including participating interests in such securities) issued by or on behalf of states, territories and possessions of the United States (including the District of Columbia) and their political subdivisions, agen- cies or instrumentalities. Such securities may pay fixed, variable or float- ing rates of interest. Municipal securities are often issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities such as bridges, highways, housing, hospitals, mass trans- portation, schools, streets and water and sewer works. Other public 76 APPENDIX A purposes for which municipal securities may be issued include refunding out- standing obligations, obtaining funds for general operating expenses, and obtaining funds to lend to other public institutions and facilities. Munici- pal securities in which a Fund may invest include private activity bonds, municipal leases, certificates of participation, pre-funded municipal secu- rities and auction rate securities. Interest Rate Swaps, Mortgage Swaps, Credit Swaps, Currency Swaps and Inter- est Rate Caps, Floors and Collars. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, such as an exchange of fixed-rate payments for floating rate payments. Mortgage swaps are similar to interest rate swaps in that they represent commitments to pay and receive interest. The notional princi- pal amount, however, is tied to a reference pool or pools of mortgages. Credit swaps involve the receipt of floating or fixed rate payments in exchange for assuming potential credit losses of an underlying security. Credit swaps give one party to a transaction the right to dispose of or acquire an asset (or group of assets), or the right to receive or make a payment from the other party, upon the occurrence of specified credit events. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the parties' respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate, to receive payment of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling such interest rate cap. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. An interest rate collar is the combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest rates. Certain Funds may enter into swap transactions for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. The use of interest rate, mortgage, credit and currency swaps, as well as interest rate caps, floors and collars, is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transac- tions. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market value, interest rates and currency exchange rates, the investment perfor- mance of a Fund would be less favorable than it would have been if these investment techniques were not used. Loan Participations. Certain Funds may invest in loan participations. A loan participation is an interest in a loan to a U.S. or foreign company or other borrower which is administered and sold by a financial intermediary. A Fund may only invest in loans to issuers in whose obligations it may otherwise invest. Loan participation interests may take the form of a direct or co- lending relationship with the 77 corporate borrower, an assignment of an interest in the loan by a co-lender or another participant, or a participation in the seller's share of the loan. When a Fund acts as co-lender in connection with a participation interest or when it acquires certain participation interests, the Fund will have direct recourse against the borrower if the borrower fails to pay scheduled principal and interest. In cases where the Fund lacks direct recourse, it will look to the agent bank to enforce appropriate credit reme- dies against the borrower. In these cases, the Fund may be subject to delays, expenses and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if the Fund had purchased a direct obligation (such as commercial paper) of such borrower. Moreover, under the terms of the loan participa- tion, the Fund may be regarded as a creditor of the agent bank (rather than of the underlying corporate borrower), so that the Fund may also be subject to the risk that the agent bank may become insolvent. Inverse Floaters. Certain Funds may invest in inverse floating rate debt securities ("inverse floaters"). The interest rate on inverse floaters resets in the opposite direction from the market rate of interest to which the inverse floater is indexed. An inverse floater may be considered to be leveraged to the extent that its interest rate varies by a magnitude that exceeds the magnitude of the change in the index rate of interest. The higher the degree of leverage of an inverse floater, the greater the vola- tility of its market value. 78 [This page intentionally left blank] 79 Appendix B Financial Highlights The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand a Fund's financial performance for the past five years (or less if the Fund has not been in operation for less than five years). Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an invest- ment in a Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, whose report, along with a Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's annual report (available upon request). No financial highlights are included for the Large Cap Value Fund because it had no operating history prior to the date of this prospectus. BALANCED FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period income gain (loss) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $20.48 $0.32 $(0.19) 1999 - Class B Shares 20.37 0.22 (0.18) 1999 - Class C Shares 20.34 0.23 (0.19) 1999 - Institutional Shares 20.48 0.53 (0.35) 1999 - Service Shares 20.47 1.22 (1.14) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 20.29 0.58 0.20 1999 - Class B Shares 20.20 0.41 0.21 1999 - Class C Shares 20.17 0.41 0.21 1999 - Institutional Shares 20.29 0.64 0.20 1999 - Service Shares 20.28 0.53 0.21 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 18.78 0.57 2.66 1998 - Class B Shares 18.73 0.50 2.57 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.10 0.25 0.24 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.18 0.26 0.32 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.18 0.22 0.32 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 17.31 0.66 2.47 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 17.46 0.42 2.34 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 14.22 0.51 3.43 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. 80 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $(0.23) $ -- $ -- $(0.10) $20.38 0.62%d $169,395 1.10%c (0.15) -- -- (0.11) 20.26 0.20d 40,515 1.85c (0.15) -- -- (0.11) 20.23 0.18d 11,284 1.85c (0.27) -- -- (0.09) 20.39 0.86d 2,361 0.70c (0.18) -- -- (0.10) 20.37 0.39d 15 1.20c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.59) -- -- 0.19 20.48 3.94 192,453 1.04 (0.45) -- -- 0.17 20.37 3.15 43,926 1.80 (0.45) -- -- 0.17 20.34 3.14 14,286 1.80 (0.65) -- -- 0.19 20.48 4.25 8,010 0.73 (0.55) -- -- 0.19 20.47 3.80 490 1.23 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.56) -- (1.16) 1.51 20.29 17.54 163,636 1.00 (0.42) (0.02) (1.16) 1.47 20.20 16.71 23,639 1.76 (0.22) (0.04) (1.16) (0.93) 20.17 2.49d 8,850 1.77c (0.23) (0.08) (1.16) (0.89) 20.29 2.93d 8,367 0.76c (0.22) (0.06) (1.16) (0.90) 20.28 2.66d 16 1.26c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.66) -- (1.00) 1.47 18.78 18.59 81,410 1.00 (0.42) (0.07) (1.00) 1.27 18.73 16.22d 2,110 1.75c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.50) -- (0.35) 3.09 17.31 28.10 50,928 1.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Includes the effect of mortgage dollar roll transactions. 81 BALANCED FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income to expenses to income to Portfolio average net average average net turnover assets net assets assets rate/e/ - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 2.58%c 1.32%c 2.36%c 90.41%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.83c 2.07c 1.61c 90.41d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.84c 2.07c 1.62c 90.41d 1999 - Institutional Shares 2.96c 0.92c 2.74c 90.41d 1999 - Service Shares 2.46c 1.42c 2.24c 90.41d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 2.90 1.45 2.49 175.06 1999 - Class B Shares 2.16 2.02 1.94 175.06 1999 - Class C Shares 2.17 2.02 1.95 175.06 1999 - Institutional Shares 3.22 0.95 3.00 175.06 1999 - Service Shares 2.77 1.45 2.55 175.06 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 2.94 1.57 2.37 190.43 1998 - Class B Shares 2.14 2.07 1.83 190.43 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.13c 2.08c 1.82c 190.43 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 3.13c 1.07c 2.82c 190.43 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.58c 1.57c 2.27c 190.43 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 3.76 1.77 2.99 208.11 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.59c 2.27c 2.07c 208.11 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 3.65 1.90 2.75 197.10 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
82 [This page intentionally left blank] 83 GROWTH AND INCOME FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ Distributions to shareholders ------------------------ ------------------------------ Net realized Net asset and In excess value, Net unrealized From net of net From net beginning investment gain investment investment realized of period income (loss) (loss) income income gains - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $24.33 $ 0.19 $0.31 $(0.15) $ -- $ -- 1999 - Class B Shares 24.13 0.08 0.31 (0.06) -- -- 1999 - Class C Shares 24.08 0.08 0.30 (0.05) -- -- 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.35 0.34 0.23 (0.20) -- -- 1999 - Service Shares 24.33 0.17 0.32 (0.14) -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 25.93 0.20 (1.60) (0.19) (0.01) -- 1999 - Class B Shares 25.73 0.02 (1.58) (0.04) -- -- 1999 - Class C Shares 25.70 0.02 (1.59) (0.05) -- -- 1999 - Institutional Shares 25.95 0.29 (1.58) (0.30) (0.01) -- 1999 - Service Shares 25.92 0.17 (1.58) (0.17) (0.01) -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 23.18 0.11 5.27 (0.11) -- (2.52) 1998 - Class B Shares 23.10 0.04 5.14 -- (0.03) (2.52) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 28.20 (0.01) 0.06 -- (0.03) (2.52) 1998 - Institutional Shares 23.19 0.27 5.23 (0.22) -- (2.52) 1998 - Service Shares 23.17 0.14 5.23 (0.06) (0.04) (2.52) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 19.98 0.35 5.18 (0.35) (0.01) (1.97) 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.82 0.17 4.31 (0.17) (0.06) (1.97) 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 3, 1996) 21.25 0.29 3.96 (0.30) (0.04) (1.97) 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 20.71 0.28 4.50 (0.28) (0.07) (1.97) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 15.80 0.33 4.75 (0.30) -- (0.60) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 84 APPENDIX B
Ratio of Net increase Net assets Ratio of net investment (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses income (loss) in net value, end Total period to average to average net asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ 0.35 $24.68 2.05%d $ 855,174 1.19%c 1.26%c 0.33 24.46 1.60d 271,912 1.94c 0.51c 0.33 24.41 1.58d 31,328 1.94c 0.51c 0.37 24.72 2.32d 32,181 0.79c 1.72c 0.35 24.68 2.01d 10,008 1.29c 1.16c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1.60) 24.33 (5.40) 1,122,157 1.22 0.78 (1.60) 24.13 (6.07) 349,662 1.92 0.09 (1.62) 24.08 (6.12) 48,146 1.92 0.10 (1.60) 24.35 (5.00) 173,696 0.80 1.25 (1.59) 24.33 (5.44) 11,943 1.30 0.72 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2.75 25.93 23.71 1,216,582 1.25 0.43 2.63 25.73 22.87 307,815 1.94 (0.35) (2.50) 25.70 0.51d 31,686 1.99c (0.48)c 2.76 25.95 24.24 36,225 0.83 0.76 2.75 25.92 23.63 8,893 1.32 0.32 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3.20 23.18 28.42 615,103 1.22 1.60 2.28 23.10 22.23d 17,346 1.93c 0.15c 1.94 23.19 20.77d 193 0.82c 1.36c 2.46 23.17 23.87d 3,174 1.32c 0.94c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4.18 19.98 32.45 436,757 1.20 1.67 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------
85 GROWTH AND INCOME FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of expenses to net investment Portfolio average net income (loss) to turnover assets average net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.20%c 1.25%c 55.43%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.95c 0.50c 55.43d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.95c 0.50c 55.43d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.80c 1.71c 55.43d 1999 - Service Shares 1.30c 1.15c 55.43d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.32 0.68 125.79 1999 - Class B Shares 1.92 0.09 125.79 1999 - Class C Shares 1.92 0.10 125.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.80 1.25 125.79 1999 - Service Shares 1.30 0.72 125.79 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.42 0.26 61.95 1998 - Class B Shares 1.94 (0.35) 61.95 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.99c (0.48)c 61.95 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.83 0.76 61.95 1998 - Service Shares 1.32 0.32 61.95 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.43 1.39 53.03 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 1.93c 0.15c 53.03 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 3, 1996) 0.82c 1.36c 53.03 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 1.32c 0.94c 53.03 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.45 1.42 57.93 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 86 [This page intentionally left blank] 87 CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period income gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.15 $0.04 $0.40 1999 - Class B Shares 10.15 0.01 0.36 1999 - Class C Shares 10.15 0.01 0.37 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.16 0.06 0.38 1999 - Service Shares 10.16 0.02 0.40 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.01 0.14 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.15 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.15 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.01 0.15 1999 - Service Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.02 0.14 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 88 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- Net assets From net Net increase Net asset at end of Ratio of investment From net in net asset value, end Total period net expenses to income realized gains value of period return/b/,/d/ (in 000s) average net assets/c/ - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $(0.04) $ -- $0.40 $10.55 4.31% $ 91,072 1.04% (0.02) -- 0.35 10.50 3.68 14,464 1.79 (0.02) -- 0.36 10.51 3.73 8,032 1.79 (0.05) -- 0.39 10.55 4.35 189,540 0.64 (0.03) -- 0.39 10.55 4.11 13 1.14 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 6,665 1.08 -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 340 1.82 -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 368 1.83 -- -- 0.16 10.16 1.60 53,396 0.66 -- -- 0.16 10.16 1.60 2 1.16 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income to expenses to income to Portfolio average net average net average net turnover assets/c/ assets/c/ assets/c/ rated - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.87% 1.21% 0.70% 36.10% 1999 - Class B Shares 0.05 1.96 (0.12) 36.10 1999 - Class C Shares 0.09 1.96 (0.08) 36.10 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.29 0.81 1.12 36.10 1999 - Service Shares 0.72 1.31 0.55 36.10 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 1.45 8.03 (5.50) 0.00 1999 - Class B Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 0.84 8.77 (6.11) 0.00 1999 - Class C Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 0.70 8.78 (6.25) 0.00 1999 - Institutional Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 1.97 7.61 (4.98) 0.00 1999 - Service Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 2.17 8.11 (4.78) 0.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 90 [This page intentionally left blank] 91 CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $32.98 $ 0.03 $1.20 1999 - Class B Shares 32.50 (0.11) 1.17 1999 - Class C Shares 32.40 (0.10) 1.16 1999 - Institutional Shares 33.29 0.11 1.21 1999 - Service Shares 32.85 0.01 1.19 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 26.59 0.04 7.02 1999 - Class B Shares 26.32 (0.10) 6.91 1999 - Class C Shares 26.24 (0.10) 6.89 1999 - Institutional Shares 26.79 0.20 7.11 1999 - Service Shares 26.53 0.06 7.01 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 23.32 0.11 5.63 1998 - Class B Shares 23.18 0.11 5.44 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 27.48 0.03 1.22 1998 - Institutional Shares 23.44 0.30 5.65 1998 - Service Shares 23.27 0.19 5.57 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 19.66 0.16 4.46 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.44 0.04 3.70 1997 - Institutional Shares 19.71 0.30 4.51 1997 - Service Shares (commenced June 7, 1996) 21.02 0.13 3.15 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 14.61 0.19 5.43 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 15, 1995) 16.97 0.16 3.23 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 92 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- Ratio of In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of net investment From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses income (loss) investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 1.23 $34.21 3.73%d $614,310 1.14%c 0.15%c -- -- -- 1.06 33.56 3.26d 214,087 1.89c (0.60)c -- -- -- 1.06 33.46 3.27d 43,361 1.89c (0.61)c -- -- -- 1.32 34.61 3.97d 335,465 0.74c 0.54c -- -- -- 1.20 34.05 3.65d 11,204 1.24c 0.06c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.03) (0.01) (0.63) 6.39 32.98 26.89 605,566 1.23 0.15 -- -- (0.63) 6.18 32.50 26.19 152,347 1.85 (0.50) -- -- (0.63) 6.16 32.40 26.19 26,912 1.87 (0.53) (0.15) (0.03) (0.63) 6.50 33.29 27.65 307,200 0.69 0.69 (0.10) (0.02) (0.63) 6.32 32.85 27.00 11,600 1.19 0.19 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- (2.35) 3.27 26.59 24.96 398,393 1.28 0.51 -- (0.06) (2.35) 3.14 26.32 24.28 59,208 1.79 (0.05) -- (0.14) (2.35) (1.24) 26.24 4.85d 6,267 1.78c (0.21)c (0.24) (0.01) (2.35) 3.35 26.79 25.76 202,893 0.65 1.16 (0.07) (0.08) (2.35) 3.26 26.53 25.11 7,841 1.15 0.62 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.16) -- (0.80) 3.66 23.32 23.75 225,968 1.29 0.91 (0.04) (0.16) (0.80) 2.74 23.18 18.59d 17,258 1.83c 0.06c (0.28) -- (0.80) 3.73 23.44 24.63 148,942 0.65 1.52 (0.13) (0.10) (0.80) 2.25 23.27 15.92d 3,666 1.15c 0.69c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.16) -- (0.41) 5.05 19.66 38.63 129,045 1.25 1.01 (0.24) -- (0.41) 2.74 19.71 20.14d 64,829 0.65c 1.49c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
93 CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment expenses to income (loss) to Portfolio average net average turnover assets net assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.24%c 0.05%c 41.84%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.99c (0.70)c 41.84d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.99c (0.71)c 41.84d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.84c 0.44c 41.84d 1999 - Service Shares 1.34c (0.04)c 41.84d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.36 0.02 63.79 1999 - Class B Shares 1.98 (0.63) 63.79 1999 - Class C Shares 2.00 (0.66) 63.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.82 0.56 63.79 1999 - Service Shares 1.32 0.06 63.79 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.47 0.32 65.89 1998 - Class B Shares 1.96 (0.22) 65.89 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.95c (0.38)c 65.89 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.82 0.99 65.89 1998 - Service Shares 1.32 0.45 65.89 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.53 0.67 37.28 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.00c (0.11)c 37.28 1997 - Institutional Shares 0.85 1.32 37.28 1997 - Service Shares (commenced June 7, 1996) 1.35c 0.49c 37.28 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.55 0.71 39.35 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 15, 1995) 0.96c 1.18c 39.35 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 94 [This page intentionally left blank] 95 CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $16.17 $(0.01) $0.86 1999 - Class B Shares 15.98 (0.07) 0.84 1999 - Class C Shares 15.99 (0.07) 0.83 1999 - Institutional Shares 16.21 0.03 0.86 1999 - Service Shares 16.11 (0.02) 0.86 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 11.97 0.01 4.19 1999 - Class B Shares 11.92 (0.06) 4.12 1999 - Class C Shares 11.93 (0.05) 4.11 1999 - Institutional Shares 11.97 0.02 4.23 1999 - Service Shares 11.95 (0.01) 4.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 0.01 2.35 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 (0.03) 2.33 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 11.80 (0.02) 0.54 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 0.01 2.35 1998 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) 2.35 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 96 APPENDIX B
Distributions to Shareholders --------------------------------- From In excess Net Net asset Net assets Ratio of Net of net From net increase value, at end of net expenses Investment investment realized in net end of Total period to average Income income gains asset value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.85 $17.02 5.26%d $300,684 1.04%c -- -- -- 0.77 16.75 4.82d 181,626 1.79c -- -- -- 0.76 16.75 4.75d 75,502 1.79c -- -- -- 0.89 17.10 5.49d 310,704 0.64c -- -- -- 0.84 16.95 5.21d 2,510 1.14c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 4.20 16.17 35.10 175,510 0.97 -- -- -- 4.06 15.98 34.07 93,711 1.74 -- -- -- 4.06 15.99 34.04 37,081 1.74 -- (0.01) -- 4.24 16.21 35.54 295,734 0.65 -- -- -- 4.16 16.11 34.85 1,663 1.15 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.01) -- (0.38) 1.97 11.97 23.79d 53,786 0.91c -- -- (0.38) 1.92 11.92 23.26d 13,857 1.67c -- (0.01) (0.38) 0.13 11.93 4.56d 4,132 1.68c (0.01) -- (0.38) 1.97 11.97 23.89d 4,656 0.72c -- -- (0.38) 1.95 11.95 23.56d 115 1.17c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
97 CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) to expenses to (loss) to Portfolio average net average net average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.11)%c 1.26%c (0.33)%c 32.74%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.87)c 2.01c (1.09)c 32.74d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.87)c 2.01c (1.09)c 32.74d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.31c 0.86c 0.09c 32.74d 1999 - Service Shares (0.21)c 1.36c (0.43)c 32.74d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.05 1.46 (0.44) 63.15 1999 - Class B Shares (0.73) 2.11 (1.10) 63.15 1999 - Class C Shares (0.74) 2.11 (1.11) 63.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.35 1.02 (0.02) 63.15 1999 - Service Shares (0.16) 1.52 (0.53) 63.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 0.12 c 2.40c (1.37)c 74.97d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) (0.72)c 2.91c (1.96)c 74.97d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.76)c 2.92c (2.00)c 74.97d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 0.42 c 1.96c (0.82)c 74.97d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) (0.21)c 2.41c (1.45)c 74.97d - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 98 [This page intentionally left blank] 99 CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------ Net asset Net Net value, investment realized and beginning income unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.16 $(0.01) $0.08 1999 - Class B Shares 10.07 (0.05) 0.07 1999 - Class C Shares 10.08 (0.05) 0.07 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.20 0.02 0.08 1999 - Service Shares 10.16 (0.01) 0.07 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 10.59 0.01 (0.43) 1999 - Class B Shares 10.56 (0.05) (0.44) 1999 - Class C Shares 10.57 (0.04) (0.45) 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.61 0.04 (0.43) 1999 - Service Shares 10.60 0.01 (0.44) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.01) 0.65 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.03) 0.64 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) 0.64 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 0.65 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 0.64 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 100 APPENDIX B
Distributions to Shareholders ---------------------------- From Net Net asset Net assets Ratio of net increase value, at end of net expenses investment From net in net end of Total period to average income realized gains asset value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $0.07 $10.23 0.69%d $52,660 1.33%c -- -- 0.02 10.09 0.20d 13,711 2.08c -- -- 0.02 10.10 0.20d 6,274 2.08c -- -- 0.10 10.30 0.98d 62,633 0.93c -- -- 0.06 10.22 0.59d 64 1.43c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.01) -- (0.43) 10.16 (3.97) 64,087 1.31 -- -- (0.49) 10.07 (4.64) 15,406 2.00 -- -- (0.49) 10.08 (4.64) 6,559 2.01 (0.02) -- (0.41) 10.20 (3.64) 62,763 0.94 (0.01) -- (0.44) 10.16 (4.07) 54 1.44 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.05) 0.59 10.59 6.37d 11,118 1.25c -- (0.05) 0.56 10.56 6.07d 9,957 1.95c -- (0.05) 0.57 10.57 6.17d 2,557 1.95c -- (0.05) 0.61 10.61 6.57d 9,026 0.95c -- (0.05) 0.60 10.60 6.47d 2 1.45c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
101 CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of net Ratio of net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) expenses to loss Portfolio to average average net to average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.12)%c 1.67%c (0.46)%c 52.03%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.86)c 2.42c (1.20)c 52.03d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.86)c 2.42c (1.20)c 52.03d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.28c 1.27c (0.06)c 52.03d 1999 - Service Shares (0.22)c 1.77c (0.56)c 52.03d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.08 2.00 (0.61) 75.38 1999 - Class B Shares (0.55) 2.62 (1.17) 75.38 1999 - Class C Shares (0.56) 2.63 (1.18) 75.38 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.60 1.56 (0.02) 75.38 1999 - Service Shares 0.01 2.06 (0.61) 75.38 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.36)c 3.92c (3.03)c 37.65d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.04)c 4.37c (3.46)c 37.65d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.07)c 4.37c (3.49)c 37.65d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.15c 3.37c (2.27)c 37.65d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.40c 3.87c (2.02)c 37.65d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 102 [This page intentionally left blank] 103 CAPITAL GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $24.03 $(0.08) $1.01 1999 - Class B Shares 23.57 (0.17) 0.97 1999 - Class C Shares 23.52 (0.16) 0.97 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.07 (0.02) 1.01 1999 - Service Shares 23.96 (0.08) 1.00 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 18.48 (0.03) 6.35 1999 - Class B Shares 18.27 (0.12) 6.19 1999 - Class C Shares 18.24 (0.10) 6.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.45 0.01 6.38 1999 - Service Shares 18.46 (0.04) 6.31 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 16.73 0.02 4.78 1998 - Class B Shares 16.67 0.02 4.61 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.73 (0.02) 1.60 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.88 0.02 1.66 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.88 (0.01) 1.66 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 14.91 0.10 3.56 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 15.67 0.01 2.81 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 13.67 0.12 3.93 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 104 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net value, end Total period to average income income realized gain asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 0.93 $24.96 3.87%d $1,971,097 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.80 24.37 3.39d 329,870 2.19c -- -- -- 0.81 24.33 3.44d 87,284 2.19c -- -- -- 0.99 25.06 4.11d 255,210 1.04c -- -- -- 0.92 24.88 3.84d 6,466 1.54c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- (0.77) 5.55 24.03 34.58 1,992,716 1.42 -- -- (0.77) 5.30 23.57 33.60 236,369 2.19 -- -- (0.77) 5.28 23.52 33.55 60,234 2.19 -- -- (0.77) 5.62 24.07 35.02 41,817 1.07 -- -- (0.77) 5.50 23.96 34.34 3,085 1.57 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.01) (0.01) (3.03) 1.75 18.48 29.71 1,256,595 1.40 -- -- (3.03) 1.60 18.27 28.73 40,827 2.18 -- (0.04) (3.03) (1.49) 18.24 8.83d 5,395 2.21c (0.01) (0.07) (3.03) (1.43) 18.45 9.31d 7,262 1.16c -- (0.04) (3.03) (1.42) 18.46 9.18d 2 1.50c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.10) (0.02) (1.72) 1.82 16.73 25.97 920,646 1.40 (0.01) (0.09) (1.72) 1.00 16.67 19.39d 3,221 2.15c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- (2.69) 1.24 14.91 30.45 881,056 1.36 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
105 CAPITAL GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations -------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) expenses to income (loss) Portfolio to average average net to average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.53)%c 1.47%c (0.56)%c 18.16%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.29)c 2.22c (1.32)c 18.16d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.29)c 2.22c (1.32)c 18.16d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.20)c 1.07c (0.23)c 18.16d 1999 - Service Shares (0.65)c 1.57c (0.68)c 18.16d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.18) 1.58 (0.34) 30.17 1999 - Class B Shares (0.98) 2.21 (1.00) 30.17 1999 - Class C Shares (1.00) 2.21 (1.02) 30.17 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.11 1.09 0.09 30.17 1999 - Service Shares (0.37) 1.59 (0.39) 30.17 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 0.08 1.65 (0.17) 61.50 1998 - Class B Shares (0.77) 2.18 (0.77) 61.50 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.86)c 2.21c (0.86)c 61.50 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.18c 1.16c 0.18c 61.50 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.16)c 1.50c (0.16)c 61.50 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 0.62 1.65 0.37 52.92 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (0.39)c 2.15c (0.39)c 52.92 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 0.65 1.61 0.40 63.90 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 106 [This page intentionally left blank] 107 STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ --------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment beginning income Net realized and of period (loss) unrealized gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) $10.00 $ -- $0.06 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.07e 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.08e 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 0.01 0.06 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.01) 0.07 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 108 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net assets From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of Ratio of investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period net expenses to income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) average net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.06 $10.06 0.60%d $10,371 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.04 10.04 0.40d 3,393 2.19c -- -- -- 0.05 10.05 0.50d 2,388 2.19c -- -- -- 0.07 10.07 0.70d 5,981 1.04c -- -- -- 0.06 10.06 0.60d 2 1.54c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
109 STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations -------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of investment expenses net income to investment (loss) to average loss to Portfolio average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For The Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) (0.17)%c 11.70%c (10.43)%c 6.98%d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) (0.97)c 12.45c (11.23)c 6.98d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) (0.99)c 12.45c (11.25)c 6.98d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 0.24c 11.30c (10.02)c 6.98d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) (0.24)c 11.80c (10.50)c 6.98d - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 110 [This page intentionally left blank] 111 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) $10.00 $(0.01)e $0.14e 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.21e 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.13e 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 0.01 0.12 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 -- 0.12 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 112 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net assets Ratio of From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.13 $10.13 1.30%d $8,204 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.18 10.18 1.80d 520 2.19c -- -- -- 0.10 10.10 1.00d 256 2.19c -- -- -- 0.13 10.13 1.30d 5,223 1.04c -- -- -- 0.12 10.12 1.20d 2 1.54c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
113 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio Ratio of net of net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) expenses to loss to Portfolio to average average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) (0.27)%c 14.15%c (12.98)%c 26.53%d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) (1.04)c 14.90c (13.75)c 26.53d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) (1.12)c 14.90c (13.83)c 26.53d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 0.39c 13.75c (12.32)c 26.53d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 0.03c 14.25c (12.68)c 26.53d - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 114 [This page intentionally left blank] 115 MID CAP VALUE FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $18.38 $ 0.06 $ 1.71 1999 - Class B Shares 18.29 (0.04) 1.71 1999 - Class C Shares 18.30 (0.04) 1.71 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.37 0.09 1.72 1999 - Service Shares 18.29 0.05 1.70 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 21.61 0.10 (2.38) 1999 - Class B Shares 21.57 (0.05) (2.35) 1999 - Class C Shares 21.59 (0.05) (2.34) 1999 - Institutional Shares 21.65 0.19 (2.38) 1999 - Service Shares 21.62 0.03 (2.31) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.09 0.76 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.06 0.74 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.06 0.76 1998 - Institutional Shares 18.73 0.16 5.66 1998 - Service Shares (commenced July 18, 1997) 23.01 0.09 1.40 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Institutional Shares 15.91 0.24 3.77 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 1, 1995) 15.00 0.13 0.90 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 116 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $(1.73) $ 0.04 $18.42 9.04%d $ 49,081 1.29%c -- -- (1.73) (0.06) 18.23 8.53d 31,824 2.04c -- -- (1.73) (0.06) 18.24 8.52d 9,807 2.04c -- -- (1.73) 0.08 18.45 9.26d 190,549 0.89c -- -- (1.73) 0.02 18.31 8.97d 190 1.39c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.07) -- (0.88) (3.23) 18.38 (10.48) 70,578 1.33 -- -- (0.88) (3.28) 18.29 (11.07) 37,821 1.93 (0.02) -- (0.88) (3.29) 18.30 (11.03) 10,800 1.93 (0.21) -- (0.88) (3.28) 18.37 (10.07) 196,512 0.87 (0.17) -- (0.88) (3.33) 18.29 (10.48) 289 1.37 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.06) (0.04) (2.77) (2.02) 21.61 3.42d 90,588 1.35c (0.09) -- (2.77) (2.06) 21.57 3.17d 28,743 1.85c (0.09) -- (2.77) (2.04) 21.59 3.27d 6,445 1.85c (0.13) -- (2.77) 2.92 21.65 30.86 236,440 0.85 (0.11) -- (2.77) (1.39) 21.62 6.30d 8 1.35c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.24) (0.93) (0.02) 2.82 18.73 25.63 145,253 0.85 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- -- 0.91 15.91 6.89d 135,671 0.85c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
117 MID CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no expense limitations -------------------------- Ratio of net investment Ratio of income Ratio of net investment (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.43%c 1.37%c 0.35%c 68.84%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.33)c 2.12c (0.41)c 68.84d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.34)c 2.12c (0.42)c 68.84d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.79c 0.97c 0.71c 68.84d 1999 - Service Shares 0.38c 1.47c 0.30c 68.84d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.38 1.41 0.30 92.18 1999 - Class B Shares (0.22) 2.01 (0.30) 92.18 1999 - Class C Shares (0.22) 2.01 (0.30) 92.18 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.83 0.95 0.75 92.18 1999 - Service Shares 0.32 1.45 0.24 92.18 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.33c 1.47c 0.21c 62.60 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.20)c 1.97c (0.32)c 62.60 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.23)c 1.97c (0.35)c 62.60 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.78 0.97 0.66 62.60 1998 - Service Shares (commenced July 18, 1997) 0.63c 1.43c 0.51c 62.60 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Institutional Shares 1.35 0.91 1.29 74.03 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 1, 1995) 1.67c 0.98c 1.54c 58.77d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 118 [This page intentionally left blank] 119 SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
Income (loss) from investment operations/a/ ------------------------------ Net asset value, Net Net realized and beginning investment unrealized of period income (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $18.51 $(0.05) $ 1.34 1999 - Class B Shares 18.10 (0.12) 1.29 1999 - Class C Shares 18.12 (0.11) 1.27 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.62 -- 1.33 1999 - Service Shares 18.50 (0.13) 1.39 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 24.05 (0.06) (4.48) 1999 - Class B Shares 23.73 (0.21) (4.42) 1999 - Class C Shares 23.73 (0.18) (4.43) 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.09 0.03 (4.50) 1999 - Service Shares 24.05 (0.04) (4.51) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 20.91 0.14 5.33 1998 - Class B Shares 20.80 (0.01) 5.27 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.69 (0.06) 1.43 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.91 0.03 1.48 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.91 (0.01) 1.48 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 17.29 (0.21) 4.92 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.79 (0.11) 1.21 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 16.14 (0.23) 1.39 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 120 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- In excess Net increase Net asset Net assets Ratio of of net (decrease) value, at end of net expenses investment From net in net asset end of Total period to average income realized gains value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ 1.29 $19.80 6.97%d $210,500 1.50%c -- -- 1.17 19.27 6.46d 37,386 2.25c -- -- 1.16 19.28 6.40d 8,079 2.25c -- -- 1.33 19.95 7.14d 27,023 1.10c -- -- 1.26 19.76 6.81d 57 1.60c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (1.00) (5.54) 18.51 (17.37) 261,661 1.50 -- (1.00) (5.63) 18.10 (18.00) 42,879 2.25 -- (1.00) (5.61) 18.12 (17.91) 8,212 2.25 -- (1.00) (5.47) 18.62 (17.04) 15,351 1.13 -- (1.00) (5.55) 18.50 (17.41) 261 1.62 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (2.33) 3.14 24.05 26.17 370,246 1.54 -- (2.33) 2.93 23.73 25.29 42,677 2.29 (0.34) (1.99) (0.96) 23.73 5.51d 5,604 2.09c (0.28) (2.05) (0.82) 24.09 6.08d 14,626 1.16c (0.31) (2.02) (0.86) 24.05 5.91d 2 1.45c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (1.09) 3.62 20.91 27.28 212,061 1.60 -- (1.09) 0.01 20.80 5.39d 3,674 2.35c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (0.01) 1.15 17.29 7.20 204,994 1.41 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
121 SMALL CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.35)%c 1.61%c (0.46)%c 46.95%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.10)c 2.36c (1.21)c 46.95d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.10)c 2.36c (1.21)c 46.95d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.05c 1.21c (0.06)c 46.95d 1999 - Service Shares (0.41)c 1.71c (0.52)c 46.95d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.24) 1.74 (0.48) 98.46 1999 - Class B Shares (0.99) 2.29 (1.03) 98.46 1999 - Class C Shares (0.99) 2.29 (1.03) 98.46 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.13 1.17 0.09 98.46 1999 - Service Shares (0.47) 1.66 (0.51) 98.46 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (0.28) 1.76 (0.50) 84.81 1998 - Class B Shares (0.92) 2.29 (0.92) 84.81 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.79)c 2.09c (0.79)c 84.81 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.27c 1.16c 0.27c 84.81 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.07)c 1.45c (0.07)c 84.81 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares (0.72) 1.85 (0.97) 99.46 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (1.63)c 2.35c (1.63)c 99.46 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares (0.59) 1.66 (0.84) 57.58 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 122 Appendix C Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND The following table sets forth the Investment Adviser's composite perfor- mance data relating to the historical performance of all discretionary pri- vate accounts managed by the Investment Adviser that have investment objec- tives, policies, and strategies substantially similar to the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. The information is provided to illustrate the past performance of the Investment Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts as mea- sured against the Russell 1000 Value Index and does not represent the per- formance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. Investors should not consider this performance data as a substitute for the performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund nor should investors consider this data as an indication of future performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund or of the Investment Adviser. The Russell 1000 Value Index is unmanaged and investors cannot invest directly in the Index.
Private Account Net Composite Russell 1000 Performance Value Index - ------------------------------------------- 1998 11.40 % 15.64 % 1997 32.59 % 35.18 % 1996 26.41 % 21.64 % 1995 37.92 % 38.35 % 1994 (2.17)% (2.01)% 1993 16.90 % 18.12 % 8/1/92-12/31/92 5.39 % 4.01 % - -------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Return for the Period Ended 12/31/98 Since 3 5 Inception 1 Year Years Years (8/1/92) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Account Net Composite Performance 11.40% 23.13% 20.30% 19.30% Russell 1000 Value Index 15.64% 23.88% 20.85% 19.68% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Investment Adviser's composite performance information was calculated on a time-weighted and asset-weighted total return basis which includes real- ized and unrealized gains and losses plus income, as recommended by the Association for Investment Management and Research ("AIMR"). The composite performance is 123 net of applicable investment management fees, brokerage commissions, execu- tion costs and custodial fees, without provision for federal and state tax- es, if any. Total return performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund will be calculated in accordance with the regulations of the SEC. The SEC stan- dardized average annual total return is neither time-weighted nor asset- weighted and is determined for specified periods by computing the annualized percentage change in the value of an initial amount that is invested in a share class of the Fund at the maximum public offering price. Investors should be aware that the differences in methodology between AIMR and SEC requirements could result in different performance data for identical time periods. All returns presented reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other earn- ings. The weighted-average expenses of the private accounts used in calcu- lating the Investment Adviser's net composite performance data were 0.59% annualized, which are lower than the estimated expenses of Institutional Shares of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund stated under "Fund Fees and Expenses" above. The performance of the private accounts would have been lower if they had been subject to the expenses of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. In addition, the private accounts are not subject to the same diversi- fication requirements, specific tax restrictions and investment limitations imposed on the CORE Large Cap Value Fund by the Act and Subchapter M of the Code. Consequently, the performance results of the Investment Adviser's com- posite could have been adversely affected if the private accounts had been regulated as investment companies under the federal securities laws. 124 Appendix D Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND The following table sets forth the Investment Adviser's composite perfor- mance data relating to the historical performance of all discretionary pri- vate accounts managed by the Investment Adviser that have investment objec- tives, policies, and strategies substantially similar to the Strategic Growth Fund. The information is provided to illustrate the past performance of the Investment Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts as mea- sured against the S&P 500 Index and does not represent the performance of the Strategic Growth Fund. Investors should not consider this performance data as a substitute for the performance of the Strategic Growth Fund nor should investors consider this data as an indication of future performance of the Strategic Growth Fund or of the Investment Adviser. The S&P 500 Index is unmanaged and investors cannot invest directly in the Index.
Private Account Net Composite S&P 500 Performance Index - ------------------------------- 1998 35.35% 28.57% 1997 41.14% 33.37% 1996 21.79% 22.95% 1995 28.07% 37.58% 1994 -1.69% 1.32% 1993 17.10% 10.08% 1992 9.22% 7.62% 1991 37.44% 30.47% 1990 -9.32% -3.05% 1989 33.82% 31.70% 1988 23.63% 16.61% 1987 5.34% 5.25% 1986 18.99% 18.67% 1985 37.98% 31.73% 1984 8.52% 6.19% 1983 34.41% 22.56% 1982 34.43% 21.55% 1981 1.02% -4.97% - -------------------------------
125
Average Annual Total Return for the Period Ended 12/31/98 Since Inception 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years (1/1/81) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Account Net Composite Performance 35.35% 32.51% 23.98% 20.11% 19.46% S&P 500 Index 28.57% 28.23% 24.06% 19.22% 16.94% -------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Investment Adviser's composite performance information was calculated on a time-weighted and asset-weighted total return basis which includes real- ized and unrealized gains and losses plus income, as recommended by the Association for Investment Management and Research ("AIMR"). The composite performance is net of applicable investment management fees, brokerage com- missions, execution costs and custodial fees, without provision for federal and state taxes, if any. Total return performance of the Strategic Growth Fund will be calculated in accordance with the regulations of the SEC. The SEC standardized average annual total return is neither time-weighted nor asset-weighted and is determined for specified periods by computing the annualized percentage change in the value of an initial amount that is invested in a share class of the Fund at the maximum public offering price. Investors should be aware that the differences in methodology between AIMR and SEC requirements could result in different performance data for identi- cal time periods. All returns presented reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other earn- ings. The weighted-average expenses of the private accounts used in calcu- lating the Investment Adviser's net composite performance data were 0.76% annualized, which are lower than the estimated expenses of Institutional Shares of the Strategic Growth Fund stated under "Fund Fees and Expenses" above. The performance of the private accounts would have been lower if they had been subject to the expenses of the Strategic Growth Fund. In addition, the private accounts are not subject to the same diversification require- ments, specific tax restrictions and investment limitations imposed on the Strategic Growth Fund by the Act and Subchapter M of the Code. Consequently, the performance results of the Investment Adviser's composite could have been adversely affected if the private accounts had been regulated as investment companies under the federal securities laws. 126 Index 1 General Investment Management Approach 3 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies 3 Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund 5 Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund 6 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund 7 Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund 8 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 9 Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 10 Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund 11 Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund 12 Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund 13 Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund 14 Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund 15 Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund 16 Other Investment Practices and Securities 20 Principal Risks of the Funds 24 Fund Performance 34 Fund Fees and Expenses 38 Service Providers 46 Dividends 48 Shareholder Guide 48 How To Buy Shares 52 How To Sell Shares 56 Taxation 58 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques 80 Appendix B Financial Highlights 123 Appendix C CORE Large Cap Value Fund-Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser 125 Appendix D Strategic Growth Fund- Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser
Domestic Equity Funds Prospectus (Institutional Shares) FOR MORE INFORMATION Annual/Semi-annual Report Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds' annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during the last fiscal year. Statement of Additional Information Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in the Funds' Additional Statement. The Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (is legally considered part of this Pro- spectus). The Funds' annual and semi-annual reports, and the Additional Statement, are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550. To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries: By telephone - Call 1-800-621-2550 By mail - Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower - 60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372 By e-mail - gs-funds@gs.com On the Internet - Text-only versions of the Funds' documents are located online and may be downloaded from: SEC EDGAR database - http://www.sec.gov You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents, after paying a duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102 or by electronic request to: publicinfo@sec.gov. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (202) 942-8090. [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] The Funds' investment company registration number is 811-5349. CORE/SM/ is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. EQDOMPROINST Prospectus Service Shares November 30, 1999 GOLDMAN SACHS DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS . Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund . Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund . Goldman Sachs CORE SM Large Cap Value Fund [ART] . Goldman Sachs CORE SM U.S. Equity Fund . Goldman Sachs CORE SM Large Cap Growth Fund . Goldman Sachs CORE SM Small Cap Equity Fund . Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund . Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund . Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund . Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund (formerly Mid Cap Equity) . Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund . Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL. NOT FDIC-INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE NO BANK GUARANTEE General Investment Management Approach Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a unit of the Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as investment adviser to the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds. Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. serves as investment adviser to the CORE U.S. Equity and Capital Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. are each referred to in this Prospectus as the "Investment Adviser." VALUE STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Value Investment Philosophy: THROUGH INTENSIVE, HANDS-ON RESEARCH OUR PORTFOLIO TEAM SEEKS TO IDENTIFY: 1. ATTRACTIVE VALUATION OPPORTUNITIES WHERE: .The intrinsic value of the business is not reflected in the stock price .The stock price is overdiscounted due to a temporary event 2. WELL-POSITIONED BUSINESSES THAT HAVE: .Attractive returns on capital .Sustainable earnings and cash flow .Strong company management focused on long-term returns to shareholders Business quality, conservative valuation, and thoughtful portfolio construc- tion are the key elements of our value approach. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GROWTH STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Growth Investment Philosophy: 1. INVEST AS IF BUYING THE COMPANY/BUSINESS, NOT SIMPLY TRADING ITS STOCK: .Understand the business, management, products and competition. .Perform intensive, hands-on fundamental research. .Seek businesses with strategic competitive advantages. .Over the long-term, expect each company's stock price ultimately to track the growth in the value of the business. 1 2. BUY HIGH-QUALITY GROWTH BUSINESSES THAT POSSESS STRONG BUSINESS FRAN- CHISES, FAVORABLE LONG-TERM PROSPECTS AND EXCELLENT MANAGEMENT. 3. PURCHASE SUPERIOR LONG-TERM GROWTH COMPANIES AT A FAVORABLE PRICE--SEEK TO PURCHASE AT A FAIR VALUATION, GIVING THE INVESTOR THE POTENTIAL TO FULLY CAPTURE RETURNS FROM ABOVE-AVERAGE GROWTH RATES. Growth companies have earnings expectations that exceed those of the stock market as a whole. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- QUANTITATIVE ("CORE") STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' CORE Investment Philosophy: Goldman Sachs' quantitative style of funds--CORE--emphasizes the two build- ing blocks of active management: STOCK SELECTION and PORTFOLIO CONSTRUCTION. I. CORE Stock Selection The CORE Funds use the Goldman Sachs' proprietary multifactor model ("Multifactor Model"), a rigorous computerized rating system, to forecast the returns of securities held in each Fund's portfolio. The Multifactor Model incorporates common variables covering measures of: .VALUE (price-to-book, price-to-earnings, cash flow to enterprise value) .MOMENTUM (earnings momentum, price momentum, sustainable growth) .RISK (market risk, company-specific risk, earnings risk) .RESEARCH (fundamental research ratings of Goldman Sachs and other analysts) ALL OF THE ABOVE FACTORS ARE CAREFULLY EVALUATED WITHIN THE MULTIFACTOR MODEL SINCE EACH HAS DEMONSTRATED A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SECURITIES AND MARKETS THEY WERE DESIGNED TO FORECAST. STOCK SELECTION IN THIS PROCESS COMBINES BOTH OUR QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS. II. CORE Portfolio Construction A proprietary COMPUTER OPTIMIZER calculates every security combination (at every possible weighting) to CONSTRUCT THE MOST EFFICIENT RISK/RETURN PORT- FOLIO given each CORE Fund benchmark. In this process, the Investment Adviser manages risk by limiting deviations from the benchmark, running size and sector neutral portfolios. Goldman Sachs CORE Funds are fully invested, broadly diversified and offer consistent overall portfolio characteristics. They may serve as good founda- tions on which to build a portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and current income Benchmarks: S&P 500 Index and Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. stocks and fixed-income securi- ties Investment Style: Asset Allocation, with growth and value (blend) equity components INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks to provide long-term growth of capital and current income. The Fund seeks growth of capital primarily through investments in equity securities (stocks). The Fund seeks to provide current income through investment in fixed-income securities (bonds). PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Historically, stock and bond markets have often had different cycles, with one asset class rising when the other is falling. A balanced objective seeks to reduce the volatility associated with investing in a single market. There is no guarantee, however, that market cycles will move in opposition to one another or that a balanced investment program will successfully reduce vola- tility. The percentage of the portfolio invested in equity and fixed-income securi- ties will vary from time to time as the Investment Adviser evaluates such securities' relative attractiveness based on market valuations, economic growth and inflation prospects. The allocation between equity and fixed- income securities is subject to the Fund's intention to pay regular quar- terly dividends. The amount of quarterly dividends can also be expected to fluctuate in accordance with factors such as prevailing interest rates and the percentage of the Fund's assets invested in fixed-income securities. 3 Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, between 45% and 65% of its total assets in equity securities. Although the Fund's equity investments consist primarily of publicly traded U.S. securities, the Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in the equity securities of foreign issuers, including issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries") and equity securities quoted in foreign currencies. A portion of the Fund's portfolio of equity securities may be selected primar- ily to provide current income (including interests in real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), convertible securities, preferred stocks, utility stocks, and interests in limited partnerships). Fixed Income Securities. The Fund invests at least 25% of its total assets in fixed-income senior securities. The remainder of the Fund's assets are invested in other fixed-income securities and cash. The Fund's fixed-income securities primarily include: .Securities issued by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises .Securities issued by corporations, banks and other issuers .Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities The Fund may also invest up to 10% of its total assets in debt obligations (U.S. dollar and non-U.S.-dollar denominated) issued or guaranteed by one or more foreign governments or any of their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities and foreign corporations or other entities. The issuers of these securities may be located in emerging countries. 4 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and growth of income Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. equity securities with an emphasis on undervalued stocks Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and growth of income. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities that the Investment Adviser considers to have favorable prospects for capital appreciation and/or divi- dend-paying ability. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in for- eign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations, that offer the potential to further the Fund's investment objective. 5 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and dividend income Benchmark: Russell 1000 Value Index Investment Focus: Diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap U.S. issuers selling at low to modest valuations Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap value stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and dividend income. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities of large-cap U.S. issuers that are selling at low to modest valua- tions relative to general market measures, such as earnings, book value and other fundamental accounting measures, and that are expected to have favora- ble prospects for capital appreciation and/or dividend-paying ability. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 1000 Value Index. The Fund seeks a portfolio comprised of companies with above average capitalizations and low to moderate valuations as measured by price/earnings ratios, book value and other fundamental accounting measures. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 6 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital and dividend income Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap growth and value (blend) stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital and dividend income. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of large-cap and blue chip equity securities representing all major sectors of the U.S. economy. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the S&P 500 Index. The Fund seeks a broad repre- sentation in most major sectors of the U.S. economy and a portfolio com- prised of companies with average long-term earnings growth expectations and dividend yields. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 7 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital; dividend income is a secondary consideration Benchmark: Russell 1000 Growth Index Investment Focus: Large-cap, growth-oriented U.S. stocks Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to large-cap growth stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap U.S. issuers that are expected to have better prospects for earnings growth than the growth rate of the general domestic economy. Dividend income is a secondary consideration. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Investment Adviser emphasizes a company's growth prospects in analyzing equity securities to be purchased by the Fund. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintain- ing risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 1000 Growth Index. The Fund seeks a portfolio comprised of companies with above average capitalizations and earnings growth expectations and below average dividend yields. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 8 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: Russell 2000 Index Investment Focus: Stocks of small capitalization U.S. companies Investment Style: Quantitative, applied to small-cap growth and value (blend) stocks INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of U.S. issuers which are included in the Russell 2000 Index at the time of investment. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of U.S. issuers, including for- eign issuers that are traded in the United States. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the Russell 2000 Index. The Fund seeks a portfo- lio comprised of companies with small market capitalizations, strong expected earnings growth and momentum, and better valuation and risk charac- teristics than the Russell 2000 Index. If the issuer of a portfolio security held by the Fund is no longer included in the Russell 2000 Index, the Fund may, but is not required to, sell the security. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered cash equivalents. 9 Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities that offer long-term capital appreciation potential Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to have long-term capi- tal appreciation potential. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in for- eign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 10 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P 500 Index Investment Focus: Large-cap U.S. equity securities that are considered to be strategically positioned for consistent long-term growth Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity secu- rities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be strategically positioned for consistent long-term growth. Although the Fund invests pri- marily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 11 Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: S&P Midcap 400 Index Investment Focus: U.S. equity securities that offer long-term capital appreciation with a primary focus on mid-capitalization companies Investment Style: Growth INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities with a primary focus on mid-cap companies. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity securities that are considered by the Investment Adviser to be strategically positioned for long-term growth. Although the Fund invests primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 10% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. 12 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Russell Midcap Value Index Investment Focus: Mid-capitalization U.S. stocks that are believed to be undervalued or undiscovered by the marketplace Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all of its assets in equity securities and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of mid-cap companies with public stock market capitalizations (based upon shares available for trading on an unrestricted basis) within the range of the market capitalization of companies constitut- ing the Russell Midcap Value Index at the time of investment (currently between $300 million and $15 billion). If the capitalization of an issuer decreases below $300 million or increases above $15 billion after purchase, the Fund may, but is not required to, sell the securities. Dividend income, if any, is an incidental consideration. Although the Fund will invest pri- marily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 13 Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmark: Russell 2000 Value Index Investment Focus: Small-capitalization U.S. stocks that are believed to be undervalued or undiscovered by the marketplace Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies with public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment. Under normal circumstances, the Fund's investment horizon for ownership of stocks will be two to three years. Dividend income, if any, is an incidental consideration. If the market capitalization of a company held by the Fund increases above $1 billion, the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, continue to hold the security. The Fund invests in companies which the Investment Adviser believes are well- managed niche businesses that have the potential to achieve high or improving returns on capital and/or above average sustainable growth. The Fund may invest in securities of small market capitalization companies which may have experienced financial difficulties. Investments may also be made in companies that are in the early stages of their life and that the Investment Adviser believes have significant growth potential. The Investment Adviser believes that the companies in which the Fund may invest offer greater opportunity for growth of capital than larger, more mature, better known companies. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securi- ties, including securities of issuers in emerging countries and securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in companies with public stock market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion at the time of investment and in fixed-income securities, such as govern- ment, corporate and bank debt obligations. 14 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Russell 1000 Value Index Investment Focus: Large capitalization U.S. equity securities that are believed to be undervalued Investment Style: Value INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities. The Fund seeks its investment objective by investing in value opportunities that the Investment Adviser defines as companies with identifiable competitive advantages whose intrin- sic value is not reflected in the stock price. Although the Fund will invest primarily in publicly traded U.S. securities, it may invest up to 25% of its total assets in foreign securities, including securities quoted in foreign currencies. Other. The Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 15 Other Investment Practices and Securities The table below identifies some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by the Funds in seeking to achieve their investment objectives. The table also highlights the differences among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securi- ties. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only; for actual usage, con- sult the Fund's annual/semi-annual reports. For more information see Appendix A. 10Percent of total assets (italic type) 10Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage;limited only by the objectives and strategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
GROWTH CORE CORE BALANCED AND INCOME LARGE CAP U.S. EQUITY FUND FUND VALUE FUND FUND - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Practices Borrowings 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Credit, currency, index, interest rate and mortgage swaps* 15 -- -- -- Cross Hedging of Currencies . -- -- -- Custodial receipts . . . . Equity Swaps* 15 15 15 15 Foreign Currency Transactions** ./1/ . . . Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts . . ./2/ ./3/ Interest rate caps, floors and collars . -- -- -- Investment Company Securities (including World Equity Benchmark Shares and Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts) 10 10 10 10 Loan Participations . -- -- -- Mortgage Dollar Rolls . -- -- -- Options on Foreign Currencies/4/ . . . . Options on Securities and Securities Indices/5/ . . . . Repurchase Agreements . . . . Reverse Repurchase Agreements (for investment purposes) . -- -- -- Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short Sales Against the Box 25 25 -- -- Unseasoned Companies . . . . Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights . . . . When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments . . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. ** Limited by the amount the Fund invests in foreign securities. 1 The Balanced Fund may also enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts to seek to increase total return. 2 The CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds may enter into futures transactions only with respect to a represen- tative index. 3 The CORE U.S. Equity Fund may enter into futures transactions only with respect to the S&P 500 Index. 4 The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options. 5 The Funds may sell covered call and put options and purchase call and put options. 16 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
CORE CORE CAPITAL STRATEGIC GROWTH MID CAP SMALL CAP LARGE CAP LARGE CAP SMALL CAP GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES VALUE VALUE VALUE GROWTH FUND EQUITY FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 . . . . . . . . ./2/ ./2/ . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 -- -- 25 25 25 25 25 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17 10Percent of total assets (italic type) 10Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited only by the objectives andstrategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
GROWTH CORE CORE BALANCED AND INCOME LARGE CAP U.S. EQUITY FUND FUND VALUE FUND FUND - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Securities American, European and Global Depository Receipts . . ./6/ ./6/ Asset-Backed and Mortgage- Backed Securities/7/ . . -- -- Bank Obligations/7/ . . . . Convertible Securities/8/ . . . . Corporate Debt Obligations/7/ . . . /9/ . /9/ Equity Securities 45-65 65+ 90+ 90+ Emerging Country Securities 10/10/ 25/10/ -- -- Fixed Income Securities/11/ 35-45/17/ 35 10 /9/ 10 /9/ Foreign Securities 10/10/ 25/10/ . /13/ . /13/ Foreign Government Securities/7/ . -- -- -- Municipal Securities . -- -- -- Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities 10/14/ 10/15/ -- -- Real Estate Investment Trusts . . . . Stripped Mortgage Backed Securities/7/ . -- -- -- Structured Securities* . . . . Temporary Investments 100 100 35 35 U.S. Government Securities/7/ . . . . Yield Curve Options and Inverse Floating Rate Securities . -- -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 6 The CORE Funds may not invest in European Depository Receipts. 7 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. 8 Convertible securities purchased by the Balanced Fund must be B or higher by Standard & Poor's Rating Group ("Standard & Poor's") or Moody's Investor's Service, Inc. ("Moody's"). The CORE Funds have no minimum rating criteria and all other Funds use the same rating criteria for convertible and non- convertible debt securities. 9 Cash equivalents only. 10 The Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value and Small Cap Value Funds may invest in the aggregate up to 10%, 25%, 10%, 10%, 10%, 25% and 25%, respectively, of their total assets in foreign securities, including emerging country securities. 11 Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed- income securities must be investment grade (i.e., BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's). 12 The Small Cap Value Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) the equity securities of companies with public stock market capitalizations in excess of $1 billion at the time of investment; and (2) fixed-income securities. 13 Equity securities of foreign issuers must be traded in the United States. 14 Must be at least BB or B by Standard & Poor's or Ba or B by Moody's. 18 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
CORE CORE CAPITAL STRATEGIC GROWTH MID CAP SMALL CAP LARGE CAP LARGE CAP SMALL CAP GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES VALUE VALUE VALUE GROWTH FUND EQUITY FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ . /6/ . /6/ . . . . . . -- -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . /9/ . /9/ . . . . . . 90+ 90+ 90+ 90+ 90+ 65+ 65+ 90+ -- -- 10/10/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 25/10/ 25/10/ -- 10 /9/ 10 /9/ . . . 35 35/12/ 10 . /13/ . /13/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 10/10/ 25/10/ 25/10/ 25 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10/15/ 10/15/ 10/15/ 10/16/ 35/15/ 10/15/ . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- . . . . . . . . 35 35 100 100 100 100 100 100 . . . . . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. May be BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's. 16 Must be B or higher by Standard & Poor's or B or higher by Moody's. 17 The Balanced Fund invests at least 25% of its total assets in fixed-income senior securities; the remainder is invested in other fixed-income securi- ties and cash. 19 Principal Risks of the Funds Loss of money is a risk of investing in each Fund. An investment in a Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The following summarizes important risks that apply to the Funds and may result in a loss of your investment. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete invest- ment program. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.
CORE CORE CORE GROWTH LARGE CORE LARGE SMALL AND CAP U.S. CAP CAP .APPLICABLE BALANCED INCOME VALUE EQUITY GROWTH EQUITY - --NOT APPLICABLE FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Credit/Default . . . . . . Foreign . . . . . . Emerging Countries . . . . . . Small Cap/REIT -- -- -- -- -- . Stock . . . . . . Derivatives . . . . . . Interest Rate . . . . . . Management . . . . . . Market . . . . . . Liquidity . . . . . . Other . . . . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS
MID SMALL LARGE CAPITAL STRATEGIC GROWTH CAP CAP CAP GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES VALUE VALUE VALUE FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -- -- -- . . -- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21 All Funds: .CREDIT/DEFAULT RISK--The risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities held by a Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. .FOREIGN RISKS--The risk that when a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with domestic issuers. Loss may result because of less foreign government regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social stability. Loss may also result from the imposition of exchange controls, confiscations and other government restrictions. A Fund will also be subject to the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when a Fund invests in issuers located in emerging countries. .EMERGING COUNTRIES RISK--The securities markets of Asian, Latin American, Eastern European, African and other emerging countries are less liquid, are especially subject to greater price volatility, have smaller market capital- izations, have less government regulation and are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. Further, investment in equity securities of issuers located in Russia and certain other emerging countries involves risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration and cus- tody and substantial economic and political disruptions. These risks are not normally associated with investments in more developed countries. .STOCK RISK--The risk that stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. As of the date of this Prospectus, U.S. stock markets and certain foreign stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels. There is no guarantee that such levels will continue. .DERIVATIVES RISK--The risk that loss may result from a Fund's investments in options, futures, swaps, structured securities and other derivative instru- ments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes may produce disproportionate losses to a Fund. .INTEREST RATE RISK--The risk that when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities held by a Fund will decline in value. Long-term fixed-income secu- rities will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term securities. .MANAGEMENT RISK--The risk that a strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results. .MARKET RISK--The risk that the value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. 22 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS .LIQUIDITY RISK--The risk that a Fund will not be able to pay redemption pro- ceeds within the time period stated in this Prospectus because of unusual mar- ket conditions, an unusually high volume of redemption requests, or other rea- sons. Funds that invest in non-investment grade fixed-income securities, small capitalization stocks, REITs and emerging country issuers will be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. The Goldman Sachs Asset Allocation Portfolios (the "Asset Allocation Portfolios") expect to invest a significant percentage of their assets in the Funds and other funds for which Goldman Sachs now or in the future acts as investment adviser or underwriter. Redemptions by an Asset Allocation Portfolio of its position in a Fund may further increase liquidity risk and may impact a Fund's net asset value ("NAV"). .OTHER RISKS--Each Fund is subject to other risks, such as the risk that its operations, or the value of its portfolio securities, will be disrupted by the "Year 2000 Problem." Specific Funds: .SMALL CAP STOCK AND REIT RISK--The securities of small capitalization stocks and REITs involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more estab- lished companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. More information about the Funds' portfolio securities and investment tech- niques, and their associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should con- sider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice. 23 Fund Performance HOW THE FUNDS HAVE PERFORMED The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of invest- ing in a Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of a Fund's Service Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of a Fund's Service Shares compare to those of broad-based securities market indices. The bar chart and table assume reinvestment of dividends and distributions. A Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Performance reflects expense limitations in effect. If expense limitations were not in place, a Fund's performance would have been reduced. The Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations as of the date of this Prospectus. The CORE Large Cap Value, Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 24, 1999 and May 24, 1999, respectively. Since these Funds have less than one calendar year's performance, no performance information is provided in this section. 24 FUND PERFORMANCE Balanced Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 0.38%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +7.99% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -8.76% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 3.40% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION ---------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 8/15/97) 3.40% 3.74% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.80% Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index** 8.69% 9.67% ----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged index of bond prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 25 Growth and Income Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was -2.36 %. Best Quarter Q2 '97 +15.16% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -16.98% [BAR GRAPH] 1997 27.87% 1998 -5.45% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION ---------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 3/6/96) (5.45)% 13.69% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 28.08% ----------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 26 FUND PERFORMANCE CORE U.S. Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 6.30%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +21.46% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -14.68% [BAR GRAPH] 1997 32.02% 1998 21.32% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION --------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 6/7/96) 21.32% 24.39% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 28.72% ---------------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 27 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 9.17%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +25.52% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -14.00% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 30.13% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION --------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 5/1/97) 30.13% 31.40% Russell 1000 Growth Index* 38.72% 36.81% ---------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 1000 Growth Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 28 FUND PERFORMANCE CORE Small Cap Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 1.19%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +14.37% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -24.34% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -6.06% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31,1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION ---------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 8/15/97) (6.06)% 1.04% Russell 2000 Index* (2.55)% 2.84% ----------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 29 Capital Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 5.48%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +24.32% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -11.51% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 33.69% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION ---------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 8/15/97) 33.69% 29.49% S&P 500 Index* 28.57% 24.80% -----------------------------------------------------------
* The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor's Composite Index of 500 stocks, an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 30 FUND PERFORMANCE Mid Cap Value Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was -2.00%. Best Quarter Q1 '98 +11.59% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -20.81% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -5.90% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION ---------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 7/18/97) (5.90)% (0.93)% Russell Midcap Value Index* 5.10% 12.23% Russell Midcap Index** 10.09% 13.00% ------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell Midcap Value Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replacing the Russell Midcap Index as the Mid Cap Value Fund's perfor- mance benchmark. The Russell Midcap Value Index includes more value-ori- ented stocks and, therefore, is expected to be a better benchmark compari- son for the Fund's performance. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Russell Midcap Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 31 Small Cap Value Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was -0.21%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +13.32% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -32.23% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -16.92% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION ----------------------------------------------------------------- SERVICE SHARES (Inception 8/15/97) (16.92)% (7.86)% Russell 2000 Value Index* (6.44)% 2.50% Russell 2000 Index** (2.55)% 2.84% -----------------------------------------------------------------
* The Russell 2000 Value Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replacing the Russell 2000 Index as the Small Cap Value Fund's performance benchmark. The Russell 2000 Value Index includes more value-oriented stocks and, therefore, is expected to be a better benchmark comparison for the Fund's performance. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index of common stock prices. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 32 [This page intentionally left blank] 33 Fund Fees and Expenses (Service Shares) This table describes the fees and expenses that you would pay if you buy and hold Service Shares of a Fund.
GROWTH CORE CORE AND LARGE CAP U.S. BALANCED INCOME VALUE EQUITY FUND FUND FUND FUND - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases None None None None Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None None Redemption Fees None None None None Exchange Fees None None None None ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT ARE DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS):1 Management Fees2 0.65% 0.70% 0.60% 0.75% Service Fees3 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% Other Expenses4 0.27% 0.10% 0.21% 0.09% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.42% 1.30% 1.31% 1.34% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 36 for all other footnotes. * As a result of current waivers and expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Funds which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The waivers and expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
GROWTH CORE CORE AND LARGE CAP U.S. BALANCED INCOME VALUE EQUITY FUND FUND FUND FUND ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):1 Management Fees2 0.65% 0.70% 0.60% 0.70% Service Fees3 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% Other Expenses4 0.05% 0.09% 0.04% 0.04% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current waivers and expense limitations) 1.20% 1.29% 1.14% 1.24% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
34 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
CORE CORE LARGE CAP SMALL CAP CAPITAL STRATEGIC GROWTH MID CAP SMALL CAP LARGE CAP GROWTH EQUITY GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES VALUE VALUE VALUE FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None 0.75% 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 0.75% 1.00% 0.75% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.11% 0.42% 0.07% 2.41% 2.70% 0.22% 0.21% 1.01% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.36% 1.77% 1.57% 3.91% 4.20% 1.47% 1.71% 2.26% - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CORE CORE LARGE CAP SMALL CAP CAPITAL STRATEGIC GROWTH MID CAP SMALL CAP LARGE CAP GROWTH EQUITY GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES VALUE VALUE VALUE FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.60% 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 0.75% 1.00% 0.75% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.04% 0.08% 0.04% 0.04% 0.04% 0.14% 0.10% 0.10% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.14% 1.43% 1.54% 1.54% 1.54% 1.39% 1.60% 1.35% - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35 Fund Fees and Expenses continued /1/The Fund's operating expenses for the current fiscal year have been annualized for the seven-month period (February 1, 1999 through August 31, 1999). The operating expenses for the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities and Large Cap Value Funds are estimated for the current year. /2/The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed not to impose a portion of the management fee on the CORE U.S. Equity Fund and the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund equal to 0.05% and 0.15%, respectively, of such Funds' average daily net assets. AS A RESULT OF FEE WAIVERS, THE CURRENT MANAGEMENT FEES OF THE CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND AND CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND ARE 0.70% AND 0.60%, RESPEC- TIVELY, OF SUCH FUNDS' AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS. THE WAIVERS MAY BE TERMI- NATED AT ANY TIME AT THE OPTION OF THE INVESTMENT ADVISER. /3/Service Organizations may charge other fees to their customers who are bene- ficial owners of Service Shares in connection with their customers' accounts. Such fees may affect the return customers realize with respect to their investments. /4/"Other Expenses" include transfer agency fees equal to 0.04% of the average daily net assets of each Fund's Service Shares, plus all other ordinary expenses not detailed above. The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce or limit "Other Expenses" (excluding management fees, transfer agency fees, service fees, taxes, interest and brokerage fees and litigation, indem- nification and other extraordinary expenses) to the following percentages of each Fund's average daily net assets:
OTHER FUND EXPENSES - ----------------------- Balanced 0.01% Growth and Income 0.05% CORE Large Cap Value 0.00% CORE U.S. Equity 0.00% CORE Large Cap Growth 0.00% CORE Small Cap Equity 0.04% Capital Growth 0.00% Strategic Growth 0.00% Growth Opportunities 0.00% Mid Cap Value 0.10% Small Cap Value 0.06% Large Cap Value 0.06%
36 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES Example The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in a Fund (without the waivers and expense limitations) with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in Service Shares of a Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your invest- ment has a 5% return each year and that a Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assump- tions your costs would be:
FUND 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS - ------------------------------------------------------ BALANCED $145 $449 $776 $1,702 - ------------------------------------------------------ GROWTH AND INCOME $132 $412 $713 $1,568 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE LARGE CAP VALUE $133 $415 $718 $1,579 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE U.S. EQUITY $136 $425 $734 $1,613 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH $138 $431 $745 $1,635 - ------------------------------------------------------ CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY $180 $557 $959 $2,084 - ------------------------------------------------------ CAPITAL GROWTH $160 $496 $855 $1,867 - ------------------------------------------------------ STRATEGIC GROWTH $393 $1,192 N/A N/A - ------------------------------------------------------ GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES $422 $1,275 N/A N/A - ------------------------------------------------------ MID CAP VALUE $150 $465 $803 $1,757 - ------------------------------------------------------ SMALL CAP VALUE $174 $539 $928 $2,019 - ------------------------------------------------------ LARGE CAP VALUE $229 $706 N/A N/A - ------------------------------------------------------
Service Organizations that invest in Service Shares on behalf of their custom- ers may charge other fees directly to their customer accounts in connection with their investments. You should contact your Service Organization for infor- mation regarding such charges. Such fees, if any, may affect the return such customers realize with respect to their investments. Certain Service Organizations that invest in Service Shares may receive other compensation in connection with the sale and distribution of Service Shares or for services to their customers' accounts and/or the Funds. For additional information regarding such compensation, see "Shareholder Guide" in the Pro- spectus and "Other Information" in the Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). 37 Service Providers INVESTMENT ADVISERS
INVESTMENT ADVISER FUND --------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM") Balanced 32 Old Slip Growth and Income New York, New York 10005 CORE Large Cap Value CORE Large Cap Growth CORE Small Cap Equity Strategic Growth Growth Opportunities Mid Cap Value Small Cap Value Large Cap Value --------------------------------------------------------------------- Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. ("GSFM") CORE U.S. Equity 32 Old Slip Capital Growth New York, New York 10005 ---------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 1, 1999, the Investment Management Division ("IMD") was established as a new operating division of Goldman Sachs. This newly created entity includes GSAM and GSFM. Goldman Sachs registered as an investment adviser in 1981. GSFM, a registered investment adviser since 1990, is a Del- aware limited partnership which is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P., which controlled the Investment Advisers, merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offer- ing. As of September 30, 1999, GSAM and GSFM, along with other units of IMD, had assets under management of $203 billion. The Investment Adviser provides day-to-day advice regarding the Funds' port- folio transactions. The Investment Adviser makes the investment decisions for the Funds and places purchase and sale orders for the Funds' portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any brokers, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Funds, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates for portfolio decisions and management with respect to certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to the research and certain proprietary technical models developed by Goldman Sachs, and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities. 38 SERVICE PROVIDERS The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Funds: . Supervises all non-advisory operations of the Funds . Provides personnel to perform necessary executive, administrative and clerical services to the Funds . Arranges for the preparation of all required tax returns, reports to shareholders, prospectuses and statements of additional information and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other regulatory authorities . Maintains the records of each Fund . Provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services MANAGEMENT FEES As compensation for its services and its assumption of certain expenses, the Investment Adviser is entitled to the following fees, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rates listed below (as a percentage of each respective Fund's average daily net assets):
ACTUAL RATE FOR THE FISCAL PERIOD ENDED CONTRACTUAL RATE AUGUST 31, 1999 --------------------------------------------------------- GSAM: --------------------------------------------------------- Balanced 0.65% 0.65% --------------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income 0.70% 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value 0.60% 0.60% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth 0.75% 0.60% --------------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity 0.85% 0.85% --------------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value 0.75% 0.75% --------------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value 1.00% 1.00% --------------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value 0.75% N/A --------------------------------------------------------- GSFM: --------------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity 0.75% 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth 1.00% 1.00% ---------------------------------------------------------
The difference, if any, between the stated fees and the actual fees paid by the Funds reflects that the Investment Adviser did not charge the full amount of the fees to which it would have been entitled. The Investment Adviser may discontinue or modify any such voluntary limitations in the future at its discretion. 39 FUND MANAGERS M. Roch Hillenbrand, a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs since 1997, is the Head of Global Equities for GSAM, overseeing the United States, Europe, Japan, and non-Japan Asia. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the group as it defines and implements global portfolio management processes that are consistent, reliable and predictable. Since 1981, Mr. Hillenbrand has been President of Commodities Corporation LLC, of which Goldman Sachs is the parent company. Over the course of his 19-year career at Commodities Corporation, Mr. Hillenbrand has had extensive experience in dealing with internal and external investment managers who have managed a range of futures and equities strategies across multiple markets, using a variety of styles. Value Team .Thirteen portfolio managers/analysts compose the Investment Adviser's value investment team .Multi-sector focus provides a balanced perspective .Across all value products, the Investment Adviser leverages the industry research expertise of its small, mid and large cap investment teams - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Value Team
YEARS FUND PRIMARILY NAME AND TITLE RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBLE FIVE YEAR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eileen A. PORTFOLIO SINCE MS. APTMAN JOINED THE INVESTMENT Aptman MANAGER-- 1996 ADVISER AS A RESEARCH ANALYST IN VICE PRESIDENT MID CAP VALUE 1997 1993. SHE BECAME A PORTFOLIO SMALL CAP VALUE MANAGER IN 1996. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Matthew B. PORTFOLIO SINCE MR. MCLENNAN JOINED THE McLennan MANAGER-- 1996 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A RESEARCH VICE PRESIDENT SMALL CAP VALUE 1998 ANALYST IN 1995 AND BECAME A MID CAP VALUE PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1996. FROM 1994 TO 1995, HE WORKED IN THE INVESTMENT BANKING DIVISION OF GOLDMAN SACHS IN AUSTRALIA. FROM 1991 TO 1994, MR. MCLENNAN WORKED AT QUEENSLAND INVESTMENT CORPORATION IN AUSTRALIA. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eileen Rominger SENIOR PORTFOLIO SINCE MS. ROMINGER JOINED THE MANAGING MANAGER-- GROWTH 1999 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A SENIOR DIRECTOR AND INCOME 1999 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1999. FROM MID CAP VALUE 1999 1981 TO 1999, SHE WORKED AT SMALL CAP VALUE 1999 OPPENHEIMER CAPITAL, MOST LARGE CAP VALUE 1999 RECENTLY AS A SENIOR PORTFOLIO BALANCED MANAGER. (EQUITY) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40 SERVICE PROVIDERS
YEARS FUND PRIMARILY NAME AND TITLE RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBLE FIVE YEAR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Karma Wilson PORTFOLIO SINCE MS. WILSON JOINED THE VICE PRESIDENT MANAGER-- 1998 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A BALANCED 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1994. (EQUITY) 1998 PRIOR TO 1994, SHE WAS AN GROWTH AND 1999 INVESTMENT ANALYST WITH INCOME BANKERS TRUST AUSTRALIA LTD. MID CAP VALUE LARGE CAP VALUE - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quantitative Equity Team .A stable and growing team supported by an extensive internal staff .Access to the research ideas of Goldman Sachs' renowned Global Investment Research Department .More than $23 billion in equities currently under management - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quantitative Equity Team
YEARS PRIMARILY NAME AND TITLE FUND RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBLE FIVE YEAR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Melissa Brown SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MS. BROWN JOINED THE VICE PRESIDENT CORE LARGE CAP VALUE 1998 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A CORE U.S. EQUITY 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH 1998 1998. FROM CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY 1998 1984 TO 1998, SHE WAS THE DIRECTOR OF QUANTITATIVE EQUITY RESEARCH AND SERVED ON THE INVESTMENT POLICY COMMITTEE AT PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Kent A. Clark SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. CLARK JOINED THE MANAGING CORE U.S. EQUITY 1996 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A DIRECTOR CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH 1997 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN THE CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY 1997 QUANTITATIVE EQUITY CORE LARGE CAP VALUE 1998 MANAGEMENT TEAM IN 1992. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert C. Jones SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. JONES JOINED THE MANAGING CORE U.S. EQUITY 1991 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A DIRECTOR CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH 1997 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY 1997 1989. CORE LARGE CAP VALUE 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Victor H. SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. PINTER JOINED THE Pinter CORE U.S. EQUITY 1996 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A VICE PRESIDENT CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH 1997 RESEARCH ANALYST IN CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY 1997 1990. HE BECAME A CORE LARGE CAP VALUE 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1992. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
41 Growth Equity Investment Team .18 year consistent investment style applied through diverse and complete market cycles .More than $12 billion in equities currently under management .More than 250 client account relationships .A portfolio management and analytical team with more than 150 years com- bined investment experience - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Growth Equity Investment Team
YEARS PRIMARILY NAME AND TITLE FUND RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBLE FIVE YEAR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ George D. Adler SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. ADLER JOINED THE VICE PRESIDENT BALANCED (EQUITY) 1997 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A CAPITAL GROWTH 1997 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 1997. FROM 1990 TO 1997, GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT LIBERTY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT, INC. ("LIBERTY"). - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Steve Barry SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. BARRY JOINED THE VICE PRESIDENT GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1999. FROM 1988 TO 1999, HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT ALLIANCE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Robert G. SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. COLLINS JOINED THE Collins CAPITAL GROWTH 1997 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS VICE PRESIDENT BALANCED (EQUITY) 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER AND STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 CO-CHAIR OF THE GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 EQUITY INVESTMENT COMMITTEE IN 1997. FROM 1991 TO 1997, HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT LIBERTY. HIS PAST EXPERIENCE INCLUDES WORK AS A SPECIAL SITUATIONS ANALYST WITH RAYMOND JAMES & ASSOCIATES FOR FIVE YEARS. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Herbert E. SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. EHLERS JOINED THE Ehlers CAPITAL GROWTH 1997 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A MANAGING BALANCED (EQUITY) 1998 SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER DIRECTOR STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 AND CHIEF INVESTMENT GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 OFFICER OF THE GROWTH EQUITY TEAM IN 1997. FROM 1994 TO 1997, HE WAS THE CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER AND CHAIRMAN OF LIBERTY. HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AND PRESIDENT AT LIBERTY'S PREDECESSOR FIRM, EAGLE ASSET MANAGEMENT ("EAGLE"), FROM 1984 TO 1994. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42 SERVICE PROVIDERS
YEARS PRIMARILY NAME AND TITLE FUND RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBLE FIVE YEAR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gregory H. SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. EKIZIAN JOINED THE Ekizian CAPITAL GROWTH 1997 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS VICE PRESIDENT BALANCED (EQUITY) 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER AND STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 CO-CHAIR OF THE GROWTH GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 EQUITY INVESTMENT COMMITTEE IN 1997. FROM 1990 TO 1997, HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT LIBERTY AND ITS PREDECESSOR FIRM, EAGLE. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Scott Kolar PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. KOLAR JOINED THE ASSOCIATE CAPITAL GROWTH 1999 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS AN STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 EQUITY ANALYST IN 1997 AND BECAME A PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1999. FROM 1994 TO 1997, HE WAS AN EQUITY ANALYST AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS SPECIALIST AT LIBERTY. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ David G. Shell SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. SHELL JOINED THE VICE PRESIDENT CAPITAL GROWTH 1997 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A BALANCED (EQUITY) 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 1997. FROM 1987 TO 1997, GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT LIBERTY AND ITS PREDECESSOR FIRM, EAGLE. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ernest C. SENIOR PORTFOLIO MANAGER-- SINCE MR. SEGUNDO JOINED THE Segundo, Jr. CAPITAL GROWTH 1997 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A VICE PRESIDENT BALANCED (EQUITY) 1998 PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN STRATEGIC GROWTH 1999 1997. FROM 1992 TO 1997, GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES 1999 HE WAS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT LIBERTY. - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed-Income Portfolio Management Team .Fixed-income portfolio management is comprised of a deep team of sector specialists .The team strives to maximize risk-adjusted returns by de-emphasizing inter- est rate anticipation and focusing on security selection and sector alloca- tion .The team manages approximately $29 billion in fixed-income assets for retail, institutional and high net worth clients - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed-Income Portfolio Management Team
YEARS PRIMARILY NAME AND TITLE FUND RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBLE FIVE YEAR EMPLOYMENT HISTORY - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jonathan A. SENIOR PORTFOLIO SINCE MR. BEINNER JOINED THE Beinner MANAGER-- 1994 INVESTMENT ADVISER AS A MANAGING BALANCED (FIXED- PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN 1990. DIRECTOR AND INCOME) CO-HEAD U.S. FIXED INCOME - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C. Richard Lucy SENIOR PORTFOLIO SINCE MR. LUCY JOINED THE INVESTMENT MANAGING MANAGER-- 1994 ADVISER AS A PORTFOLIO MANAGER DIRECTOR AND BALANCED (FIXED- IN 1992. CO-HEAD U.S. INCOME) FIXED INCOME - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43 DISTRIBUTOR AND TRANSFER AGENT Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor (the "Distributor") of each Fund's shares. Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6372, also serves as the Funds' transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent") and, as such, performs various shareholder servicing functions. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares acquired for its own account. ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affili- ates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to a Fund or limit a Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds. The results of a Fund's investment activities, therefore, may differ from those of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and it is possible that a Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affili- ates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Funds may, from time to time, enter into transactions in which other clients of Goldman Sachs have an adverse interest. A Fund's activities may be limited because of regula- tory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. YEAR 2000 Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to signify the year (for example, "98" for "1998"). On January 1, 2000, if these computer systems are not corrected, they may incorrectly interpret "00" as the year "1900" rather than the year "2000," leading to computer shutdowns or errors (commonly 44 SERVICE PROVIDERS known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). To the extent these systems conduct forward-looking calculations, these computer problems may occur prior to January 1, 2000. Like other investment companies and financial and business organizations, the Funds could be adversely affected in their ability to process securities trades, price securities, provide shareholder account services and otherwise conduct normal business operations if the Investment Adviser or other Fund service providers do not adequately address this prob- lem in a timely manner. In order to address the Year 2000 Problem, the Investment Adviser has taken the following measures: .The Investment Adviser has established a dedicated group which analyzed these issues and implemented system modifications to prepare for the Year 2000 Problem. .The Investment Adviser has either tested with or received assurance from the Fund's other service providers to confirm that they are taking reason- able steps to avoid Year 2000 Problems, and the Investment Adviser contin- ues to monitor the situation. .The Investment Adviser has developed broad and comprehensive contingency plans, as well as event management plans that will help manage the Fund through the date change by allowing the Investment Adviser to closely moni- tor and respond to Year 2000-related events as they unfold around the world. Currently, the Investment Adviser does not anticipate that the transition to the 21st century will have any material impact on its ability to continue to service the Funds at current levels. In addition, the Investment Adviser has undertaken measures to appropriately take into account available information concerning the Year 2000 prepared- ness of the issuers of securities held by the Funds. The Investment Adviser may obtain such Year 2000 information from various sources which the Invest- ment Adviser believes to be reliable, including the issuers' public regula- tory filings. However, the Investment Adviser is not in a position to verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. At this time, however, no assurance can be given that the actions taken by the Investment Adviser and the Funds' other service providers will be suffi- cient to avoid any adverse effect on the Funds due to the Year 2000 Problem. 45 Dividends Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains. You may choose to have dividends and distributions paid in: .Cash .Additional shares of the same class of the same Fund .Shares of the same or an equivalent class of another Goldman Sachs Fund. Spe- cial restrictions may apply for certain ILA Portfolios. See the Additional Statement. You may indicate your election on your Account Application. Any changes may be submitted in writing to Goldman Sachs at any time before the record date for a particular dividend or distribution. If you do not indicate any choice, your dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in the applicable Fund. The election to reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by you and then used to purchase the shares. Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are declared and paid as follows:
INVESTMENT CAPITAL GAINS FUND INCOME DIVIDENDS DISTRIBUTIONS - ----------------------------------------------------- Balanced QUARTERLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Growth and Income QUARTERLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Value QUARTERLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE U.S. Equity ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Large Cap Growth ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- CORE Small Cap Equity ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Capital Growth ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Strategic Growth ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Growth Opportunities ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Value ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Value ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - ----------------------------------------------------- Large Cap Value ANNUALLY ANNUALLY - -----------------------------------------------------
46 DIVIDENDS From time to time a portion of a Fund's dividends may constitute a return of capital. At the time of an investor's purchase of shares of a Fund, a portion of the NAV per share may be represented by undistributed income or undistributed realized appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities. Therefore, subsequent distri- butions on such shares from such income or realized appreciation may be taxable to you even if the NAV of the shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the cost of such shares and the distributions (or portions there- of) represent a return of a portion of the purchase price. 47 Shareholder Guide The following section will provide you with answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding buying and selling the Funds' Service Shares. HOW TO BUY SHARES How Can I Purchase Service Shares Of The Funds? Generally, Service Shares may be purchased only through institutions that have agreed to provide account administration and personal and account main- tenance services to their customers who are the beneficial owners of Service Shares. These institutions are called "Service Organizations." Customers of a Service Organization will normally give their purchase instructions to the Service Organization, and the Service Organization will, in turn, place pur- chase orders with Goldman Sachs. Service Organizations will set times by which purchase orders and payments must be received by them from their cus- tomers. Generally, Service Shares may be purchased from the Funds on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of an order by Goldman Sachs from a Service Organization. No sales load is charged. Pur- chases of Service Shares must be settled within three business days of receipt of a complete purchase order. Service Organizations are responsible for transmitting purchase orders and payments to Goldman Sachs in a timely fashion. Service Organizations should place an order with Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550 and either: .Wire federal funds to The Northern Trust Company ("Northern"), as subcustodian for State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") (each Fund's custodian) on the next business day; OR .Send a check or Federal Reserve draft payable to Goldman Sachs Funds--(Name of Fund and Class of Shares), 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372. The Fund will not accept a check drawn on a foreign bank or a third-party check. What Do I Need To Know About Service Organizations? Service Organizations may provide the following services in connection with their customers' investments in Service Shares: .Acting, directly or through an agent, as the sole shareholder of record .Maintaining account records for customers 48 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE .Processing orders to purchase, redeem or exchange shares for customers .Responding to inquiries from prospective and existing shareholders .Assisting customers with investment procedures In addition, some (but not all) Service Organizations are authorized to accept, on behalf of Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust"), purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers, and may des- ignate other intermediaries to accept such orders, if approved by the Trust. In these cases: .A Fund will be deemed to have received an order in proper form when the order is accepted by the authorized Service Organization or intermediary on a business day, and the order will be priced at the Fund's NAV next deter- mined after such acceptance. .Service Organizations or intermediaries will be responsible for transmit- ting accepted orders and payments to the Trust within the time period agreed upon by them. You should contact your Service Organization directly to learn whether it is authorized to accept orders for the Trust. Pursuant to a service plan adopted by the Trust's Board of Trustees, Service Organizations are entitled to receive payment for their services from the Trust of up to 0.50% (on an annualized basis) of the average daily net assets of the Service Shares of the Funds, which are attributable to or held in the name of the Service Organization for its customers. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay addi- tional compensation from time to time, out of their assets and not as an additional charge to the Funds, to selected Service Organizations and other persons in connection with the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of the Funds and other Goldman Sachs Funds. Additional compensation based on sales may, but is currently not expected to, exceed 0.50% (annualized) of the amount invested. In addition to Service Shares, each Fund also offers other classes of shares to investors. These other share classes are subject to different fees and expenses (which affect performance), have different minimum investment requirements and are entitled to different services than Service Shares. Information regard- ing these other share classes may be obtained from your sales representative or from Goldman Sachs by calling the number on the back cover of this Pro- spectus. What Is My Minimum Investment In The Funds? The Funds do not have any minimum purchase or account requirements with respect to Service Shares. A Service Organization may, however, impose a mini- 49 mum amount for initial and subsequent investments in Service Shares, and may establish other requirements such as a minimum account balance. A Service Organization may redeem Service Shares held by non-complying accounts, and may impose a charge for any special services. What Else Should I Know About Share Purchases? The Trust reserves the right to: .Reject or restrict any purchase or exchange orders by a particular pur- chaser (or group of related purchasers). This may occur, for example, when a pattern of frequent purchases, sales or exchanges of Service Shares of a Fund is evident, or if purchases, sales or exchanges are, or a subsequent abrupt redemption might be, of a size that would disrupt the management of a Fund. The Funds may allow Service Organizations to purchase shares with securities instead of cash if consistent with a Fund's investment policies and opera- tions and if approved by the Fund's Investment Adviser. How Are Shares Priced? The price you pay or receive when you buy, sell or exchange Service Shares is determined by a Fund's NAV. The Funds calculate NAV as follows: (Value of Assets of the Class) - (Liabilities of the Class) NAV = _______________________________ Number of Outstanding Shares of the Class The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations or, if accurate quotations are not readily available, the fair value of the Fund's invest- ments may be determined in good faith under procedures established by the Trustees. .NAV per share of each class is calculated by State Street on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (nor- mally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Fund shares will not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed. .When you buy shares, you pay the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. .When you sell shares, you receive the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. NOTE: THE TIME AT WHICH TRANSACTIONS AND SHARES ARE PRICED AND THE TIME BY WHICH ORDERS MUST BE RECEIVED MAY BE CHANGED IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY OR IF REGULAR TRADING ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE IS STOPPED AT A TIME OTHER THAN 4:00 P.M. NEW YORK TIME. 50 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days a Fund is closed. As a result, the NAV of a Fund that holds foreign securities may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or redeem Fund shares. In addition, the impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discre- tion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund operations and other relevant factors. HOW TO SELL SHARES How Can I Sell Service Shares Of The Funds? Generally, Service Shares may be sold (redeemed) only through Service Orga- nizations. Customers of a Service Organization will normally give their redemption instructions to the Service Organization, and the Service Organi- zation will, in turn, place redemption orders with the Funds. GENERALLY, EACH FUND WILL REDEEM ITS SERVICE SHARES UPON REQUEST ON ANY BUSINESS DAY AT THEIR NAV NEXT DETERMINED AFTER RECEIPT OF SUCH REQUEST IN PROPER FORM. Redemption proceeds may be sent to recordholders by check or by wire (if the wire instructions are on record). A Service Organization may request redemptions in writing or by telephone if the optional telephone redemption privilege is elected on the Account Application. ------------------------------------------------ BY WRITING: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ------------------------------------------------ BY TELEPHONE: 1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) ------------------------------------------------
What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests? The Trust, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent will not be liable for any loss you may incur in the event that the Trust accepts unauthorized tele- phone redemption requests that the Trust reasonably believes to be genuine. In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption and exchange requests by telephone, Goldman Sachs employs reasonable procedures specified by the Trust to confirm that such instructions are genuine. If reasonable procedures are not employed, the Trust may be liable for any loss due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. The following general policies are currently in effect: 51 .All telephone requests are recorded. .Any redemption request that requires money to go to an account or address other than that designated on the Account Application must be in writing and signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. The written request may be confirmed by telephone with both the requesting party and the designated bank account to verify instructions. .The telephone redemption option may be modified or terminated at any time. NOTE: IT MAY BE DIFFICULT TO MAKE TELEPHONE REDEMPTIONS IN TIMES OF DRASTIC ECONOMIC OR MARKET CONDITIONS. How Are Redemption Proceeds Paid? BY WIRE: The Funds will arrange for redemption proceeds to be wired as fed- eral funds to the bank account designated in the recordholder's Account Application. The following general policies govern wiring redemption pro- ceeds: .Redemption proceeds will normally be wired on the next business day in fed- eral funds (for a total of one business day delay), but may be paid up to three business days following receipt of a properly executed wire transfer redemption request. If the shares to be sold were recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay the redemption proceeds when the check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. If the Federal Reserve Bank is closed on the day that the redemption proceeds would ordinarily be wired, wiring the redemption proceeds may be delayed one additional business day. .To change the bank designated on your Account Application, you must send written instructions signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application to the Service Organization. .Neither the Trust nor Goldman Sachs assumes any responsibility for the per- formance of intermediaries or your Service Organization in the transfer process. If a problem with such performance arises, you should deal directly with such intermediaries or Service Organization. BY CHECK: A recordholder may elect in writing to receive redemption proceeds by check. Redemption proceeds paid by check will normally be mailed to the address of record within three business days of receipt of a properly exe- cuted redemption request. If the shares to be sold were recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay the redemption proceeds when the check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. What Else Do I Need To Know About Redemptions? The following generally applies to redemption requests: . Additional documentation may be required when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. A redemption request will not be in proper form until such additional documentation has been received. 52 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE . Service Organizations are responsible for the timely transmittal of redemption requests by their customers to the Transfer Agent. In order to facilitate the timely transmittal of redemption requests, Service Organi- zations may set times by which they must receive redemption requests. Service Organizations may also require additional documentation from you. The Trust reserves the right to: . Redeem the Service Shares of any Service Organization whose account bal- ance falls below $50 as a result of a redemption. The Funds will not redeem Service Shares on this basis if the value of the account falls below the minimum account balance solely as a result of market conditions. The Fund will give 60 days' prior written notice to allow a Service Organ- ization to purchase sufficient additional shares of the Fund in order to avoid such redemption. . Redeem the shares in other circumstances determined by the Board of Trust- ees to be in the best interest of the Trust. . Pay redemptions by a distribution in-kind of securities (instead of cash). If you receive redemption proceeds in-kind, you should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of those securities. Can I Exchange My Investment From One Fund To Another? A Service Organization may exchange Service Shares of a Fund at NAV for Service Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. The exchange privilege may be materially modified or withdrawn at any time upon 60 days' written notice.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR EXCHANGING SHARES: ------------------------------------------------------------------- BY WRITING: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .The recordholder name(s) and signature(s) .The account number .The Fund names and Class of Shares .The dollar amount to be exchanged .Mail the request to: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ------------------------------------------------------------------- BY TELEPHONE: If you have elected the telephone exchange privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -------------------------------------------------------------------
You should keep in mind the following factors when making or considering an exchange: .You should obtain and carefully read the prospectus of the Fund you are acquiring before making an exchange. 53 .All exchanges which represent an initial investment in a Fund must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirement of that Fund, except that this requirement may be waived at the discretion of the Trust. .Telephone exchanges normally will be made only to an identically registered account. .Shares may be exchanged among accounts with different names, addresses and social security or other taxpayer identification numbers only if the exchange instructions are in writing and are signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. .Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made. .It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic eco- nomic or market conditions. .Goldman Sachs may use reasonable procedures described under "What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests?" in an effort to prevent unau- thorized or fraudulent telephone exchange requests. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange is treated as a redemption of the shares surrendered in the exchange, on which you may be subject to tax, followed by a purchase of shares received in the exchange. You should con- sult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of an exchange. What Types Of Reports Will Be Sent Regarding Investments In Service Shares? Service Organizations will receive from the Funds annual reports containing audited financial statements and semi-annual reports. Service Organizations will also be provided with a printed confirmation for each transaction in their account and a monthly account statement. Service Organizations are responsible for providing these or other reports to their customers who are the beneficial owners of Service Shares in accordance with the rules that apply to their accounts with the Service Organizations. 54 Taxation TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Funds will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the Additional Statement. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax con- sequences of your investment in the Funds. Unless your investment is an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund shares. TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS Distributions you receive from the Funds are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Funds' income dividend distribu- tions and short-term capital gain distributions are taxable to you as ordi- nary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are taxable as long- term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund shares. Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December. A percentage of the Funds' dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. The Funds will inform sharehold- ers of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. Each Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Funds may deduct these taxes in computing their taxable income. If you buy shares of a Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend." 55 TAXES ON SALES Your sale of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. For tax purpos- es, the exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Goldman Sachs Fund is the same as a sale. When you sell your shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the shares and the amount received. Gen- erally, this gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds twelve months, except that any loss realized on shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the shares. OTHER INFORMATION When you open your account, you should provide your social security or tax identification number on your Account Application. By law, each Fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and any redemption proceeds if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. 56 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques A. General Portfolio Risks The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity securities. "Equity securities" include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock pur- chase rights. In general, stock values fluctuate in response to the activi- ties of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the value of the stocks that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cycli- cal, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. The volatility of equity securities means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. As of the date of this Prospectus, certain stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels and there can be no guarantee that such levels will continue. To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed-income securities, that Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed-income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to increase (al- though many mortgage related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to decline. Credit risk involves the risk that an issuer could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its invest- ment. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (exten- sion risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall suffi- ciently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to invest- ors. The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a lim- iting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of port- folio turn- 57 over (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calcu- lated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a state- ment of the Funds' historical portfolio turnover rates. The following sections provide further information on certain types of secu- rities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Among other things, the Addi- tional Statement describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether that Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs. B. Other Portfolio Risks RISKS OF INVESTING IN SMALL CAPITALIZATION COMPANIES AND REITS. Each Fund may invest in small capitalization companies and REITs. Investments in small capitalization companies and REITs involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the rea- sons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less cer- tain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Small capitalization companies and REITs may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current mar- ket prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient mar- ket liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Small capitalization companies and REITs include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited prod- uct lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments 58 APPENDIX A in small capitalization companies and REITs may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes. RISKS OF FOREIGN INVESTMENTS. Certain Funds may invest in foreign invest- ments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such invest- ments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the cur- rency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the port- folio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives divi- dends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends. The introduction of a single currency, the euro, on January 1, 1999 for par- ticipating nations in the European Economic and Monetary Union presents unique uncertainties, including the legal treatment of certain outstanding financial contracts after January 1, 1999 that refer to existing currencies rather than the euro; the establishment and maintenance of exchange rates for currencies being converted into the euro; the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies during the transition period from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2001 and beyond; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union ("EU"), may have an impact on the euro. These or other factors, including political and economic risks, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Funds. Because of the number of countries using this single currency, a significant portion of the assets held by the Funds may be denominated in the euro. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such proce- dures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transac- tions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may 59 be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and secu- rities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than secu- rities of comparable domestic issuers. Efforts in foreign countries to reme- diate potential Year 2000 problems are not as extensive as those in the United States. As a result, the operations of foreign markets, foreign issuers and foreign governments may be disrupted by the Year 2000 Problem, and the investment portfolio of a Fund may be adversely affected. Further- more, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of with- holding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the Funds, and political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries. Concentration of a Fund's assets in one or a few countries and currencies will subject a Fund to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geo- graphically concentrated. Investment in sovereign debt obligations by certain Funds involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obliga- tions of U.S. issuers. A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the avail- ability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sov- ereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"). Certain Funds may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the United States. EDRs and GDRs are receipts 60 APPENDIX A evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank. EDRs and GDRs are not neces- sarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. RISKS OF EMERGING COUNTRIES. Certain Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging coun- tries are generally located in the Asia-Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Latin and South America and Africa. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates and their respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement vol- ume limitations have been reached. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a spe- cific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportuni- ties in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents. Due to restrictions on direct invest- ment in equity securities in certain Asian countries, it is anticipated that a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries. Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substan- tial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation, which have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. 61 Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodi- cally used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffec- tion, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Invest- ing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropria- tion, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return from an investment in such country to the Fund. Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and often may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addi- tion, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to com- plete its contractual obligations. The creditworthiness of the local securi- ties firms used by the Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerg- ing countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those coun- tries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities mar- kets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor per- ceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Invest- 62 APPENDIX A ments in emerging countries may be more difficult to price precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes. A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. Due to the limited market for these instruments in emerging countries, the Investment Adviser does not currently anticipate that a sig- nificant portion of the Funds' currency exposure in emerging countries, if any, will be covered by such instruments. RISKS OF DERIVATIVE INVESTMENTS. A Fund's transactions, if any, in options, futures, options on futures, swaps, interest rate caps, floors and collars, structured securities and currency transactions involve additional risk of loss. Loss can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, or the risks arising from margin requirements and related leverage factors associated with such transactions. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates or currency prices. Each Fund may also invest in derivative investments for non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return). Investing for non- hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents even greater risk of loss. RISKS OF ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities which cannot be disposed of in seven days in the ordinary course of business at fair value. Illiquid securities include: .Both domestic and foreign securities that are not readily marketable .Certain stripped mortgage-backed securities .Repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days .Certain over-the-counter options .Certain structured securities and all swap transactions .Certain restricted securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 ("144A Securities") and, therefore, is liquid. Investing in 144A Securities may decrease the liquidity of a Fund's portfo- lio to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities. The purchase price and subsequent valuation of restricted and illiquid securities normally reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of com- parable securities for which a liquid market exists. 63 CREDIT RISKS. Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include securities (including zero coupon bonds) issued by the U.S. government (and its agen- cies, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises), foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Further informa- tion is provided in the Additional Statement. Debt securities rated BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality. Certain Funds may invest in fixed-income securities rated BB or Ba or below (or comparable unrated securities) which are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered predominantly speculative and may be ques- tionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, invest- ment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associ- ated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rat- ing organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected. TEMPORARY INVESTMENT RISKS. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain percentage of its total assets in: .U.S. government securities .Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's or P-2 by Moody's .Certificates of deposit .Bankers' acceptances .Repurchase agreements .Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective. 64 APPENDIX A C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associ- ated risks. Further information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Con- vertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are con- vertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar qual- ity. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed-income securities. Con- vertible securities have both equity and fixed-income risk characteristics. Like all fixed-income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible secu- rity, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed-income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to pur- chase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which is con- sidered a speculative practice. Some Funds may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of cor- relation between the two currencies. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (e.g., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar). 65 Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obli- gations. Since these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clear- inghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized prof- its, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. STRUCTURED SECURITIES. Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Struc- tured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be posi- tively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may pro- duce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Refer- ence. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than other types of fixed-income securities and may be more vol- atile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. REITS. Each Fund may invest in REITS. REITS are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with invest- ments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other 66 APPENDIX A respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests. OPTIONS ON SECURITIES, SECURITIES INDICES AND FOREIGN CURRENCIES. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument dur- ing the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase put and call options on any securities in which they may invest or on any securities index comprised of securities in which they may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which is con- sidered a speculative activity). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctu- ations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over- the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks. FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS. Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or pur- chase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A futures contract may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Funds may engage in futures transac- tions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges. Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent a Fund 67 invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise man- age their term structures, sector selection and durations in accordance with their investment objectives and policies. Each Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options. A Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as defined in regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. A Fund may not purchase or sell futures con- tracts or purchase or sell related options to seek to increase total return, except for closing purchase or sale transactions, if immediately thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on the Fund's outstanding positions in futures and related options entered into for the purpose of seeking to increase total return would exceed 5% of the mar- ket value of the Fund's net assets. Futures contracts and related options present the following risks: .While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. .Because perfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio posi- tion that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss. .The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writ- ing call options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. .Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV. .As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trad- ing, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund. .Futures contracts and options on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day. .Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. EQUITY SWAPS. Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other compo- nents of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps are 68 APPENDIX A derivatives and their value can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, a Fund may suffer a loss. The value of some components of an equity swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in inter- est rates. Furthermore, a Fund may suffer a loss if the counterparty defaults. WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES AND FORWARD COMMITMENTS. Each Fund may purchase when- issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a con- tract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, a Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate. REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securi- ties subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agree- ment. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable. In evaluating whether to enter into a repurchase agreement, the Investment Adviser will carefully consider the creditworthiness of the seller. Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may trans- fer uninvested cash 69 balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. LENDING OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES. Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers. The borrowers are required to secure their loan continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested in cash equivalents. To the extent that cash collateral is invested in other investment securities, such collateral will be subject to market deprecia- tion or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund. SHORT SALES AGAINST-THE-BOX. Certain Funds may make short sales against-the- box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short posi- tion is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any fur- ther consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short. PREFERRED STOCK, WARRANTS AND RIGHTS. Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and rights. Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earn- ings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. OTHER INVESTMENT COMPANIES. Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies (including SPDRs and WEBs, as defined below) subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act. These limitations include a prohibition on 70 APPENDIX A any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in securities of all investment companies. A Fund will indi- rectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies. Such other investment com- panies will have investment objectives, policies and restrictions substan- tially similar to those of the acquiring Fund and will be subject to sub- stantially the same risks. .STANDARD & POOR'S DEPOSITORY RECEIPTS. The Funds may, consistent with their investment policies, purchase Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts ("SPDRs"). SPDRs are securities traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX") that represent ownership in the SPDR Trust, a trust which has been established to accumulate and hold a portfolio of common stocks that is intended to track the price performance and dividend yield of the S&P 500. The SPDR Trust is sponsored by a subsidiary of the AMEX. SPDRs may be used for several reasons, including, but not limited to, facilitating the han- dling of cash flows or trading, or reducing transaction costs. The price movement of SPDRs may not perfectly parallel the price action of the S&P 500. .WORLD EQUITY BENCHMARK SHARES. World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") are shares of an investment company that invests substantially all of its assets in securities included in the MSCI indices for specified countries. WEBS are listed on the AMEX and were initially offered to the public in 1996. The market prices of WEBS are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and supply and demand of WEBS on the AMEX. To date, WEBS have traded at relatively modest discounts and premiums to their NAVs. However, WEBS have a limited operat- ing history and information is lacking regarding the actual performance and trading liquidity of WEBS for extended periods or over complete market cycles. In addition, there is no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will continue to be met or will remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting WEBS should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of a Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected. If such disruptions were to occur, a Fund could be required to reconsider the use of WEBS as part of its investment strategy. UNSEASONED COMPANIES. Each Fund may invest in companies (including predeces- sors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such com- panies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned compa- 71 nies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. CORPORATE DEBT OBLIGATIONS. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal, and include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obliga- tions issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and suprana- tional entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.). BANK OBLIGATIONS. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitations, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be gen- eral obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES AND RELATED CUSTODIAL RECEIPTS. Each Fund may invest in U.S. government securities and related custodial receipts. U.S. government securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or spon- sored enterprises. U.S. government securities may be supported by (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae")); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury (such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to pur- chase certain obligations of the issuer (such as the Federal National Mort- gage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac")); or (d) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. government securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. government securities, where the interest and principal compo- nents of stripped U.S. government securities are traded independently. Interests in U.S. government securities may be purchased in the form of cus- todial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, princi- pal payments 72 APPENDIX A or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. government. MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES. Certain Funds may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect partici- pations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are normally structured with one or more types of "credit enhancement." However, these mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage- backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturi- ties, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in cer- tain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives sub- stantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are gener- ally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securi- ties because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES. Certain Funds may invest in asset-backed securi- ties. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities are often sub- 73 ject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the under- lying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. According- ly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities gener- ally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. There is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support pay- ments on these securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. BORROWINGS. Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial insti- tutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes. A Fund may not make additional investments if borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. MORTGAGE DOLLAR ROLLS. Certain Funds may enter into mortgage dollar rolls. A mortgage dollar roll involves the sale by a Fund of securities for delivery in the current month. The Fund simultaneously contracts with the same counterparty to repurchase substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) but not identical securities on a specified future date. During the roll period, the Fund loses the right to receive principal and interest paid on the securities sold. However, the Fund benefits to the extent of any difference between (a) the price received for the securities sold and (b) the lower forward price for the future purchase and/or fee income plus the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the securities sold. Unless the ben- efits of a mortgage dollar roll exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss due to mortgage prepayments that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the roll, the use of this technique will diminish the Fund's performance. Successful use of mortgage dollar rolls depends upon the Investment Advis- er's ability to predict correctly interest rates and mortgage prepayments. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its prediction, a Fund may experi- ence a loss. For financial reporting and tax purposes, the Funds treat mort- gage dollar rolls as two separate transactions: one involving the purchase of a security and a separate transaction involving a sale. The Funds do not currently intend to enter into mortgage dollar rolls that are accounted for as a financing and do not treat them as borrowings. 74 APPENDIX A YIELD CURVE OPTIONS. Certain Funds may enter into options on the yield "spread" or differential between two securities. Such transactions are referred to as "yield curve" options. In contrast to other types of options, a yield curve option is based on the difference between the yields of desig- nated securities, rather than the prices of the individual securities, and is settled through cash payments. Accordingly, a yield curve option is prof- itable to the holder if this differential widens (in the case of a call) or narrows (in the case of a put), regardless of whether the yields of the underlying securities increase or decrease. The trading of yield curve options is subject to all of the risks associated with the trading of other types of options. In addition, such options pres- ent a risk of loss even if the yield of one of the underlying securities remains constant, or if the spread moves in a direction or to an extent which was not anticipated. REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. Certain Funds may enter into reverse repur- chase agreements. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the sale of securi- ties held by a Fund subject to the Fund's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price (including interest). These transactions may be entered into as a temporary measure for emergency purposes or to meet redemption requests. Reverse repurchase agreements may also be entered into when the Investment Adviser expects that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the transaction proceeds will be greater than the related interest expense. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leveraging. If the securities held by a Fund decline in value while these transactions are outstanding, the NAV of the Fund's outstanding shares will decline in value by proportionately more than the decline in value of the securities. In addition, reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the inter- est income earned by a Fund (from the investment of the proceeds) will be less than the interest expense of the transaction, that the market value of the securities sold by a Fund will decline below the price the Fund is obli- gated to pay to repurchase the securities, and that the securities may not be returned to the Fund. MUNICIPAL SECURITIES. Certain Funds may invest in securities and instruments issued by state and local government issuers. Municipal securities in which a Fund may invest consist of bonds, notes, commercial paper and other instruments (including participating interests in such securities) issued by or on behalf of states, territories and possessions of the United States (including the District of Columbia) and their political subdivisions, agen- cies or instrumentalities. Such securities may pay fixed, variable or float- ing rates of interest. Municipal securities are often issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities such as bridges, highways, housing, hospitals, mass trans- portation, schools, streets and water and sewer works. Other public 75 purposes for which municipal securities may be issued include refunding out- standing obligations, obtaining funds for general operating expenses, and obtaining funds to lend to other public institutions and facilities. Munici- pal securities in which a Fund may invest include private activity bonds, municipal leases, certificates of participation, pre-funded municipal secu- rities and auction rate securities. INTEREST RATE SWAPS, MORTGAGE SWAPS, CREDIT SWAPS, CURRENCY SWAPS AND INTER- EST RATE CAPS, FLOORS AND COLLARS. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, such as an exchange of fixed-rate payments for floating rate payments. Mortgage swaps are similar to interest rate swaps in that they represent commitments to pay and receive interest. The notional princi- pal amount, however, is tied to a reference pool or pools of mortgages. Credit swaps involve the receipt of floating or fixed rate payments in exchange for assuming potential credit losses of an underlying security. Credit swaps give one party to a transaction the right to dispose of or acquire an asset (or group of assets), or the right to receive or make a payment from the other party, upon the occurrence of specified credit events. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the parties' respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate, to receive payment of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling such interest rate cap. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. An interest rate collar is the combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest rates. Certain Funds may enter into swap transactions for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. The use of interest rate, mortgage, credit and currency swaps, as well as interest rate caps, floors and collars, is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transac- tions. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market value, interest rates and currency exchange rates, the investment perfor- mance of a Fund would be less favorable than it would have been if these investment techniques were not used. LOAN PARTICIPATIONS. Certain Funds may invest in loan participations. A loan participation is an interest in a loan to a U.S. or foreign company or other borrower which is administered and sold by a financial intermediary. A Fund may only invest in loans to issuers in whose obligations it may otherwise invest. Loan participation interests may take the form of a direct or co- lending relationship with the 76 APPENDIX A corporate borrower, an assignment of an interest in the loan by a co-lender or another participant, or a participation in the seller's share of the loan. When a Fund acts as co-lender in connection with a participation interest or when it acquires certain participation interests, the Fund will have direct recourse against the borrower if the borrower fails to pay scheduled principal and interest. In cases where the Fund lacks direct recourse, it will look to the agent bank to enforce appropriate credit reme- dies against the borrower. In these cases, the Fund may be subject to delays, expenses and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if the Fund had purchased a direct obligation (such as commercial paper) of such borrower. Moreover, under the terms of the loan participa- tion, the Fund may be regarded as a creditor of the agent bank (rather than of the underlying corporate borrower), so that the Fund may also be subject to the risk that the agent bank may become insolvent. INVERSE FLOATERS. Certain Funds may invest in inverse floating rate debt securities ("inverse floaters"). The interest rate on inverse floaters resets in the opposite direction from the market rate of interest to which the inverse floater is indexed. An inverse floater may be considered to be leveraged to the extent that its interest rate varies by a magnitude that exceeds the magnitude of the change in the index rate of interest. The higher the degree of leverage of an inverse floater, the greater the vola- tility of its market value. 77 Appendix B Financial Highlights The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand a Fund's financial performance for the past five years (or less if the Fund has not been in operation for less than five years). Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an invest- ment in a Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, whose report, along with a Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's annual report (available upon request). No financial highlights are included for the Large Cap Value Fund because it had no operating history prior to the date of this prospectus. BALANCED FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period income gain (loss) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $20.48 $0.32 $(0.19) 1999 - Class B Shares 20.37 0.22 (0.18) 1999 - Class C Shares 20.34 0.23 (0.19) 1999 - Institutional Shares 20.48 0.53 (0.35) 1999 - Service Shares 20.47 1.22 (1.14) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 20.29 0.58 0.20 1999 - Class B Shares 20.20 0.41 0.21 1999 - Class C Shares 20.17 0.41 0.21 1999 - Institutional Shares 20.29 0.64 0.20 1999 - Service Shares 20.28 0.53 0.21 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 18.78 0.57 2.66 1998 - Class B Shares 18.73 0.50 2.57 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.10 0.25 0.24 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.18 0.26 0.32 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 21.18 0.22 0.32 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 17.31 0.66 2.47 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 17.46 0.42 2.34 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 14.22 0.51 3.43 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. 78 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $(0.23) $ -- $ -- $(0.10) $20.38 0.62%d $169,395 1.10%c (0.15) -- -- (0.11) 20.26 0.20d 40,515 1.85c (0.15) -- -- (0.11) 20.23 0.18d 11,284 1.85c (0.27) -- -- (0.09) 20.39 0.86d 2,361 0.70c (0.18) -- -- (0.10) 20.37 0.39d 15 1.20c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.59) -- -- 0.19 20.48 3.94 192,453 1.04 (0.45) -- -- 0.17 20.37 3.15 43,926 1.80 (0.45) -- -- 0.17 20.34 3.14 14,286 1.80 (0.65) -- -- 0.19 20.48 4.25 8,010 0.73 (0.55) -- -- 0.19 20.47 3.80 490 1.23 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.56) -- (1.16) 1.51 20.29 17.54 163,636 1.00 (0.42) (0.02) (1.16) 1.47 20.20 16.71 23,639 1.76 (0.22) (0.04) (1.16) (0.93) 20.17 2.49d 8,850 1.77c (0.23) (0.08) (1.16) (0.89) 20.29 2.93d 8,367 0.76c (0.22) (0.06) (1.16) (0.90) 20.28 2.66d 16 1.26c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.66) -- (1.00) 1.47 18.78 18.59 81,410 1.00 (0.42) (0.07) (1.00) 1.27 18.73 16.22d 2,110 1.75c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.50) -- (0.35) 3.09 17.31 28.10 50,928 1.00 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Includes the effect of mortgage dollar roll transactions. 79 BALANCED FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income to expenses to income to Portfolio average net average average net turnover assets net assets assets rate/e/ - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 2.58%c 1.32%c 2.36%c 90.41%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.83c 2.07c 1.61c 90.41d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.84c 2.07c 1.62c 90.41d 1999 - Institutional Shares 2.96c 0.92c 2.74c 90.41d 1999 - Service Shares 2.46c 1.42c 2.24c 90.41d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 2.90 1.45 2.49 175.06 1999 - Class B Shares 2.16 2.02 1.94 175.06 1999 - Class C Shares 2.17 2.02 1.95 175.06 1999 - Institutional Shares 3.22 0.95 3.00 175.06 1999 - Service Shares 2.77 1.45 2.55 175.06 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 2.94 1.57 2.37 190.43 1998 - Class B Shares 2.14 2.07 1.83 190.43 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.13c 2.08c 1.82c 190.43 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 3.13c 1.07c 2.82c 190.43 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.58c 1.57c 2.27c 190.43 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 3.76 1.77 2.99 208.11 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.59c 2.27c 2.07c 208.11 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 3.65 1.90 2.75 197.10 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
80 [This page intentionally left blank] 81 GROWTH AND INCOME FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ Distributions to shareholders ------------------------ ------------------------------ Net realized Net asset and In excess value, Net unrealized From net of net From net beginning investment gain investment investment realized of period income (loss) (loss) income income gains - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $24.33 $ 0.19 $0.31 $(0.15) $ -- $ -- 1999 - Class B Shares 24.13 0.08 0.31 (0.06) -- -- 1999 - Class C Shares 24.08 0.08 0.30 (0.05) -- -- 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.35 0.34 0.23 (0.20) -- -- 1999 - Service Shares 24.33 0.17 0.32 (0.14) -- -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 25.93 0.20 (1.60) (0.19) (0.01) -- 1999 - Class B Shares 25.73 0.02 (1.58) (0.04) -- -- 1999 - Class C Shares 25.70 0.02 (1.59) (0.05) -- -- 1999 - Institutional Shares 25.95 0.29 (1.58) (0.30) (0.01) -- 1999 - Service Shares 25.92 0.17 (1.58) (0.17) (0.01) -- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 23.18 0.11 5.27 (0.11) -- (2.52) 1998 - Class B Shares 23.10 0.04 5.14 -- (0.03) (2.52) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 28.20 (0.01) 0.06 -- (0.03) (2.52) 1998 - Institutional Shares 23.19 0.27 5.23 (0.22) -- (2.52) 1998 - Service Shares 23.17 0.14 5.23 (0.06) (0.04) (2.52) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 19.98 0.35 5.18 (0.35) (0.01) (1.97) 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.82 0.17 4.31 (0.17) (0.06) (1.97) 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 3, 1996) 21.25 0.29 3.96 (0.30) (0.04) (1.97) 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 20.71 0.28 4.50 (0.28) (0.07) (1.97) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 15.80 0.33 4.75 (0.30) -- (0.60) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 82 APPENDIX B
Ratio of Net increase Net assets Ratio of net investment (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses income (loss) in net value, end Total period to average to average net asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ 0.35 $24.68 2.05%d $ 855,174 1.19%c 1.26%c 0.33 24.46 1.60d 271,912 1.94c 0.51c 0.33 24.41 1.58d 31,328 1.94c 0.51c 0.37 24.72 2.32d 32,181 0.79c 1.72c 0.35 24.68 2.01d 10,008 1.29c 1.16c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1.60) 24.33 (5.40) 1,122,157 1.22 0.78 (1.60) 24.13 (6.07) 349,662 1.92 0.09 (1.62) 24.08 (6.12) 48,146 1.92 0.10 (1.60) 24.35 (5.00) 173,696 0.80 1.25 (1.59) 24.33 (5.44) 11,943 1.30 0.72 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2.75 25.93 23.71 1,216,582 1.25 0.43 2.63 25.73 22.87 307,815 1.94 (0.35) (2.50) 25.70 0.51d 31,686 1.99c (0.48)c 2.76 25.95 24.24 36,225 0.83 0.76 2.75 25.92 23.63 8,893 1.32 0.32 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3.20 23.18 28.42 615,103 1.22 1.60 2.28 23.10 22.23d 17,346 1.93c 0.15c 1.94 23.19 20.77d 193 0.82c 1.36c 2.46 23.17 23.87d 3,174 1.32c 0.94c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4.18 19.98 32.45 436,757 1.20 1.67 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------
83 GROWTH AND INCOME FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of expenses to net investment Portfolio average net income (loss) to turnover assets average net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.20%c 1.25%c 55.43%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.95c 0.50c 55.43d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.95c 0.50c 55.43d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.80c 1.71c 55.43d 1999 - Service Shares 1.30c 1.15c 55.43d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.32 0.68 125.79 1999 - Class B Shares 1.92 0.09 125.79 1999 - Class C Shares 1.92 0.10 125.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.80 1.25 125.79 1999 - Service Shares 1.30 0.72 125.79 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.42 0.26 61.95 1998 - Class B Shares 1.94 (0.35) 61.95 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.99c (0.48)c 61.95 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.83 0.76 61.95 1998 - Service Shares 1.32 0.32 61.95 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.43 1.39 53.03 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 1.93c 0.15c 53.03 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 3, 1996) 0.82c 1.36c 53.03 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 1.32c 0.94c 53.03 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.45 1.42 57.93 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 84 [This page intentionally left blank] 85 CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period income gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.15 $0.04 $0.40 1999 - Class B Shares 10.15 0.01 0.36 1999 - Class C Shares 10.15 0.01 0.37 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.16 0.06 0.38 1999 - Service Shares 10.16 0.02 0.40 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.01 0.14 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.15 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.15 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.01 0.15 1999 - Service Shares (commenced December 31, 1998) 10.00 0.02 0.14 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 86 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- Net assets From net Net increase Net asset Total at end of Ratio of investment From net in net asset value, end return period net expenses to income realized gains value of period /b/,/d/ (in 000s) average net assets/c/ - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $(0.04) $ -- $0.40 $10.55 4.31% 91,072 1.04% (0.02) -- 0.35 10.50 3.68 14,464 1.79 (0.02) -- 0.36 10.51 3.73 8,032 1.79 (0.05) -- 0.39 10.55 4.35 189,540 0.64 (0.03) -- 0.39 10.55 4.11 13 1.14 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 6,665 1.08 -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 340 1.82 -- -- 0.15 10.15 1.50 268 1.83 -- -- 0.16 10.16 1.60 53,396 0.66 -- -- 0.16 10.16 1.60 2 1.16 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87 CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income to expenses to income to Portfolio average net average net average net turnover assets/c/ assets/c/ assets/c/ rate/d/ - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.87% 1.21% 0.70% 36.10% 1999 - Class B Shares 0.05 1.96 (0.12) 36.10 1999 - Class C Shares 0.09 1.96 (0.08) 36.10 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.29 0.81 1.12 36.10 1999 - Service Shares 0.72 1.31 0.55 36.10 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 1.45 8.03 (5.50) 0.00 1999 - Class B Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 0.84 8.77 (6.11) 0.00 1999 - Class C Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 0.70 8.78 (6.25) 0.00 1999 - Institutional Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 1.97 7.61 (4.98) 0.00 1999 - Service Shares(commenced December 31, 1998) 2.17 8.11 (4.78) 0.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 88 [This page intentionally left blank] 89 CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $32.98 $ 0.03 $1.20 1999 - Class B Shares 32.50 (0.11) 1.17 1999 - Class C Shares 32.40 (0.10) 1.16 1999 - Institutional Shares 33.29 0.11 1.21 1999 - Service Shares 32.85 0.01 1.19 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 26.59 0.04 7.02 1999 - Class B Shares 26.32 (0.10) 6.91 1999 - Class C Shares 26.24 (0.10) 6.89 1999 - Institutional Shares 26.79 0.20 7.11 1999 - Service Shares 26.53 0.06 7.01 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 23.32 0.11 5.63 1998 - Class B Shares 23.18 0.11 5.44 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 27.48 0.03 1.22 1998 - Institutional Shares 23.44 0.30 5.65 1998 - Service Shares 23.27 0.19 5.57 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 19.66 0.16 4.46 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.44 0.04 3.70 1997 - Institutional Shares 19.71 0.30 4.51 1997 - Service Shares (commenced June 7, 1996) 21.02 0.13 3.15 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 14.61 0.19 5.43 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 15, 1995) 16.97 0.16 3.23 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 90 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- Ratio of In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of net investment From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses income (loss) investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 1.23 $34.21 3.73%d $614,310 1.14%c 0.15%c -- -- -- 1.06 33.56 3.26d 214,087 1.89c (0.60)c -- -- -- 1.06 33.46 3.27d 43,361 1.89c (0.61)c -- -- -- 1.32 34.61 3.97d 335,465 0.74c 0.54c -- -- -- 1.20 34.05 3.65d 11,204 1.24c 0.06c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.03) (0.01) (0.63) 6.39 32.98 26.89 605,566 1.23 0.15 -- -- (0.63) 6.18 32.50 26.19 152,347 1.85 (0.50) -- -- (0.63) 6.16 32.40 26.19 26,912 1.87 (0.53) (0.15) (0.03) (0.63) 6.50 33.29 27.65 307,200 0.69 0.69 (0.10) (0.02) (0.63) 6.32 32.85 27.00 11,600 1.19 0.19 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- (2.35) 3.27 26.59 24.96 398,393 1.28 0.51 -- (0.06) (2.35) 3.14 26.32 24.28 59,208 1.79 (0.05) -- (0.14) (2.35) (1.24) 26.24 4.85d 6,267 1.78c (0.21)c (0.24) (0.01) (2.35) 3.35 26.79 25.76 202,893 0.65 1.16 (0.07) (0.08) (2.35) 3.26 26.53 25.11 7,841 1.15 0.62 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.16) -- (0.80) 3.66 23.32 23.75 225,968 1.29 0.91 (0.04) (0.16) (0.80) 2.74 23.18 18.59d 17,258 1.83c 0.06c (0.28) -- (0.80) 3.73 23.44 24.63 148,942 0.65 1.52 (0.13) (0.10) (0.80) 2.25 23.27 15.92d 3,666 1.15c 0.69c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.16) -- (0.41) 5.05 19.66 38.63 129,045 1.25 1.01 (0.24) -- (0.41) 2.74 19.71 20.14d 64,829 0.65c 1.49c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
91 CORE U.S. EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment expenses to income (loss) to Portfolio average net average turnover assets net assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.24%c 0.05%c 41.84%d 1999 - Class B Shares 1.99c (0.70)c 41.84d 1999 - Class C Shares 1.99c (0.71)c 41.84d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.84c 0.44c 41.84d 1999 - Service Shares 1.34c (0.04)c 41.84d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.36 0.02 63.79 1999 - Class B Shares 1.98 (0.63) 63.79 1999 - Class C Shares 2.00 (0.66) 63.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.82 0.56 63.79 1999 - Service Shares 1.32 0.06 63.79 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.47 0.32 65.89 1998 - Class B Shares 1.96 (0.22) 65.89 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.95c (0.38)c 65.89 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.82 0.99 65.89 1998 - Service Shares 1.32 0.45 65.89 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.53 0.67 37.28 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.00c (0.11)c 37.28 1997 - Institutional Shares 0.85 1.32 37.28 1997 - Service Shares (commenced June 7, 1996) 1.35c 0.49c 37.28 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.55 0.71 39.35 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced June 15, 1995) 0.96c 1.18c 39.35 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 92 [This page intentionally left blank] 93 CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $16.17 $(0.01) $0.86 1999 - Class B Shares 15.98 (0.07) 0.84 1999 - Class C Shares 15.99 (0.07) 0.83 1999 - Institutional Shares 16.21 0.03 0.86 1999 - Service Shares 16.11 (0.02) 0.86 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEAR ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 11.97 0.01 4.19 1999 - Class B Shares 11.92 (0.06) 4.12 1999 - Class C Shares 11.93 (0.05) 4.11 1999 - Institutional Shares 11.97 0.02 4.23 1999 - Service Shares 11.95 (0.01) 4.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 0.01 2.35 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 (0.03) 2.33 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 11.80 (0.02) 0.54 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 0.01 2.35 1998 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) 2.35 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 94 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------- From In excess Net Net asset Net assets Ratio of net of net From net increase value, at end of net expenses investment investment realized in net end of Total period to average income income gains asset value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.85 $17.02 5.26%d $300,684 1.04%c -- -- -- 0.77 16.75 4.82d 181,626 1.79c -- -- -- 0.76 16.75 4.75d 75,502 1.79c -- -- -- 0.89 17.10 5.49d 310,704 0.64c -- -- -- 0.84 16.95 5.21d 2,510 1.14c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 4.20 16.17 35.10 175,510 0.97 -- -- -- 4.06 15.98 34.07 93,711 1.74 -- -- -- 4.06 15.99 34.04 37,081 1.74 -- (0.01) -- 4.24 16.21 35.54 295,734 0.65 -- -- -- 4.16 16.11 34.85 1,663 1.15 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.01) -- (0.38) 1.97 11.97 23.79d 53,786 0.91c -- -- (0.38) 1.92 11.92 23.26d 13,857 1.67c -- (0.01) (0.38) 0.13 11.93 4.56d 4,132 1.68c (0.01) -- (0.38) 1.97 11.97 23.89d 4,656 0.72c -- -- (0.38) 1.95 11.95 23.56d 115 1.17c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
95 CORE LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) to expenses to (loss) to Portfolio average net average net average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.11)%c 1.26%c (0.33)%c 32.74%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.87)c 2.01c (1.09)c 32.74d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.87)c 2.01c (1.09)c 32.74d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.31c 0.86c 0.09c 32.74d 1999 - Service Shares (0.21)c 1.36c (0.43)c 32.74d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEAR ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.05 1.46 (0.44) 63.15 1999 - Class B Shares (0.73) 2.11 (1.10) 63.15 1999 - Class C Shares (0.74) 2.11 (1.11) 63.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.35 1.02 (0.02) 63.15 1999 - Service Shares (0.16) 1.52 (0.53) 63.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 0.12 c 2.40c (1.37)c 74.97d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) (0.72)c 2.91c (1.96)c 74.97d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.76)c 2.92c (2.00)c 74.97d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) 0.42 c 1.96c (0.82)c 74.97d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1997) (0.21)c 2.41c (1.45)c 74.97d - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 96 [This page intentionally left blank] 97 CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------ Net asset Net Net value, investment realized and beginning income unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.16 $(0.01) $0.08 1999 - Class B Shares 10.07 (0.05) 0.07 1999 - Class C Shares 10.08 (0.05) 0.07 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.20 0.02 0.08 1999 - Service Shares 10.16 (0.01) 0.07 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEAR ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 10.59 0.01 (0.43) 1999 - Class B Shares 10.56 (0.05) (0.44) 1999 - Class C Shares 10.57 (0.04) (0.45) 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.61 0.04 (0.43) 1999 - Service Shares 10.60 0.01 (0.44) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.01) 0.65 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.03) 0.64 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) 0.64 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 0.65 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 0.64 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 98 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- From Net Net asset Net assets Ratio of net increase value, at end of net expenses investment From net in net end of Total period to average income realized gains asset value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $0.07 $10.23 0.69%d $52,660 1.33%c -- -- 0.02 10.09 0.20d 13,711 2.08c -- -- 0.02 10.10 0.20d 6,274 2.08c -- -- 0.10 10.30 0.98d 62,633 0.93c -- -- 0.06 10.22 0.59d 64 1.43c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.01) -- (0.43) 10.16 (3.97) 64,087 1.31 -- -- (0.49) 10.07 (4.64) 15,406 2.00 -- -- (0.49) 10.08 (4.64) 6,559 2.01 (0.02) -- (0.41) 10.20 (3.64) 62,763 0.94 (0.01) -- (0.44) 10.16 (4.07) 54 1.44 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.05) 0.59 10.59 6.37d 11,118 1.25c -- (0.05) 0.56 10.56 6.07d 9,957 1.95c -- (0.05) 0.57 10.57 6.17d 2,557 1.95c -- (0.05) 0.61 10.61 6.57d 9,026 0.95c -- (0.05) 0.60 10.60 6.47d 2 1.45c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
99 CORE SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of net Ratio of net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) expenses to loss Portfolio to average average net to average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.12)%c 1.67%c (0.46)%c 52.03%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.86)c 2.42c (1.20)c 52.03d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.86)c 2.42c (1.20)c 52.03d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.28c 1.27c (0.06)c 52.03d 1999 - Service Shares (0.22)c 1.77c (0.56)c 52.03d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEAR ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.08 2.00 (0.61) 75.38 1999 - Class B Shares (0.55) 2.62 (1.17) 75.38 1999 - Class C Shares (0.56) 2.63 (1.18) 75.38 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.60 1.56 (0.02) 75.38 1999 - Service Shares 0.01 2.06 (0.61) 75.38 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.36)c 3.92c (3.03)c 37.65d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.04)c 4.37c (3.46)c 37.65d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.07)c 4.37c (3.49)c 37.65d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.15c 3.37c (2.27)c 37.65d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.40c 3.87c (2.02)c 37.65d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 100 [This page intentionally left blank] 101 CAPITAL GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $24.03 $(0.08) $1.01 1999 - Class B Shares 23.57 (0.17) 0.97 1999 - Class C Shares 23.52 (0.16) 0.97 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.07 (0.02) 1.01 1999 - Service Shares 23.96 (0.08) 1.00 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 18.48 (0.03) 6.35 1999 - Class B Shares 18.27 (0.12) 6.19 1999 - Class C Shares 18.24 (0.10) 6.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.45 0.01 6.38 1999 - Service Shares 18.46 (0.04) 6.31 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 16.73 0.02 4.78 1998 - Class B Shares 16.67 0.02 4.61 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.73 (0.02) 1.60 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.88 0.02 1.66 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 19.88 (0.01) 1.66 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 14.91 0.10 3.56 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 15.67 0.01 2.81 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 13.67 0.12 3.93 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 102 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset Total at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net value, end return/b/ period to average income income realized gain asset value of period (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.93 $24.96 3.87%d $1,971,097 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.80 24.37 3.39d 329,870 2.19c -- -- -- 0.81 24.33 3.44d 87,284 2.19c -- -- -- 0.99 25.06 4.11d 255,210 1.04c -- -- -- 0.92 24.88 3.84d 6,466 1.54c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (0.77) 5.55 24.03 34.58 1,992,716 1.42 -- -- (0.77) 5.30 23.57 33.60 236,369 2.19 -- -- (0.77) 5.28 23.52 33.55 60,234 2.19 -- -- (0.77) 5.62 24.07 35.02 41,817 1.07 -- -- (0.77) 5.50 23.96 34.34 3,085 1.57 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.01) (0.01) (3.03) 1.75 18.48 29.71 1,256,595 1.40 -- -- (3.03) 1.60 18.27 28.73 40,827 2.18 -- (0.04) (3.03) (1.49) 18.24 8.83d 5,395 2.21c (0.01) (0.07) (3.03) (1.43) 18.45 9.31d 7,262 1.16c -- (0.04) (3.03) (1.42) 18.46 9.18d 2 1.50c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.10) (0.02) (1.72) 1.82 16.73 25.97 920,646 1.40 (0.01) (0.09) (1.72) 1.00 16.67 19.39d 3,221 2.15c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) -- (2.69) 1.24 14.91 30.45 881,056 1.36 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
103 CAPITAL GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations -------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) expenses to income (loss) Portfolio to average average net to average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.53)%c 1.47%c (0.56)%c 18.16%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.29)c 2.22c (1.32)c 18.16d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.29)c 2.22c (1.32)c 18.16d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.20)c 1.07c (0.23)c 18.16d 1999 - Service Shares (0.65)c 1.57c (0.68)c 18.16d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.18) 1.58 (0.34) 30.17 1999 - Class B Shares (0.98) 2.21 (1.00) 30.17 1999 - Class C Shares (1.00) 2.21 (1.02) 30.17 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.11 1.09 0.09 30.17 1999 - Service Shares (0.37) 1.59 (0.39) 30.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 0.08 1.65 (0.17) 61.50 1998 - Class B Shares (0.77) 2.18 (0.77) 61.50 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.86)c 2.21c (0.86)c 61.50 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.18c 1.16c 0.18c 61.50 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.16)c 1.50c (0.16)c 61.50 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 0.62 1.65 0.37 52.92 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (0.39)c 2.15c (0.39)c 52.92 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 0.65 1.61 0.40 63.90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 104 [This page intentionally left blank] 105 STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ --------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment beginning income Net realized and of period (loss) unrealized gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) $10.00 $ -- $0.06 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.07e 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.08e 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 0.01 0.06 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.01) 0.07 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 106 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net assets From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of Ratio of investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period net expenses to income income realized gains value of period return/b/(in 000s) average net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.06 $10.06 0.60%d $10,371 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.04 10.04 0.40d 3,393 2.19c -- -- -- 0.05 10.05 0.50d 2,388 2.19c -- -- -- 0.07 10.07 0.70d 5,981 1.04c -- -- -- 0.06 10.06 0.60d 2 1.54c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
107 STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations -------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of investment expenses net income to investment (loss) to average loss to Portfolio average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) (0.17)%c 11.70%c (10.43)%c 6.98%d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) (0.97)c 12.45c (11.23)c 6.98d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) (0.99)c 12.45c (11.25)c 6.98d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 0.24c 11.30c (10.02)c 6.98d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) (0.24)c 11.80c (10.50)c 6.98d - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 108 [This page intentionally left blank] 109 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) $10.00 $(0.01)e $0.14e 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.21e 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 (0.03)e 0.13e 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 0.01 0.12 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 10.00 -- 0.12 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 110 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net assets Ratio of From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/(in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $0.13 $10.13 1.30%d $8,204 1.44%c -- -- -- 0.18 10.18 1.80d 520 2.19c -- -- -- 0.10 10.10 1.00d 256 2.19c -- -- -- 0.13 10.13 1.30d 5,223 1.04c -- -- -- 0.12 10.12 1.20d 2 1.54c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
111 GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio Ratio of net of net investment Ratio of investment income (loss) expenses to loss to Portfolio to average average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 24) (0.27)%c 14.15%c (12.98)%c 26.53%d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 24) (1.04)c 14.90c (13.75)c 26.53d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 24) (1.12)c 14.90c (13.83)c 26.53d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 24) 0.39c 13.75c (12.32)c 26.53d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 24) 0.03c 14.25c (12.68)c 26.53d - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares outstanding methodology. 112 [This page intentionally left blank] 113 MID CAP VALUE FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $18.38 $0.06 $1.71 1999 - Class B Shares 18.29 (0.04) 1.71 1999 - Class C Shares 18.30 (0.04) 1.71 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.37 0.09 1.72 1999 - Service Shares 18.29 0.05 1.70 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 21.61 0.10 (2.38) 1999 - Class B Shares 21.57 (0.05) (2.35) 1999 - Class C Shares 21.59 (0.05) (2.34) 1999 - Institutional Shares 21.65 0.19 (2.38) 1999 - Service Shares 21.62 0.03 (2.31) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.09 0.76 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.06 0.74 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 23.63 0.06 0.76 1998 - Institutional Shares 18.73 0.16 5.66 1998 - Service Shares (commenced July 18, 1997) 23.01 0.09 1.40 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Institutional Shares 15.91 0.24 3.77 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 1, 1995) 15.00 0.13 0.90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 114 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $(1.73) $ 0.04 $18.42 9.04%d $49,081 1.29%c -- -- (1.73) (0.06) 18.23 8.53d 31,824 2.04c -- -- (1.73) (0.06) 18.24 8.52d 9,807 2.04c -- -- (1.73) 0.08 18.45 9.26d 190,549 0.89c -- -- (1.73) 0.02 18.31 8.97d 190 1.39c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.07) -- (0.88) (3.23) 18.38 (10.48) 70,578 1.33 -- -- (0.88) (3.28) 18.29 (11.07) 37,821 1.93 (0.02) -- (0.88) (3.29) 18.30 (11.03) 10,800 1.93 (0.21) -- (0.88) (3.28) 18.37 (10.07) 196,512 0.87 (0.17) -- (0.88) (3.33) 18.29 (10.48) 289 1.37 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.06) (0.04) (2.77) (2.02) 21.61 3.42d 90,588 1.35c (0.09) -- (2.77) (2.06) 21.57 3.17d 28,743 1.85c (0.09) -- (2.77) (2.04) 21.59 3.27d 6,445 1.85c (0.13) -- (2.77) 2.92 21.65 30.86 236,440 0.85 (0.11) -- (2.77) (1.39) 21.62 6.30d 8 1.35c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.24) (0.93) (0.02) 2.82 18.73 25.63 145,253 0.85 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.12) -- -- 0.91 15.91 6.89d 135,671 0.85c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
115 MID CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no expense limitations -------------------------- Ratio of net investment Ratio of income Ratio of net investment (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.43%c 1.37%c 0.35%c 68.84%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.33)c 2.12c (0.41)c 68.84d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.34)c 2.12c (0.42)c 68.84d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.79c 0.97c 0.71c 68.84d 1999 - Service Shares 0.38c 1.47c 0.30c 68.84d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.38 1.41 0.30 92.18 1999 - Class B Shares (0.22) 2.01 (0.30) 92.18 1999 - Class C Shares (0.22) 2.01 (0.30) 92.18 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.83 0.95 0.75 92.18 1999 - Service Shares 0.32 1.45 0.24 92.18 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.33c 1.47c 0.21c 62.60 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.20)c 1.97c (0.32)c 62.60 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.23)c 1.97c (0.35)c 62.60 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.78 0.97 0.66 62.60 1998 - Service Shares (commenced July 18, 1997) 0.63c 1.43c 0.51c 62.60 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Institutional Shares 1.35 0.91 1.29 74.03 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JANUARY 31, 1996 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 1, 1995) 1.67c 0.98c 1.54c 58.77d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 116 [This page intentionally left blank] 117 SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
Income (loss) from investment operations/a/ ------------------------------ Net asset value, Net Net realized and beginning investment unrealized of period income (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $18.51 $(0.05) $1.34 1999 - Class B Shares 18.10 (0.12) 1.29 1999 - Class C Shares 18.12 (0.11) 1.27 1999 - Institutional Shares 18.62 -- 1.33 1999 - Service Shares 18.50 (0.13) 1.39 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 24.05 (0.06) (4.48) 1999 - Class B Shares 23.73 (0.21) (4.42) 1999 - Class C Shares 23.73 (0.18) (4.43) 1999 - Institutional Shares 24.09 0.03 (4.50) 1999 - Service Shares 24.05 (0.04) (4.51) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 20.91 0.14 5.33 1998 - Class B Shares 20.80 (0.01) 5.27 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.69 (0.06) 1.43 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.91 0.03 1.48 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 24.91 (0.01) 1.48 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 17.29 (0.21) 4.92 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 20.79 (0.11) 1.21 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 16.14 (0.23) 1.39 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 118 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ---------------------------- In excess Net increase Net asset Net assets Ratio of of net (decrease) value, at end of net expenses investment From net in net asset end of Total period to average income realized gains value period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $1.29 $19.80 6.97%d $210,500 1.50%c -- -- 1.17 19.27 6.46d 37,386 2.25c -- -- 1.16 19.28 6.40d 8,079 2.25c -- -- 1.33 19.95 7.14d 27,023 1.10c -- -- 1.26 19.76 6.81d 57 1.60c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (1.00) (5.54) 18.51 (17.37) 261,661 1.50 -- (1.00) (5.63) 18.10 (18.00) 42,879 2.25 -- (1.00) (5.61) 18.12 (17.91) 8,212 2.25 -- (1.00) (5.47) 18.62 (17.04) 15,351 1.13 -- (1.00) (5.55) 18.50 (17.41) 261 1.62 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (2.33) 3.14 24.05 26.17 370,246 1.54 -- (2.33) 2.93 23.73 25.29 42,677 2.29 (0.34) (1.99) (0.96) 23.73 5.51d 5,604 2.09c (0.28) (2.05) (0.82) 24.09 6.08d 14,626 1.16c (0.31) (2.02) (0.86) 24.05 5.91d 2 1.45c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (1.09) 3.62 20.91 27.28 212,061 1.60 -- (1.09) 0.01 20.80 5.39d 3,674 2.35c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- (0.01) 1.15 17.29 7.20 204,994 1.41 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
119 SMALL CAP VALUE FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ----------------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE SEVEN-MONTH PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.35)%c 1.61%c (0.46)%c 46.95%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.10)c 2.36c (1.21)c 46.95d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.10)c 2.36c (1.21)c 46.95d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.05c 1.21c (0.06)c 46.95d 1999 - Service Shares (0.41)c 1.71c (0.52)c 46.95d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR THE YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.24) 1.74 (0.48) 98.46 1999 - Class B Shares (0.99) 2.29 (1.03) 98.46 1999 - Class C Shares (0.99) 2.29 (1.03) 98.46 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.13 1.17 0.09 98.46 1999 - Service Shares (0.47) 1.66 (0.51) 98.46 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (0.28) 1.76 (0.50) 84.81 1998 - Class B Shares (0.92) 2.29 (0.92) 84.81 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.79)c 2.09c (0.79)c 84.81 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 0.27c 1.16c 0.27c 84.81 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (0.07)c 1.45c (0.07)c 84.81 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares (0.72) 1.85 (0.97) 99.46 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (1.63)c 2.35c (1.63)c 99.46 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares (0.59) 1.66 (0.84) 57.58 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. 120 Appendix C Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser CORE LARGE CAP VALUE FUND The following table sets forth the Investment Adviser's composite perfor- mance data relating to the historical performance of all discretionary pri- vate accounts managed by the Investment Adviser that have investment objec- tives, policies, and strategies substantially similar to the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. The information is provided to illustrate the past performance of the Investment Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts as mea- sured against the Russell 1000 Value Index and does not represent the per- formance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. Investors should not consider this performance data as a substitute for the performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund nor should investors consider this data as an indication of future performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund or of the Investment Adviser. The Russell 1000 Value Index is unmanaged and investors cannot invest directly in the Index.
PRIVATE RUSSELL ACCOUNT NET 1000 COMPOSITE VALUE PERFORMANCE INDEX ------------------------------------- 1998 11.40 % 15.64 % 1997 32.59 % 35.18 % 1996 26.41 % 21.64 % 1995 37.92 % 38.35 % 1994 (2.17)% (2.01)% 1993 16.90 % 18.12 % 8/1/92-12/31/92 5.39 % 4.01 % -------------------------------------
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 12/31/98 SINCE INCEPTION 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS (8/1/92) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Account Net Composite Performance 11.40% 23.13% 20.30% 19.30% Russell 1000 Value Index 15.64% 23.88% 20.85% 19.68% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Investment Adviser's composite performance information was calculated on a time-weighted and asset-weighted total return basis which includes real- ized and unrealized gains and losses plus income, as recommended by the Association for 121 Investment Management and Research ("AIMR"). The composite performance is net of applicable investment management fees, brokerage commissions, execu- tion costs and custodial fees, without provision for federal and state tax- es, if any. Total return performance of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund will be calculated in accordance with the regulations of the SEC. The SEC stan- dardized average annual total return is neither time-weighted nor asset- weighted and is determined for specified periods by computing the annualized percentage change in the value of an initial amount that is invested in a share class of the Fund at the maximum public offering price. Investors should be aware that the differences in methodology between AIMR and SEC requirements could result in different performance data for identical time periods. All returns presented reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other earn- ings. The weighted-average expenses of the private accounts used in calcu- lating the Investment Adviser's net composite performance data were 0.59% annualized, which are lower than the estimated expenses of Service Shares of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund stated under "Fund Fees and Expenses" above. The performance of the private accounts would have been lower if they had been subject to the expenses of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund. In addition, the private accounts are not subject to the same diversification require- ments, specific tax restrictions and investment limitations imposed on the CORE Large Cap Value Fund by the Act and Subchapter M of the Code. Conse- quently, the performance results of the Investment Adviser's composite could have been adversely affected if the private accounts had been regulated as investment companies under the federal securities laws. 122 Appendix D Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND The following table sets forth the Investment Adviser's composite perfor- mance data relating to the historical performance of all discretionary pri- vate accounts managed by the Investment Adviser that have investment objec- tives, policies, and strategies substantially similar to the Strategic Growth Fund. The information is provided to illustrate the past performance of the Investment Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts as mea- sured against the S&P 500 Index and does not represent the performance of the Strategic Growth Fund. Investors should not consider this performance data as a substitute for the performance of the Strategic Growth Fund nor should investors consider this data as an indication of future performance of the Strategic Growth Fund or of the Investment Adviser. The S&P 500 Index is unmanaged and investors cannot invest directly in the Index.
PRIVATE ACCOUNT NET COMPOSITE S&P 500 PERFORMANCE INDEX ------------------------------ 1998 35.35% 28.57% 1997 41.14% 33.37% 1996 21.79% 22.95% 1995 28.07% 37.58% 1994 -1.69% 1.32% 1993 17.10% 10.08% 1992 9.22% 7.62% 1991 37.44% 30.47% 1990 -9.32% -3.05% 1989 33.82% 31.70% 1988 23.63% 16.61% 1987 5.34% 5.25% 1986 18.99% 18.67% 1985 37.98% 31.73% 1984 8.52% 6.19% 1983 34.41% 22.56% 1982 34.43% 21.55% 1981 1.02% -4.97% ------------------------------
123
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 12/31/98 SINCE INCEPTION 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS (1/1/81) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Account Net Composite Performance 35.35% 32.51% 23.98% 20.11% 19.96% S&P 500 Index 28.57% 28.23% 24.06% 19.22% 16.94% -------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Investment Adviser's composite performance information was calculated on a time-weighted and asset-weighted total return basis which includes real- ized and unrealized gains and losses plus income, as recommended by the Association for Investment Management and Research ("AIMR"). The composite performance is net of applicable investment management fees, brokerage com- missions, execution costs and custodial fees, without provision for federal and state taxes, if any. Total return performance of the Strategic Growth Fund will be calculated in accordance with the regulations of the SEC. The SEC standardized average annual total return is neither time-weighted nor asset-weighted and is determined for specified periods by computing the annualized percentage change in the value of an initial amount that is invested in a share class of the Fund at the maximum public offering price. Investors should be aware that the differences in methodology between AIMR and SEC requirements could result in different performance data for identi- cal time periods. All returns presented reflect the reinvestment of dividends and other earn- ings. The weighted-average expenses of the private accounts used in calcu- lating the Investment Adviser's net composite performance data were 0.76% annualized, which are lower than the estimated expenses of Service Shares of the Strategic Growth Fund stated under "Fund Fees and Expenses" above. The performance of the private accounts would have been lower if they had been subject to the expenses of the Strategic Growth Fund. In addition, the pri- vate accounts are not subject to the same diversification requirements, spe- cific tax restrictions and investment limitations imposed on the Strategic Growth Fund by the Act and Subchapter M of the Code. Consequently, the per- formance results of the Investment Adviser's composite could have been adversely affected if the private accounts had been regulated as investment companies under the federal securities laws. 124 Index 1 General Investment Management Approach 3 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies 3 Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund 5 Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund 6 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund 7 Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund 8 Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 9 Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 10 Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund 11 Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund 12 Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund 13 Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund 14 Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund 15 Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund 16 Other Investment Practices and Securities 20 Principal Risks of the Funds 24 Fund Performance 34 Fund Fees and Expenses 38 Service Providers 46 Dividends 48 Shareholder Guide 48 How To Buy Shares 51 How To Sell Shares 55 Taxation 57 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques 78 Appendix B Financial Highlights 121 Appendix C CORE Large Cap Value Fund--Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser 123 Appendix D Strategic Growth Fund-- Prior Performance of Similarly Advised Accounts of the Investment Adviser
Domestic Equity Funds Prospectus (Service Shares) FOR MORE INFORMATION Annual/Semi-annual Report Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds' annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during the last fiscal year. Statement of Additional Information Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in the Funds' Additional Statement. The Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (is legally considered part of this Pro- spectus). The Funds' annual and semi-annual reports, and the Additional Statement, are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550. To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries: By telephone - Call 1-800-621-2550 By mail - Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower - 60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372 By e-mail - gs-funds@gs.com On the Internet - Text-only versions of the Funds' documents are located online and may be downloaded from: SEC EDGAR database - http://www.sec.gov You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents, after paying a duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102 or by electronic request to: publicinfo@sec.gov. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (202) 942-8090. [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] The Funds' investment company registration number is 811-5349. CORE(SM) is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. EQDOMPROSVC Prospectus Class A, B and C Shares November 30, 1999 GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ International Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund [ART] .Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund .Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL. [ART] NOT FDIC-INSURED May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee General Investment Management Approach Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a unit of the Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as investment adviser to the CORE International Equity Fund. Goldman Sachs Asset Management Interna- tional serves as investment adviser to International Equity, European Equi- ty, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Goldman Sachs Asset Management International are each referred to in this Prospectus as the "In- vestment Adviser." ACTIVE INTERNATIONAL STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Active International Investment Philosophy:
How the Investment Adviser Acts on Belief Belief - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Equity markets are inefficient Seeks excess return through team driven, research intensive and bottom-up stock selection. .Returns are variable Seeks to capitalize on variability of market and regional returns through asset allocation decisions. .Corporate fundamentals ultimately Seeks to conduct rigorous, first- drive share price hand research of business and company management. .A business' intrinsic value will be Seeks to realize value through a achieved over time long-term investment horizon. .Portfolio risk must be carefully Seeks to systematically monitor and analyzed and monitored manage risk through diversification, multifactor risk models and currency management.
The Investment Adviser attempts to manage risk in these Funds through disci- plined portfolio construction and continual portfolio review and analysis. As a result, bottom-up stock selection, driven by fundamental research, should be a main driver of returns. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 QUANTITATIVE ("CORE") STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' CORE Investment Philosophy: Goldman Sachs' quantitative style of funds--CORE--emphasizes the two build- ing blocks of active management: stock selection and portfolio construction. I. CORE STOCK SELECTION The CORE Fund uses the Goldman Sachs proprietary multifactor model ("Multifactor Model"), a rigorous computerized rating system, to forecast the returns of securities held in the Fund's portfolio. The Multifactor Model incorporates common variables covering measures of: .Value (price-to-book, price-to-earnings, cash flow to enterprise value) .Momentum (earnings momentum, price momentum, sustainable growth) .Risk (market risk, company-specific risk, earnings risk) All of the above factors are carefully evaluated within the Multifactor Model since each has demonstrated a significant impact on the performance of the securities and markets they were designed to forecast. II. CORE PORTFOLIO CONSTRUCTION A proprietary computer optimizer calculates every security combination (at every possible weighting) to construct the most efficient risk/return port- folio given the CORE Fund benchmark. In this process, the Investment Adviser manages risk by limiting deviations from the benchmark. In addition, the CORE International Equity Fund utilizes proprietary quantitative models to allocate assets across countries. Goldman Sachs CORE Funds are fully invested, broadly diversified and offer consistent overall portfolio characteristics. They may serve as good founda- tions on which to build a portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmarks: MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East ("EAFE") Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Large-capitalization equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securi- ties are primarily traded outside the United States Investment Style: Quantitative INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time, provided the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund may invest in the securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries"). The Fund seeks broad representation of large-cap issuers across major coun- tries and sectors of the international economy. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintain- ing risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the EAFE Index. In addition, the Fund seeks a portfolio composed of companies with attractive valuations and stronger momentum characteristics than the EAFE Index. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered to be cash equivalents. 3 Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI EAFE Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of companies organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. The Fund intends to invest in companies with public stock market capitalizations that are larger than $1 billion at the time of investment. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund expects to invest a substantial portion of its assets in the secu- rities of issuers located in the developed countries of Western Europe and in Japan. However, the Fund may also invest in the securities of issuers located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and in emerging countries. Cur- rently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, Afri- can, Asian and Eastern European nations. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 4 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI Europe Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of European companies Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of European companies. Because of its focus, the Fund will be more susceptible to European economic, market, political and local risks than a fund that is more geographically diversified. A European issuer is a company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in a European country; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, a European country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more of the European countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more of the European coun- tries. The Fund may allocate its assets among different countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time, provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three European countries. It is currently antici- pated that a majority of the Fund's assets will be invested in the equity securities of large cap companies located in the developed countries of Western Europe. However, the Fund may also invest, without limit, in mid cap companies and small cap companies, as well as companies located in emerging countries. Currently, emerging countries include among others, most Latin American, African, Asian, most Eastern European nations, including the states that formerly comprised the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of non-European countries and in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 5 Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Tokyo Price Index ("TOPIX") (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of Japanese companies Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of Japanese companies. A Japanese issuer is a company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in Japan; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in Japan; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in Japan; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in Japan. The Fund's concentration in Japanese companies will expose it to the risk of adverse social, political and economic events which occur in Japan or affect the Japanese markets. Japan's economy, the second largest in the world, has grown substantially over the last three decades. Japan's economic growth in the 1990's has been substantially below the level of earlier decades. Its economy has drifted between modest growth and recession. In calendar year 1998, Japan's gross national product contracted by 2.8% -- its worst performance in the post-war period. In addition to this economic downturn, Japan is undergoing struc- tural adjustments related to high wages and taxes, currency valuations and structural rigidities. Japan has also been experiencing notable uncertainty and loss of public confidence in connection 6 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES with the reform of its political process and the deregulation of its econo- my. These conditions present risks to the Japanese Equity Fund and its abil- ity to attain its investment objective. Japan's economy is heavily dependent upon international trade, and is espe- cially sensitive to trade barriers and disputes. In particular, Japan relies on large imports of agricultural products, raw materials and fuels. A sub- stantial rise in world oil or commodity prices, or a fall-off in Japan's manufactured exports, could be expected to adversely affect Japan's economy. In addition, Japan is vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes and other natural disasters. Japan's banking industry has recently suffered from non-perform- ing loans, declining real estate values and lower valuations of securities holdings. The Japanese securities markets are less regulated than the U.S. markets. Evidence has emerged from time to time of distortion of market prices to serve political or other purposes. Shareholders' rights are also not always equally enforced. For most of this decade, Japanese securities markets have experienced sig- nificant declines. Although the stock market exhibited some strength recent- ly, it is not possible to determine whether this will continue. The common stocks of many Japanese companies trade at high price-earnings ratios. Differences in accounting methods make it difficult to compare the earnings of Japanese companies with those of companies in other countries, especially the United States. In general, however, reported net income in Japan is understated relative to U.S. accounting standards and this is one reason price-earnings ratios of the stocks of Japanese companies have tended historically to be higher than those of U.S. stocks. In addition, Japanese companies have tended to have higher growth rates than U.S. companies, and Japanese interest rates have generally been lower than U.S. interest rates. These factors have contributed to lower discount rates and higher price- earnings ratios in Japan than in the United States. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of non-Japanese companies and in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 7 Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of foreign companies with public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies: .With public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment; and .That are organized outside the United States or whose securities are prin- cipally traded outside the United States. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund expects to invest a substantial portion of its assets in small cap securities of companies in the developed countries of Western Europe, Japan and Asia. However, the Fund may also invest in the securities of issuers located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and in emerging countries. Currently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, African, Asian and Eastern Euro- pean nations. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of larger-cap companies with public stock market capital- izations of more than $1 billion at the time of investment and in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. If the market capitalization of a company held by the Fund increases above $1 billion, the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, continue to hold the security. 8 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index Investment Focus: Equity securities of emerging country issuers Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of emerging country issuers. The Investment Adviser may consider classifica- tions by the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation or the United Nations and its agencies in determining whether a country is emerging or developed. Currently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, African, Asian and Eastern European nations. The Investment Adviser currently intends that the Fund's investment focus will be in the following emerging countries as well as any other emerging country to the extent that foreign investors are permitted by applicable law to make such investments: .Argentina .Egypt .Jordan .Philippines .Sri Lanka .Botswana .Greece .Kenya .Poland .Taiwan .Brazil .Hong Kong .Malaysia .Portugal .Thailand .Chile .Hungary .Mexico .Russia .Turkey .China .India .Morocco .Singapore .Venezuela .Colombia .Indonesia .Pakistan .South Africa .Zimbabwe .Czech Republic .Israel .Peru .South Korea
9 Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund continued An emerging country issuer is any company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities market is in an emerging country; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, an emerging country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more emerging countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more of the emerging coun- tries. Under normal circumstances, the Fund maintains investments in at least six emerging countries, and will not invest more than 35% of its total assets in securities of issuers in any one emerging country. Allocation of the Fund's investments will depend upon the relative attractiveness of the emerging country markets and particular issuers. In addition, macro-economic factors and the portfolio managers' and Goldman Sachs economists' views of the rela- tive attractiveness of emerging countries and currencies are considered in allocating the Fund's assets among emerging countries. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in (i) fixed-income securities of private and government emerging country issuers; and (ii) equity and fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations, of issuers in developed countries. 10 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI All County Asia Free ex-Japan Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of companies in Asian countries Investment Proc- Active International ess: INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of Asian issuers. An Asian issuer is any company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in one or more Asian countries; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, an Asian country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more Asian countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more Asian countries. The Fund may allocate its assets among the Asian countries as determined from time to time by the Investment Adviser. For purposes of the Fund's investment policies, Asian countries are: .China .Malaysia .South Korea .Hong Kong .Pakistan .Sri Lanka .India .Philippines .Taiwan .Indonesia .Singapore .Thailand as well as any other country in Asia (other than Japan) to the extent that foreign investors are permitted by applicable law to make such investments. 11 Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund continued Allocation of the Fund's investments will depend upon the Investment Advis- er's views of the relative attractiveness of the Asian markets and particu- lar issuers. Concentration of the Fund's assets in one or a few of the Asian countries and Asian currencies will subject the Fund to greater risks than if the Fund's assets were not so concentrated. For example, on August 31, 1999 (the end of the Fund's last fiscal year), more than 25% of the Fund's assets were invested in securities that traded in Hong Kong. Starting in mid-1997 some Pacific region countries began to experience cur- rency devaluations that resulted in high interest rate levels and sharp reductions in economic activity. This situation resulted in a significant drop in the securities prices of companies located in the region. Some coun- tries have experienced government intervention, have sought assistance from the International Monetary Fund and have experienced substantial domestic unrest. Although some countries are taking steps to restructure their finan- cial sectors in a manner that may facilitate a return to long-term economic growth, there can be no assurance that these efforts will be successful or that their current problems will not persist. At the end of its last fiscal year, a substantial portion of the Asia Growth Fund was invested in securi- ties traded in the Hong Kong market. In 1997, the sovereignty of Hong Kong reverted from the United Kingdom to China. Hong Kong's financial prospects depend, in large part, on its ability to retain the legal, financial and monetary systems that allow economic freedom and market expansion. Although Hong Kong is, by law, to maintain a high degree of autonomy, there can also be no assurance that the general economic position of Hong Kong will not be adversely affected as a result of the exercise of Chinese sovereignty over Hong Kong. In particular, business confidence in Hong Kong can be signifi- cantly affected by political developments and statements by public figures in China, which can in turn affect the performance of the securities mar- kets. In addition, the reversion of Hong Kong to China has created uncer- tainty as to future currency valuations relative to the U.S. dollar. Any future valuation changes could be adverse from the perspective of U.S. investors. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of issuers in non-Asian countries and Japan, and in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 12 [This page intentionally left blank] 13 Other Investment Practices and Securities The table below identifies some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by the Funds in seeking to achieve their investment objectives. The table also highlights the differences among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securi- ties. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only; for actual usage, con- sult the Fund's annual/semi-annual reports. For more information see Appendix A. 10 Percent of total assets (italic type) 10 Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited only by the objectives and strategies of the Fund - --Not permitted
CORE International International European Equity Equity Equity Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Practices Borrowings 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Cross Hedging of Currencies . . . Currency Swaps* 15 15 15 Custodial Receipts . . . Equity Swaps* 15 15 15 Foreign Currency Transactions . . . Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts . . . Investment Company Securities (including World Equity Benchmark Shares and Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts) 10 10 10 Options on Foreign Currencies/1/ . . . Options on Securities and Securities Indices/2/ . . . Unseasoned Companies . . . Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights . . . Repurchase Agreements . . . Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short Sales Against the Box -- 25 25 When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 1 The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options. 2 The Funds may sell covered call and put options and purchase call and put options. 14 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
Japanese International Emerging Asia Equity Small Cap Markets Growth Fund Fund Equity Fund Fund - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 . . . . 15 15 15 15 . . . . 15 15 15 15 . . . . . . . . 10 10 10 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 25 25 25 25 . . . . - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 10 Percent of total assets (italic type) 10 Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited only by the objectives and strategies of the Fund - -- Not permitted
CORE International International European Equity Equity Equity Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Securities American, European and Global Depository Receipts . . . Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities/2/ -- . . Bank Obligations/1/,/2/ . . . Convertible Securities . . . Corporate Debt Obligations/2/ ./4/ . . Equity Securities 90+ 65+ 65+ Emerging Country Securities 25 . . Fixed Income Securities/3/ 10/4/ 35 35/5/ Foreign Securities . . . Foreign Government Securities/2/ . . . Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities/2/ -- ./6/ ./6/ Real Estate Investment Trusts . . . Structured Securities* . . . Temporary Investments 35 100 100 U.S. Government Securities/2/ . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 1 Issued by U.S. or foreign banks. 2 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. 3 Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed-income securities are investment grade (e.g., BBB or higher by Stan- dard & Poor's Rating Group ("Standard & Poor's") or Baa or higher by Moody's Investor's Service, Inc. ("Moody's")). 4 Cash equivalents only. 5 The European Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) equity securities of non-European countries; and (2) fixed- income securities. 6 May be BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's. 16 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
Japanese International Emerging Equity Small Cap Markets Asia Growth Fund Fund Equity Fund Fund - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65+ 65+ 65+ 65+ . . . . 35/7/ 35/8/ 35/9/ 35/10/ . . . . . . . . ./6/ ./6/ ./6/ ./6/ . . . . . . . . 100 100 35 100 . . . . - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 The Japanese Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of non- Japanese companies. 8 The International Small Cap Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of larger cap companies with public stock market capitalizations of more than $1 billion at the time of investment. 9 The Emerging Markets Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities of private and government emerging country issuers; and (2) equity and fixed-income securities of issuers in developed countries. 10 The Asia Growth Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of issuers in non-Asian countries and Japan. 17 Principal Risks of the Funds Loss of money is a risk of investing in each Fund. An investment in a Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The following summarizes important risks that apply to the Funds and may result in a loss of your investment. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.
. Applicable - -- Not applicable CORE International Emerging International International European Japanese Small Cap Markets Asia Equity Equity Equity Equity Equity Equity Growth - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Credit/Default . . . . . . . Emerging Countries . . . . . . . Interest Rate . . . . . . . Small Cap -- -- . -- . -- -- Foreign . . . . . . . Derivatives . . . . . . . Management . . . . . . . Market . . . . . . . Liquidity . . . . . . . Stock . . . . . . . Geographic . . . . . . . Other . . . . . . . - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All Funds: .Credit/Default Risk--The risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities held by a Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. .Emerging Countries Risk--The securities markets of Asian, Latin American, Eastern European, African and other emerging countries are less liquid, are especially subject to greater price volatility, have smaller market capital- izations, have less government regulation and are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. Further, investment in equity securities of issuers located in Russia and certain other emerging countries involves risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration and cus- tody and substantial economic and political disrup- 18 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS tions. These risks are not normally associated with investment in more devel- oped countries. .Interest Rate Risk--The risk that when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities held by a Fund will decline in value. Long-term fixed-income secu- rities will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term securities. .Foreign Risks--The risk that when a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with domestic issuers. Loss may result because of less foreign government regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social stability. Loss may also result from the imposition of exchange controls, confiscations and other government restrictions. A Fund will also be subject to the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when a Fund invests in issuers located in emerging countries. .Derivatives Risk--The risk that loss may result from a Fund's investments in options, futures, swaps, structured securities and other derivative instru- ments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes may produce disproportionate losses to a Fund. .Management Risk--The risk that a strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results. .Market Risk--The risk that the value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. .Liquidity Risk--The risk that a Fund will not be able to pay redemption pro- ceeds within the time period stated in this Prospectus because of unusual mar- ket conditions, an unusually high volume of redemption requests, or other rea- sons. Funds that invest in small capitalization stocks and emerging country issuers will be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. The Goldman Sachs Asset Alloca- tion Portfolios (the "Asset Allocation Portfolios") expect to invest a signif- icant percentage of their assets in the Funds and other funds for which Goldman Sachs now or in the future acts as investment adviser or underwriter. Redemptions by an Asset Allocation Portfolio of its position in a Fund may further increase liquidity risk and may impact a Fund's net asset value ("NAV"). .Stock Risk--The risk that stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. As of the date of this Prospectus, U.S. stock markets and certain foreign stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels. There is no guarantee that such levels will continue. 19 .Geographic Risk--The European Equity Fund invests primarily in equity securi- ties of European companies. The Japanese Equity Fund invests primarily in equity securities of Japanese equity companies. The Asia Growth Fund invests primarily in equity securities of Asian issuers. Concentration of the invest- ments of these or other Funds in issuers located in a particular country or region will subject the Fund, to a greater extent than if investments were less concentrated, to the risks of adverse securities markets, exchange rates and social, political, regulatory or economic events which may occur in that country or region. .Other Risks--Each Fund is subject to other risks, such as the risk that its operations, or the value of its portfolio securities, will be disrupted by the "Year 2000 Problem." Specific Funds: .Small Cap Stock Risk--The securities of small capitalization stocks involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. More information about the Funds' portfolio securities and investment tech- niques, and their associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should con- sider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice. 20 Fund Performance HOW THE FUNDS HAVE PERFORMED The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of invest- ing in a Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of a Fund's Class A Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of a Fund's Class A, B and C Shares compare to those of broad-based securities market indices. The bar chart and table assume reinvestment of dividends and dis- tributions. A Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. The average annual total return calculation reflects a maximum initial sales charge of 5.5% for Class A Shares, the assumed contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") for Class B Shares (5% maximum declining to 0% after six years), and the assumed CDSC for Class C Shares (1% if redeemed within 12 months of purchase). The bar chart does not reflect the sales loads applicable to Class A Shares. If the sales loads were reflected, returns would be less. Performance reflects expense limitations in effect. If expense limitations were not in place, a Fund's performance would have been reduced. The European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds did not commence operations until October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998. Since these Funds have less than one calendar year's performance, no performance information is provided in this section. 21 CORE International Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 9.24%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +18.84% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -16.00% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 13.83% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 8/15/97) Including Sales Charges 7.57% (4.09)% Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe, Australasia, Far East (EAFE) Index* 20.33% 8.44% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class B (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 8.36% (3.41)% MSCI EAFE Index* 20.33% 8.44% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 12.34% (0.44)% MSCI EAFE Index* 20.33% 8.44% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI EAFE Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of securities in 20 developed markets. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 22 FUND PERFORMANCE International Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 7.61%. Best Quarter Q1 '98 +16.93% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -14.37% [BAR GRAPH] 1993 20.74% 1994 -6.86% 1995 18.93% 1996 18.69% 1997 4.47% 1998 17.98% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year 5 Years Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Class A (Inception 12/1/92) Including Sales Charges 11.50% 8.90% 10.82% MSCI EAFE Index (unhedged)* 20.33% 9.49% 13.00% FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index (unhedged)** 19.31% 6.84% 9.67% ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC 12.05% N/A 9.04% MSCI EAFE Index (unhedged)* 20.33% N/A 8.13% FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index (unhedged)** 19.31% N/A 6.60% ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC 16.23% N/A 5.11% MSCI EAFE Index (unhedged)* 20.33% N/A 8.44% FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index (unhedged)** 19.31% N/A 6.71% ------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The MSCI EAFE Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replac- ing the FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index ("EuroPac") as the Interna- tional Equity Fund's performance benchmark. The MSCI EAFE Index is widely used throughout the investment management industry to represent the invest- ment opportunities available to a large-cap, developed country interna- tional equity strategy and, in the Investment Adviser's opinion, is a more appropriate benchmark against which to measure the performance of the International Equity Fund. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The unmanaged FT/S&P EuroPac Index is a market capitalization-weighted com- posite of approximately 1,500 stocks from 20 countries in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. From the inception of the Fund until 8/31/94, the Fund was managed using the hedged EuroPac as a benchmark, and after such date, the unhedged EuroPac as a benchmark. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 23 Emerging Markets Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 25.24%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +14.03% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -22.94% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -27.06% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------------ Class A (Inception 12/15/97) Including Sales Charges (31.10)% (28.30)% MSCI Emerging Markets Free (EMF) Index* (25.33)% (19.87)% ------------------------------------------------------------------ Class B (Inception 12/15/97) Including CDSC (30.88)% (27.40)% MSCI EMF Index* (25.33)% (19.87)% ------------------------------------------------------------------ Class C (Inception 12/15/97) Including CDSC (27.82)% (24.36)% MSCI EMF Index* (25.33)% (19.87)% ------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI EMF Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of securities in over 30 emerging markets countries. "Free" indicates an index that excludes shares in otherwise free markets that are not purchas- able by foreigners. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 24 FUND PERFORMANCE Asia Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 27.99%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +21.59% Worst Quarter Q4 '97 -27.33% [BAR GRAPH] 1995 6.55% 1996 7.95% 1997 -41.07% 1998 -15.26% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception --------------------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 7/8/94) Including Sales Charges (19.94)% (12.21)% MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan* (10.27)% (11.22)% --------------------------------------------------------------- Class B (Inception 5/1/96) Including CDSC (19.93)% (25.86)% MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan* (10.27)% (22.76)% --------------------------------------------------------------- Class C (Inception 8/15/97) Including CDSC (16.84)% (38.72)% MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan* (10.27)% (36.20)% ---------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan Index is a market capi- talization-weighted composite of securities in ten Asian countries. "Free" indicates an index that excludes shares in otherwise free markets that are not purchasable by foreigners. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 25 Fund Fees and Expenses (Class A, B and C Shares) This table describes the fees and expenses that you would pay if you buy and hold Class A, Class B, or Class C Shares of a Fund.
CORE International Equity Fund ------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.85% 0.85% 0.85% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.41% 0.41% 0.41% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.76% 2.26% 2.26% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be termi- nated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without share- holder approval.
CORE International Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 0.85% 0.85% 0.85% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.31% 0.31% 0.31% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.66% 2.16% 2.16% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
International Equity Fund ----------------------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.34% 0.34% 0.34% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.84% 2.34% 2.34% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
International Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.29% 0.29% 0.29% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.79% 2.29% 2.29% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
European Equity Fund --------------------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.79% 0.79% 0.79% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 2.29% 2.79% 2.79% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
European Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.29% 0.29% 0.29% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.79% 2.29% 2.29% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Japanese Equity Fund --------------------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 1.12% 1.12% 1.12% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 2.62% 3.12% 3.12% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Japanese Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.20% 0.20% 0.20% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.70% 2.20% 2.20% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
International Small Cap Fund --------------------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.20% 1.20% 1.20% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.72% 0.72% 0.72% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 2.42% 2.92% 2.92% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
International Small Cap Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.20% 1.20% 1.20% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.35% 0.35% 0.35% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 2.05% 2.55% 2.55% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Emerging Markets Equity Fund --------------------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.20% 1.20% 1.20% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.71% 0.71% 0.71% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 2.41% 2.91% 2.91% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Emerging Markets Equity Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.20% 1.20% 1.20% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.34% 0.34% 0.34% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 2.04% 2.54% 2.54% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
31 Fund Fees and Expenses continued
Asia Growth Fund --------------------------------------- Class A Class B Class C - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases 5.5%1 None None Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)2 None1 5.0%3 1.0%4 Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees5 None None None Exchange Fees5 None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.77% 0.77% 0.77% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 2.27% 2.77% 2.77% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 33 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Fund which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without shareholder approval.
Asia Growth Fund ----------------------- Class A Class B Class C ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):6 Management Fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees 0.50% 1.00% 1.00% Other Expenses7 0.35% 0.35% 0.35% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.85% 2.35% 2.35% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES /1/The maximum sales charge is a percentage of the offering price. A CDSC of 1% is imposed on certain redemptions (within 18 months of purchase) of Class A Shares sold without an initial sales charge as part of an investment of $1 mil- lion or more. /2/The maximum CDSC is a percentage of the lesser of the NAV at the time of the redemption or the NAV when the shares were originally purchased. /3/A CDSC is imposed upon Class B Shares redeemed within six years of purchase at a rate of 5% in the first year, declining to 1% in the sixth year, and elim- inated thereafter. /4/A CDSC of 1% is imposed on Class C Shares redeemed within 12 months of pur- chase. /5/A transaction fee of $7.50 may be charged for redemption proceeds paid by wire. In addition to free reinvestments of dividends and distributions in shares of other Goldman Sachs Funds or shares of the Goldman Sachs Institu- tional Liquid Assets Portfolios (the "ILA Portfolios") and free automatic exchanges pursuant to the Automatic Exchange Program, six free exchanges are permitted in each 12- month period. A fee of $12.50 may be charged for each subsequent exchange during such period. /6/The Funds' operating expenses for the current fiscal year have been annualized for the seven-month period (February 1, 1999 through August 31, 1999). /7/"Other Expenses" include transfer agency fees equal to 0.19% of the average daily net assets of each Fund's Class A, B and C Shares, plus all other ordi- nary expenses not detailed above. The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce or limit certain "Other Expenses" (excluding management fees, distri- bution and service fees, transfer agency fees, taxes, interest and brokerage fees and litigation, indemnification and other extraordinary expenses) to the following percentages of each Fund's average daily net assets:
Other Fund Expenses - -------------------------- CORE International Equity 0.12% International Equity 0.10% European Equity 0.10% Japanese Equity 0.01% International Small Cap 0.16% Emerging Markets Equity 0.15% Asia Growth 0.16%
33 Example The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in a Fund (without expense limitations) with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in Class A, B or C Shares of a Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that a Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - ---------------------------------------------------------- CORE International Equity Class A Shares $719 $1,074 $1,452 $2,509 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $729 $1,006 $1,410 $2,470 - Assuming no redemption $229 $ 706 $1,210 $2,470 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $329 $ 706 $1,210 $2,595 - Assuming no redemption $229 $ 706 $1,210 $2,595 - ---------------------------------------------------------- International Equity Class A Shares $727 $1,097 $1,491 $2,590 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $737 $1,030 $1,450 $2,552 - Assuming no redemption $237 $ 730 $1,250 $2,552 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $337 $ 730 $1,250 $2,676 - Assuming no redemption $237 $ 730 $1,250 $2,676 - ---------------------------------------------------------- European Equity Class A Shares $769 $1,226 $1,708 $3,031 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $782 $1,165 $1,674 $3,000 - Assuming no redemption $282 $ 865 $1,474 $3,000 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $382 $ 865 $1,474 $3,119 - Assuming no redemption $282 $ 865 $1,474 $3,119 - ----------------------------------------------------------
34 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - --------------------------------------------------------- Japanese Equity Class A Shares $801 $1,320 $1,864 $3,341 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $815 $1,263 $1,835 $3,314 - Assuming no redemption $315 $ 963 $1,635 $3,314 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $415 $ 963 $1,635 $3,430 - Assuming no redemption $315 $ 963 $1,635 $3,430 - --------------------------------------------------------- International Small Cap Class A Shares $782 $1,263 $1,770 $3,155 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $795 $1,204 $1,738 $3,125 - Assuming no redemption $295 $ 904 $1,538 $3,125 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $395 $ 904 $1,538 $3,242 - Assuming no redemption $295 $ 904 $1,538 $3,242 - --------------------------------------------------------- Emerging Markets Equity Class A Shares $781 $1,260 $1,765 $3,145 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $794 $1,201 $1,733 $3,115 - Assuming no redemption $294 $ 901 $1,533 $3,115 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $394 $ 901 $1,533 $3,233 - Assuming no redemption $294 $ 901 $1,533 $3,233 - --------------------------------------------------------- Asia Growth Class A Shares $767 $1,220 $1,698 $3,012 Class B Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $780 $1,159 $1,664 $2,980 - Assuming no redemption $280 $ 859 $1,464 $2,980 Class C Shares - Assuming complete redemption at end of period $380 $ 859 $1,464 $3,099 - Assuming no redemption $280 $ 859 $1,464 $3,099 - ---------------------------------------------------------
The hypothetical example assumes that a CDSC will not apply to redemptions of Class A Shares within the first 18 months. Class B Shares convert to Class A Shares eight years after purchase; therefore, Class A expenses are used in the hypothetical example after year eight. Certain institutions that sell Fund shares and/or their salespersons may receive other compensation in connection with the sale and distribution of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares for services to their customers' accounts and/or the Funds. For additional information regarding such compensation, see "What Should I Know When I Purchase Shares Through An Authorized Dealer?" 35 Service Providers INVESTMENT ADVISERS
Investment Adviser Fund ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM") CORE International Equity 32 Old Slip New York, New York 10005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Goldman Sachs Asset Management International ("GSAMI") International Equity 133 Peterborough Court European Equity London, England EC4A 2BB Japanese Equity International Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Asia Growth ------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 1, 1999, the Investment Management Division ("IMD") was established as a new operating division of Goldman Sachs. This newly created entity includes GSAM and GSAMI. Goldman Sachs registered as an investment adviser in 1981. GSAMI, a member of the Investment Management Regulatory Organization Limited since 1990 and a registered investment adviser since 1991, is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P., which controlled the Investment Advisers, merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offering. As of September 30, 1999, GSAM and GSAMI, along with other units of IMD, had assets under management of $203 billion. The Investment Adviser provides day-to-day advice regarding the Funds' port- folio transactions. The Investment Adviser makes the investment decisions for the Funds and places purchase and sale orders for the Funds' portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any brokers, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Funds, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates for portfolio decisions and management with respect to certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to the research and certain proprietary technical models developed by Goldman Sachs, and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities. The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Funds: .Supervises all non-advisory operations of the Funds .Provides personnel to perform necessary executive, administrative and cler- ical services to the Funds 36 SERVICE PROVIDERS .Arranges for the preparation of all required tax returns, reports to share- holders, prospectuses and statements of additional information and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other regulatory authorities .Maintains the records of each Fund .Provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services MANAGEMENT FEES As compensation for its services and its assumption of certain expenses, the Investment Adviser is entitled to the following fees, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rates (as a percentage of each respective portfolio's average daily net assets) listed below:
Actual Rate For the Fiscal Year Ended Contractual Rate August 31, 1999 ------------------------------------------------------------ GSAM: ------------------------------------------------------------ CORE International Equity 0.85% 0.85% ------------------------------------------------------------ GSAMI: ------------------------------------------------------------ International Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ European Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ Japanese Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ International Small Cap 1.20% 1.20% ------------------------------------------------------------ Emerging Markets Equity 1.20% 1.20% ------------------------------------------------------------ Asia Growth 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------
The difference, if any, between the stated fees and the actual fees paid by the Funds reflects that the Investment Adviser did not charge the full amount of the fees to which it would have been entitled. The Investment Adviser may discontinue or modify any such voluntary limitations in the future at its discretion. FUND MANAGERS M. Roch Hillenbrand, a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs since 1997, is the Head of Global Equities for GSAM, overseeing the United States, Europe, Japan, and non-Japan Asia. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the group as it defines and implements global portfolio management processes that are consistent, reliable and predictable. Since 1981 Mr. Hillenbrand has been President of 37 Commodities Corporation LLC, of which Goldman Sachs is the parent company. Over the course of his 19-year career at Commodities Corporation, Mr. Hillenbrand has had extensive experience in dealing with internal and exter- nal investment managers who have managed a range of futures and equities strategies across multiple markets, using a variety of styles. International Equity Portfolio Management Team .Global portfolio teams based in London, Singapore, Tokyo and New York. Local presence is a key to the Investment Adviser's fundamental research capabilities .Team manages over $33.2 billion in international equities for retail, institutional and high net worth clients .Focus on bottom-up stock selection as main driver of returns, though the team leverages the asset allocation, currency and risk management capabili- ties of GSAM - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- London-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- David Dick Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Dick joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director senior portfolio manager on the European Equity team in 1998. From 1990 to 1998, he was with Mercury Asset Management, where he was a portfolio manager for European equity and was head of Mercury's European sector strategy. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ivor H. Farman Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Farman joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1996 senior portfolio manager in 1996. From 1995 to 1996, he was responsible for originating and marketing French equity ideas at Exane in Paris. Prior to 1995, he spent five years engaged in French equity research and marketing at Banque Nationale de Paris and Schroders in London. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38 SERVICE PROVIDERS
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James P. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Hordern joined the Hordern International Small Cap 1998 Investment Adviser as a Executive Fund portfolio manager in Director 1997. From 1991 to 1997, he was an Assistant Director and portfolio manager at Mercury Asset Management on the European Specialist Team. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ralf Laier Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Laier joined the Vice President Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Fund portfolio manager with a focus on Central/Eastern European (CEE) and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in 1997. Prior to joining the Investment Adviser, from 1995 to 1997, he was Vice President of Soros Global Research, where he analyzed investment opportunities in CEE/CIS. From 1994 to 1995, he achieved a Ph.D. from the Academy of Economics in Pozan, Poland. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Susan Noble Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Noble joined the Managing European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1998 senior portfolio manager and head of the European Equity Team in October 1997. From 1986 to 1997, she worked at Fleming Investment Management in London, where she most recently was Portfolio Management Director for the European equity investment strategy and process. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew Orchard Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Andrew joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1999 portfolio manager in 1999. From 1994 to 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Morgan Grenfell Asset Management where he managed global equity portfolios and chaired Morgan Grenfell's Global Sector Committee. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
39
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shrimpton joined the Shrimpton Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Fund portfolio manager with a focus on Africa as well as the financial industry in the EMEA region in 1996. Since 1985 he was a UK equity analyst and portfolio manager for CIN Management, where he initiated CIN Management's first investments in Latin America. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Stewart Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Robert joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1999 portfolio manager in 1996. He is a member of the European Equity Team. From 1996 to 1998 he was a portfolio manager in Japan where he managed Japanese Equity Institutional Portfolios. Prior to that Robert was a portfolio manager at CINMan from 1989 to 1996 where he managed international equities. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Danny Truell Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Truell joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director senior portfolio manager and head of UK equities in 1998. From 1992 to 1996, he was Investment Banking Executive Director for SBC Warburg and Chief Asian Equity Strategist. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gabriella Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Antici joined the Antici Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Fund portfolio manager in 1997. From 1994 to 1997, she was a Vice President for HSBC Asset Management, where she was a portfolio manager for emerging markets and head of the Latin American Department. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40 SERVICE PROVIDERS New York-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert A. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Beckwitt joined the Beckwitt Emerging Markets Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Managing Fund portfolio manager in Director 1996. From 1986 to 1996, Head of he was Chief Investment Emerging Strategist-Portfolio Markets Equity Adviser to high net worth investors at Fidelity Investments. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Melissa Brown Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Brown joined the Vice President CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Fund portfolio manager in 1998. From 1984 to 1998, she was the director of Quantitative Equity Research and served on the Investment Policy Committee at Prudential Securities. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mark M. Carhart Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Carhart joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund member of the Quantitative Research and Risk Management team in 1997. From August 1995 to September 1997, he was Assistant Professor of Finance at the Marshall School of Business at USC and a Senior Fellow of the Wharton Financial Institutions Center. From 1993 to 1995, he was a lecturer and graduate student at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kent A. Clark Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Clark joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund portfolio manager in the quantitative equity management team in 1992. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Raymond J. Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Iwanowski joined the Iwanowski CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as an Managing Fund associate and portfolio Director manager in 1997. From 1993 to 1997, he was a Vice President and head of the Fixed Derivatives Client Research group at Salomon Brothers. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert C. Jones Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Jones joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund portfolio manager in 1989. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
41 Singapore-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alice Lui Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Lui joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1994 Investment Adviser as a Emerging Markets Equity 1999 portfolio manager in Fund 1990. International Equity Fund 1999 International Small Cap 1999 Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ravi Shanker Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shanker joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1997 Investment Adviser as an Emerging Markets Equity 1998 operations manager in Fund 1997. From July 1996 to International Equity Fund 1999 1997, he worked for International Small Cap 1999 Goldman Sachs in Fund Singapore as a strategic advisor for transactions involving infrastructure industries in Asia. From 1988 to 1996, he worked for Goldman Sachs as an investment banker in the Investment Banking Division. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Siew-Hua Thio Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Thio joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Emerging Markets Equity 1998 portfolio manager in Fund 1998. From 1997 to 1998, International Equity Fund 1998 she was Head of Research International Small Cap 1998 for Indosuez WI Carr in Fund Singapore. From 1993 to 1997, she was a research analyst at the same firm. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42 SERVICE PROVIDERS Tokyo-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Toshiyuki Ejima Portfolio Manager-- Since Toshiyuki joined the Vice President Japanese Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in April 1999. Prior to that he was a portfolio manager at Daiichi Mutual Life from 1993 to 1999 where he managed Japanese equities. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shigeka Kouda Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Kouda joined the Vice President International Small 1998 Investment Adviser as a Cap Fund portfolio manager in 1997. From 1992 to 1997, he was at the Fixed Income Division of Goldman Sachs (Japan) Limited, where he was extensively involved in emerging markets trading as well as International Fixed Income institutional sales. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shogo Maeda Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Maeda joined the Managing Manager-- 1994 Investment Adviser as a Director Japanese Equity Fund 1994 portfolio manager in International Equity 1998 1994. From 1987 to 1994, Fund he worked at Nomura International Small Investment Management Cap Fund Incorporated as a Senior Portfolio Manager. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Miyako Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Shibamoto joined the Shibamoto Japanese Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President member of the Japanese Equity team in March 1998. From 1993 to 1998, she was a Vice President at Scudder Stevens and Clark (Japan). - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Takeya Suzuki Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Suzuki joined the Vice President Japanese Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in 1996. From 1990 to 1996, he was a Japanese equity portfolio manager at Nomura Investment Management where he actively managed assets for U.S. pension funds. - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43 DISTRIBUTOR AND TRANSFER AGENT Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor (the "Distributor") of each Fund's shares. Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6372, also serves as the Funds' transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent") and, as such, performs various shareholder servicing functions. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares acquired for its own account. ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affili- ates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to a Fund or limit a Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds. The results of a Fund's investment activities, therefore, may differ from those of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and it is possible that a Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affili- ates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Funds may, from time to time, enter into transactions in which other clients of Goldman Sachs have an adverse interest. A Fund's activities may be limited because of regula- tory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. YEAR 2000 Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to signify the year (for example, "98" for "1998"). On January 1, 2000, if these computer systems are not corrected, they may incorrectly interpret "00" as the year "1900" rather than the year "2000," leading to computer shutdowns or errors (commonly 44 SERVICE PROVIDERS known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). To the extent these systems conduct forward-looking calculations, these computer problems may occur prior to January 1, 2000. Like other investment companies and financial and business organizations, the Funds could be adversely affected in their ability to process securities trades, price securities, provide shareholder account services and otherwise conduct normal business operations if the Investment Adviser or other Fund service providers do not adequately address this prob- lem in a timely manner. In order to address the Year 2000 Problem, the Investment Adviser has taken the following measures: .The Investment Adviser has established a dedicated group which analyzed these issues and implemented system modifications to prepare for the Year 2000 Problem. .The Investment Adviser has either tested with or received assurances from the Fund's other service providers to confirm that they are taking reason- able steps to avoid Year 2000 Problems, and the Investment Adviser contin- ues to monitor the situation. .The Investment Adviser has developed broad and comprehensive contingency plans, as well as event management plans that will help manage the Funds through the date change by allowing the Investment Adviser to closely moni- tor and respond to Year 2000-related events as they unfold around the world. Currently, the Investment Adviser does not anticipate that the transition to the 21st century will have any material impact on its ability to continue to service the Funds at current levels. In addition, the Investment Adviser has undertaken measures to appropriately take into account available information concerning the Year 2000 prepared- ness of the issuers of securities held by the Funds. The Investment Adviser may obtain such Year 2000 information from various sources which the Invest- ment Adviser believes to be reliable, including the issuers' public regula- tory filings. However, the Investment Adviser is not in a position to verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. At this time, however, no assurance can be given that the actions taken by the Investment Adviser and the Funds' other service providers will be suffi- cient to avoid any adverse effect on the Funds due to the Year 2000 Problem. 45 Dividends Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains. You may choose to have dividends and dis- tributions paid in: .Cash .Additional shares of the same class of the same Fund .Shares of the same or an equivalent class of another Goldman Sachs Fund. Special restrictions may apply for certain ILA Portfolios. See the Additional Statement. You may indicate your election on your Account Application. Any changes may be submitted in writing to Goldman Sachs at any time before the record date for a particular dividend or distribution. If you do not indicate any choice, your dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in the applicable Fund. The election to reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by you and then used to purchase the shares. The Funds' investments in foreign securities may be subject to foreign with- holding taxes. Under certain circumstances, the Funds may elect to pass- through these taxes to you. If this election is made, a proportionate amount of such taxes will constitute a distribution to you, which would allow you either (1) to credit such proportionate amount of foreign taxes against your U.S. federal income tax liability or (2) to take such amount as an itemized deduction. Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are declared and paid annually. From time to time a portion of a Fund's dividends may constitute a return of capital. At the time of an investor's purchase of shares of a Fund, a portion of the NAV per share may be represented by undistributed income or undistributed realized appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities. Therefore, subse- quent distributions on such shares from such income or realized appreciation may be taxable to you even if the NAV of the shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the cost of such shares and the distributions (or portions thereof) represent a return of a portion of the purchase price. 46 Shareholder Guide The following section will provide you with answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding buying and selling the Funds' shares. HOW TO BUY SHARES How Can I Purchase Class A, Class B And Class C Shares Of The Funds? You may purchase shares of the Funds through: . Goldman Sachs; . Authorized Dealers; or . Directly from Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust"). In order to make an initial investment in a Fund, you must furnish to the Fund, Goldman Sachs or your Authorized Dealer the information in the Account Application attached to this Prospectus. To Open an Account: . Complete the enclosed Account Application . Mail your payment and Account Application to: Your Authorized Dealer - Purchases by check or Federal Reserve draft should be made payable to your Authorized Dealer - Your Authorized Dealer is responsible for forwarding payment promptly (within three business days) to the Fund or Goldman Sachs Funds c/o National Financial Data Services, Inc. ("NFDS"), P.O. Box 219711, Kansas City, MO 64121-9711 - Purchases by check or Federal Reserve draft should be made payable to Goldman Sachs Funds - (Name of Fund and Class of Shares) - NFDS will not accept a check drawn on a foreign bank, a third-party check, cash, money orders, travelers checques or credit card checks - Federal funds wire, Automated Clearing House Network ("ACH") transfer or bank wires should be sent to State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") (each Fund's custodian). Please call the Funds at 1-800-526- 7384 to get detailed instructions on how to wire your money. 47 What Is My Minimum Investment In The Funds?
Initial Additional ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regular Accounts $1,000 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tax-Sheltered Retirement Plans (excluding SIMPLE IRAs and Education IRAs) $250 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Uniform Gift to Minors Act Accounts/Uniform Transfer to Minors Act Accounts $250 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 403(b) Plan Accounts $200 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SIMPLE IRAs and Education IRAs $50 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Automatic Investment Plan Accounts $50 $50 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Alternative Sales Arrangements Are Available? The Funds offer three classes of shares through this Prospectus. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maximum Amount You Can Buy In The Class A No limit Aggregate Across Funds ------------------------------------------------ Class B $250,000 ------------------------------------------------ Class C $1,000,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Initial Sales Charge Class A Applies to purchases of less than $1 million--varies by size of investment with a maximum of 5.5% ------------------------------------------------ Class B None ------------------------------------------------ Class C None ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CDSC Class A 1.00% on certain investments of $1 million or more if you sell within 18 months ------------------------------------------------ Class B 6 year declining CDSC with a maximum of 5% ------------------------------------------------ Class C 1% if shares are redeemed within 12 months of purchase ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Conversion Feature Class A None ------------------------------------------------ Class B Class B Shares convert to Class A Shares after 8 years ------------------------------------------------ Class C None ------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Else Should I Know About Share Purchases? The Trust reserves the right to: . Refuse to open an account if you fail to (i) provide a social security number or other taxpayer identification number; or (ii) certify that such number is correct (if required to do so under applicable law). . Reject or restrict any purchase or exchange order by a particular pur- chaser (or group of related purchasers). This may occur, for example, when a pattern of 48 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE frequent purchases, sales or exchanges of shares of a Fund is evident, or if purchases, sales or exchanges are, or a subsequent abrupt redemption might be, of a size that would disrupt management of a Fund. . Modify or waive the minimum investment amounts. . Modify the manner in which shares are offered. . Modify the sales charge rates applicable to future purchases of shares. The Funds may allow you to purchase shares with securities instead of cash if consistent with a Fund's investment policies and operations and if approved by the Fund's Investment Adviser. How Are Shares Priced? The price you pay or receive when you buy, sell or exchange shares is deter- mined by a Fund's NAV and share class. Each class calculates its NAV as fol- lows: (Value of Assets of the Class) NAV = - (Liabilities of the Class) ------------------------------------------------- Number of Outstanding Shares of the Class The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations or if accurate quotations are not readily available, the fair value of the Fund's invest- ments may be determined in good faith under procedures established by the Trustees. . NAV per share of each share class is calculated by the Fund's custodian on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Fund shares will not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed. . When you buy shares, you pay the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form, plus any applicable sales charge. . When you sell shares, you receive the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form, less any applicable CDSC. Note: The time at which transactions and shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange is stopped at a time other than 4:00 p.m. New York time. Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days a Fund is closed. As a result, the NAV of a Fund that holds foreign securities may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or redeem Fund shares. In addition, the impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next 49 determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discretion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund opera- tions and other relevant factors. COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF CLASS A SHARES What Is The Offering Price Of Class A Shares? The offering price of Class A Shares of each Fund is the next determined NAV per share plus an initial sales charge paid to Goldman Sachs at the time of purchase of shares. The sales charge varies depending upon the amount you purchase. In some cases, described below, the initial sales charge may be eliminated altogether, and the offering price will be the NAV per share. The current sales charges and commissions paid to Authorized Dealers are as fol- lows:
Sales Charge Maximum Dealer Sales Charge as as Percentage Allowance as Amount of Purchase Percentage of of Net Amount Percentage of (including sales charge, if any) Offering Price Invested Offering Price* --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than $50,000 5.50% 5.82% 5.00% $50,000 up to (but less than) $100,000 4.75 4.99 4.00 $100,000 up to (but less than) $250,000 3.75 3.90 3.00 $250,000 up to (but less than) $500,000 2.75 2.83 2.25 $500,000 up to (but less than) $1 million 2.00 2.04 1.75 $1 million or more 0.00** 0.00** *** ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Dealer's allowance may be changed periodically. During special promo- tions, the entire sales charge may be allowed to Authorized Dealers. Authorized Dealers to whom substantially the entire sales charge is allowed may be deemed to be "underwriters" under the Securities Act of 1933. ** No sales charge is payable at the time of purchase of Class A Shares of $1 million or more, but a CDSC of 1% may be imposed in the event of certain redemptions within 18 months of purchase. *** The Distributor pays a one-time commission to Authorized Dealers who initiate or are responsible for purchases of $1 million or more of shares of the Funds equal to 1.00% of the amount under $3 million, 0.50% of the next $2 million, and 0.25% thereafter. The Distributor may also pay, with respect to all or a portion of the amount purchased, a commission in accordance with the foregoing schedule to Authorized Dealers who initiate or are responsible for purchases of $500,000 or more by certain pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-sponsored benefit plans investing in the Funds which sat- isfy the criteria set forth below in "When Are Class A Shares Not Sub- ject To A Sales Load?" or $1 million or more by certain "wrap" accounts. Purchases by such plans will be made at NAV with no initial sales charge, but if all of the shares held are redeemed within 18 months after the end of the calendar month in which such purchase was made, a CDSC of 1% may be imposed upon the plan sponsor or the third party administrator. In addition, Authorized Dealers will remit to the Distributor such payments received in connection with "wrap" accounts in the event that shares are redeemed within 18 months after the end of the calendar month in which the purchase was made. 50 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE What Else Do I Need To Know About Class A Shares' CDSC? Purchases of $1 million or more of Class A Shares will be made at NAV with no initial sales charge. However, if you redeem shares within 18 months after the end of the calendar month in which the purchase was made, exclud- ing any period of time in which the shares were exchanged into and remained invested in an equivalent class of an ILA Portfolio, a CDSC of 1% may be imposed. The CDSC may not be imposed if your Authorized Dealer enters into an agreement with the Distributor to return all or an applicable prorated portion of its commission to the Distributor. The CDSC is waived on redemp- tions in certain circumstances. See "In What Situations May The CDSC On Class A, B Or C Shares Be Waived Or Reduced?" below. When Are Class A Shares Not Subject To A Sales Load? Class A Shares of the Funds may be sold at NAV without payment of any sales charge to the following individuals and entities: . Goldman Sachs, its affiliates or their respective officers, partners, directors or employees (including retired employees and former partners), any partnership of which Goldman Sachs is a general partner, any Trustee or officer of the Trust and designated family members of any of these individuals; . Qualified retirement plans of Goldman Sachs; . Trustees or directors of investment companies for which Goldman Sachs or an affiliate acts as sponsor; . Any employee or registered representative of any Authorized Dealer or their respective spouses, children and parents; . Banks, trust companies or other types of depository institutions investing for their own account or investing for discretionary or non-discretionary accounts; . Any state, county or city, or any instrumentality, department, authority or agency thereof, which is prohibited by applicable investment laws from paying a sales charge or commission in connection with the purchase of shares of a Fund; . Pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-spon- sored benefit plans that: . Buy shares of Goldman Sachs Funds worth $500,000 or more; or . Have 100 or more eligible employees at the time of purchase; or . Certify that they expect to have annual plan purchases of shares of Goldman Sachs Funds of $200,000 or more; or . Are provided administrative services by certain third-party administra- tors that have entered into a special service arrangement with Goldman Sachs relating to such plans; or . Have at the time of purchase aggregate assets of at least $2,000,000; 51 . "Wrap" accounts for the benefit of clients of broker-dealers, financial institutions or financial planners, provided they have entered into an agreement with GSAM specifying aggregate minimums and certain operating policies and standards; . Registered investment advisers investing for accounts for which they receive asset-based fees; . Accounts over which GSAM or its advisory affiliates have investment dis- cretion; or . Shareholders receiving distributions from a qualified retirement plan invested in the Goldman Sachs Funds and reinvesting such proceeds in a Goldman Sachs IRA. You must certify eligibility for any of the above exemptions on your Account Application and notify the Fund if you no longer are eligible for the exemp- tion. The Fund will grant you an exemption subject to confirmation of your entitlement. You may be charged a fee if you effect your transactions through a broker or agent. How Can The Sales Charge On Class A Shares Be Reduced? . Right of Accumulation: When buying Class A Shares in Goldman Sachs Funds, your current aggregate investment determines the initial sales load you pay. You may qualify for reduced sales charges when the current market value of holdings (shares at current offering price), plus new purchases, reaches $50,000 or more. Class A Shares of any of the Goldman Sachs Funds may be combined under the Right of Accumulation. To qualify for a reduced sales load, you or your Authorized Dealer must notify the Funds' Transfer Agent at the time of investment that a quantity discount is applicable. Use of this service is subject to a check of appropriate records. The Additional Statement has more information about the Right of Accumulation. . Statement of Intention: You may obtain a reduced sales charge by means of a written Statement of Intention which expresses your non-binding commit- ment to invest in the aggregate $50,000 or more (not counting reinvest- ments of dividends and distributions) within a period of 13 months in Class A Shares of one or more Goldman Sachs Fund. Any investments you make during the period will receive the discounted sales load based on the full amount of your investment commitment. If the investment commitment of the Statement of Intention is not met prior to the expiration of the 13-month period, the entire amount will be subject to the higher applicable sales charge. By signing the Statement of Intention, you authorize the Transfer Agent to escrow and redeem Class A Shares in your account to pay this additional charge. The Additional Statement has more information about the Statement of Intention, which you should read carefully. 52 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF CLASS B SHARES What Is The Offering Price Of Class B Shares? You may purchase Class B Shares of the Funds at the next determined NAV without an initial sales charge. However, Class B Shares redeemed within six years of purchase will be subject to a CDSC at the rates shown in the table below based on how long you held your shares. The CDSC schedule is as follows:
CDSC as a Percentage of Dollar Amount Year Since Purchase Subject to CDSC ---------------------------------------- First 5% Second 4% Third 3% Fourth 3% Fifth 2% Sixth 1% Seventh and thereafter None ----------------------------------------
Proceeds from the CDSC are payable to the Distributor and may be used in whole or in part to defray the Distributor's expenses related to providing distribution-related services to the Funds in connection with the sale of Class B Shares, including the payment of compensation to Authorized Dealers. A commission equal to 4% of the amount invested is paid to Authorized Deal- ers. What Should I Know About The Automatic Conversion Of Class B Shares? Class B Shares of a Fund will automatically convert into Class A Shares of the same Fund at the end of the calendar quarter that is eight years after the purchase date. If you acquire Class B Shares of a Fund by exchange from Class B Shares of another Goldman Sachs Fund, your Class B Shares will convert into Class A Shares of such Fund based on the date of the initial purchase and the CDSC schedule of that purchase. If you acquire Class B Shares through reinvestment of distributions, your Class B Shares will convert into Class A Shares based on the date of the initial purchase of the shares on which the distribution was paid. The conversion of Class B Shares to Class A Shares will not occur at any time the Funds are advised that such conversions may constitute taxable events for federal tax purposes, which the Funds believe is unlikely. If conversions do not occur as a 53 result of possible taxability, Class B Shares would continue to be subject to higher expenses than Class A Shares for an indeterminate period. A COMMON QUESTION ABOUT THE PURCHASE OF CLASS C SHARES What Is The Offering Price Of Class C Shares? You may purchase Class C Shares of the Funds at the next determined NAV without paying an initial sales charge. However, if you redeem Class C Shares within 12 months of purchase, a CDSC of 1% will normally be deducted from the redemption proceeds; provided that in connection with purchases by pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-sponsored benefit plans, where all of the Class C Shares are redeemed within 12 months of purchase, a CDSC of 1% may be imposed upon the plan sponsor or third party administrator. Proceeds from the CDSC are payable to the Distributor and may be used in whole or in part to defray the Distributor's expenses related to providing distribution-related services to the Funds in connection with the sale of Class C Shares, including the payment of compensation to Authorized Dealers. An amount equal to 1% of the amount invested is normally paid by the Dis- tributor to Authorized Dealers. COMMON QUESTIONS APPLICABLE TO THE PURCHASE OF CLASS A, B AND C SHARES What Else Do I Need To Know About The CDSC On Class A, B Or C Shares? . The CDSC is based on the lesser of the NAV of the shares at the time of redemption or the original offering price (which is the original NAV). . No CDSC is charged on shares acquired from reinvested dividends or capi- tal gains distributions. . No CDSC is charged on the per share appreciation of your account over the initial purchase price. . When counting the number of months since a purchase of Class B or Class C Shares was made, all payments made during a month will be combined and considered to have been made on the first day of that month. . To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell shares, the Funds will first sell any shares in your account that do not carry a CDSC and then the shares in your account that have been held the longest. 54 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE In What Situations May The CDSC On Class A, B Or C Shares Be Waived Or Reduced? The CDSC on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares that are subject to a CDSC may be waived or reduced if the redemption relates to: . Retirement distributions or loans to participants or beneficiaries from pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-spon- sored benefit plans (each a "Retirement Plan"); . The death or disability (as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code")) of a participant or benefi- ciary in a Retirement Plan; . Hardship withdrawals by a participant or beneficiary in a Retirement Plan; . Satisfying the minimum distribution requirements of the Code; . Establishing "substantially equal periodic payments" as described under Section 72(t)(2) of the Code; . The separation from service by a participant or beneficiary in a Retire- ment Plan; . The death or disability (as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Code) of a shareholder if the redemption is made within one year of the event; . Excess contributions distributed from a Retirement Plan; . Distributions from a qualified Retirement Plan invested in the Goldman Sachs Funds which are being rolled over to a Goldman Sachs IRA; or . Redemption proceeds which are to be reinvested in accounts or non-regis- tered products over which GSAM or its advisory affiliates have investment discretion. In addition, Class A, B and C Shares subject to a systematic withdrawal plan may be redeemed without a CDSC. The Funds reserve the right to limit such redemptions, on an annual basis, to 12% each of the value of your Class B and C Shares and 10% of the value of your Class A Shares. How Do I Decide Whether To Buy Class A, B Or C Shares? The decision as to which Class to purchase depends on the amount you invest, the intended length of the investment and your personal situation. . Class A Shares. If you are making an investment of $50,000 or more that qualifies for a reduced sales charge, you should consider purchasing Class A Shares. . Class B Shares. If you plan to hold your investment for at least six years and would prefer not to pay an initial sales charge, you might consider purchasing Class B Shares. By not paying a front-end sales charge, your entire investment in Class B Shares is available to work for you from the time you make your initial investment. However, the distribution and serv- ice fee paid by Class B 55 Shares will cause your Class B Shares (until conversion to Class A Shares) to have a higher expense ratio, and thus lower performance and lower divi- dend payments (to the extent dividends are paid) than Class A Shares. A maximum purchase limitation of $250,000 in the aggregate normally applies to Class B Shares. . Class C Shares. If you are unsure of the length of your investment or plan to hold your investment for less than six years and would prefer not to pay an initial sales charge, you may prefer Class C Shares. By not paying a front-end sales charge, your entire investment in Class C Shares is available to work for you from the time you make your initial investment. However, the distribution and service fee paid by Class C Shares will cause your Class C Shares to have a higher expense ratio, and thus lower performance and lower dividend payments (to the extent dividends are paid) than Class A Shares (or Class B Shares after conversion to Class A Shares). Although Class C Shares are subject to a CDSC for only 12 months, Class C Shares do not have the conversion feature applicable to Class B Shares and your investment will therefore pay higher distribution fees indefinitely. A maximum purchase limitation of $1,000,000 in the aggregate normally applies to purchases of Class C Shares. Note: Authorized Dealers may receive different compensation for selling Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. In addition to Class A, Class B and Class C Shares, each Fund also offers other classes of shares to investors. These other share classes are subject to different fees and expenses (which affect performance), have different minimum investment requirements and are entitled to different services. Information regarding these other share classes may be obtained from your sales representative or from Goldman Sachs by calling the number on the back cover of this Prospectus. HOW TO SELL SHARES How Can I Sell Class A, Class B And Class C Shares Of The Funds? You may arrange to take money out of your account by selling (redeeming) some or all of your shares. Each Fund will redeem its shares upon request on any business day at the NAV next determined after receipt of such request in proper form, subject to any applicable CDSC. You may request that redemption proceeds be sent to you by check or by wire (if the wire instructions are on record). Redemptions may be requested in writing or by telephone. 56 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE
Instructions For Redemptions: -------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund name and Class of Shares .The dollar amount you want to sell .How and where to send the proceeds .Obtain a signature guarantee (see details below) .Mail your request to: Goldman Sachs Funds c/o NFDS P.O. Box 219711 Kansas City, MO 64121-9711 -------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have not declined the telephone redemption privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-526-7384 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) .You may redeem up to $50,000 of your shares within any 7 calendar day period .Proceeds which are sent directly to a Goldman Sachs brokerage account are not subject to the $50,000 limit --------------------------------------------------------------------
When Do I Need A Signature Guarantee To Redeem Shares? A signature guarantee is required if: . You are requesting in writing to redeem shares in an amount over $50,000; . You would like the redemption proceeds sent to an address that is not your address of record; or . You would like to change the bank designated on your Account Application. A signature guarantee is designed to protect you, the Funds and Goldman Sachs from fraud. You may obtain a signature guarantee from a bank, securi- ties broker or dealer, credit union having the authority to issue signature guarantees, savings and loan association, building and loan association, cooperative bank, federal savings bank or association, national securities exchange, registered securities association or clearing agency, provided that such institution satisfies the standards established by Goldman Sachs. Additional documentation may be required for executors, trustees or corpora- tions or when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests? The Trust, the Distributor, and the Transfer Agent will not be liable for any loss you may incur in the event that the Trust accepts unauthorized tel- ephone redemption requests that the Trust reasonably believes to be genuine. The Trust may accept telephone redemption instructions from any person iden- tifying himself 57 or herself as the owner of an account or the owner's registered representa- tive where the owner has not declined in writing to use this service. Thus, you risk possible losses if a telephone redemption is not authorized by you. In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption and exchange requests by telephone, Goldman Sachs and NFDS each employ reasonable proce- dures specified by the Trust to confirm that such instructions are genuine. If reasonable procedures are not employed, the Trust may be liable for any loss due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. The following general policies are currently in effect: . All telephone requests are recorded. . Proceeds of telephone redemption requests will be sent only to your address of record or authorized bank account designated in the Account Application (unless you provide written instructions and a signature guar- antee, indicating another address or account) and exchanges of shares nor- mally will be made only to an identically registered account. . Telephone redemptions will not be accepted during the 30-day period fol- lowing any change in your address of record. . The telephone redemption option does not apply to shares held in a "street name" account. "Street name" accounts are accounts maintained and serviced by your Authorized Dealer. If your account is held in "street name," you should contact your registered representative of record, who may make tel- ephone redemptions on your behalf. . The telephone redemption option may be modified or terminated at any time. Note: It may be difficult to make telephone redemptions in times of drastic economic or market conditions. How Are Redemption Proceeds Paid? By Wire: You may arrange for your redemption proceeds to be wired as federal funds to the bank account designated in your Account Application. The fol- lowing general policies govern wiring redemption proceeds: . Redemption proceeds will normally be wired on the next business day in federal funds (for a total of one business day delay), but may be paid up to three business days following receipt of a properly executed wire transfer redemption request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. If the Federal Reserve Bank is closed on the day that the redemption proceeds would ordinarily be wired, wiring the redemption proceeds may be delayed one additional business day. . A transaction fee of $7.50 may be charged for payments of redemption pro- ceeds by wire. Your bank may also charge wiring fees. You should contact your bank directly to learn whether it charges such fees. 58 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE . To change the bank designated on your Account Application, you must send written instructions (with your signature guaranteed) to the Transfer Agent. . Neither the Trust, Goldman Sachs nor any Authorized Dealer assumes any responsibility for the performance of your bank or any intermediaries in the transfer process. If a problem with such performance arises, you should deal directly with your bank or any such intermediaries. By Check: You may elect to receive your redemption proceeds by check. Redemption proceeds paid by check will normally be mailed to the address of record within three business days of a properly executed redemption request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. What Else Do I Need To Know About Redemptions? The following generally applies to redemption requests: . Additional documentation may be required when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. A redemption request will not be in proper form until such additional documentation has been received. The Trust reserves the right to: . Redeem your shares if your account balance is less than $50 as a result of a redemption. The Funds will not redeem your shares on this basis if the value of your account falls below the minimum account balance solely as a result of market conditions. The Funds will give you 60 days' prior writ- ten notice to allow you to purchase sufficient additional shares of the Fund in order to avoid such redemption. . Redeem your shares in other circumstances determined by the Board of Trustees to be in the best interests of the Trust. . Pay redemptions by a distribution in-kind of securities (instead of cash). If you receive redemption proceeds in-kind, you should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of those securities. Can I Reinvest Redemption Proceeds In The Same Or Another Goldman Sachs Fund? You may redeem shares of a Fund and reinvest a portion or all of the redemp- tion proceeds (plus any additional amounts needed to round off purchases to the nearest full share) at NAV. To be eligible for this privilege, you must hold the shares you want to redeem for at least 30 days and you must rein- vest the share proceeds within 90 days after you redeem. You may reinvest as follows: . Class A or B Shares--Class A Shares of the same Fund or any other Goldman Sachs Fund . Class C Shares--Class C Shares of the same Fund or any other Goldman Sachs Fund 59 . You should obtain and read the applicable prospectuses before investing in any other Funds. . If you pay a CDSC upon redemption of Class A or Class C Shares and then reinvest in Class A or Class C Shares as described above, your account will be credited with the amount of the CDSC you paid. The reinvested shares will, however, continue to be subject to a CDSC. The holding period of the shares acquired through reinvestment will include the holding period of the redeemed shares for purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon a subsequent redemption. For Class B Shares, you may reinvest the redemption proceeds in Class A Shares at NAV but the amount of the CDSC paid upon redemption of the Class B Shares will not be credited to your account. . The reinvestment privilege may be exercised at any time in connection with transactions in which the proceeds are reinvested at NAV in a tax-shel- tered retirement plan. In other cases, the reinvestment privilege may be exercised once per year upon receipt of a written request. . You may be subject to tax as a result of a redemption. You should consult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of a redemption and rein- vestment. Can I Exchange My Investment From One Fund To Another? You may exchange shares of a Fund at NAV without the imposition of an ini- tial sales charge or CDSC at the time of exchange for shares of the same class or an equivalent class of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. The exchange privilege may be materially modified or withdrawn at any time upon 60 days' written notice to you.
Instructions For Exchanging Shares: ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund names and Class of Shares .The dollar amount you want to exchange .Obtain a signature guarantee (see details above) .Mail the request to: Goldman Sachs Funds c/o NFDS P.O. Box 219711 Kansas City, MO 64121-9711 or for overnight delivery - Goldman Sachs Funds c/o NFDS 330 West 9th St. Poindexter Bldg., 1st Floor Kansas City, MO 64105 ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have not declined the telephone exchange privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-526-7384 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -------------------------------------------------------------------
60 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE You should keep in mind the following factors when making or considering an exchange: . You should obtain and carefully read the prospectus of the Fund you are acquiring before making an exchange. . Six free exchanges are allowed in each 12 month period. . A $12.50 fee may be charged for each subsequent exchange. . There is no charge for exchanges made pursuant to the Automatic Exchange Program. . The exchanged shares may later be exchanged for shares of the same class (or an equivalent class) of the original Fund at the next determined NAV without the imposition of an initial sales charge or CDSC if the amount in the Fund resulting from such exchanges is less than the largest amount on which you have previously paid the applicable sales charge. . When you exchange shares subject to a CDSC, no CDSC will be charged at that time. The exchanged shares will be subject to the CDSC of the shares originally held. For purposes of determining the amount of the applicable CDSC, the length of time you have owned the shares will be measured from the date you acquired the original shares subject to a CDSC and will not be affected by a subsequent exchange. . Eligible investors may exchange certain classes of shares for another class of shares of the same Fund. For further information, call Goldman Sachs Funds at 1-800-526-7384. . All exchanges which represent an initial investment in a Fund must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirements of that Fund. . Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made. . It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic eco- nomic or market conditions. . Goldman Sachs and NFDS may use reasonable procedures described under "What Do I Need to Know About Telephone Redemption Requests?" in an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent telephone exchange requests. . Telephone exchanges normally will be made only to an identically regis- tered account. Shares may be exchanged among accounts with different names, addresses and social security or other taxpayer identification num- bers only if the exchange instructions are in writing and accompanied by a signature guarantee. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange is treated as a redemption of the shares surrendered in the exchange, on which you may be subject to tax, followed by a purchase of shares received in the exchange. You should con- sult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of an exchange. 61 SHAREHOLDER SERVICES Can I Arrange To Have Automatic Investments Made On A Regular Basis? You may be able to make systematic cash investments through your bank via ACH transfer or your checking account via bank draft each month. Forms for this option are available from Goldman Sachs, your Authorized Dealer or you may check the appropriate box on the Account Application. Can My Dividends And Distributions From A Fund Be Invested In Other Funds? You may elect to cross-reinvest dividends and capital gain distributions paid by a Fund in shares of the same class or an equivalent class of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. . Shares will be purchased at NAV. . No initial sales charge or CDSC will be imposed. . You may elect cross-reinvestment into an identically registered account or an account registered in a different name or with a different address, social security number or taxpayer identification number provided that the account has been properly established, appropriate signature guarantees obtained and the minimum initial investment has been satisfied. Can I Arrange To Have Automatic Exchanges Made On A Regular Basis? You may elect to exchange automatically a specified dollar amount of shares of a Fund for shares of the same class or an equivalent class of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. . Shares will be purchased at NAV. . No initial sales charge is imposed. . Shares subject to a CDSC acquired under this program may be subject to a CDSC at the time of redemption from the Fund into which the exchange is made depending upon the date and value of your original purchase. . Automatic exchanges are made monthly on the 15th day of each month or the first business day thereafter. . Minimum dollar amount: $50 per month. What Else Should I Know About Cross-Reinvestments And Automatic Exchanges? Cross-reinvestments and automatic exchanges are subject to the following conditions: . You must hold $5,000 or more in the Fund which is paying the dividend or from which the exchange is being made. 62 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE . You must invest an amount in the Fund into which cross-reinvestments or automatic exchanges are being made that is equal to that Fund's minimum initial investment or continue to cross-reinvest or to make automatic exchanges until such minimum initial investment is met. . You should obtain and read the prospectus of the Fund into which dividends are invested or automatic exchanges are made. Can I Have Automatic Withdrawals Made On A Regular Basis? You may draw on your account systematically via check or ACH transfer in any amount of $50 or more. . It is normally undesirable to maintain a systematic withdrawal plan at the same time that you are purchasing additional Class A, Class B or Class C Shares because of the sales charge imposed on your purchases of Class A Shares or the imposition of a CDSC on your redemptions of Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. . You must have a minimum balance of $5,000 in a Fund. . Checks are mailed on or about the 25th day of each month. . Each systematic withdrawal is a redemption and therefore a taxable trans- action. . The CDSC applicable to Class A, Class B or Class C Shares redeemed under the systematic withdrawal plan may be waived. What Types of Reports Will I Be Sent Regarding My Investment? You will be provided with a printed confirmation of each transaction in your account and an individual quarterly account statement. A year-to-date state- ment for your account will be provided upon request made to Goldman Sachs. If your account is held in "street name" you may receive your statement and confirmation on a different schedule. You will also receive an annual shareholder report containing audited finan- cial statements and a semi-annual shareholder report. If you have consented to the delivery of a single copy of shareholder reports, prospectuses and other information to all shareholders who share the same mailing address with your account, you may revoke your consent at any time by contacting Goldman Sachs Funds by phone at 1-800-526-7384 or by mail at Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372. The Funds will begin sending individual copies to you within 30 days after receipt of your revocation. The Funds do not generally provide sub-accounting services. What Should I Know When I Purchase Shares Through An Authorized Dealer? Authorized Dealers and other financial intermediaries may provide varying arrangements for their clients to purchase and redeem Fund shares. They may charge additional fees not described in this Prospectus to their customers for such services. 63 If shares of a Fund are held in a "street name" account with an Authorized Dealer, all recordkeeping, transaction processing and payments of distribu- tions relating to your account will be performed by the Authorized Dealer, and not by the Fund and its Transfer Agent. Since the Funds will have no record of your transactions, you should contact the Authorized Dealer to purchase, redeem or exchange shares, to make changes in or give instructions concerning the account or to obtain information about your account. The transfer of shares in a "street name" account to an account with another dealer or to an account directly with the Fund involves special procedures and will require you to obtain historical purchase information about the shares in the account from the Authorized Dealer. Authorized Dealers and other financial intermediaries may be authorized to accept, on behalf of the Trust, purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers, and if approved by the Trust, to designate other intermediaries to accept such orders. In these cases: . A Fund will be deemed to have received an order that is in proper form when the order is accepted by an Authorized Dealer or intermediary on a business day, and the order will be priced at the Fund's NAV per share (adjusted for any applicable sales charge) next determined after such acceptance. . Authorized Dealers and intermediaries are responsible for transmitting accepted orders to the Funds within the time period agreed upon by them. You should contact your Authorized Dealer or intermediary to learn whether it is authorized to accept orders for the Trust. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay addi- tional compensation from time to time, out of their assets and not as an additional charge to the Funds, to selected Authorized Dealers and other persons in connection with the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of the Funds and other Goldman Sachs Funds. Additional compensation based on sales may, but is currently not expected to, exceed 0.50% (annualized) of the amount invested. DISTRIBUTION SERVICES AND FEES What Are The Different Distribution And Service Fees Paid By Class A, B and C Shares? The Trust has adopted distribution and service plans (each a "Plan") under which Class A, Class B and Class C Shares bear distribution and service fees paid to Authorized Dealers and Goldman Sachs. If the fees received by Goldman Sachs pursuant to the Plans exceed its expenses, Goldman Sachs may realize a profit from their arrangements. Goldman Sachs pays the distribu- tion and service fees on a quarterly basis. 64 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE Under the Plans, Goldman Sachs is entitled to a monthly fee from each Fund for distribution services equal, on an annual basis, to 0.25%, 0.75% and 0.75%, respectively, of a Fund's average daily net assets attributed to Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund's assets on an ongoing basis, over time, these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of such charges. The distribution fees are subject to the requirements of Rule 12b-1 under the Act, and may be used (among other things) for: . Compensation paid to and expenses incurred by Authorized Dealers, Goldman Sachs and their respective officers, employees and sales representatives; . Commissions paid to Authorized Dealers; . Allocable overhead; . Telephone and travel expenses; . Interest and other costs associated with the financing of such compensa- tion and expenses; . Printing of prospectuses for prospective shareholders; . Preparation and distribution of sales literature or advertising of any type; and . All other expenses incurred in connection with activities primarily intended to result in the sale of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. In connection with the sale of Class C Shares, Goldman Sachs normally begins paying the 0.75% distribution fee as an ongoing commission to Authorized Dealers after the shares have been held for one year. PERSONAL ACCOUNT MAINTENANCE SERVICES AND FEES Under the Plans, Goldman Sachs is also entitled to receive a separate fee equal on an annual basis to 0.25% of each Fund's average daily net assets attributed to Class B or Class C Shares. This fee is for personal and account maintenance services, and may be used to make payments to Goldman Sachs, Authorized Dealers and their officers, sales representatives and employees for responding to inquiries of, and furnishing assistance to, shareholders regarding ownership of their shares or their accounts or simi- lar services not otherwise provided on behalf of the Funds. If the fees received by Goldman Sachs pursuant to the Plans exceed its expenses, Goldman Sachs may realize a profit from this arrangement. In connection with the sale of Class C Shares, Goldman Sachs normally begins paying the 0.25% ongoing service fee to Authorized Dealers after the shares have been held for one year. 65 Taxation TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Funds will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the Additional Statement. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax con- sequences of your investment in the Funds. Unless your investment is an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund shares. TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS Distributions you receive from the Funds are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Funds' income dividend distribu- tions and short-term capital gain distributions are taxable to you as ordi- nary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are taxable as long- term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund shares. Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December. A percentage of the Funds' dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. The Funds will inform sharehold- ers of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. Each Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Funds may deduct these taxes in computing their taxable income. If you buy shares of a Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend." 66 TAXATION TAXES ON SALES Your sale of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. For tax purpos- es, the exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Goldman Sachs Fund is the same as a sale. When you sell your shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the shares and the amount received. Gen- erally, this gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds twelve months, except that any loss realized on shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the shares. OTHER INFORMATION When you open your account, you should provide your social security or tax identification number on your Account Application. By law, each Fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and any redemption proceeds if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. 67 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques A. General Portfolio Risks The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity securities. "Equity securities" include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock pur- chase rights. In general, stock values fluctuate in response to the activi- ties of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the value of the stocks that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cycli- cal, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. The volatility of equity securities means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. As of the date of this Prospectus, certain stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels and there can be no guarantee that such levels will continue. To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed-income securities, that Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed-income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to increase (al- though many mortgage related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to decline. Credit risk involves the risk that an issuer could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its invest- ment. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (exten- sion risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall suffi- ciently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to invest- ors. The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a lim- iting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of port- folio turn- 68 APPENDIX A over (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calcu- lated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a state- ment of the Funds' historical portfolio turnover rates. The following sections provide further information on certain types of secu- rities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Among other things, the Addi- tional Statement describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether that Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs. B. Other Portfolio Risks Risks of Investing in Small Capitalization Companies and REITs. Each Fund may invest in small capitalization companies and REITs. Investments in small capitalization companies and REITs involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the rea- sons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less cer- tain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Small capitalization companies and REITs may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current mar- ket prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient mar- ket liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Small capitalization companies and REITs include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited prod- uct lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments 69 in small capitalization companies and REITs may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes. Risks of Foreign Investments. Certain Funds may invest in foreign invest- ments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such invest- ments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the cur- rency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the port- folio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives divi- dends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends. The introduction of a single currency, the euro, on January 1, 1999 for par- ticipating nations in the European Economic and Monetary Union presents unique uncertainties, including the legal treatment of certain outstanding financial contracts after January 1, 1999 that refer to existing currencies rather than the euro; the establishment and maintenance of exchange rates for currencies being converted into the euro; the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies during the transition period from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2001 and beyond; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union ("EU"), may have an impact on the euro. These or other factors, including political and economic risks, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Funds. Because of the number of countries using this single currency, a significant portion of the assets held by the Funds may be denominated in the euro. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such proce- dures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transac- tions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may 70 APPENDIX A be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and secu- rities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than secu- rities of comparable domestic issuers. Efforts in foreign countries to reme- diate potential Year 2000 problems are not as extensive as those in the United States. As a result, the operations of foreign markets, foreign issuers and foreign governments may be disrupted by the Year 2000 Problem, and the investment portfolio of a Fund may be adversely affected. Further- more, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of with- holding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the Funds, and political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries. Concentration of a Fund's assets in one or a few countries and currencies will subject a Fund to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geo- graphically concentrated. Investment in sovereign debt obligations by certain Funds involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obliga- tions of U.S. issuers. A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the avail- ability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sov- ereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"). Certain Funds may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the United States. EDRs and GDRs are receipts 71 evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank. EDRs and GDRs are not neces- sarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. Risks of Emerging Countries. Certain Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging coun- tries are generally located in the Asia-Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Latin and South America and Africa. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates and their respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement vol- ume limitations have been reached. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a spe- cific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportuni- ties in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents. Due to restrictions on direct invest- ment in equity securities in certain Asian countries, it is anticipated that a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries. Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substan- tial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation, which have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. 72 APPENDIX A Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodi- cally used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffec- tion, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Invest- ing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropria- tion, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return from an investment in such country to the Fund. Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and often may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addi- tion, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to com- plete its contractual obligations. The creditworthiness of the local securi- ties firms used by the Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerg- ing countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those coun- tries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities mar- kets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor per- ceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Invest- 73 ments in emerging countries may be more difficult to price precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes. A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. Due to the limited market for these instruments in emerging countries, the Investment Adviser does not currently anticipate that a sig- nificant portion of the Funds' currency exposure in emerging countries, if any, will be covered by such instruments. Risks of Derivative Investments. A Fund's transactions, if any, in options, futures, options on futures, swaps, interest rate caps, floors and collars, structured securities and currency transactions involve additional risk of loss. Loss can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, or the risks arising from margin requirements and related leverage factors associated with such transactions. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates or currency prices. Each Fund may also invest in derivative investments for non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return). Investing for non- hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents even greater risk of loss. Risks of Illiquid Securities. Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities which cannot be disposed of in seven days in the ordinary course of business at fair value. Illiquid securities include: .Both domestic and foreign securities that are not readily marketable .Certain stripped mortgage-backed securities .Repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days .Certain over-the-counter options .Certain structured securities and all swap transactions .Certain restricted securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 ("144A Securities") and, therefore, is liquid. Investing in 144A Securities may decrease the liquidity of a Fund's portfo- lio to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities. The purchase price and subsequent valuation of restricted and illiquid securities normally reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of com- parable securities for which a liquid market exists. 74 APPENDIX A Credit Risks. Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include securities (including zero coupon bonds) issued by the U.S. government (and its agen- cies, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises), foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Further informa- tion is provided in the Additional Statement. Debt securities rated BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality. Certain Funds may invest in fixed-income securities rated BB or Ba or below (or comparable unrated securities) which are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered predominantly speculative and may be ques- tionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, invest- ment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associ- ated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rat- ing organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected. Temporary Investment Risks. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain percentage of its total assets in: .U.S. government securities .Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's or P-2 by Moody's .Certificates of deposit .Bankers' acceptances .Repurchase agreements .Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective. 75 C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associ- ated risks. Further information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Convertible Securities. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Con- vertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are con- vertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar qual- ity. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed-income securities. Con- vertible securities have both equity and fixed-income risk characteristics. Like all fixed-income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible secu- rity, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed-income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Foreign Currency Transactions. A Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to pur- chase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which is con- sidered a speculative practice. Some Funds may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of cor- relation between the two currencies. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (e.g., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar). 76 APPENDIX A Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obli- gations. Since these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clear- inghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized prof- its, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. Structured Securities. Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Struc- tured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be posi- tively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may pro- duce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Refer- ence. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than other types of fixed-income securities and may be more vol- atile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. REITs. Each Fund may invest in REITS. REITS are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with invest- ments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other 77 respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests. Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument dur- ing the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase put and call options on any securities in which they may invest or on any securities index comprised of securities in which they may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which is con- sidered a speculative activity). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctu- ations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over- the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks. Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or pur- chase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A futures contract may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Funds may engage in futures transac- tions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges. Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent a Fund 78 APPENDIX A invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise man- age their term structures, sector selection and durations in accordance with their investment objectives and policies. Each Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options. A Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as defined in regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. A Fund may not purchase or sell futures con- tracts or purchase or sell related options to seek to increase total return, except for closing purchase or sale transactions, if immediately thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on the Fund's outstanding positions in futures and related options entered into for the purpose of seeking to increase total return would exceed 5% of the mar- ket value of the Fund's net assets. Futures contracts and related options present the following risks: .While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. .Because perfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio posi- tion that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss. .The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writ- ing call options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. .Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV. .As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trad- ing, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund. .Futures contracts and options on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day. .Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. Equity Swaps. Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other compo- nents of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps are 79 derivatives and their value can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, a Fund may suffer a loss. The value of some components of an equity swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in inter- est rates. Furthermore, a Fund may suffer a loss if the counterparty defaults. When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments. Each Fund may purchase when- issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a con- tract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, a Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate. Repurchase Agreements. Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securi- ties subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agree- ment. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable. In evaluating whether to enter into a repurchase agreement, the Investment Adviser will carefully consider the creditworthiness of the seller. Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may trans- fer uninvested cash 80 APPENDIX A balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers. The borrowers are required to secure their loan continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested in cash equivalents. To the extent that cash collateral is invested in other investment securities, such collateral will be subject to market deprecia- tion or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund. Short Sales Against-the-Box. Certain Funds may make short sales against-the- box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short posi- tion is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any fur- ther consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short. Preferred Stock, Warrants and Rights. Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and rights. Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earn- ings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. Other Investment Companies. Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies (including SPDRs and WEBs, as defined below) subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act. These limitations include a prohibition on 81 any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in securities of all investment companies. A Fund will indi- rectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies. Such other investment com- panies will have investment objectives, policies and restrictions substan- tially similar to those of the acquiring Fund and will be subject to sub- stantially the same risks. .Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts. The Funds may, consistent with their investment policies, purchase Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts ("SPDRs"). SPDRs are securities traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX") that represent ownership in the SPDR Trust, a trust which has been established to accumulate and hold a portfolio of common stocks that is intended to track the price performance and dividend yield of the S&P 500. The SPDR Trust is sponsored by a subsidiary of the AMEX. SPDRs may be used for several reasons, including, but not limited to, facilitating the han- dling of cash flows or trading, or reducing transaction costs. The price movement of SPDRs may not perfectly parallel the price action of the S&P 500. .World Equity Benchmark Shares. World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") are shares of an investment company that invests substantially all of its assets in securities included in the MSCI indices for specified countries. WEBS are listed on the AMEX and were initially offered to the public in 1996. The market prices of WEBS are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and supply and demand of WEBS on the AMEX. To date, WEBS have traded at relatively modest discounts and premiums to their NAVs. However, WEBS have a limited operat- ing history and information is lacking regarding the actual performance and trading liquidity of WEBS for extended periods or over complete market cycles. In addition, there is no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will continue to be met or will remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting WEBS should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of a Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected. If such disruptions were to occur, a Fund could be required to reconsider the use of WEBS as part of its investment strategy. Unseasoned Companies. Each Fund may invest in companies (including predeces- sors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such com- panies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned compa- 82 APPENDIX A nies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. Corporate Debt Obligations. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal, and include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obliga- tions issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and suprana- tional entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.). Bank Obligations. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitations, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be gen- eral obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. U.S. Government Securities and Related Custodial Receipts. Each Fund may invest in U.S. government securities and related custodial receipts. U.S. government securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or spon- sored enterprises. U.S. government securities may be supported by (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae")); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury (such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to pur- chase certain obligations of the issuer (such as the Federal National Mort- gage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac")); or (d) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. government securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. government securities, where the interest and principal compo- nents of stripped U.S. government securities are traded independently. Interests in U.S. government securities may be purchased in the form of cus- todial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, princi- pal payments 83 or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. government. Mortgage-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect partici- pations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are normally structured with one or more types of "credit enhancement." However, these mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage- backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturi- ties, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in cer- tain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives sub- stantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are gener- ally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securi- ties because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Asset-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in asset-backed securi- ties. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities are often sub- 84 APPENDIX A ject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the under- lying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. According- ly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities gener- ally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. There is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support pay- ments on these securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. Borrowings. Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial insti- tutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes. A Fund may not make additional investments if borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. 85 Appendix B Financial Highlights The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand a Fund's financial performance for the past five years (or less if the Fund has been in operation for less than five years). Certain information reflects finan- cial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table repre- sent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an investment in a Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, whose report, along with a Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's annual report (available upon request without charge). CORE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ --------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized and beginning income unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 9.98 $ 0.05 $ 0.84 1999 - Class B Shares 9.95 0.01 0.85 1999 - Class C Shares 9.96 0.01 0.85 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.06 0.09 0.85 1999 - Service Shares 10.02 0.01 0.90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 9.22 (0.01) 0.79 1999 - Class B Shares 9.21 -- 0.74 1999 - Class C Shares 9.22 -- 0.74 1999 - Institutional Shares 9.24 0.05 0.80 1999 - Service Shares 9.23 -- 0.81 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.78) 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) (0.77) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) (0.76) 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.02 (0.76) 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 (0.78) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 113 for all footnotes. 86 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ------------------------ Net increase Net (decrease) Net asset assets From net From net in net value, at end investment realized asset end of Total of period income gains value period return/b/ (in 000s) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ 0.89 $10.87 8.92%d $114,502 -- -- 0.86 10.81 8.64d 9,171 -- -- 0.86 10.82 8.63d 4,913 -- -- 0.94 11.00 9.34d 271,212 -- -- 0.91 10.93 9.08d 8 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.02) -- 0.76 9.98 8.37 110,338 -- -- 0.74 9.95 8.03 7,401 -- -- 0.74 9.96 8.03 3,742 (0.03) -- 0.82 10.06 9.20 280,731 (0.02) -- 0.79 10.02 8.74 22 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- (0.78) 9.22 (7.66)d 7,087 -- -- (0.79) 9.21 (7.90)d 2,721 -- -- (0.78) 9.22 (7.80)d 1,608 (0.02) -- (0.76) 9.24 (7.45)d 17,719 -- -- (0.77) 9.23 (7.70)d 1 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87 CORE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of net investment net investment Ratio of income expenses income (loss) expenses (loss) to Portfolio to average to average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets net assets rate - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.66%c 0.78%c 1.76%c 0.68%c 64.97%d 1999 - Class B Shares 2.16c 0.26c 2.26c 0.16c 64.97d 1999 - Class C Shares 2.16c 0.23c 2.26c 0.13c 64.97d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.01c 1.43c 1.11c 1.33c 64.97d 1999 - Service Shares 1.51c 0.07c 1.61c (0.03)c 64.97d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.63 (0.11) 1.94 (0.42) 194.61 1999 - Class B Shares 2.08 (0.03) 2.39 (0.34) 194.61 1999 - Class C Shares 2.08 (0.04) 2.39 (0.35) 194.61 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.01 0.84 1.32 0.53 194.61 1999 - Service Shares 1.50 0.02 1.81 (0.29) 194.61 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.50c (0.27)c 4.87c (3.90)c 25.16d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.00c (0.72)c 5.12c (3.84)c 25.16d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.00c (0.73)c 5.12c (3.85)c 25.16d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.00c 0.59 c 4.12c (2.53)c 25.16d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.50c 0.26 c 4.62c (2.86)c 25.16d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
88 [This page intentionally left blank] 89 INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $21.92 $ 0.04 $ 1.16 1999 - Class B Shares 21.63 (0.02) 1.12 1999 - Class C Shares 21.45 (0.03) 1.12 1999 - Institutional Shares 22.20 0.12e 1.17e 1999 - Service Shares 21.93 0.06 1.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 19.85 (0.06) 3.24 1999 - Class B Shares 19.70 (0.17) 3.21 1999 - Class C Shares 19.56 (0.15) 3.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 19.97 0.03 3.31 1999 - Service Shares 19.84 (0.04) 3.24 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 19.32 0.03 2.04 1998 - Class B Shares 19.24 (0.08) 2.02 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 22.60 (0.04) (1.38) 1998 - Institutional Shares 19.40 0.10 2.11 1998 - Service Shares 19.34 0.02 2.06 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 17.20 0.10 2.23 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 18.91 (0.06) 0.60 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 7, 1996) 17.45 0.04 2.15 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 17.70 (0.02) 1.87 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 14.52 0.13 4.00 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gain value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 1.20 $23.12 5.47%d $943,473 1.79%c -- -- -- 1.10 22.73 5.09d 68,691 2.29c -- -- -- 1.09 22.54 5.08d 11,241 2.29c -- -- -- 1.29 23.49 5.81d 180,564 1.14c -- -- -- 1.21 23.14 5.52d 3,852 1.64c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (1.11) 2.07 21.92 16.39 947,973 1.73 -- -- (1.11) 1.93 21.63 15.80 69,231 2.24 -- -- (1.11) 1.89 21.45 15.70 11,619 2.24 -- -- (1.11) 2.23 22.20 17.09 111,315 1.13 -- -- (1.11) 2.09 21.93 16.49 3,568 1.63 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.30) (1.24) 0.53 19.85 11.12 697,590 1.67 -- (0.25) (1.23) 0.46 19.70 10.51 55,324 2.20 -- (0.38) (1.24) (3.04) 19.56 (5.92)d 3,369 2.27c (0.07) (0.33) (1.24) 0.57 19.97 11.82 56,263 1.08 -- (0.35) (1.23) 0.50 19.84 11.25 3,035 1.55 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (0.21) 2.12 19.32 13.48 536,283 1.69 -- -- (0.21) 0.33 19.24 2.83d 19,198 2.23c (0.03) -- (0.21) 1.95 19.40 12.53d 68,374 1.10c -- -- (0.21) 1.64 19.34 10.42d 674 1.60c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.58) -- (0.87) 2.68 17.20 28.68 330,860 1.52 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
91 INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary expense limitations -------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average to average net turnover assets net assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.31%c 1.84%c 0.26%c 61.10%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.19)c 2.34c (0.24)c 61.10d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.26)c 2.34c (0.31)c 61.10d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.89c 1.19c 0.84c 61.10d 1999 - Service Shares 0.47c 1.69c 0.42c 61.10d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.28) 1.82 (0.37) 113.79 1999 - Class B Shares (0.79) 2.32 (0.87) 113.79 1999 - Class C Shares (0.98) 2.32 (1.06) 113.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.23 1.21 0.15 113.79 1999 - Service Shares (0.18) 1.71 (0.26) 113.79 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (0.27) 1.80 (0.40) 40.82 1998 - Class B Shares (0.90) 2.30 (1.00) 40.82 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.43)c 2.37c (1.53)c 40.82 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.30 1.18 0.20 40.82 1998 - Service Shares (0.36) 1.65 (0.46) 40.82 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares (0.07) 1.88 (0.26) 38.01 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (0.97)c 2.38c (1.12)c 38.01 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 7, 1996) 0.43c 1.25c 0.28c 38.01 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) (0.40)c 1.75c (0.55)c 38.01 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 0.26 1.77 0.01 68.48 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
92 [This page intentionally left blank] 93 EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period loss gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $12.20 $0.05 $(0.50) 1999 - Class B Shares 12.19 0.03 (0.51) 1999 - Class C Shares 12.20 0.04 (0.52) 1999 - Institutional Shares 12.23 0.18 (0.59) 1999 - Service Shares 12.20 0.08 (0.52) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.03) 2.23 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 2.21 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.01) 2.21 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.01) 2.24 1999 - Service Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.03) 2.23 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
94 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------ In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $(0.45) $11.75 (3.69)%d $74,862 1.79%c -- -- -- (0.48) 11.71 (3.94)d 879 2.29c -- -- -- (0.48) 11.72 (3.93)d 388 2.29c -- -- -- (0.41) 11.82 (3.35)d 5,965 1.14c -- -- -- (0.44) 11.76 (3.61)d 2 1.64c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 61,151 1.79c -- -- -- 2.19 12.19 21.90d 432 2.29c -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 587 2.29c -- -- -- 2.23 12.23 22.30d 12,740 1.14c -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 2 1.64c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
95 EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.80%c 2.29%c 0.30%c 54.98%d 1999 - Class B Shares 0.43c 2.79c (0.07)c 54.98d 1999 - Class C Shares 0.42c 2.79c (0.08)c 54.98d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.53c 1.64c 1.03c 54.98d 1999 - Service Shares 1.10c 2.14c 0.60c 54.98d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.19)c 2.80c (2.20)c 70.77d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.78)c 3.30c (2.79)c 70.77d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.83)c 3.30c (2.84)c 70.77d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced Octo- ber 1, 1998) (0.33)c 2.15c (1.34)c 70.77d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (0.69)c 2.65c (1.70)c 70.77d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
96 [This page intentionally left blank] 97 JAPANESE EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period loss gains - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $11.06 $(0.06) $5.24 1999 - Class B Shares 11.03 (0.09) 5.20 1999 - Class C Shares 11.04 (0.08) 5.20 1999 - Institutional Shares 11.10 (0.03) 5.29 1999 - Service Shares 11.04 (0.06) 5.24 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.06) 1.12 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.08) 1.11 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.09) 1.13 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 1.13 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.05) 1.09 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
98 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- In excess Net assets Ratio of From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $5.18 $16.24 46.84%d $34,279 1.70%c -- -- -- 5.11 16.14 46.33d 4,219 2.20c -- -- -- 5.12 16.16 46.41d 3,584 2.20c -- -- -- 5.26 16.36 47.40d 22,709 1.05c -- -- -- 5.18 16.22 46.92d 3 1.55c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 1.06 11.06 10.60d 8,391 1.64c -- -- -- 1.03 11.03 10.30d 1,427 2.15c -- -- -- 1.04 11.04 10.40d 284 2.15c -- (0.01) -- 1.10 11.10 11.06d 11,418 1.03c -- -- -- 1.04 11.04 10.43d 2 1.53c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
99 JAPANESE EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment loss to expenses to loss to average Portfolio average net average net turnover assets net assets assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (1.17)%c 2.62%c (2.09)%c 44.83%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.57)c 3.12c (2.49)c 44.83d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.81)c 3.12c (2.73)c 44.83d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.37)c 1.97c (1.29)c 44.83d 1999 - Service Shares (0.74)c 2.47c (1.66)c 44.83d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.20)c 4.18c (3.74)c 53.29d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.76)c 4.69c (4.30)c 53.29d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.69)c 4.69c (4.23)c 53.29d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.36)c 3.57c (2.90)c 53.29d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.68)c 4.07c (3.22)c 53.29d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 [This page intentionally left blank] 101 INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period loss gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.62 $(0.03) $2.65 1999 - Class B Shares 10.61 (0.08)e 2.66e 1999 - Class C Shares 10.61 (0.08)e 2.66e 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.66 -- 2.69 1999 - Service Shares 10.61 (0.02) 2.65 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.04) 0.66 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.10) 0.71 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.06) 0.67 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.67 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 0.63 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
102 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- Ratio of In excess Net assets net From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income loss realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $2.62 $13.24 24.67%d $69,458 2.05%c -- -- -- 2.58 13.19 24.32d 303 2.55c -- -- -- 2.58 13.19 24.32d 419 2.55c -- -- -- 2.69 13.35 25.24d 65,772 1.40c -- -- -- 2.63 13.24 24.79d 2 1.90c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 0.62 10.62 6.20d 33,002 2.02c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 213 2.51c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 175 2.51c -- (0.01) -- 0.66 10.66 6.67d 36,992 1.40c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 2 1.90c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
103 INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net net investment Ratio of investment loss to expenses loss to Portfolio average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.68)%c 2.42%c (1.05)%c 58.81%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.16)c 2.92c (1.53)c 58.81d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.21)c 2.92c (1.58)c 58.81d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.05)c 1.77c (0.42)c 58.81d 1999 - Service Shares (0.35)c 2.27c (0.72)c 58.81d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.03)c 3.60c (2.61)c 96.11d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.30)c 4.09c (2.88)c 96.11d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.45)c 4.09c (3.03)c 96.11d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.19)c 2.98c (1.77)c 96.11d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.26)c 3.48c (1.84)c 96.11d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
104 [This page intentionally left blank] 105 EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 7.04 $(0.01) $ 2.23 1999 - Class B Shares 7.03 (0.03) 2.21 1999 - Class C Shares 7.05 (0.03) 2.22 1999 - Institutional Shares 7.09 0.02 2.26 1999 - Service Shares 6.87 0.01 2.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 9.69 0.04 (2.40) 1999 - Class B Shares 9.69 0.03 (2.41) 1999 - Class C Shares 9.70 0.01 (2.39) 1999 - Institutional Shares 9.70 0.06 (2.36) 1999 - Service Shares 9.69 (0.13) (2.41) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.30) 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 (0.31) 1998 - Service Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
106 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 2.22 $9.26 31.53%d $ 65,698 2.04%c -- -- -- 2.18 9.21 31.01d 972 2.54c -- -- -- 2.19 9.24 31.06d 1,095 2.54c -- -- -- 2.28 9.37 32.16d 108,574 1.39c -- -- -- 2.18 9.05 31.73d 2 1.89c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.07) (0.22) -- (2.65) 7.04 (24.32) 52,704 2.09 (0.07) (0.21) -- (2.66) 7.03 (24.51) 459 2.59 (0.07) (0.20) -- (2.65) 7.05 (24.43) 273 2.59 (0.08) (0.23) -- (2.61) 7.09 (23.66) 90,189 1.35 (0.07) (0.21) -- (2.82) 6.87 (26.17) 1 1.85 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 17,681 1.90c -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 64 2.41c -- -- -- (0.30) 9.70 (3.00)d 73 2.48c -- -- -- (0.30) 9.70 (3.00)d 19,120 1.30c -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 2 2.72c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
107 EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio Ratio of net of net investment investment Ratio of income income (loss) expenses to (loss) to Portfolio to average average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.15)%c 2.41%c (0.52)%c 63.24%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.71)c 2.91c (1.08)c 63.24d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.85)c 2.91c (1.22)c 63.24d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.50c 1.76c 0.13c 63.24d 1999 - Service Shares 0.12c 2.26c (0.25)c 63.24d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.80 2.53 0.36 153.67 1999 - Class B Shares 0.19 3.03 (0.25) 153.67 1999 - Class C Shares 0.28 3.03 (0.16) 153.67 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.59 1.79 1.15 153.67 1999 - Service Shares (1.84) 2.29 (2.28) 153.67 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 0.55c 5.88c (3.43)c 3.35d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 0.05c 6.39c (3.93)c 3.35d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) (0.27)c 6.46c (4.25)c 3.35d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced Decem- ber 15, 1997) 0.80c 5.28c (3.18)c 3.35d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) (0.05)c 6.70c (4.03)c 3.35d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
108 [This page intentionally left blank] 109 ASIA GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 7.79 $(0.02) $3.30 1999 - Class B Shares 7.68 (0.04) 3.24 1999 - Class C Shares 7.68 (0.04) 3.21 1999 - Institutional Shares 7.91 0.01 3.36 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 8.38 0.07 (0.66) 1999 - Class B Shares 8.31 0.01 (0.64) 1999 - Class C Shares 8.29 -- (0.61) 1999 - Institutional Shares 8.44 0.03 (0.56) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 16.31 -- (7.90) 1998 - Class B Shares 16.24 0.01 (7.91) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 15.73 0.01 (7.42) 1998 - Institutional Shares 16.33 0.10 (7.96) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 16.49 0.06 (0.11) 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 17.31 (0.05) (0.48) 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 2, 1996) 16.61 0.04 (0.11) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 13.31 0.17 3.44 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1995 - Class A Shares (commenced July 8, 1994) 14.18 0.11 (0.89) - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
110 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------- Net In excess increase Net assets From net of net From net (decrease) Net asset at end investment investment realized in net value, end Total of period income income gains asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 3.28 $11.07 42.11%d $ 84,269 -- -- -- 3.20 10.88 41.67d 7,258 -- -- -- 3.17 10.85 41.28d 2,281 -- (0.04) -- 3.33 11.24 42.61d 12,363 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- -- (0.59) 7.79 (7.04) 59,940 -- -- -- (0.63) 7.68 (7.58) 4,190 -- -- -- (0.61) 7.68 (7.36) 999 -- -- -- (0.53) 7.91 (6.28) 4,200 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.03) -- (7.93) 8.38 (48.49) 87,437 -- (0.03) -- (7.93) 8.31 (48.70) 3,359 -- (0.03) -- (7.44) 8.29 (47.17)d 436 (0.03) -- -- (7.89) 8.44 (48.19) 874 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) -- (0.01) (0.18) 16.31 (1.01) 263,014 (0.51) (0.03) -- (1.07) 16.24 (6.02)d 3,354 (0.11) (0.06) (0.04) (0.28) 16.33 (1.09)d 13,322 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) (0.14) (0.17) 3.18 16.49 26.49 205,539 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 0.01 -- (0.10) (0.87) 13.31 (5.46)d 124,298 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
111 ASIA GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of net investment net investment Ratio of income expenses income (loss) expenses (loss) to Portfolio to average to average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets net assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.85%c (0.38)%c 2.27%c (0.80)%c 96.58%d 1999 - Class B Shares 2.35c (0.90)c 2.77c (1.32)c 96.58d 1999 - Class C Shares 2.35c (0.89)c 2.77c (1.31)c 96.58d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.20c 0.14c 1.62c (0.28)c 96.58d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.93 0.63 2.48 0.08 106.00 1999 - Class B Shares 2.45 0.10 2.97 (0.42) 106.00 1999 - Class C Shares 2.45 0.10 2.97 (0.42) 106.00 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.16 1.10 1.68 0.58 106.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.75 0.31 1.99 0.07 105.16 1998 - Class B Shares 2.30 (0.29) 2.50 (0.49) 105.16 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.35c (0.26)c 2.55c (0.46)c 105.16 1998 - Institutional Shares 1.11 0.87 1.31 0.67 105.16 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.67 0.20 1.87 -- 48.40 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.21c (0.56)c 2.37c (0.72)c 48.40 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 2, 1996) 1.10c 0.54c 1.26c 0.38c 48.40 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.77 1.05 2.02 0.80 88.80 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1995 - Class A Shares (commenced July 8, 1994) 1.90c 1.83c 2.38c 1.35c 36.08d - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
112 APPENDIX B a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares methodology. 113 Index 1 General Investment Management Approach 3 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies 3 Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund 4 Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund 5 Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund 6 Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund 8 Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund 9 Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund 11 Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund 14 Other Investment Practices and Securities 18 Principal Risks of the Funds 21 Fund Performance 26 Fund Fees and Expenses 36 Service Providers 46 Dividends 47 Shareholder Guide 47 How To Buy Shares 56 How To Sell Shares 66 Taxation 68 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques 86 Appendix B Financial Highlights
International Equity Funds Prospectus (Class A, B and C Shares) FOR MORE INFORMATION Annual/Semi-annual Report Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds' annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during the last fiscal year. Statement of Additional Information Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). The Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (is legally considered part of this Prospectus). The Funds' annual and semi-annual reports, and the Additional Statement, are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs at 1-800-526-7384. To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries: By telephone - Call 1-800-526-7384 By mail - Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower-60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372 By e-mail - gs-funds@gs.com On the Internet - Text-only versions of the Funds' documents are located online and may be downloaded from: SEC EDGAR database - http://www.sec.gov Goldman Sachs - http://www.gs.com (Prospectus Only) You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents, after paying a duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102 or by electronic request to: publicinfo@sec.gov. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (202) 942-8090. [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] The Funds' investment company registration number is 811-5349. CORESM is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. 511045 EQINTLPROABC Prospectus Institutional Shares November 30, 1999 GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ International Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund [ART] .Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund .Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL. NOT FDIC-INSURED May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee General Investment Management Approach Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a unit of the Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as investment adviser to the CORE International Equity Fund. Goldman Sachs Asset Management Interna- tional serves as investment adviser to International Equity, European Equi- ty, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Goldman Sachs Asset Management International are each referred to in this Prospectus as the "In- vestment Adviser." ACTIVE INTERNATIONAL STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Active International Investment Philosophy:
How the Investment Adviser Acts on Belief Belief - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Equity markets are inefficient Seeks excess return through team driven, research intensive and bottom-up stock selection. .Returns are variable Seeks to capitalize on variability of market and regional returns through asset allocation decisions. .Corporate fundamentals ultimately Seeks to conduct rigorous, first- drive share price hand research of business and company management. .A business' intrinsic value will be Seeks to realize value through a achieved over time long-term investment horizon. .Portfolio risk must be carefully Seeks to systematically monitor and analyzed and monitored manage risk through diversification, multifactor risk models and currency management.
The Investment Adviser attempts to manage risk in these Funds through disci- plined portfolio construction and continual portfolio review and analysis. As a result, bottom-up stock selection, driven by fundamental research, should be a main driver of returns. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 QUANTITATIVE ("CORE") STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' CORE Investment Philosophy: Goldman Sachs' quantitative style of funds--CORE--emphasizes the two build- ing blocks of active management: stock selection and portfolio construction. I. CORE STOCK SELECTION The CORE Fund uses the Goldman Sachs proprietary multifactor model ("Multifactor Model"), a rigorous computerized rating system, to forecast the returns of securities held in the Fund's portfolio. The Multifactor Model incorporates common variables covering measures of: .Value (price-to-book, price-to-earnings, cash flow to enterprise value) .Momentum (earnings momentum, price momentum, sustainable growth) .Risk (market risk, company-specific risk, earnings risk) All of the above factors are carefully evaluated within the Multifactor Model since each has demonstrated a significant impact on the performance of the securities and markets they were designed to forecast. II. CORE PORTFOLIO CONSTRUCTION A proprietary computer optimizer calculates every security combination (at every possible weighting) to construct the most efficient risk/return port- folio given the CORE Fund benchmark. In this process, the Investment Adviser manages risk by limiting deviations from the benchmark. In addition, the CORE International Equity Fund utilizes proprietary quantitative models to allocate assets across countries. Goldman Sachs CORE Funds are fully invested, broadly diversified and offer consistent overall portfolio characteristics. They may serve as good founda- tions on which to build a portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmarks: MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East ("EAFE") Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Large-capitalization equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securi- ties are primarily traded outside the United States Investment Style: Quantitative INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time, provided the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund may invest in the securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries"). The Fund seeks broad representation of large-cap issuers across major coun- tries and sectors of the international economy. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintain- ing risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the EAFE Index. In addition, the Fund seeks a portfolio composed of companies with attractive valuations and stronger momentum characteristics than the EAFE Index. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered to be cash equivalents. 3 Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI EAFE Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of companies organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. The Fund intends to invest in companies with public stock market capitalizations that are larger than $1 billion at the time of investment. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund expects to invest a substantial portion of its assets in the secu- rities of issuers located in the developed countries of Western Europe and in Japan. However, the Fund may also invest in the securities of issuers located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and in emerging countries. Cur- rently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, Afri- can, Asian and Eastern European nations. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 4 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI Europe Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of European companies Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of European companies. Because of its focus, the Fund will be more susceptible to European economic, market, political and local risks than a fund that is more geographically diversified. A European issuer is a company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in a European country; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, a European country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more of the European countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more of the European coun- tries. The Fund may allocate its assets among different countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time, provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three European countries. It is currently antici- pated that a majority of the Fund's assets will be invested in the equity securities of large cap companies located in the developed countries of Western Europe. However, the Fund may also invest, without limit, in mid cap companies and small cap companies, as well as companies located in emerging countries. Currently, emerging countries include among others, most Latin American, African, Asian, most Eastern European nations, including the states that formerly comprised the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of non-European countries and in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 5 Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Tokyo Price Index ("TOPIX") (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of Japanese companies Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of Japanese companies. A Japanese issuer is a company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in Japan; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in Japan; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in Japan; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in Japan. The Fund's concentration in Japanese companies will expose it to the risk of adverse social, political and economic events which occur in Japan or affect the Japanese markets. Japan's economy, the second largest in the world, has grown substantially over the last three decades. Japan's economic growth in the 1990's has been substantially below the level of earlier decades. Its economy has drifted between modest growth and recession. In calendar year 1998, Japan's gross national product contracted by 2.8% -- its worst performance in the post-war period. In addition to this economic downturn, Japan is undergoing struc- tural adjustments related to high wages and taxes, currency valuations and structural rigidities. Japan has also been experiencing notable uncertainty and loss of public confidence in connection 6 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES with the reform of its political process and the deregulation of its econo- my. These conditions present risks to the Japanese Equity Fund and its abil- ity to attain its investment objective. Japan's economy is heavily dependent upon international trade, and is espe- cially sensitive to trade barriers and disputes. In particular, Japan relies on large imports of agricultural products, raw materials and fuels. A sub- stantial rise in world oil or commodity prices, or a fall-off in Japan's manufactured exports, could be expected to adversely affect Japan's economy. In addition, Japan is vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes and other natural disasters. Japan's banking industry has recently suffered from non-perform- ing loans, declining real estate values and lower valuations of securities holdings. The Japanese securities markets are less regulated than the U.S. markets. Evidence has emerged from time to time of distortion of market prices to serve political or other purposes. Shareholders' rights are also not always equally enforced. For most of this decade, Japanese securities markets have experienced sig- nificant declines. Although the stock market exhibited some strength recent- ly, it is not possible to determine whether this will continue. The common stocks of many Japanese companies trade at high price-earnings ratios. Differences in accounting methods make it difficult to compare the earnings of Japanese companies with those of companies in other countries, especially the United States. In general, however, reported net income in Japan is understated relative to U.S. accounting standards and this is one reason price-earnings ratios of the stocks of Japanese companies have tended historically to be higher than those of U.S. stocks. In addition, Japanese companies have tended to have higher growth rates than U.S. companies, and Japanese interest rates have generally been lower than U.S. interest rates. These factors have contributed to lower discount rates and higher price- earnings ratios in Japan than in the United States. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of non-Japanese companies and in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 7 Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of foreign companies with public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies: .With public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment; and .That are organized outside the United States or whose securities are prin- cipally traded outside the United States. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund expects to invest a substantial portion of its assets in small cap securities of companies in the developed countries of Western Europe, Japan and Asia. However, the Fund may also invest in the securities of issuers located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and in emerging countries. Currently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, African, Asian and Eastern Euro- pean nations. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of larger-cap companies with public stock market capital- izations of more than $1 billion at the time of investment and in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. If the market capitalization of a company held by the Fund increases above $1 billion, the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, continue to hold the security. 8 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index Investment Focus: Equity securities of emerging country issuers Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of emerging country issuers. The Investment Adviser may consider classifica- tions by the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation or the United Nations and its agencies in determining whether a country is emerging or developed. Currently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, African, Asian and Eastern European nations. The Investment Adviser currently intends that the Fund's investment focus will be in the following emerging countries as well as any other emerging country to the extent that foreign investors are permitted by applicable law to make such investments: .Argentina .Egypt .Jordan .Philippines .Sri Lanka .Botswana .Greece .Kenya .Poland .Taiwan .Brazil .Hong Kong .Malaysia .Portugal .Thailand .Chile .Hungary .Mexico .Russia .Turkey .China .India .Morocco .Singapore .Venezuela .Colombia .Indonesia .Pakistan .South Africa .Zimbabwe .Czech Republic .Israel .Peru .South Korea
9 Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund continued An emerging country issuer is any company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities market is in an emerging country; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, an emerging country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more emerging countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more of the emerging coun- tries. Under normal circumstances, the Fund maintains investments in at least six emerging countries, and will not invest more than 35% of its total assets in securities of issuers in any one emerging country. Allocation of the Fund's investments will depend upon the relative attractiveness of the emerging country markets and particular issuers. In addition, macro-economic factors and the portfolio managers' and Goldman Sachs economists' views of the rela- tive attractiveness of emerging countries and currencies are considered in allocating the Fund's assets among emerging countries. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in (i) fixed-income securities of private and government emerging country issuers; and (ii) equity and fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations, of issuers in developed countries. 10 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI All County Asia Free ex-Japan Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of companies in Asian countries Investment Process: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of Asian issuers. An Asian issuer is any company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in one or more Asian countries; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, an Asian country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more Asian countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more Asian countries. The Fund may allocate its assets among the Asian countries as determined from time to time by the Investment Adviser. For purposes of the Fund's investment policies, Asian countries are: .China .Malaysia .South Korea .Hong Kong .Pakistan .Sri Lanka .India .Philippines .Taiwan .Indonesia .Singapore .Thailand as well as any other country in Asia (other than Japan) to the extent that foreign investors are permitted by applicable law to make such investments. 11 Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund continued Allocation of the Fund's investments will depend upon the Investment Advis- er's views of the relative attractiveness of the Asian markets and particu- lar issuers. Concentration of the Fund's assets in one or a few of the Asian countries and Asian currencies will subject the Fund to greater risks than if the Fund's assets were not so concentrated. For example, on August 31, 1999 (the end of the Fund's last fiscal year), more than 25% of the Fund's assets were invested in securities that traded in Hong Kong. Starting in mid-1997 some Pacific region countries began to experience cur- rency devaluations that resulted in high interest rate levels and sharp reductions in economic activity. This situation resulted in a significant drop in the securities prices of companies located in the region. Some coun- tries have experienced government intervention, have sought assistance from the International Monetary Fund and have experienced substantial domestic unrest. Although some countries are taking steps to restructure their finan- cial sectors in a manner that may facilitate a return to long-term economic growth, there can be no assurance that these efforts will be successful or that their current problems will not persist. At the end of its last fiscal year, a substantial portion of the Asia Growth Fund was invested in securi- ties traded in the Hong Kong market. In 1997, the sovereignty of Hong Kong reverted from the United Kingdom to China. Hong Kong's financial prospects depend, in large part, on its ability to retain the legal, financial and monetary systems that allow economic freedom and market expansion. Although Hong Kong is, by law, to maintain a high degree of autonomy, there can also be no assurance that the general economic position of Hong Kong will not be adversely affected as a result of the exercise of Chinese sovereignty over Hong Kong. In particular, business confidence in Hong Kong can be signifi- cantly affected by political developments and statements by public figures in China, which can in turn affect the performance of the securities mar- kets. In addition, the reversion of Hong Kong to China has created uncer- tainty as to future currency valuations relative to the U.S. dollar. Any future valuation changes could be adverse from the perspective of U.S. investors. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of issuers in non-Asian countries and Japan, and in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 12 [This page intentionally left blank] 13 Other Investment Practices and Securities The table below identifies some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by the Funds in seeking to achieve their investment objectives. The table also highlights the differences among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securi- ties. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only; for actual usage, con- sult the Fund's annual/semi-annual reports. For more information see Appendix A.
10 Percent of total assets (italic type) 10 Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on CORE usage; limited only by the objectives International International European and strategies of the Fund Equity Equity Equity - -- Not permitted Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Practices Borrowings 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Cross Hedging of Currencies . . . Currency Swaps* 15 15 15 Custodial Receipts . . . Equity Swaps* 15 15 15 Foreign Currency Transactions . . . Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts . . . Investment Company Securities (including World Equity Benchmark Shares and Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts) 10 10 10 Options on Foreign Currencies/1/ . . . Options on Securities and Securities Indices/2/ . . . Unseasoned Companies . . . Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights . . . Repurchase Agreements . . . Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short Sales Against the Box -- 25 25 When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 1 The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options. 2 The Funds may sell covered call and put options and purchase call and put options. 14 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
Japanese International Emerging Asia Equity Small Cap Markets Growth Fund Fund Equity Fund Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 . . . . 15 15 15 15 . . . . 15 15 15 15 . . . . . . . . 10 10 10 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 25 25 25 25 . . . . - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15
10 Percent of total assets (italic type) 10 Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation CORE on usage; limited only by the International International European objectives and strategies of the Fund Equity Equity Equity - -- Not permitted Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Securities American, European and Global Depository Receipts . . . Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities/2/ -- . . Bank Obligations/1/,/2/ . . . Convertible Securities . . . Corporate Debt Obligations/2/ ./4/ . . Equity Securities 90+ 65+ 65+ Emerging Country Securities 25 . . Fixed Income Securities/3/ 10/4/ 35 35/5/ Foreign Securities . . . Foreign Government Securities/2/ . . . Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities/2/ -- ./6/ ./6/ Real Estate Investment Trusts . . . Structured Securities* . . . Temporary Investments 35 100 100 U.S. Government Securities/2/ . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 1 Issued by U.S. or foreign banks. 2 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. 3 Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed-income securities are investment grade (e.g., BBB or higher by Stan- dard & Poor's Rating Group ("Standard & Poor's") or Baa or higher by Moody's Investor's Service, Inc. ("Moody's")). 4 Cash equivalents only. 5 The European Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) equity securities of non-European countries; and (2) fixed- income securities. 6 May be BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's. 16 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
Japanese International Emerging Equity Small Cap Markets Asia Growth Fund Fund Equity Fund Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65+ 65+ 65+ 65+ . . . . 35/7/ 35/8/ 35/9/ 35/10/ . . . . . . . . ./6/ ./6/ ./6/ ./6/ . . . . . . . . 100 100 35 100 . . . . - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 The Japanese Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of non-Japanese companies. 8 The International Small Cap Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of larger cap companies with public stock market capitalizations of more than $1 billion at the time of investment. 9 The Emerging Markets Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities of private and government emerging country issuers; and (2) equity and fixed-income securities of issuers in developed countries. 10 The Asia Growth Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of issuers in non-Asian countries and Japan. 17 Principal Risks of the Funds Loss of money is a risk of investing in each Fund. An investment in a Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The following summarizes important risks that apply to the Funds and may result in a loss of your investment. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.
CORE International Emerging .Applicable International International European Japanese Small Cap Markets Asia - --Not applicable Equity Equity Equity Equity Equity Equity Growth - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Credit/Default . . . . . . . Emerging Countries . . . . . . . Interest Rate . . . . . . . Small Cap -- -- . -- . -- -- Foreign . . . . . . . Derivatives . . . . . . . Management . . . . . . . Market . . . . . . . Liquidity . . . . . . . Stock . . . . . . . Geographic . . . . . . . Other . . . . . . . - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All Funds: .Credit/Default Risk--The risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities held by a Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. .Emerging Countries Risk--The securities markets of Asian, Latin American, Eastern European, African and other emerging countries are less liquid, are especially subject to greater price volatility, have smaller market capital- izations, have less government regulation and are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. Further, investment in equity securities of issuers located in Russia and certain other emerging countries involves risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration and cus- tody and substantial economic and political disrup- 18 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS tions. These risks are not normally associated with investment in more devel- oped countries. .Interest Rate Risk--The risk that when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities held by a Fund will decline in value. Long-term fixed-income secu- rities will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term securities. .Foreign Risks--The risk that when a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with domestic issuers. Loss may result because of less foreign government regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social stability. Loss may also result from the imposition of exchange controls, confiscations and other government restrictions. A Fund will also be subject to the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when a Fund invests in issuers located in emerging countries. .Derivatives Risk--The risk that loss may result from a Fund's investments in options, futures, swaps, structured securities and other derivative instru- ments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes may produce disproportionate losses to a Fund. .Management Risk--The risk that a strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results. .Market Risk--The risk that the value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. .Liquidity Risk--The risk that a Fund will not be able to pay redemption pro- ceeds within the time period stated in this Prospectus because of unusual mar- ket conditions, an unusually high volume of redemption requests, or other rea- sons. Funds that invest in small capitalization stocks and emerging country issuers will be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. The Goldman Sachs Asset Alloca- tion Portfolios (the "Asset Allocation Portfolios") expect to invest a signif- icant percentage of their assets in the Funds and other funds for which Goldman Sachs now or in the future acts as investment adviser or underwriter. Redemptions by an Asset Allocation Portfolio of its position in a Fund may further increase liquidity risk and may impact a Fund's net asset value ("NAV"). .Stock Risk--The risk that stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. As of the date of this Prospectus, U.S. stock markets and certain foreign stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels. There is no guarantee that such levels will continue. 19 .Geographic Risk--The European Equity Fund invests primarily in equity securi- ties of European companies. The Japanese Equity Fund invests primarily in equity securities of Japanese equity companies. The Asia Growth Fund invests primarily in equity securities of Asian issuers. Concentration of the invest- ments of these or other Funds in issuers located in a particular country or region will subject the Fund, to a greater extent than if investments were less concentrated, to the risks of adverse securities markets, exchange rates and social, political, regulatory or economic events which may occur in that country or region. .Other Risks--Each Fund is subject to other risks, such as the risk that its operations, or the value of its portfolio securities, will be disrupted by the "Year 2000 Problem." Specific Funds: .Small Cap Stock Risk--The securities of small capitalization stocks involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. More information about the Funds' portfolio securities and investment tech- niques, and their associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should con- sider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice. 20 Fund Performance HOW THE FUNDS HAVE PERFORMED The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of invest- ing in a Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of a Fund's Insti- tutional Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of a Fund's Institutional Shares compare to those of broad-based securities market indices. The bar chart and table assume reinvestment of dividends and distributions. A Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Performance reflects expense limi- tations in effect. If expense limitations were not in place, a Fund's per- formance would have been reduced. The European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds did not commence operations until October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998. Since these Funds have less than one cal- endar year's performance, no performance information is provided in this section. 21 CORE International Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 9.77%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +19.05% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -15.84% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 14.57% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 8/15/97) 14.57% 0.55% Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe, Australasia, Far East (EAFE) Index* 20.33% 8.44% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI EAFE Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of securities in 20 developed markets. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 22 FUND PERFORMANCE International Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 8.11%. Best Quarter Q1 '98 +17.10% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -14.25% [BAR GRAPH] 1997 5.10% 1998 18.72% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 2/7/96) 18.72% 13.62% MSCI EAFE (unhedged)* 20.33% 9.23% FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index (unhedged)** 19.31% 7.85% -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The MSCI EAFE Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replac- ing the FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index ("EuroPac") as the Interna- tional Equity Fund's performance benchmark. The MSCI EAFE Index is widely used throughout the investment management industry to represent the invest- ment opportunities available to a large cap, developed country interna- tional equity strategy and, in the Investment Adviser's opinion, is a more appropriate benchmark against which to measure the performance of the International Equity Fund. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The unmanaged EuroPac Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of approximately 1,500 stocks from 20 countries in Europe and the Asia- Pacific region. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 23 Emerging Markets Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 25.76%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +14.08% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -22.78% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -26.29% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception -------------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 12/15/97) (26.29)% (23.64)% MSCI Emerging Markets Free (EMF) Index* (25.33)% (19.87)% --------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI EMF Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of securities in over 30 emerging market countries. "Free" indicates an index that excludes shares in otherwise free markets that are not purchas- able by foreigners. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 24 FUND PERFORMANCE Asia Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Institutional Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 28.80%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +21.60% Worst Quarter Q4 '97 -27.19% [BAR GRAPH] 1997 -40.64% 1998 -14.73% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception --------------------------------------------------------------------- Institutional Shares (Inception 2/2/96) (14.73)% (21.21)% MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan Index* (10.27)% (19.82)% ---------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan Index is a market capi- talization-weighted composite of securities in ten Asian countries. "Free" indicates an index that excludes shares in otherwise free markets that are not purchasable by foreigners. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 25 Fund Fees and Expenses (Institutional Shares) This table describes the fees and expenses that you would pay if you buy and hold Institutional Shares of a Fund.
CORE International International European Equity Fund Equity Fund Equity Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases None None None Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees None None None Exchange Fees None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):1 Management Fees 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees None None None Other Expenses2 0.26% 0.19% 0.64% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.11% 1.19% 1.64% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 28 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Funds which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be terminated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operat- ing Expenses" may increase without shareholder approv- al.
CORE International International European Equity Fund Equity Fund Equity Fund ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):1 Management Fees 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% Distribution and Service Fees None None None Other Expenses2 0.16% 0.14% 0.14% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.01% 1.14% 1.14% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Emerging Asia Japanese International Markets Growth Equity Fund Small Cap Fund Equity Fund Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None 1.00% 1.20% 1.20% 1.00% None None None None 0.97% 0.57% 0.56% 0.62% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.97% 1.77% 1.76% 1.62% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Emerging Asia Japanese International Markets Growth Equity Fund Small Cap Fund Equity Fund Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.00% 1.20% 1.20% 1.00% None None None None 0.05% 0.20% 0.19% 0.20% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.05% 1.40% 1.39% 1.20% - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27 Fund Fees and Expenses continued /1/The Funds' operating expenses for the current fiscal year have been annualized for the seven-month period (February 1, 1999 through August 31, 1999). /2/"Other Expenses" include transfer agency fees equal to 0.04% of the average daily net assets of each Fund's Institutional Shares plus all other ordinary expenses of the Funds not detailed above. The Investment Adviser has voluntar- ily agreed to reduce or limit "Other Expenses" (excluding management fees, transfer agency fees, taxes, interest and brokerage fees and litigation, indem- nification and other extraordinary expenses) to the following percentages of each Fund's average daily net assets:
Other Fund Expenses - -------------------------- CORE International Equity 0.12% International Equity 0.10% European Equity 0.10% Japanese Equity 0.01% International Small Cap 0.16% Emerging Markets Equity 0.15% Asia Growth 0.16%
28 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES Example The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in a Fund (without the expense limitations) with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in Institutional Shares of a Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your invest- ment has a 5% return each year and that a Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assump- tions your costs would be:
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - ---------------------------------------------------------- CORE International Equity $113 $353 $ 612 $1,352 - ---------------------------------------------------------- International Equity $121 $378 $ 654 $1,443 - ---------------------------------------------------------- European Equity $167 $517 $ 892 $1,944 - ---------------------------------------------------------- Japanese Equity $200 $618 $1,062 $2,296 - ---------------------------------------------------------- International Small Cap $180 $557 $ 959 $2,084 - ---------------------------------------------------------- Emerging Markets Equity $179 $554 $ 954 $2,073 - ---------------------------------------------------------- Asia Growth $165 $511 $ 881 $1,922 - ----------------------------------------------------------
Institutions that invest in Institutional Shares on behalf of their customers may charge other fees directly to their customer accounts in connection with their investments. You should contact your institution for information regard- ing such charges. Such fees, if any, may affect the return customers realize with respect to their investments. Certain institutions that invest in Institutional Shares may receive other com- pensation in connection with the sale and distribution of Institutional Shares or for services to their customers' accounts and/or the Funds. For additional information regarding such compensation, see "Shareholder Guide" in the Pro- spectus and "Other Information" in the Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). 29 Service Providers INVESTMENT ADVISERS
Investment Adviser Fund ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM") CORE International Equity 32 Old Slip New York, New York 10005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Goldman Sachs Asset Management International ("GSAMI") International Equity 133 Peterborough Court European Equity London, England EC4A 2BB Japanese Equity International Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Asia Growth ------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 1, 1999, the Investment Management Division ("IMD") was established as a new operating division of Goldman Sachs. This newly created entity includes GSAM and GSAMI. Goldman Sachs registered as an investment adviser in 1981. GSAMI, a member of the Investment Management Regulatory Organization Limited since 1990 and a registered investment adviser since 1991, is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P., which controlled the Investment Advisers, merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offering. As of September 30, 1999, GSAM and GSAMI, along with other units of IMD, had assets under management of $203 billion. The Investment Adviser provides day-to-day advice regarding the Funds' port- folio transactions. The Investment Adviser makes the investment decisions for the Funds and places purchase and sale orders for the Funds' portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any brokers, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Funds, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates for portfolio decisions and management with respect to certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to the research and certain proprietary technical models developed by Goldman Sachs, and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities. The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Funds: .Supervises all non-advisory operations of the Funds .Provides personnel to perform necessary executive, administrative and cler- ical services to the Funds 30 SERVICE PROVIDERS .Arranges for the preparation of all required tax returns, reports to share- holders, prospectuses and statements of additional information and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other regulatory authorities .Maintains the records of each Fund .Provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services MANAGEMENT FEES As compensation for its services and its assumption of certain expenses, the Investment Adviser is entitled to the following fees, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rates (as a percentage of each respective portfolio's average daily net assets) listed below:
Actual Rate For the Fiscal Year Ended Contractual Rate August 31, 1999 ------------------------------------------------------------ GSAM: ------------------------------------------------------------ CORE International Equity 0.85% 0.85% ------------------------------------------------------------ GSAMI: ------------------------------------------------------------ International Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ European Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ Japanese Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ International Small Cap 1.20% 1.20% ------------------------------------------------------------ Emerging Markets Equity 1.20% 1.20% ------------------------------------------------------------ Asia Growth 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------
The difference, if any, between the stated fees and the actual fees paid by the Funds reflects that the Investment Adviser did not charge the full amount of the fees to which it would have been entitled. The Investment Adviser may discontinue or modify any such voluntary limitations in the future at its discretion. FUND MANAGERS M. Roch Hillenbrand, a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs since 1997, is the Head of Global Equities for GSAM, overseeing the United States, Europe, Japan, and non-Japan Asia. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the group as it defines and implements global portfolio management processes that are consistent, reliable and predictable. Since 1981 Mr. Hillenbrand has been President of 31 Commodities Corporation LLC, of which Goldman Sachs is the parent company. Over the course of his 19-year career at Commodities Corporation, Mr. Hillenbrand has had extensive experience in dealing with internal and exter- nal investment managers who have managed a range of futures and equities strategies across multiple markets, using a variety of styles. International Equity Portfolio Management Team .Global portfolio teams based in London, Singapore, Tokyo and New York. Local presence is a key to the Investment Adviser's fundamental research capabilities .Team manages over $33.2 billion in international equities for retail, institutional and high net worth clients .Focus on bottom-up stock selection as main driver of returns, though the team leverages the asset allocation, currency and risk management capabili- ties of GSAM - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- London-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- David Dick Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Dick joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director senior portfolio manager on the European Equity team in 1998. From 1990 to 1998, he was with Mercury Asset Management, where he was a portfolio manager for European equity and was head of Mercury's European sector strategy. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ivor H. Farman Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Farman joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1996 senior portfolio manager in 1996. From 1995 to 1996, he was responsible for originating and marketing French equity ideas at Exane in Paris. Prior to 1995, he spent five years engaged in French equity research and marketing at Banque Nationale de Paris and Schroders in London. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32 SERVICE PROVIDERS
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James P. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Hordern joined the Hordern International Small Cap 1998 Investment Adviser as a Executive Fund portfolio manager in Director 1997. From 1991 to 1997, he was an Assistant Director and portfolio manager at Mercury Asset Management on the European Specialist Team. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ralf Laier Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Laier joined the Vice President Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Fund portfolio manager with a focus on Central/Eastern European (CEE) and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in 1997. Prior to joining the Investment Adviser, from 1995 to 1997, he was Vice President of Soros Global Research, where he analyzed investment opportunities in CEE/CIS. From 1994 to 1995, he achieved a Ph.D. from the Academy of Economics in Pozan, Poland. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Susan Noble Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Noble joined the Managing European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1998 senior portfolio manager and head of the European Equity Team in October 1997. From 1986 to 1997, she worked at Fleming Investment Management in London, where she most recently was Portfolio Management Director for the European equity investment strategy and process. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew Orchard Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Andrew joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1999 portfolio manager in 1999. From 1994 to 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Morgan Grenfell Asset Management where he managed global equity portfolios and chaired Morgan Grenfell's Global Sector Committee. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shrimpton joined the Shrimpton Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Fund portfolio manager with a focus on Africa as well as the financial industry in the EMEA region in 1996. Since 1985 he was a UK equity analyst and portfolio manager for CIN Management, where he initiated CIN Management's first investments in Latin America. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Stewart Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Robert joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1999 portfolio manager in 1996. He is a member of the European Equity Team. From 1996 to 1998 he was a portfolio manager in Japan where he managed Japanese Equity Institutional Portfolios. Prior to that Robert was a portfolio manager at CINMan from 1989 to 1996 where he managed international equities. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Danny Truell Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Truell joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director senior portfolio manager and head of UK equities in 1998. From 1992 to 1996, he was Investment Banking Executive Director for SBC Warburg and Chief Asian Equity Strategist. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gabriella Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Antici joined the Antici Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Fund portfolio manager in 1997. From 1994 to 1997, she was a Vice President for HSBC Asset Management, where she was a portfolio manager for emerging markets and head of the Latin American Department. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34 SERVICE PROVIDERS New York-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert A. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Beckwitt joined the Beckwitt Emerging Markets Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Managing Fund portfolio manager in Director 1996. From 1986 to 1996, Head of he was Chief Investment Emerging Strategist-Portfolio Markets Equity Adviser to high net worth investors at Fidelity Investments. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Melissa Brown Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Brown joined the Vice President CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Fund portfolio manager in 1998. From 1984 to 1998, she was the director of Quantitative Equity Research and served on the Investment Policy Committee at Prudential Securities. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mark M. Carhart Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Carhart joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund member of the Quantitative Research and Risk Management team in 1997. From August 1995 to September 1997, he was Assistant Professor of Finance at the Marshall School of Business at USC and a Senior Fellow of the Wharton Financial Institutions Center. From 1993 to 1995, he was a lecturer and graduate student at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kent A. Clark Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Clark joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund portfolio manager in the quantitative equity management team in 1992. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Raymond J. Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Iwanowski joined the Iwanowski CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as an Managing Fund associate and portfolio Director manager in 1997. From 1993 to 1997, he was a Vice President and head of the Fixed Derivatives Client Research group at Salomon Brothers. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert C. Jones Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Jones joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund portfolio manager in 1989. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35 Singapore-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alice Lui Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Lui joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1994 Investment Adviser as a Emerging Markets Equity 1999 portfolio manager in Fund 1990. International Equity Fund 1999 International Small Cap 1999 Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ravi Shanker Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shanker joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1997 Investment Adviser as an Emerging Markets Equity 1998 operations manager in Fund 1997. From July 1996 to International Equity Fund 1999 1997, he worked for International Small Cap 1999 Goldman Sachs in Fund Singapore as a strategic advisor for transactions involving infrastructure industries in Asia. From 1988 to 1996, he worked for Goldman Sachs as an investment banker in the Investment Banking Division. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Siew-Hua Thio Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Thio joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Emerging Markets Equity 1998 portfolio manager in Fund 1998. From 1997 to 1998, International Equity Fund 1998 she was Head of Research International Small Cap 1998 for Indosuez WI Carr in Fund Singapore. From 1993 to 1997, she was a research analyst at the same firm. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36 SERVICE PROVIDERS Tokyo-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Toshiyuki Ejima Portfolio Manager-- Since Toshiyuki joined the Vice President Japanese Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in April 1999. Prior to that he was a portfolio manager at Daiichi Mutual Life from 1993 to 1999 where he managed Japanese equities. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shigeka Kouda Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Kouda joined the Vice President International Small 1998 Investment Adviser as a Cap Fund portfolio manager in 1997. From 1992 to 1997, he was at the Fixed Income Division of Goldman Sachs (Japan) Limited, where he was extensively involved in emerging markets trading as well as International Fixed Income institutional sales. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shogo Maeda Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Maeda joined the Managing Manager-- 1994 Investment Adviser as a Director Japanese Equity Fund 1994 portfolio manager in International Equity 1998 1994. From 1987 to 1994, Fund he worked at Nomura International Small Investment Management Cap Fund Incorporated as a Senior Portfolio Manager. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Miyako Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Shibamoto joined the Shibamoto Japanese Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President member of the Japanese Equity team in March 1998. From 1993 to 1998, she was a Vice President at Scudder Stevens and Clark (Japan). - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Takeya Suzuki Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Suzuki joined the Vice President Japanese Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in 1996. From 1990 to 1996, he was a Japanese equity portfolio manager at Nomura Investment Management where he actively managed assets for U.S. pension funds. - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37 DISTRIBUTOR AND TRANSFER AGENT Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor (the "Distributor") of each Fund's shares. Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6372, also serves as the Funds' transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent") and, as such, performs various shareholder servicing functions. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares acquired for its own account. ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affili- ates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to a Fund or limit a Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds. The results of a Fund's investment activities, therefore, may differ from those of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and it is possible that a Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affili- ates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Funds may, from time to time, enter into transactions in which other clients of Goldman Sachs have an adverse interest. A Fund's activities may be limited because of regula- tory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. YEAR 2000 Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to signify the year (for example, "98" for "1998"). On January 1, 2000, if these computer systems are not corrected, they may incorrectly interpret "00" as the year "1900" rather than the year "2000," leading to computer shutdowns or errors (commonly 38 SERVICE PROVIDERS known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). To the extent these systems conduct forward-looking calculations, these computer problems may occur prior to January 1, 2000. Like other investment companies and financial and business organizations, the Funds could be adversely affected in their ability to process securities trades, price securities, provide shareholder account services and otherwise conduct normal business operations if the Investment Adviser or other Fund service providers do not adequately address this prob- lem in a timely manner. In order to address the Year 2000 Problem, the Investment Adviser has taken the following measures: .The Investment Adviser has established a dedicated group which analyzed these issues and implemented system modifications to prepare for the Year 2000 Problem. .The Investment Adviser has either tested with or received assurances from the Fund's other service providers to confirm that they are taking reason- able steps to avoid Year 2000 Problems, and the Investment Adviser contin- ues to monitor the situation. .The Investment Adviser has developed broad and comprehensive contingency plans, as well as event management plans that will help manage the Funds through the date change by allowing the Investment Adviser to closely moni- tor and respond to Year 2000-related events as they unfold around the world. Currently, the Investment Adviser does not anticipate that the transition to the 21st century will have any material impact on its ability to continue to service the Funds at current levels. In addition, the Investment Adviser has undertaken measures to appropriately take into account available information concerning the Year 2000 prepared- ness of the issuers of securities held by the Funds. The Investment Adviser may obtain such Year 2000 information from various sources which the Invest- ment Adviser believes to be reliable, including the issuers' public regula- tory filings. However, the Investment Adviser is not in a position to verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. At this time, however, no assurance can be given that the actions taken by the Investment Adviser and the Funds' other service providers will be suffi- cient to avoid any adverse effect on the Funds due to the Year 2000 Problem. 39 Dividends Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains. You may choose to have dividends and dis- tributions paid in: .Cash .Additional shares of the same class of the same Fund .Shares of the same or an equivalent class of another Goldman Sachs Fund. Special restrictions may apply for certain ILA Portfolios. See the Additional Statement. You may indicate your election on your Account Application. Any changes may be submitted in writing to Goldman Sachs at any time before the record date for a particular dividend or distribution. If you do not indicate any choice, your dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in the applicable Fund. The election to reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by you and then used to purchase the shares. The Funds' investments in foreign securities may be subject to foreign with- holding taxes. Under certain circumstances, the Funds may elect to pass- through these taxes to you. If this election is made, a proportionate amount of such taxes will constitute a distribution to you, which would allow you either (1) to credit such proportionate amount of foreign taxes against your U.S. federal income tax liability or (2) to take such amount as an itemized deduction. Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are declared and paid annually. From time to time a portion of a Fund's dividends may constitute a return of capital. At the time of an investor's purchase of shares of a Fund, a portion of the NAV per share may be represented by undistributed income or undistributed realized appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities. Therefore, subse- quent distributions on such shares from such income or realized appreciation may be taxable to you even if the NAV of the shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the cost of such shares and the distributions (or portions thereof) represent a return of a portion of the purchase price. 40 Shareholder Guide The following section will provide you with answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding buying and selling the Funds' Institutional Shares. HOW TO BUY SHARES How Can I Purchase Institutional Shares Of The Funds? You may purchase Institutional Shares on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of an order. No sales load is charged. You should place an order with Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550 and either: .Wire federal funds to The Northern Trust Company ("Northern"), as subcustodian for State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") (each Fund's custodian) on the next business day; or .Send a check or Federal Reserve draft payable to Goldman Sachs Funds--(Name of Fund and Class of Shares), 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372. The Fund will not accept a check drawn on a foreign bank or a third-party check. In order to make an initial investment in a Fund, you must furnish to the Fund or Goldman Sachs the Account Application attached to this Prospectus. Purchases of Institutional Shares must be settled within three business days of receipt of a complete purchase order. How Do I Purchase Shares Through A Financial Institution? Certain institutions (including banks, trust companies, brokers and invest- ment advisers) that provide recordkeeping, reporting and processing services to their customers may be authorized to accept, on behalf of Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust"), purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers, and may designate other intermediaries to accept such orders, if approved by the Trust. In these cases: .A Fund will be deemed to have received an order in proper form when the order is accepted by the authorized institution or intermediary on a busi- ness day, and the order will be priced at the Fund's NAV next determined after such acceptance. 41 .Authorized institutions and intermediaries will be responsible for trans- mitting accepted orders and payments to the Trust within the time period agreed upon by them. You should contact your institution or intermediary to learn whether it is authorized to accept orders for the Trust. These institutions may receive payments from the Funds or Goldman Sachs for the services provided by them with respect to the Funds' Institutional Shares. These payments may be in addition to other payments borne by the Funds. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay addi- tional compensation from time to time, out of their assets and not as an additional charge to the Funds, to certain institutions and other persons in connection with the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of the Funds and other Goldman Sachs Funds. Additional compensation based on sales may, but is currently not expected to, exceed 0.50% (annualized) of the amount invested. In addition to Institutional Shares, each Fund also offers other classes of shares to investors. These other share classes are subject to different fees and expenses (which affect performance), have different minimum investment requirements and are entitled to different services than Institutional Shares. Information regarding these other share classes may be obtained from your sales representative or from Goldman Sachs by calling the number on the back cover of this Prospectus. 42 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE What is My Minimum Investment in the Funds?
Type of Investor Minimum Investment ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Banks, trust companies or $1,000,000 in Institutional Shares of a Fund other depository alone or in combination with other assets institutions investing for under the management of GSAM and its affiliates their own account or on behalf of clients .Pension and profit sharing plans, pension funds and other company-sponsored benefit plans .State, county, city or any instrumentality, department, authority or agency thereof .Corporations with at least $100 million in assets or in outstanding publicly traded securities ."Wrap" account sponsors (provided they have an agreement covering the arrangement with GSAM) .Registered investment advisers investing for accounts for which they receive asset-based fees ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Individual investors $10,000,000 .Qualified non-profit organizations, charitable trusts, foundations and endowments .Accounts over which GSAM or its advisory affiliates have investment discretion -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The minimum investment requirement may be waived for current and former officers, partners, directors or employees of Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates or for other investors at the discretion of the Trust's officers. No minimum amount is required for subsequent investments. What Else Should I Know About Share Purchases? The Trust reserves the right to: .Modify or waive the minimum investment amounts. .Reject or restrict any purchase or exchange orders by a particular pur- chaser (or group of related purchasers). This may occur, for example, when a pattern of frequent purchases, sales or exchanges of Institutional Shares of a Fund is evident, or if purchases, sales or exchanges are, or a subse- quent abrupt redemption might be, of a size that would disrupt the manage- ment of a Fund. 43 The Funds may allow you to purchase shares with securities instead of cash if consistent with a Fund's investment policies and operations and if approved by the Fund's Investment Adviser. How Are Shares Priced? The price you pay or receive when you buy, sell or exchange Institutional Shares is determined by a Fund's NAV. The Funds calculate NAV as follows: (Value of Assets of the Class) NAV = - (Liabilities of the Class) ------------------------------------------------- Number of Outstanding Shares of the Class The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations or, if accurate quotations are not readily available, the fair value of the Fund's invest- ments may be determined in good faith under procedures established by the Trustees. .NAV per share of each class is calculated by State Street on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (nor- mally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Fund shares will not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed. .When you buy shares, you pay the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. .When you sell shares, you receive the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. Note: The time at which transactions and shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange is stopped at a time other than 4:00 p.m. New York time. Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days a Fund is closed. As a result, the NAV of a Fund that holds foreign securities may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or redeem Fund shares. In addition, the impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discre- tion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund operations and other relevant factors. 44 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE HOW TO SELL SHARES How Can I Sell Institutional Shares Of The Funds? You may arrange to take money out of your account by selling (redeeming) some or all of your shares. Generally, each Fund will redeem its Institu- tional Shares upon request on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of such request in proper form. You may request that redemp- tion proceeds be sent to you by check or by wire (if the wire instructions are on record). Redemptions may be requested in writing or by telephone.
Instructions For Redemptions: ----------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund name and Class of Shares .The dollar amount you want to sell .How and where to send the proceeds .Mail your request to: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have elected the telephone redemption privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain institutions and intermediaries are authorized to accept redemption requests on behalf of the Funds as described under "How Do I Purchase Shares Through A Financial Institution?" What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests? The Trust, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent will not be liable for any loss you may incur in the event that the Trust accepts unauthorized tele- phone redemption requests that the Trust reasonably believes to be genuine. In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption and exchange requests by telephone, Goldman Sachs employs reasonable procedures specified by the Trust to confirm that such instructions are genuine. If reasonable procedures are not employed, the Trust may be liable for any loss due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. The following general policies are currently in effect: .All telephone requests are recorded. .Any redemption request that requires money to go to an account or address other than that designated on the Account Application must be in writing and signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. The 45 written request may be confirmed by telephone with both the requesting party and the designated bank account to verify instructions. .The telephone redemption option may be modified or terminated at any time. Note: It may be difficult to make telephone redemptions in times of drastic economic or market conditions. How Are Redemption Proceeds Paid? By Wire: You may arrange for your redemption proceeds to be wired as federal funds to the bank account designated in your Account Application. The fol- lowing general policies govern wiring redemption proceeds: .Redemption proceeds will normally be wired on the next business day in fed- eral funds (for a total of one business day delay), but may be paid up to three business days following receipt of a properly executed wire transfer redemption request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. If the Federal Reserve Bank is closed on the day that the redemption proceeds would ordinarily be wired, wiring the redemption pro- ceeds may be delayed one additional business day. .To change the bank designated on your Account Application, you must send written instructions signed by an authorized person designated on the account application to the Transfer Agent. .Neither the Trust, Goldman Sachs nor any other institution assumes any responsibility for the performance of your bank or any intermediaries in the transfer process. If a problem with such performance arises, you should deal directly with your bank or any such intermediaries. By Check: You may elect in writing to receive your redemption proceeds by check. Redemption proceeds paid by check will normally be mailed to the address of record within three business days of a properly executed redemp- tion request. If you are selling shares you recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay you when your check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. What Else Do I Need To Know About Redemptions? The following generally applies to redemption requests: .Additional documentation may be required when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. A redemption request will not be in proper form until such additional documentation has been received. .Institutions (including banks, trust companies, brokers and investment advisers) are responsible for the timely transmittal of redemption requests by their customers to the Transfer Agent. In order to facilitate the timely transmittal of redemption requests, these institutions may set times by which they must receive 46 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE redemption requests. These institutions may also require additional docu- mentation from you. The Trust reserves the right to: .Redeem your shares if your account balance falls below $50 as a result of earlier redemptions. The Funds will not redeem your shares on this basis if the value of your account falls below the minimum account balance solely as a result of market conditions. The Fund will give you 60 days' prior writ- ten notice to allow you to purchase sufficient additional shares of the Fund in order to avoid such redemption. .Redeem your shares in other circumstances determined by the Board of Trust- ees to be in the best interest of the Trust. .Pay redemptions by a distribution in-kind of securities (instead of cash). If you receive redemption proceeds in-kind, you should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of those securities. Can I Exchange My Investment From One Fund To Another? You may exchange Institutional Shares of a Fund at NAV for Institutional Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. The exchange privilege may be mate- rially modified or withdrawn at any time upon 60 days' written notice to you.
Instructions For Exchanging Shares: ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .Your name(s) and signature(s) .Your account number .The Fund names and Class of Shares .The dollar amount to be exchanged .Mail the request to: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ------------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have elected the telephone exchange privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) -------------------------------------------------------------------
You should keep in mind the following factors when making or considering an exchange: .You should obtain and carefully read the prospectus of the Fund you are acquiring before making an exchange. .All exchanges which represent an initial investment in a Fund must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirements of that Fund, except that this requirement may be waived at the discretion of the Trust. 47 .Telephone exchanges normally will be made only to an identically registered account. .Shares may be exchanged among accounts with different names, addresses and social security or other taxpayer identification numbers only if the exchange instructions are in writing and are signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. .Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made. .It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic eco- nomic or market conditions. .Goldman Sachs may use reasonable procedures described under "What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests?" in an effort to prevent unau- thorized or fraudulent telephone exchange requests. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange is treated as a redemption of the shares surrendered in the exchange, on which you may be subject to tax, followed by a purchase of shares received in the exchange. You should con- sult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of an exchange. What Types of Reports Will I Be Sent Regarding Investments In Institutional Shares? You will receive an annual report containing audited financial statements and a semi-annual report. To eliminate unnecessary duplication, only one copy of such reports will be sent to shareholders with the same mailing address. If you would like a duplicate copy to be mailed to you, please con- tact Goldman Sachs Funds at 1-800-621-2550. You will also be provided with a printed confirmation for each transaction in your account and a monthly account statement. The Funds do not generally provide sub-accounting servic- es. 48 Taxation TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Funds will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the Additional Statement. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax con- sequences of your investment in the Funds. Unless your investment is an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund shares. TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS Distributions you receive from the Funds are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Funds' income dividend distribu- tions and short-term capital gain distributions are taxable to you as ordi- nary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are taxable as long- term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund shares. Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December. A percentage of the Funds' dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. The Funds will inform sharehold- ers of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. Each Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Funds may deduct these taxes in computing their taxable income. If you buy shares of a Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend." 49 TAXES ON SALES Your sale of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. For tax purpos- es, the exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Goldman Sachs Fund is the same as a sale. When you sell your shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the shares and the amount received. Gen- erally, this gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds twelve months, except that any loss realized on shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the shares. OTHER INFORMATION When you open your account, you should provide your social security or tax identification number on your Account Application. By law, each Fund most withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and any redemption proceeds if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. 50 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques A. General Portfolio Risks The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity securities. "Equity securities" include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock pur- chase rights. In general, stock values fluctuate in response to the activi- ties of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the value of the stocks that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cycli- cal, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. The volatility of equity securities means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. As of the date of this Prospectus, certain stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels and there can be no guarantee that such levels will continue. To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed-income securities, that Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed-income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to increase (al- though many mortgage related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to decline. Credit risk involves the risk that an issuer could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its invest- ment. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (exten- sion risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall suffi- ciently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to invest- ors. The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a lim- iting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of port- folio turn- 51 over (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calcu- lated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a state- ment of the Funds' historical portfolio turnover rates. The following sections provide further information on certain types of secu- rities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Among other things, the Addi- tional Statement describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether that Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs. B. Other Portfolio Risks Risks of Investing in Small Capitalization Companies and REITs. Each Fund may invest in small capitalization companies and REITs. Investments in small capitalization companies and REITs involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the rea- sons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less cer- tain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Small capitalization companies and REITs may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current mar- ket prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient mar- ket liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Small capitalization companies and REITs include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited prod- uct lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments 52 APPENDIX A in small capitalization companies and REITs may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes. Risks of Foreign Investments. Certain Funds may invest in foreign invest- ments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such invest- ments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the cur- rency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the port- folio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives divi- dends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends. The introduction of a single currency, the euro, on January 1, 1999 for par- ticipating nations in the European Economic and Monetary Union presents unique uncertainties, including the legal treatment of certain outstanding financial contracts after January 1, 1999 that refer to existing currencies rather than the euro; the establishment and maintenance of exchange rates for currencies being converted into the euro; the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies during the transition period from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2001 and beyond; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union ("EU"), may have an impact on the euro. These or other factors, including political and economic risks, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Funds. Because of the number of countries using this single currency, a significant portion of the assets held by the Funds may be denominated in the euro. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such proce- dures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transac- tions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may 53 be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and secu- rities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than secu- rities of comparable domestic issuers. Efforts in foreign countries to reme- diate potential Year 2000 problems are not as extensive as those in the United States. As a result, the operations of foreign markets, foreign issuers and foreign governments may be disrupted by the Year 2000 Problem, and the investment portfolio of a Fund may be adversely affected. Further- more, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of with- holding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the Funds, and political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries. Concentration of a Fund's assets in one or a few countries and currencies will subject a Fund to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geo- graphically concentrated. Investment in sovereign debt obligations by certain Funds involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obliga- tions of U.S. issuers. A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the avail- ability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sov- ereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"). Certain Funds may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the United States. EDRs and GDRs are receipts 54 APPENDIX A evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank. EDRs and GDRs are not neces- sarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. Risks of Emerging Countries. Certain Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging coun- tries are generally located in the Asia-Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Latin and South America and Africa. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates and their respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement vol- ume limitations have been reached. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a spe- cific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportuni- ties in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents. Due to restrictions on direct invest- ment in equity securities in certain Asian countries, it is anticipated that a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries. Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substan- tial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation, which have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. 55 Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodi- cally used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffec- tion, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Invest- ing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropria- tion, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return from an investment in such country to the Fund. Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and often may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addi- tion, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to com- plete its contractual obligations. The creditworthiness of the local securi- ties firms used by the Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerg- ing countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those coun- tries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities mar- kets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor per- ceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Invest- 56 APPENDIX A ments in emerging countries may be more difficult to price precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes. A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. Due to the limited market for these instruments in emerging countries, the Investment Adviser does not currently anticipate that a sig- nificant portion of the Funds' currency exposure in emerging countries, if any, will be covered by such instruments. Risks of Derivative Investments. A Fund's transactions, if any, in options, futures, options on futures, swaps, interest rate caps, floors and collars, structured securities and currency transactions involve additional risk of loss. Loss can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, or the risks arising from margin requirements and related leverage factors associated with such transactions. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates or currency prices. Each Fund may also invest in derivative investments for non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return). Investing for non- hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents even greater risk of loss. Risks of Illiquid Securities. Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities which cannot be disposed of in seven days in the ordinary course of business at fair value. Illiquid securities include: .Both domestic and foreign securities that are not readily marketable .Certain stripped mortgage-backed securities .Repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days .Certain over-the-counter options .Certain structured securities and all swap transactions .Certain restricted securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 ("144A Securities") and, therefore, is liquid. Investing in 144A Securities may decrease the liquidity of a Fund's portfo- lio to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities. The purchase price and subsequent valuation of restricted and illiquid securities normally reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of com- parable securities for which a liquid market exists. 57 Credit Risks. Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include securities (including zero coupon bonds) issued by the U.S. government (and its agen- cies, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises), foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Further informa- tion is provided in the Additional Statement. Debt securities rated BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality. Certain Funds may invest in fixed-income securities rated BB or Ba or below (or comparable unrated securities) which are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered predominantly speculative and may be ques- tionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, invest- ment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associ- ated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rat- ing organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected. Temporary Investment Risks. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain percentage of its total assets in: .U.S. government securities .Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's or P-2 by Moody's .Certificates of deposit .Bankers' acceptances .Repurchase agreements .Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective. 58 APPENDIX A C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associ- ated risks. Further information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Convertible Securities. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Con- vertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are con- vertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar qual- ity. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed-income securities. Con- vertible securities have both equity and fixed-income risk characteristics. Like all fixed-income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible secu- rity, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed-income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Foreign Currency Transactions. A Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to pur- chase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which is con- sidered a speculative practice. Some Funds may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of cor- relation between the two currencies. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (e.g., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar). 59 Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obli- gations. Since these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clear- inghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized prof- its, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. Structured Securities. Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Struc- tured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be posi- tively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may pro- duce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Refer- ence. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than other types of fixed-income securities and may be more vol- atile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. REITs. Each Fund may invest in REITS. REITS are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with invest- ments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other 60 APPENDIX A respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests. Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument dur- ing the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase put and call options on any securities in which they may invest or on any securities index comprised of securities in which they may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which is con- sidered a speculative activity). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctu- ations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over- the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks. Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or pur- chase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A futures contract may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Funds may engage in futures transac- tions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges. Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent a Fund 61 invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise man- age their term structures, sector selection and durations in accordance with their investment objectives and policies. Each Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options. A Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as defined in regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. A Fund may not purchase or sell futures con- tracts or purchase or sell related options to seek to increase total return, except for closing purchase or sale transactions, if immediately thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on the Fund's outstanding positions in futures and related options entered into for the purpose of seeking to increase total return would exceed 5% of the mar- ket value of the Fund's net assets. Futures contracts and related options present the following risks: .While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. .Because perfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio posi- tion that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss. .The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writ- ing call options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. .Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV. .As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trad- ing, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund. .Futures contracts and options on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day. .Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. Equity Swaps. Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other compo- nents of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps are 62 APPENDIX A derivatives and their value can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, a Fund may suffer a loss. The value of some components of an equity swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in inter- est rates. Furthermore, a Fund may suffer a loss if the counterparty defaults. When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments. Each Fund may purchase when- issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a con- tract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, a Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate. Repurchase Agreements. Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securi- ties subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agree- ment. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable. In evaluating whether to enter into a repurchase agreement, the Investment Adviser will carefully consider the creditworthiness of the seller. Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may trans- fer uninvested cash 63 balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers. The borrowers are required to secure their loan continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested in cash equivalents. To the extent that cash collateral is invested in other investment securities, such collateral will be subject to market deprecia- tion or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund. Short Sales Against-the-Box. Certain Funds may make short sales against-the- box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short posi- tion is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any fur- ther consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short. Preferred Stock, Warrants and Rights. Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and rights. Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earn- ings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. Other Investment Companies. Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies (including SPDRs and WEBs, as defined below) subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act. These limitations include a prohibition on 64 APPENDIX A any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in securities of all investment companies. A Fund will indi- rectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies. Such other investment com- panies will have investment objectives, policies and restrictions substan- tially similar to those of the acquiring Fund and will be subject to sub- stantially the same risks. .Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts. The Funds may, consistent with their investment policies, purchase Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts ("SPDRs"). SPDRs are securities traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX") that represent ownership in the SPDR Trust, a trust which has been established to accumulate and hold a portfolio of common stocks that is intended to track the price performance and dividend yield of the S&P 500. The SPDR Trust is sponsored by a subsidiary of the AMEX. SPDRs may be used for several reasons, including, but not limited to, facilitating the han- dling of cash flows or trading, or reducing transaction costs. The price movement of SPDRs may not perfectly parallel the price action of the S&P 500. .World Equity Benchmark Shares. World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") are shares of an investment company that invests substantially all of its assets in securities included in the MSCI indices for specified countries. WEBS are listed on the AMEX and were initially offered to the public in 1996. The market prices of WEBS are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and supply and demand of WEBS on the AMEX. To date, WEBS have traded at relatively modest discounts and premiums to their NAVs. However, WEBS have a limited operat- ing history and information is lacking regarding the actual performance and trading liquidity of WEBS for extended periods or over complete market cycles. In addition, there is no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will continue to be met or will remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting WEBS should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of a Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected. If such disruptions were to occur, a Fund could be required to reconsider the use of WEBS as part of its investment strategy. Unseasoned Companies. Each Fund may invest in companies (including predeces- sors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such com- panies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned compa- 65 nies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. Corporate Debt Obligations. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal, and include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obliga- tions issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and suprana- tional entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.). Bank Obligations. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitations, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be gen- eral obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. U.S. Government Securities and Related Custodial Receipts. Each Fund may invest in U.S. government securities and related custodial receipts. U.S. government securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or spon- sored enterprises. U.S. government securities may be supported by (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae")); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury (such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to pur- chase certain obligations of the issuer (such as the Federal National Mort- gage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac")); or (d) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. government securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. government securities, where the interest and principal compo- nents of stripped U.S. government securities are traded independently. Interests in U.S. government securities may be purchased in the form of cus- todial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, princi- pal payments 66 APPENDIX A or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. government. Mortgage-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect partici- pations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are normally structured with one or more types of "credit enhancement." However, these mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage- backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturi- ties, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in cer- tain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives sub- stantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are gener- ally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securi- ties because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Asset-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in asset-backed securi- ties. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities are often sub- 67 ject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the under- lying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. According- ly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities gener- ally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. There is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support pay- ments on these securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. Borrowings. Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial insti- tutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes. A Fund may not make additional investments if borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. 68 [This page intentionally left blank] 69 Appendix B Financial Highlights The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand a Fund's financial performance for the past five years (or less if the Fund has been in operation for less than five years). Certain information reflects finan- cial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table repre- sent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an investment in a Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, whose report, along with a Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's annual report (available upon request without charge). CORE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ --------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized and beginning income unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 9.98 $ 0.05 $ 0.84 1999 - Class B Shares 9.95 0.01 0.85 1999 - Class C Shares 9.96 0.01 0.85 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.06 0.09 0.85 1999 - Service Shares 10.02 0.01 0.90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 9.22 (0.01) 0.79 1999 - Class B Shares 9.21 -- 0.74 1999 - Class C Shares 9.22 -- 0.74 1999 - Institutional Shares 9.24 0.05 0.80 1999 - Service Shares 9.23 -- 0.81 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.78) 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) (0.77) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) (0.76) 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.02 (0.76) 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 (0.78) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 97 for all footnotes. 70 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ------------------------ Net increase Net (decrease) Net asset assets From net From net in net value, at end investment realized asset end of Total of period income gains value period return/b/ (in 000s) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ 0.89 $10.87 8.92%d $114,502 -- -- 0.86 10.81 8.64d 9,171 -- -- 0.86 10.82 8.63d 4,913 -- -- 0.94 11.00 9.34d 271,212 -- -- 0.91 10.93 9.08d 8 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.02) -- 0.76 9.98 8.37 110,338 -- -- 0.74 9.95 8.03 7,401 -- -- 0.74 9.96 8.03 3,742 (0.03) -- 0.82 10.06 9.20 280,731 (0.02) -- 0.79 10.02 8.74 22 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- (0.78) 9.22 (7.66)d 7,087 -- -- (0.79) 9.21 (7.90)d 2,721 -- -- (0.78) 9.22 (7.80)d 1,608 (0.02) -- (0.76) 9.24 (7.45)d 17,719 -- -- (0.77) 9.23 (7.70)d 1 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
71 CORE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of net investment net investment Ratio of income expenses income (loss) expenses (loss) to Portfolio to average to average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets net assets rate - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.66%c 0.78%c 1.76%c 0.68%c 64.97%d 1999 - Class B Shares 2.16c 0.26c 2.26c 0.16c 64.97d 1999 - Class C Shares 2.16c 0.23c 2.26c 0.13c 64.97d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.01c 1.43c 1.11c 1.33c 64.97d 1999 - Service Shares 1.51c 0.07c 1.61c (0.03)c 64.97d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.63 (0.11) 1.94 (0.42) 194.61 1999 - Class B Shares 2.08 (0.03) 2.39 (0.34) 194.61 1999 - Class C Shares 2.08 (0.04) 2.39 (0.35) 194.61 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.01 0.84 1.32 0.53 194.61 1999 - Service Shares 1.50 0.02 1.81 (0.29) 194.61 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.50c (0.27)c 4.87c (3.90)c 25.16d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.00c (0.72)c 5.12c (3.84)c 25.16d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.00c (0.73)c 5.12c (3.85)c 25.16d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.00c 0.59 c 4.12c (2.53)c 25.16d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.50c 0.26 c 4.62c (2.86)c 25.16d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
72 [This page intentionally left blank] 73 INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $21.92 $ 0.04 $ 1.16 1999 - Class B Shares 21.63 (0.02) 1.12 1999 - Class C Shares 21.45 (0.03) 1.12 1999 - Institutional Shares 22.20 0.12e 1.17e 1999 - Service Shares 21.93 0.06 1.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 19.85 (0.06) 3.24 1999 - Class B Shares 19.70 (0.17) 3.21 1999 - Class C Shares 19.56 (0.15) 3.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 19.97 0.03 3.31 1999 - Service Shares 19.84 (0.04) 3.24 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 19.32 0.03 2.04 1998 - Class B Shares 19.24 (0.08) 2.02 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 22.60 (0.04) (1.38) 1998 - Institutional Shares 19.40 0.10 2.11 1998 - Service Shares 19.34 0.02 2.06 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 17.20 0.10 2.23 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 18.91 (0.06) 0.60 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 7, 1996) 17.45 0.04 2.15 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 17.70 (0.02) 1.87 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 14.52 0.13 4.00 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
74 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gain value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 1.20 $23.12 5.47%d $943,473 1.79%c -- -- -- 1.10 22.73 5.09d 68,691 2.29c -- -- -- 1.09 22.54 5.08d 11,241 2.29c -- -- -- 1.29 23.49 5.81d 180,564 1.14c -- -- -- 1.21 23.14 5.52d 3,852 1.64c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (1.11) 2.07 21.92 16.39 947,973 1.73 -- -- (1.11) 1.93 21.63 15.80 69,231 2.24 -- -- (1.11) 1.89 21.45 15.70 11,619 2.24 -- -- (1.11) 2.23 22.20 17.09 111,315 1.13 -- -- (1.11) 2.09 21.93 16.49 3,568 1.63 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.30) (1.24) 0.53 19.85 11.12 697,590 1.67 -- (0.25) (1.23) 0.46 19.70 10.51 55,324 2.20 -- (0.38) (1.24) (3.04) 19.56 (5.92)d 3,369 2.27c (0.07) (0.33) (1.24) 0.57 19.97 11.82 56,263 1.08 -- (0.35) (1.23) 0.50 19.84 11.25 3,035 1.55 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (0.21) 2.12 19.32 13.48 536,283 1.69 -- -- (0.21) 0.33 19.24 2.83d 19,198 2.23c (0.03) -- (0.21) 1.95 19.40 12.53d 68,374 1.10c -- -- (0.21) 1.64 19.34 10.42d 674 1.60c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.58) -- (0.87) 2.68 17.20 28.68 330,860 1.52 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
75 INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary expense limitations -------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average to average net turnover assets net assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.31%c 1.84%c 0.26%c 61.10%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.19)c 2.34c (0.24)c 61.10d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.26)c 2.34c (0.31)c 61.10d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.89c 1.19c 0.84c 61.10d 1999 - Service Shares 0.47c 1.69c 0.42c 61.10d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.28) 1.82 (0.37) 113.79 1999 - Class B Shares (0.79) 2.32 (0.87) 113.79 1999 - Class C Shares (0.98) 2.32 (1.06) 113.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.23 1.21 0.15 113.79 1999 - Service Shares (0.18) 1.71 (0.26) 113.79 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (0.27) 1.80 (0.40) 40.82 1998 - Class B Shares (0.90) 2.30 (1.00) 40.82 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.43)c 2.37c (1.53)c 40.82 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.30 1.18 0.20 40.82 1998 - Service Shares (0.36) 1.65 (0.46) 40.82 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares (0.07) 1.88 (0.26) 38.01 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (0.97)c 2.38c (1.12)c 38.01 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 7, 1996) 0.43c 1.25c 0.28c 38.01 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) (0.40)c 1.75c (0.55)c 38.01 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 0.26 1.77 0.01 68.48 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
76 [This page intentionally left blank] 77 EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period loss gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $12.20 $0.05 $(0.50) 1999 - Class B Shares 12.19 0.03 (0.51) 1999 - Class C Shares 12.20 0.04 (0.52) 1999 - Institutional Shares 12.23 0.18 (0.59) 1999 - Service Shares 12.20 0.08 (0.52) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.03) 2.23 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 2.21 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.01) 2.21 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.01) 2.24 1999 - Service Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.03) 2.23 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
78 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------ In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $(0.45) $11.75 (3.69)%d $74,862 1.79%c -- -- -- (0.48) 11.71 (3.94)d 879 2.29c -- -- -- (0.48) 11.72 (3.93)d 388 2.29c -- -- -- (0.41) 11.82 (3.35)d 5,965 1.14c -- -- -- (0.44) 11.76 (3.61)d 2 1.64c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 61,151 1.79c -- -- -- 2.19 12.19 21.90d 432 2.29c -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 587 2.29c -- -- -- 2.23 12.23 22.30d 12,740 1.14c -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 2 1.64c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
79 EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.80%c 2.29%c 0.30%c 54.98%d 1999 - Class B Shares 0.43c 2.79c (0.07)c 54.98d 1999 - Class C Shares 0.42c 2.79c (0.08)c 54.98d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.53c 1.64c 1.03c 54.98d 1999 - Service Shares 1.10c 2.14c 0.60c 54.98d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.19)c 2.80c (2.20)c 70.77d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.78)c 3.30c (2.79)c 70.77d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.83)c 3.30c (2.84)c 70.77d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced Octo- ber 1, 1998) (0.33)c 2.15c (1.34)c 70.77d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (0.69)c 2.65c (1.70)c 70.77d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
80 [This page intentionally left blank] 81 JAPANESE EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period loss gains - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $11.06 $(0.06) $5.24 1999 - Class B Shares 11.03 (0.09) 5.20 1999 - Class C Shares 11.04 (0.08) 5.20 1999 - Institutional Shares 11.10 (0.03) 5.29 1999 - Service Shares 11.04 (0.06) 5.24 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.06) 1.12 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.08) 1.11 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.09) 1.13 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 1.13 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.05) 1.09 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
82 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- In excess Net assets Ratio of From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $5.18 $16.24 46.84%d $34,279 1.70%c -- -- -- 5.11 16.14 46.33d 4,219 2.20c -- -- -- 5.12 16.16 46.41d 3,584 2.20c -- -- -- 5.26 16.36 47.40d 22,709 1.05c -- -- -- 5.18 16.22 46.92d 3 1.55c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 1.06 11.06 10.60d 8,391 1.64c -- -- -- 1.03 11.03 10.30d 1,427 2.15c -- -- -- 1.04 11.04 10.40d 284 2.15c -- (0.01) -- 1.10 11.10 11.06d 11,418 1.03c -- -- -- 1.04 11.04 10.43d 2 1.53c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
83 JAPANESE EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment loss to expenses to loss to average Portfolio average net average net turnover assets net assets assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (1.17)%c 2.62%c (2.09)%c 44.83%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.57)c 3.12c (2.49)c 44.83d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.81)c 3.12c (2.73)c 44.83d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.37)c 1.97c (1.29)c 44.83d 1999 - Service Shares (0.74)c 2.47c (1.66)c 44.83d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.20)c 4.18c (3.74)c 53.29d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.76)c 4.69c (4.30)c 53.29d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.69)c 4.69c (4.23)c 53.29d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.36)c 3.57c (2.90)c 53.29d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.68)c 4.07c (3.22)c 53.29d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
84 [This page intentionally left blank] 85 INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period loss gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.62 $(0.03) $2.65 1999 - Class B Shares 10.61 (0.08)e 2.66e 1999 - Class C Shares 10.61 (0.08)e 2.66e 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.66 -- 2.69 1999 - Service Shares 10.61 (0.02) 2.65 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.04) 0.66 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.10) 0.71 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.06) 0.67 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.67 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 0.63 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
86 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- Ratio of In excess Net assets net From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income loss realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $2.62 $13.24 24.67%d $69,458 2.05%c -- -- -- 2.58 13.19 24.32d 303 2.55c -- -- -- 2.58 13.19 24.32d 419 2.55c -- -- -- 2.69 13.35 25.24d 65,772 1.40c -- -- -- 2.63 13.24 24.79d 2 1.90c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 0.62 10.62 6.20d 33,002 2.02c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 213 2.51c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 175 2.51c -- (0.01) -- 0.66 10.66 6.67d 36,992 1.40c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 2 1.90c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87 INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net net investment Ratio of investment loss to expenses loss to Portfolio average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.68)%c 2.42%c (1.05)%c 58.81%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.16)c 2.92c (1.53)c 58.81d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.21)c 2.92c (1.58)c 58.81d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.05)c 1.77c (0.42)c 58.81d 1999 - Service Shares (0.35)c 2.27c (0.72)c 58.81d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.03)c 3.60c (2.61)c 96.11d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.30)c 4.09c (2.88)c 96.11d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.45)c 4.09c (3.03)c 96.11d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.19)c 2.98c (1.77)c 96.11d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.26)c 3.48c (1.84)c 96.11d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
88 [This page intentionally left blank] 89 EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 7.04 $(0.01) $ 2.23 1999 - Class B Shares 7.03 (0.03) 2.21 1999 - Class C Shares 7.05 (0.03) 2.22 1999 - Institutional Shares 7.09 0.02 2.26 1999 - Service Shares 6.87 0.01 2.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 9.69 0.04 (2.40) 1999 - Class B Shares 9.69 0.03 (2.41) 1999 - Class C Shares 9.70 0.01 (2.39) 1999 - Institutional Shares 9.70 0.06 (2.36) 1999 - Service Shares 9.69 (0.13) (2.41) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.30) 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 (0.31) 1998 - Service Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 2.22 $9.26 31.53%d $ 65,698 2.04%c -- -- -- 2.18 9.21 31.01d 972 2.54c -- -- -- 2.19 9.24 31.06d 1,095 2.54c -- -- -- 2.28 9.37 32.16d 108,574 1.39c -- -- -- 2.18 9.05 31.73d 2 1.89c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.07) (0.22) -- (2.65) 7.04 (24.32) 52,704 2.09 (0.07) (0.21) -- (2.66) 7.03 (24.51) 459 2.59 (0.07) (0.20) -- (2.65) 7.05 (24.43) 273 2.59 (0.08) (0.23) -- (2.61) 7.09 (23.66) 90,189 1.35 (0.07) (0.21) -- (2.82) 6.87 (26.17) 1 1.85 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 17,681 1.90c -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 64 2.41c -- -- -- (0.30) 9.70 (3.00)d 73 2.48c -- -- -- (0.30) 9.70 (3.00)d 19,120 1.30c -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 2 2.72c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
91 EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio Ratio of net of net investment investment Ratio of income income (loss) expenses to (loss) to Portfolio to average average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.15)%c 2.41%c (0.52)%c 63.24%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.71)c 2.91c (1.08)c 63.24d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.85)c 2.91c (1.22)c 63.24d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.50c 1.76c 0.13c 63.24d 1999 - Service Shares 0.12c 2.26c (0.25)c 63.24d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.80 2.53 0.36 153.67 1999 - Class B Shares 0.19 3.03 (0.25) 153.67 1999 - Class C Shares 0.28 3.03 (0.16) 153.67 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.59 1.79 1.15 153.67 1999 - Service Shares (1.84) 2.29 (2.28) 153.67 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 0.55c 5.88c (3.43)c 3.35d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 0.05c 6.39c (3.93)c 3.35d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) (0.27)c 6.46c (4.25)c 3.35d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced Decem- ber 15, 1997) 0.80c 5.28c (3.18)c 3.35d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) (0.05)c 6.70c (4.03)c 3.35d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
92 [This page intentionally left blank] 93 ASIA GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 7.79 $(0.02) $3.30 1999 - Class B Shares 7.68 (0.04) 3.24 1999 - Class C Shares 7.68 (0.04) 3.21 1999 - Institutional Shares 7.91 0.01 3.36 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 8.38 0.07 (0.66) 1999 - Class B Shares 8.31 0.01 (0.64) 1999 - Class C Shares 8.29 -- (0.61) 1999 - Institutional Shares 8.44 0.03 (0.56) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 16.31 -- (7.90) 1998 - Class B Shares 16.24 0.01 (7.91) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 15.73 0.01 (7.42) 1998 - Institutional Shares 16.33 0.10 (7.96) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 16.49 0.06 (0.11) 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 17.31 (0.05) (0.48) 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 2, 1996) 16.61 0.04 (0.11) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 13.31 0.17 3.44 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1995 - Class A Shares (commenced July 8, 1994) 14.18 0.11 (0.89) - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
94 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------- Net In excess increase Net assets From net of net From net (decrease) Net asset at end investment investment realized in net value, end Total of period income income gains asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 3.28 $11.07 42.11%d $ 84,269 -- -- -- 3.20 10.88 41.67d 7,258 -- -- -- 3.17 10.85 41.28d 2,281 -- (0.04) -- 3.33 11.24 42.61d 12,363 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- -- (0.59) 7.79 (7.04) 59,940 -- -- -- (0.63) 7.68 (7.58) 4,190 -- -- -- (0.61) 7.68 (7.36) 999 -- -- -- (0.53) 7.91 (6.28) 4,200 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.03) -- (7.93) 8.38 (48.49) 87,437 -- (0.03) -- (7.93) 8.31 (48.70) 3,359 -- (0.03) -- (7.44) 8.29 (47.17)d 436 (0.03) -- -- (7.89) 8.44 (48.19) 874 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) -- (0.01) (0.18) 16.31 (1.01) 263,014 (0.51) (0.03) -- (1.07) 16.24 (6.02)d 3,354 (0.11) (0.06) (0.04) (0.28) 16.33 (1.09)d 13,322 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) (0.14) (0.17) 3.18 16.49 26.49 205,539 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 0.01 -- (0.10) (0.87) 13.31 (5.46)d 124,298 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
95 ASIA GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of net investment net investment Ratio of income expenses income (loss) expenses (loss) to Portfolio to average to average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets net assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.85%c (0.38)%c 2.27%c (0.80)%c 96.58%d 1999 - Class B Shares 2.35c (0.90)c 2.77c (1.32)c 96.58d 1999 - Class C Shares 2.35c (0.89)c 2.77c (1.31)c 96.58d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.20c 0.14c 1.62c (0.28)c 96.58d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.93 0.63 2.48 0.08 106.00 1999 - Class B Shares 2.45 0.10 2.97 (0.42) 106.00 1999 - Class C Shares 2.45 0.10 2.97 (0.42) 106.00 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.16 1.10 1.68 0.58 106.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.75 0.31 1.99 0.07 105.16 1998 - Class B Shares 2.30 (0.29) 2.50 (0.49) 105.16 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.35c (0.26)c 2.55c (0.46)c 105.16 1998 - Institutional Shares 1.11 0.87 1.31 0.67 105.16 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.67 0.20 1.87 -- 48.40 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.21c (0.56)c 2.37c (0.72)c 48.40 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 2, 1996) 1.10c 0.54c 1.26c 0.38c 48.40 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.77 1.05 2.02 0.80 88.80 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1995 - Class A Shares (commenced July 8, 1994) 1.90c 1.83c 2.38c 1.35c 36.08d - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
96 a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares methodology. 97 Index 1 General Investment Management Approach 3 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies 3 Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund 4 Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund 5 Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund 6 Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund 8 Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund 9 Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund 11 Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund 14 Other Investment Practices and Securities 18 Principal Risks of the Funds 21 Fund Performance 26 Fund Fees and Expenses 30 Service Providers 40 Dividends 41 Shareholder Guide 41 How To Buy Shares 45 How To Sell Shares 49 Taxation 51 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques 70 Appendix B Financial Highlights
International Equity Funds Prospectus (Institutional Shares) FOR MORE INFORMATION Annual/Semi-annual Report Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds' annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during the last fiscal year. Statement of Additional Information Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). The Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (is legally considered part of this Prospectus). The Funds' annual and semi-annual reports, and the Additional Statement, are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550. To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries: By telephone - Call 1-800-621-2550 By mail - Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower-60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372 By e-mail - gs-funds@gs.com On the Internet - Text-only versions of the Funds' documents are located online and may be downloaded from: SEC EDGAR database - http://www.sec.gov You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents, after paying a duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102 or by electronic request to: publicinfo@sec.gov. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (202) 942-8090. [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] The Funds' investment company registration number is 811-5349. CORESM is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. EQINTLPROINS Prospectus Service Shares November 30, 1999 GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS .Goldman Sachs CORE/SM/ International Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund [ART] .Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund .Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund .Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. AN INVESTMENT IN A FUND INVOLVES INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL. NOT FDIC-INSURED May Lose Value No Bank Guarantee General Investment Management Approach Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a unit of the Investment Management Division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as investment adviser to the CORE International Equity Fund. Goldman Sachs Asset Management Interna- tional serves as investment adviser to International Equity, European Equi- ty, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Goldman Sachs Asset Management International are each referred to in this Prospectus as the "In- vestment Adviser." ACTIVE INTERNATIONAL STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' Active International Investment Philosophy:
How the Investment Adviser Acts on Belief Belief - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- .Equity markets are inefficient Seeks excess return through team driven, research intensive and bottom-up stock selection. .Returns are variable Seeks to capitalize on variability of market and regional returns through asset allocation decisions. .Corporate fundamentals ultimately Seeks to conduct rigorous, first- drive share price hand research of business and company management. .A business' intrinsic value will be Seeks to realize value through a achieved over time long-term investment horizon. .Portfolio risk must be carefully Seeks to systematically monitor and analyzed and monitored manage risk through diversification, multifactor risk models and currency management.
The Investment Adviser attempts to manage risk in these Funds through disci- plined portfolio construction and continual portfolio review and analysis. As a result, bottom-up stock selection, driven by fundamental research, should be a main driver of returns. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 QUANTITATIVE ("CORE") STYLE FUNDS Goldman Sachs' CORE Investment Philosophy: Goldman Sachs' quantitative style of funds--CORE--emphasizes the two build- ing blocks of active management: stock selection and portfolio construction. I. CORE STOCK SELECTION The CORE Fund uses the Goldman Sachs proprietary multifactor model ("Multifactor Model"), a rigorous computerized rating system, to forecast the returns of securities held in the Fund's portfolio. The Multifactor Model incorporates common variables covering measures of: .Value (price-to-book, price-to-earnings, cash flow to enterprise value) .Momentum (earnings momentum, price momentum, sustainable growth) .Risk (market risk, company-specific risk, earnings risk) All of the above factors are carefully evaluated within the Multifactor Model since each has demonstrated a significant impact on the performance of the securities and markets they were designed to forecast. II. CORE PORTFOLIO CONSTRUCTION A proprietary computer optimizer calculates every security combination (at every possible weighting) to construct the most efficient risk/return port- folio given the CORE Fund benchmark. In this process, the Investment Adviser manages risk by limiting deviations from the benchmark. In addition, the CORE International Equity Fund utilizes proprietary quantitative models to allocate assets across countries. Goldman Sachs CORE Funds are fully invested, broadly diversified and offer consistent overall portfolio characteristics. They may serve as good founda- tions on which to build a portfolio. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term growth of capital Benchmarks: MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East ("EAFE") Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Large-capitalization equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securi- ties are primarily traded outside the United States Investment Style: Quantitative INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital. The Fund seeks this objective through a broadly diversified portfolio of equity securities of large-cap companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 90% of its total assets in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time, provided the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund may invest in the securities of issuers in countries with emerging markets or economies ("emerging countries"). The Fund seeks broad representation of large-cap issuers across major coun- tries and sectors of the international economy. The Fund's investments are selected using both a variety of quantitative techniques and fundamental research in seeking to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintain- ing risk, style, capitalization and industry characteristics similar to the EAFE Index. In addition, the Fund seeks a portfolio composed of companies with attractive valuations and stronger momentum characteristics than the EAFE Index. Other. The Fund's investments in fixed-income securities are limited to securities that are considered to be cash equivalents. 3 Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI EAFE Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of companies organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. The Fund intends to invest in companies with public stock market capitalizations that are larger than $1 billion at the time of investment. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund expects to invest a substantial portion of its assets in the secu- rities of issuers located in the developed countries of Western Europe and in Japan. However, the Fund may also invest in the securities of issuers located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and in emerging countries. Cur- rently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, Afri- can, Asian and Eastern European nations. Other. The Fund may also invest up to 35% of its total assets in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 4 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI Europe Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of European companies Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of European companies. Because of its focus, the Fund will be more susceptible to European economic, market, political and local risks than a fund that is more geographically diversified. A European issuer is a company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in a European country; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, a European country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more of the European countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more of the European coun- tries. The Fund may allocate its assets among different countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time, provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three European countries. It is currently antici- pated that a majority of the Fund's assets will be invested in the equity securities of large cap companies located in the developed countries of Western Europe. However, the Fund may also invest, without limit, in mid cap companies and small cap companies, as well as companies located in emerging countries. Currently, emerging countries include among others, most Latin American, African, Asian, most Eastern European nations, including the states that formerly comprised the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of non-European countries and in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 5 Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: Tokyo Price Index ("TOPIX") (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of Japanese companies Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of Japanese companies. A Japanese issuer is a company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in Japan; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in Japan; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in Japan; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in Japan. The Fund's concentration in Japanese companies will expose it to the risk of adverse social, political and economic events which occur in Japan or affect the Japanese markets. Japan's economy, the second largest in the world, has grown substantially over the last three decades. Japan's economic growth in the 1990's has been substantially below the level of earlier decades. Its economy has drifted between modest growth and recession. In calendar year 1998, Japan's gross national product contracted by 2.8% -- its worst performance in the post-war period. In addition to this economic downturn, Japan is undergoing struc- tural adjustments related to high wages and taxes, currency valuations and structural rigidities. Japan has also been experiencing notable uncertainty and loss of public confidence in connection 6 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES with the reform of its political process and the deregulation of its econo- my. These conditions present risks to the Japanese Equity Fund and its abil- ity to attain its investment objective. Japan's economy is heavily dependent upon international trade, and is espe- cially sensitive to trade barriers and disputes. In particular, Japan relies on large imports of agricultural products, raw materials and fuels. A sub- stantial rise in world oil or commodity prices, or a fall-off in Japan's manufactured exports, could be expected to adversely affect Japan's economy. In addition, Japan is vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes and other natural disasters. Japan's banking industry has recently suffered from non-perform- ing loans, declining real estate values and lower valuations of securities holdings. The Japanese securities markets are less regulated than the U.S. markets. Evidence has emerged from time to time of distortion of market prices to serve political or other purposes. Shareholders' rights are also not always equally enforced. For most of this decade, Japanese securities markets have experienced sig- nificant declines. Although the stock market exhibited some strength recent- ly, it is not possible to determine whether this will continue. The common stocks of many Japanese companies trade at high price-earnings ratios. Differences in accounting methods make it difficult to compare the earnings of Japanese companies with those of companies in other countries, especially the United States. In general, however, reported net income in Japan is understated relative to U.S. accounting standards and this is one reason price-earnings ratios of the stocks of Japanese companies have tended historically to be higher than those of U.S. stocks. In addition, Japanese companies have tended to have higher growth rates than U.S. companies, and Japanese interest rates have generally been lower than U.S. interest rates. These factors have contributed to lower discount rates and higher price- earnings ratios in Japan than in the United States. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of non-Japanese companies and in fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 7 Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of foreign companies with public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies: .With public stock market capitalizations of $1 billion or less at the time of investment; and .That are organized outside the United States or whose securities are prin- cipally traded outside the United States. The Fund may allocate its assets among countries as determined by the Investment Adviser from time to time provided that the Fund's assets are invested in at least three foreign countries. The Fund expects to invest a substantial portion of its assets in small cap securities of companies in the developed countries of Western Europe, Japan and Asia. However, the Fund may also invest in the securities of issuers located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and in emerging countries. Currently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, African, Asian and Eastern Euro- pean nations. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of larger-cap companies with public stock market capital- izations of more than $1 billion at the time of investment and in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. If the market capitalization of a company held by the Fund increases above $1 billion, the Fund may, consistent with its investment objective, continue to hold the security. 8 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index Investment Focus: Equity securities of emerging country issuers Investment Style: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of emerging country issuers. The Investment Adviser may consider classifica- tions by the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation or the United Nations and its agencies in determining whether a country is emerging or developed. Currently, emerging countries include, among others, most Latin American, African, Asian and Eastern European nations. The Investment Adviser currently intends that the Fund's investment focus will be in the following emerging countries as well as any other emerging country to the extent that foreign investors are permitted by applicable law to make such investments: .Argentina .Egypt .Jordan .Philippines .Sri Lanka .Botswana .Greece .Kenya .Poland .Taiwan .Brazil .Hong Kong .Malaysia .Portugal .Thailand .Chile .Hungary .Mexico .Russia .Turkey .China .India .Morocco .Singapore .Venezuela .Colombia .Indonesia .Pakistan .South Africa .Zimbabwe .Czech Republic .Israel .Peru .South Korea
9 Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund continued An emerging country issuer is any company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities market is in an emerging country; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, an emerging country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more emerging countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more of the emerging coun- tries. Under normal circumstances, the Fund maintains investments in at least six emerging countries, and will not invest more than 35% of its total assets in securities of issuers in any one emerging country. Allocation of the Fund's investments will depend upon the relative attractiveness of the emerging country markets and particular issuers. In addition, macro-economic factors and the portfolio managers' and Goldman Sachs economists' views of the rela- tive attractiveness of emerging countries and currencies are considered in allocating the Fund's assets among emerging countries. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in (i) fixed-income securities of private and government emerging country issuers; and (ii) equity and fixed-income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations, of issuers in developed countries. 10 FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund FUND FACTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Objective: Long-term capital appreciation Benchmark: MSCI All County Asia Free ex-Japan Index (unhedged) Investment Focus: Equity securities of companies in Asian countries Investment Process: Active International INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Equity Securities. The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, substan- tially all, and at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of Asian issuers. An Asian issuer is any company that either: .Has a class of its securities whose principal securities markets is in one or more Asian countries; .Is organized under the laws of, or has a principal office in, an Asian country; .Derives 50% or more of its total revenue from goods produced, sales made or services performed in one or more Asian countries; or .Maintains 50% or more of its assets in one or more Asian countries. The Fund may allocate its assets among the Asian countries as determined from time to time by the Investment Adviser. For purposes of the Fund's investment policies, Asian countries are: .China .Malaysia .South Korea .Hong Kong .Pakistan .Sri Lanka .India .Philippines .Taiwan .Indonesia .Singapore .Thailand as well as any other country in Asia (other than Japan) to the extent that foreign investors are permitted by applicable law to make such investments. 11 Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund continued Allocation of the Fund's investments will depend upon the Investment Advis- er's views of the relative attractiveness of the Asian markets and particu- lar issuers. Concentration of the Fund's assets in one or a few of the Asian countries and Asian currencies will subject the Fund to greater risks than if the Fund's assets were not so concentrated. For example, on August 31, 1999 (the end of the Fund's last fiscal year), more than 25% of the Fund's assets were invested in securities that traded in Hong Kong. Starting in mid-1997 some Pacific region countries began to experience cur- rency devaluations that resulted in high interest rate levels and sharp reductions in economic activity. This situation resulted in a significant drop in the securities prices of companies located in the region. Some coun- tries have experienced government intervention, have sought assistance from the International Monetary Fund and have experienced substantial domestic unrest. Although some countries are taking steps to restructure their finan- cial sectors in a manner that may facilitate a return to long-term economic growth, there can be no assurance that these efforts will be successful or that their current problems will not persist. At the end of its last fiscal year, a substantial portion of the Asia Growth Fund was invested in securi- ties traded in the Hong Kong market. In 1997, the sovereignty of Hong Kong reverted from the United Kingdom to China. Hong Kong's financial prospects depend, in large part, on its ability to retain the legal, financial and monetary systems that allow economic freedom and market expansion. Although Hong Kong is, by law, to maintain a high degree of autonomy, there can also be no assurance that the general economic position of Hong Kong will not be adversely affected as a result of the exercise of Chinese sovereignty over Hong Kong. In particular, business confidence in Hong Kong can be signifi- cantly affected by political developments and statements by public figures in China, which can in turn affect the performance of the securities mar- kets. In addition, the reversion of Hong Kong to China has created uncer- tainty as to future currency valuations relative to the U.S. dollar. Any future valuation changes could be adverse from the perspective of U.S. investors. Other. The Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in equity securities of issuers in non-Asian countries and Japan, and in fixed- income securities, such as government, corporate and bank debt obligations. 12 [This page intentionally left blank] 13 Other Investment Practices and Securities The table below identifies some of the investment techniques that may (but are not required to) be used by the Funds in seeking to achieve their investment objectives. The table also highlights the differences among the Funds in their use of these techniques and other investment practices and investment securi- ties. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only; for actual usage, con- sult the Fund's annual/semi-annual reports. For more information see Appendix A.
10 Percent of total assets (italic type) 10 Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited CORE only by the objectives International International European and strategies of the Fund Equity Equity Equity - --Not permitted Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Practices Borrowings 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Cross Hedging of Currencies . . . Currency Swaps* 15 15 15 Custodial Receipts . . . Equity Swaps* 15 15 15 Foreign Currency Transactions . . . Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts . . . Investment Company Securities (including World Equity Benchmark Shares and Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts) 10 10 10 Options on Foreign Currencies/1/ . . . Options on Securities and Securities Indices/2/ . . . Unseasoned Companies . . . Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights . . . Repurchase Agreements . . . Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short Sales Against the Box -- 25 25 When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 1 The Funds may purchase and sell call and put options. 2 The Funds may sell covered call and put options and purchase call and put options. 14 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
Japanese International Emerging Asia Equity Small Cap Markets Growth Fund Fund Equity Fund Fund - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 . . . . 15 15 15 15 . . . . 15 15 15 15 . . . . . . . . 10 10 10 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 33 1/3 25 25 25 25 . . . . - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15
10 Percent of total assets (italic type) 10 Percent of net assets (roman type) . No specific percentage limitation on usage; limited only by the CORE objectives and strategies International International European of the Fund Equity Equity Equity - -- Not permitted Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Investment Securities American, European and Global Depository Receipts . . . Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities/2/ -- . . Bank Obligations/1/,/2/ . . . Convertible Securities . . . Corporate Debt Obligations/2/ ./4/ . . Equity Securities 90+ 65+ 65+ Emerging Country Securities 25 . . Fixed Income Securities/3/ 10/4/ 35 35/5/ Foreign Securities . . . Foreign Government Securities/2/ . . . Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities/2/ -- ./6/ ./6/ Real Estate Investment Trusts . . . Structured Securities* . . . Temporary Investments 35 100 100 U.S. Government Securities/2/ . . . - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Limited to 15% of net assets (together with other illiquid securities) for all structured securities which are not deemed to be liquid and all swap transactions. 1 Issued by U.S. or foreign banks. 2 Limited by the amount the Fund invests in fixed-income securities. 3 Except as noted under "Non-Investment Grade Fixed Income Securities," fixed-income securities are investment grade (e.g., BBB or higher by Stan- dard & Poor's Rating Group ("Standard & Poor's") or Baa or higher by Moody's Investor's Service, Inc. ("Moody's")). 4 Cash equivalents only. 5 The European Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) equity securities of non-European countries; and (2) fixed- income securities. 6 May be BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's. 16 OTHER INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND SECURITIES
Japanese International Emerging Equity Small Cap Markets Asia Growth Fund Fund Equity Fund Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65+ 65+ 65+ 65+ . . . . 35/7/ 35/8/ 35/9/ 35/10/ . . . . . . . . ./6/ ./6/ ./6/ ./6/ . . . . . . . . 100 100 35 100 . . . . - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 The Japanese Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of non- Japanese companies. 8 The International Small Cap Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of larger cap companies with public stock market capitalizations of more than $1 billion at the time of investment. 9 The Emerging Markets Equity Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities of private and government emerging country issuers; and (2) equity and fixed-income securities of issuers in developed countries. 10 The Asia Growth Fund may invest in the aggregate up to 35% of its total assets in: (1) fixed-income securities; and (2) equity securities of issuers in non-Asian countries and Japan. 17 Principal Risks of the Funds Loss of money is a risk of investing in each Fund. An investment in a Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency. The following summarizes important risks that apply to the Funds and may result in a loss of your investment. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program. There can be no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective.
CORE International Emerging .Applicable International International European Japanese Small Cap Markets Asia - --Not applicable Equity Equity Equity Equity Equity Equity Growth - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Credit/Default . . . . . . . Emerging Countries . . . . . . . Interest Rate . . . . . . . Small Cap -- -- . -- . -- -- Foreign . . . . . . . Derivatives . . . . . . . Management . . . . . . . Market . . . . . . . Liquidity . . . . . . . Stock . . . . . . . Geographic . . . . . . . Other . . . . . . . - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All Funds: .Credit/Default Risk--The risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities held by a Fund (which may have low credit ratings) may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. .Emerging Countries Risk--The securities markets of Asian, Latin American, Eastern European, African and other emerging countries are less liquid, are especially subject to greater price volatility, have smaller market capital- izations, have less government regulation and are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements as the securities markets of more developed countries. Further, investment in equity securities of issuers located in Russia and certain other emerging countries involves risk of loss resulting from problems in share registration and cus- tody and substantial economic and political disrup- 18 PRINCIPAL RISKS OF THE FUNDS tions. These risks are not normally associated with investment in more devel- oped countries. .Interest Rate Risk--The risk that when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities held by a Fund will decline in value. Long-term fixed-income secu- rities will normally have more price volatility because of this risk than short-term securities. .Foreign Risks--The risk that when a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to risk of loss not typically associated with domestic issuers. Loss may result because of less foreign government regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social stability. Loss may also result from the imposition of exchange controls, confiscations and other government restrictions. A Fund will also be subject to the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. Foreign risks will normally be greatest when a Fund invests in issuers located in emerging countries. .Derivatives Risk--The risk that loss may result from a Fund's investments in options, futures, swaps, structured securities and other derivative instru- ments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes may produce disproportionate losses to a Fund. .Management Risk--The risk that a strategy used by the Investment Adviser may fail to produce the intended results. .Market Risk--The risk that the value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. .Liquidity Risk--The risk that a Fund will not be able to pay redemption pro- ceeds within the time period stated in this Prospectus because of unusual mar- ket conditions, an unusually high volume of redemption requests, or other rea- sons. Funds that invest in small capitalization stocks and emerging country issuers will be especially subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities within these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political events, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. The Goldman Sachs Asset Alloca- tion Portfolios (the "Asset Allocation Portfolios") expect to invest a signif- icant percentage of their assets in the Funds and other funds for which Goldman Sachs now or in the future acts as investment adviser or underwriter. Redemptions by an Asset Allocation Portfolio of its position in a Fund may further increase liquidity risk and may impact a Fund's net asset value ("NAV"). .Stock Risk--The risk that stock prices have historically risen and fallen in periodic cycles. As of the date of this Prospectus, U.S. stock markets and certain foreign stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels. There is no guarantee that such levels will continue. 19 .Geographic Risk--The European Equity Fund invests primarily in equity securi- ties of European companies. The Japanese Equity Fund invests primarily in equity securities of Japanese equity companies. The Asia Growth Fund invests primarily in equity securities of Asian issuers. Concentration of the invest- ments of these or other Funds in issuers located in a particular country or region will subject the Fund, to a greater extent than if investments were less concentrated, to the risks of adverse securities markets, exchange rates and social, political, regulatory or economic events which may occur in that country or region. .Other Risks--Each Fund is subject to other risks, such as the risk that its operations, or the value of its portfolio securities, will be disrupted by the "Year 2000 Problem." Specific Funds: .Small Cap Stock Risk--The securities of small capitalization stocks involve greater risks than those associated with larger, more established companies and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements. Securities of such issuers may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable a Fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. More information about the Funds' portfolio securities and investment tech- niques, and their associated risks, is provided in Appendix A. You should con- sider the investment risks discussed in this section and in Appendix A. Both are important to your investment choice. 20 Fund Performance HOW THE FUNDS HAVE PERFORMED The bar chart and table below provide an indication of the risks of invest- ing in a Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of a Fund's Service Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of a Fund's Service Shares compare to those of broad-based securities market indices. The bar chart and table assume reinvestment of dividends and distributions. A Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future. Performance reflects expense limitations in effect. If expense limitations were not in place, a Fund's performance would have been reduced. The European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds did not commence operations until October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998. Since these Funds have less than one calendar year's performance, no performance information is provided in this section. As of the date of this Prospectus, Service Shares of the Asia Growth Fund had not commenced operations. Performance of the Asia Growth Fund is represented by the Fund's Class A Shares. Class A Shares are not offered in this Prospectus but have substantially similar annual returns because the shares are invested in the same investment portfolio of securities. Annual returns dif- fer only to the extent that Class A Shares have a 0.50% distribution and service fee and a 0.19% transfer agency fee while Service Shares have a 0.50% service fee and a 0.04% transfer agency fee. In addition, Class A Shares, unlike Service Shares, are subject to a maximum sales charge of 5.5%. 21 CORE International Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 9.40%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +18.97% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -15.97% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 14.09% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Service Shares (Inception 8/15/97) 14.09% 0.12% Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe, Australasia, Far East (EAFE) Index* 20.33% 8.44% -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI EAFE Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of securities in 20 developed markets. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 22 FUND PERFORMANCE International Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 7.70%. Best Quarter Q1 '98 +16.94% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -14.37% [BAR GRAPH] 1997 4.59% 1998 18.09% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Service Shares (Inception 3/6/96) 18.09% 12.87% MSCI EAFE (unhedged)* 20.33% 9.57% FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index (unhedged)** 19.31% 8.21% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The MSCI EAFE Index, an unmanaged index of common stock prices, is replac- ing the FT/S&P Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index ("EuroPac") as the Interna- tional Equity Fund's performance benchmark. The MSCI EAFE Index is widely used throughout the investment management industry to represent the invest- ment opportunities available to a large-cap, developed country interna- tional equity strategy and, in the Investment Adviser's opinion, is a more appropriate benchmark against which to measure the performance of the International Equity Fund. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. ** The unmanaged EuroPac Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of approximately 1,500 stocks from 20 countries in Europe and the Asia- Pacific region. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 23 Emerging Markets Equity Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Service Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 25.29%. Best Quarter Q4 '98 +14.08% Worst Quarter Q3 '98 -23.84% [BAR GRAPH] 1998 -28.81% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception ------------------------------------------------------------------ Service Shares (Inception 12/15/97) (28.81)% (26.07)% MSCI Emerging Markets Free (EMF) Index* (25.33)% (19.87)% ------------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI EMF Index is a market capitalization-weighted composite of securities in over 30 emerging market countries. "Free" indicates an index that excludes shares in otherwise free markets that are not purchas- able by foreigners. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 24 FUND PERFORMANCE Asia Growth Fund TOTAL RETURN CALENDAR YEAR (CLASS A) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The total return for Class A Shares for the 9-month period ended September 30, 1999 was 27.99%. Best Quarter Q4 '98+21.59% Worst Quarter Q4 "97-27.33% [BAR GRAPH] 1995 6.55% 1996 7.95% 1997 -41.07% 1998 -15.26% AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
For the period ended December 31, 1998 1 Year Since Inception --------------------------------------------------------------- Class A (Inception 7/8/94) Including 5.5% Sales Charge (19.94)% (12.21)% MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan* (10.27)% (11.22)% ---------------------------------------------------------------
* The unmanaged MSCI All Country Asia Free ex-Japan Index is a market capi- talization-weighted composite of securities in ten Asian countries. "Free" indicates an index that excludes shares in otherwise free markets that are not purchasable by foreigners. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. 25 Fund Fees and Expenses (Service Shares) This table describes the fees and expenses that you would pay if you buy and hold Service Shares of a Fund.
CORE International European International Equity Equity Equity Fund Fund Fund - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment): Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases None None None Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None None None Redemption Fees None None None Exchange Fees None None None Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):2 Management Fees 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% Service Fees3 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% Other Expenses4 0.26% 0.19% 0.64% - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses* 1.61% 1.69% 2.14% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 28 for all other footnotes. * As a result of the current expense limitations, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" of the Funds which are actually incurred are as set forth below. The expense limitations may be termi- nated at any time at the option of the Investment Adviser. If this occurs, "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund Operating Expenses" may increase without share- holder approval.
CORE International European International Equity Equity Equity Fund Fund Fund ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that are deducted from Fund assets):2 Management Fees 0.85% 1.00% 1.00% Service Fees3 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% Other Expenses4 0.16% 0.14% 0.14% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Fund Operating Expenses (after current expense limitations) 1.51% 1.64% 1.64% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
26 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
Japanese Emerging Asia Equity International Small Markets Growth Fund Cap Fund Equity Fund Fund/1/ - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None None 1.00% 1.20% 1.20% 1.00% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.97% 0.57% 0.56% 0.62% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2.47% 2.27% 2.26% 2.12% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Japanese Emerging Asia Equity International Small Markets Growth Fund Cap Fund Equity Fund Fund/1/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.00% 1.20% 1.20% 1.00% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.05% 0.20% 0.19% 0.20% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.55% 1.90% 1.89% 1.70% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27 Fund Fees and Expenses continued /1/Service Shares had not commenced operations as of the date of this Prospectus. /2/The Funds' operating expenses for the current fiscal year have been annualized for the seven-month period (February 1, 1999 through August 31, 1999). /3/Service Organizations may charge other fees to their customers who are bene- ficial owners of Service Shares in connection with their customers' accounts. Such fees may affect the return customers realize with respect to their invest- ments. /4/"Other Expenses" include transfer agency fees equal to 0.04% of the average daily net assets of each Fund's Service Shares, plus all other ordinary expenses not detailed above. The Investment Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce or limit "Other Expenses" (excluding management fees, transfer agency fees, service fees, taxes, interest and brokerage fees and litigation, indemni- fication and other extraordinary expenses) to the following percentages of each Fund's average daily net assets:
Other Fund Expenses - -------------------------- CORE International Equity 0.12% International Equity 0.10% European Equity 0.10% Japanese Equity 0.01% International Small Cap 0.16% Emerging Markets Equity 0.15% Asia Growth 0.16%
28 FUND FEES AND EXPENSES Example The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in a Fund (without the expense limitations) with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in Service Shares of a Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your Service Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your invest- ment has a 5% return each year and that a Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assump- tions your costs would be:
Fund 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years - ---------------------------------------------------------- CORE International Equity $164 $508 $ 876 $1,911 - ---------------------------------------------------------- International Equity $172 $533 $ 918 $1,998 - ---------------------------------------------------------- European Equity $217 $670 $1,149 $2,472 - ---------------------------------------------------------- Japanese Equity $250 $770 $1,316 $2,806 - ---------------------------------------------------------- International Small Cap $230 $709 $1,215 $2,605 - ---------------------------------------------------------- Emerging Markets Equity $229 $706 $1,210 $2,595 - ---------------------------------------------------------- Asia Growth $215 $664 $1,139 $2,452 - ----------------------------------------------------------
Service Organizations that invest in Service Shares on behalf of their custom- ers may charge other fees directly to their customer accounts in connection with their investments. You should contact your Service Organization for infor- mation regarding such charges. Such fees, if any, may affect the return such customers realize with respect to their investments. Certain Service Organizations that invest in Service Shares may receive other compensation in connection with the sale and distribution of Service Shares or for services to their customers' accounts and/or the Funds. For additional information regarding such compensation, see "Shareholder Guide" in the Pro- spectus and "Other Information" in the Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). 29 Service Providers INVESTMENT ADVISERS
Investment Adviser Fund ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM") CORE International Equity 32 Old Slip New York, New York 10005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Goldman Sachs Asset Management International ("GSAMI") International Equity 133 Peterborough Court European Equity London, England EC4A 2BB Japanese Equity International Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Asia Growth ------------------------------------------------------------------------
As of September 1, 1999, the Investment Management Division ("IMD") was established as a new operating division of Goldman Sachs. This newly created entity includes GSAM and GSAMI. Goldman Sachs registered as an investment adviser in 1981. GSAMI, a member of the Investment Management Regulatory Organization Limited since 1990 and a registered investment adviser since 1991, is an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P., which controlled the Investment Advisers, merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offering. As of September 30, 1999, GSAM and GSAMI, along with other units of IMD, had assets under management of $203 billion. The Investment Adviser provides day-to-day advice regarding the Funds' port- folio transactions. The Investment Adviser makes the investment decisions for the Funds and places purchase and sale orders for the Funds' portfolio transactions in U.S. and foreign markets. As permitted by applicable law, these orders may be directed to any brokers, including Goldman Sachs and its affiliates. While the Investment Adviser is ultimately responsible for the management of the Funds, it is able to draw upon the research and expertise of its asset management affiliates for portfolio decisions and management with respect to certain portfolio securities. In addition, the Investment Adviser has access to the research and certain proprietary technical models developed by Goldman Sachs, and will apply quantitative and qualitative analysis in determining the appropriate allocations among categories of issuers and types of securities. The Investment Adviser also performs the following additional services for the Funds: .Supervises all non-advisory operations of the Funds .Provides personnel to perform necessary executive, administrative and cler- ical services to the Funds 30 SERVICE PROVIDERS .Arranges for the preparation of all required tax returns, reports to share- holders, prospectuses and statements of additional information and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other regulatory authorities .Maintains the records of each Fund .Provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services MANAGEMENT FEES As compensation for its services and its assumption of certain expenses, the Investment Adviser is entitled to the following fees, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rates (as a percentage of each respective portfolio's average daily net assets) listed below:
Actual Rate For the Fiscal Year Ended Contractual Rate August 31, 1999 ------------------------------------------------------------ GSAM: ------------------------------------------------------------ CORE International Equity 0.85% 0.85% ------------------------------------------------------------ GSAMI: ------------------------------------------------------------ International Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ European Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ Japanese Equity 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------ International Small Cap 1.20% 1.20% ------------------------------------------------------------ Emerging Markets Equity 1.20% 1.20% ------------------------------------------------------------ Asia Growth 1.00% 1.00% ------------------------------------------------------------
The difference, if any, between the stated fees and the actual fees paid by the Funds reflects that the Investment Adviser did not charge the full amount of the fees to which it would have been entitled. The Investment Adviser may discontinue or modify any such voluntary limitations in the future at its discretion. FUND MANAGERS M. Roch Hillenbrand, a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs since 1997, is the Head of Global Equities for GSAM, overseeing the United States, Europe, Japan, and non-Japan Asia. In this capacity, he is responsible for managing the group as it defines and implements global portfolio management processes that are consistent, reliable and predictable. Since 1981 Mr. Hillenbrand has been President of 31 Commodities Corporation LLC, of which Goldman Sachs is the parent company. Over the course of his 19-year career at Commodities Corporation, Mr. Hillenbrand has had extensive experience in dealing with internal and exter- nal investment managers who have managed a range of futures and equities strategies across multiple markets, using a variety of styles. International Equity Portfolio Management Team .Global portfolio teams based in London, Singapore, Tokyo and New York. Local presence is a key to the Investment Adviser's fundamental research capabilities .Team manages over $33.2 billion in international equities for retail, institutional and high net worth clients .Focus on bottom-up stock selection as main driver of returns, though the team leverages the asset allocation, currency and risk management capabili- ties of GSAM - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- London-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- David Dick Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Dick joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director senior portfolio manager on the European Equity team in 1998. From 1990 to 1998, he was with Mercury Asset Management, where he was a portfolio manager for European equity and was head of Mercury's European sector strategy. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ivor H. Farman Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Farman joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1996 senior portfolio manager in 1996. From 1995 to 1996, he was responsible for originating and marketing French equity ideas at Exane in Paris. Prior to 1995, he spent five years engaged in French equity research and marketing at Banque Nationale de Paris and Schroders in London. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32 SERVICE PROVIDERS
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James P. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Hordern joined the Hordern International Small Cap 1998 Investment Adviser as a Executive Fund portfolio manager in Director 1997. From 1991 to 1997, he was an Assistant Director and portfolio manager at Mercury Asset Management on the European Specialist Team. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ralf Laier Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Laier joined the Vice President Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Fund portfolio manager with a focus on Central/Eastern European (CEE) and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in 1997. Prior to joining the Investment Adviser, from 1995 to 1997, he was Vice President of Soros Global Research, where he analyzed investment opportunities in CEE/CIS. From 1994 to 1995, he achieved a Ph.D. from the Academy of Economics in Pozan, Poland. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Susan Noble Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Noble joined the Managing European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1998 senior portfolio manager and head of the European Equity Team in October 1997. From 1986 to 1997, she worked at Fleming Investment Management in London, where she most recently was Portfolio Management Director for the European equity investment strategy and process. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew Orchard Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Andrew joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1999 portfolio manager in 1999. From 1994 to 1999 he was a portfolio manager at Morgan Grenfell Asset Management where he managed global equity portfolios and chaired Morgan Grenfell's Global Sector Committee. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shrimpton joined the Shrimpton Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Fund portfolio manager with a focus on Africa as well as the financial industry in the EMEA region in 1996. Since 1985 he was a UK equity analyst and portfolio manager for CIN Management, where he initiated CIN Management's first investments in Latin America. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Stewart Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Robert joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a Director International Equity Fund 1999 portfolio manager in 1996. He is a member of the European Equity Team. From 1996 to 1998 he was a portfolio manager in Japan where he managed Japanese Equity Institutional Portfolios. Prior to that Robert was a portfolio manager at CINMan from 1989 to 1996 where he managed international equities. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Danny Truell Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Truell joined the Executive European Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director senior portfolio manager and head of UK equities in 1998. From 1992 to 1996, he was Investment Banking Executive Director for SBC Warburg and Chief Asian Equity Strategist. - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gabriella Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Antici joined the Antici Emerging Markets Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President Fund portfolio manager in 1997. From 1994 to 1997, she was a Vice President for HSBC Asset Management, where she was a portfolio manager for emerging markets and head of the Latin American Department. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34 SERVICE PROVIDERS New York-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert A. Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Beckwitt joined the Beckwitt Emerging Markets Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Managing Fund portfolio manager in Director 1996. From 1986 to 1996, Head of he was Chief Investment Emerging Strategist-Portfolio Markets Equity Adviser to high net worth investors at Fidelity Investments. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Melissa Brown Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Brown joined the Vice President CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Fund portfolio manager in 1998. From 1984 to 1998, she was the director of Quantitative Equity Research and served on the Investment Policy Committee at Prudential Securities. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mark M. Carhart Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Carhart joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund member of the Quantitative Research and Risk Management team in 1997. From August 1995 to September 1997, he was Assistant Professor of Finance at the Marshall School of Business at USC and a Senior Fellow of the Wharton Financial Institutions Center. From 1993 to 1995, he was a lecturer and graduate student at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kent A. Clark Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Clark joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund portfolio manager in the quantitative equity management team in 1992. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Raymond J. Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Iwanowski joined the Iwanowski CORE International Equity 1998 Investment Adviser as an Managing Fund associate and portfolio Director manager in 1997. From 1993 to 1997, he was a Vice President and head of the Fixed Derivatives Client Research group at Salomon Brothers. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert C. Jones Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Jones joined the Managing CORE International Equity 1997 Investment Adviser as a Director Fund portfolio manager in 1989. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35 Singapore-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alice Lui Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Lui joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1994 Investment Adviser as a Emerging Markets Equity 1999 portfolio manager in Fund 1990. International Equity Fund 1999 International Small Cap 1999 Fund - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ravi Shanker Senior Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Shanker joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1997 Investment Adviser as an Emerging Markets Equity 1998 operations manager in Fund 1997. From July 1996 to International Equity Fund 1999 1997, he worked for International Small Cap 1999 Goldman Sachs in Fund Singapore as a strategic advisor for transactions involving infrastructure industries in Asia. From 1988 to 1996, he worked for Goldman Sachs as an investment banker in the Investment Banking Division. - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Siew-Hua Thio Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Thio joined the Vice President Asia Growth Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Emerging Markets Equity 1998 portfolio manager in Fund 1998. From 1997 to 1998, International Equity Fund 1998 she was Head of Research International Small Cap 1998 for Indosuez WI Carr in Fund Singapore. From 1993 to 1997, she was a research analyst at the same firm. - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36 SERVICE PROVIDERS Tokyo-Based Portfolio Management Team
Years Primarily Name and Title Fund Responsibility Responsible Five Year Employment History - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Toshiyuki Ejima Portfolio Manager-- Since Toshiyuki joined the Vice President Japanese Equity Fund 1999 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in April 1999. Prior to that he was a portfolio manager at Daiichi Mutual Life from 1993 to 1999 where he managed Japanese equities. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shigeka Kouda Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Kouda joined the Vice President International Small 1998 Investment Adviser as a Cap Fund portfolio manager in 1997. From 1992 to 1997, he was at the Fixed Income Division of Goldman Sachs (Japan) Limited, where he was extensively involved in emerging markets trading as well as International Fixed Income institutional sales. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shogo Maeda Senior Portfolio Since Mr. Maeda joined the Managing Manager-- 1994 Investment Adviser as a Director Japanese Equity Fund 1994 portfolio manager in International Equity 1998 1994. From 1987 to 1994, Fund he worked at Nomura International Small Investment Management Cap Fund Incorporated as a Senior Portfolio Manager. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Miyako Portfolio Manager-- Since Ms. Shibamoto joined the Shibamoto Japanese Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a Vice President member of the Japanese Equity team in March 1998. From 1993 to 1998, she was a Vice President at Scudder Stevens and Clark (Japan). - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Takeya Suzuki Portfolio Manager-- Since Mr. Suzuki joined the Vice President Japanese Equity Fund 1998 Investment Adviser as a portfolio manager in 1996. From 1990 to 1996, he was a Japanese equity portfolio manager at Nomura Investment Management where he actively managed assets for U.S. pension funds. - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37 DISTRIBUTOR AND TRANSFER AGENT Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor (the "Distributor") of each Fund's shares. Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6372, also serves as the Funds' transfer agent (the "Transfer Agent") and, as such, performs various shareholder servicing functions. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may purchase and hold shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares acquired for its own account. ACTIVITIES OF GOLDMAN SACHS AND ITS AFFILIATES AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED BY GOLDMAN SACHS The involvement of the Investment Adviser, Goldman Sachs and their affili- ates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to a Fund or limit a Fund's investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates engage in proprietary trading and advise accounts and funds which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in and compete for transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates will not have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds. The results of a Fund's investment activities, therefore, may differ from those of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and it is possible that a Fund could sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affili- ates and other accounts achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. In addition, the Funds may, from time to time, enter into transactions in which other clients of Goldman Sachs have an adverse interest. A Fund's activities may be limited because of regula- tory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. YEAR 2000 Many computer systems were designed using only two digits to signify the year (for example, "98" for "1998"). On January 1, 2000, if these computer systems are not corrected, they may incorrectly interpret "00" as the year "1900" rather than the year "2000," leading to computer shutdowns or errors (commonly 38 SERVICE PROVIDERS known as the "Year 2000 Problem"). To the extent these systems conduct forward-looking calculations, these computer problems may occur prior to January 1, 2000. Like other investment companies and financial and business organizations, the Funds could be adversely affected in their ability to process securities trades, price securities, provide shareholder account services and otherwise conduct normal business operations if the Investment Adviser or other Fund service providers do not adequately address this prob- lem in a timely manner. In order to address the Year 2000 Problem, the Investment Adviser has taken the following measures: .The Investment Adviser has established a dedicated group which analyzed these issues and implemented system modifications to prepare for the Year 2000 Problem. .The Investment Adviser has either tested with or received assurances from the Fund's other service providers to confirm that they are taking reason- able steps to avoid Year 2000 Problems, and the Investment Adviser contin- ues to monitor the situation. .The Investment Adviser has developed broad and comprehensive contingency plans, as well as event management plans that will help manage the Funds through the date change by allowing the Investment Adviser to closely moni- tor and respond to Year 2000-related events as they unfold around the world. Currently, the Investment Adviser does not anticipate that the transition to the 21st century will have any material impact on its ability to continue to service the Funds at current levels. In addition, the Investment Adviser has undertaken measures to appropriately take into account available information concerning the Year 2000 prepared- ness of the issuers of securities held by the Funds. The Investment Adviser may obtain such Year 2000 information from various sources which the Invest- ment Adviser believes to be reliable, including the issuers' public regula- tory filings. However, the Investment Adviser is not in a position to verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. At this time, however, no assurance can be given that the actions taken by the Investment Adviser and the Funds' other service providers will be suffi- cient to avoid any adverse effect on the Funds due to the Year 2000 Problem. 39 Dividends Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains. You may choose to have dividends and dis- tributions paid in: .Cash .Additional shares of the same class of the same Fund .Shares of the same or an equivalent class of another Goldman Sachs Fund. Special restrictions may apply for certain ILA Portfolios. See the Additional Statement. You may indicate your election on your Account Application. Any changes may be submitted in writing to Goldman Sachs at any time before the record date for a particular dividend or distribution. If you do not indicate any choice, your dividends and distributions will be reinvested automatically in the applicable Fund. The election to reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by you and then used to purchase the shares. The Funds' investments in foreign securities may be subject to foreign with- holding taxes. Under certain circumstances, the Funds may elect to pass- through these taxes to you. If this election is made, a proportionate amount of such taxes will constitute a distribution to you, which would allow you either (1) to credit such proportionate amount of foreign taxes against your U.S. federal income tax liability or (2) to take such amount as an itemized deduction. Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net capital gains are declared and paid annually. From time to time a portion of a Fund's dividends may constitute a return of capital. At the time of an investor's purchase of shares of a Fund, a portion of the NAV per share may be represented by undistributed income or undistributed realized appreciation of the Fund's portfolio securities. Therefore, subse- quent distributions on such shares from such income or realized appreciation may be taxable to you even if the NAV of the shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the cost of such shares and the distributions (or portions thereof) represent a return of a portion of the purchase price. 40 Shareholder Guide The following section will provide you with answers to some of the most often asked questions regarding buying and selling the Funds' Service Shares. HOW TO BUY SHARES How Can I Purchase Service Shares Of The Funds? Generally, Service Shares may be purchased only through institutions that have agreed to provide account administration and personal and account main- tenance services to their customers who are the beneficial owners of Service Shares. These institutions are called "Service Organizations." Customers of a Service Organization will normally give their purchase instructions to the Service Organization, and the Service Organization will, in turn, place pur- chase orders with Goldman Sachs. Service Organizations will set times by which purchase orders and payments must be received by them from their cus- tomers. Generally, Service Shares may be purchased from the Funds on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of an order by Goldman Sachs from a Service Organization. No sales load is charged. Pur- chases of Service Shares must be settled within three business days of receipt of a complete purchase order. Service Organizations are responsible for transmitting purchase orders and payments to Goldman Sachs in a timely fashion. Service Organizations should place an order with Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550 and either: .Wire federal funds to The Northern Trust Company ("Northern"), as subcustodian for State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street") (each Fund's custodian) on the next business day; or .Send a check or Federal Reserve draft payable to Goldman Sachs Funds--(Name of Fund and Class of Shares), 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372. The Fund will not accept a check drawn on a foreign bank or a third-party check. What Do I Need To Know About Service Organizations? Service Organizations may provide the following services in connection with their customers' investments in Service Shares: .Acting, directly or through an agent, as the sole shareholder of record .Maintaining account records for customers 41 .Processing orders to purchase, redeem or exchange shares for customers .Responding to inquiries from prospective and existing shareholders .Assisting customers with investment procedures In addition, some (but not all) Service Organizations are authorized to accept, on behalf of Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust"), purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers, and may des- ignate other intermediaries to accept such orders, if approved by the Trust. In these cases: .A Fund will be deemed to have received an order in proper form when the order is accepted by the authorized Service Organization or intermediary on a business day, and the order will be priced at the Fund's NAV next deter- mined after such acceptance. .Service Organizations or intermediaries will be responsible for transmit- ting accepted orders and payments to the Trust within the time period agreed upon by them. You should contact your Service Organization directly to learn whether it is authorized to accept orders for the Trust. Pursuant to a service plan adopted by the Trust's Board of Trustees, Service Organizations are entitled to receive payment for their services from the Trust of up to 0.50% (on an annualized basis) of the average daily net assets of the Service Shares of the Funds, which are attributable to or held in the name of the Service Organization for its customers. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay addi- tional compensation from time to time, out of their assets and not as an additional charge to the Funds, to selected Service Organizations and other persons in connection with the sale, distribution and/or servicing of shares of the Funds and other Goldman Sachs Funds. Additional compensation based on sales may, but is currently not expected to, exceed 0.50% (annualized) of the amount invested. In addition to Service Shares, each Fund also offers other classes of shares to investors. These other share classes are subject to different fees and expenses (which affect performance), have different minimum investment requirements and are entitled to different services than Service Shares. Information regard- ing these other share classes may be obtained from your sales representative or from Goldman Sachs by calling the number on the back cover of this Pro- spectus. What Is My Minimum Investment In The Funds? The Funds do not have any minimum purchase or account requirements with respect to Service Shares. A Service Organization may, however, impose a mini- 42 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE mum amount for initial and subsequent investments in Service Shares, and may establish other requirements such as a minimum account balance. A Service Organization may redeem Service Shares held by non-complying accounts, and may impose a charge for any special services. What Else Should I Know About Share Purchases? The Trust reserves the right to: .Reject or restrict any purchase or exchange orders by a particular pur- chaser (or group of related purchasers). This may occur, for example, when a pattern of frequent purchases, sales or exchanges of Service Shares of a Fund is evident, or if purchases, sales or exchanges are, or a subsequent abrupt redemption might be, of a size that would disrupt the management of a Fund. The Funds may allow Service Organizations to purchase shares with securities instead of cash if consistent with a Fund's investment policies and opera- tions and if approved by the Fund's Investment Adviser. How Are Shares Priced? The price you pay or receive when you buy, sell or exchange Service Shares is determined by a Fund's NAV. The Funds calculate NAV as follows: (Value of Assets of the Class) NAV = - (Liabilities of the Class) ------------------------------------------------- Number of Outstanding Shares of the Class The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations or, if accurate quotations are not readily available, the fair value of the Fund's invest- ments may be determined in good faith under procedures established by the Trustees. .NAV per share of each class is calculated by State Street on each business day as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (nor- mally 4:00 p.m. New York time). Fund shares will not be priced on any day the New York Stock Exchange is closed. .When you buy shares, you pay the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. .When you sell shares, you receive the NAV next calculated after the Funds receive your order in proper form. Note: The time at which transactions and shares are priced and the time by which orders must be received may be changed in case of an emergency or if regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange is stopped at a time other than 4:00 p.m. New York time. 43 Foreign securities may trade in their local markets on days a Fund is closed. As a result, the NAV of a Fund that holds foreign securities may be impacted on days when investors may not purchase or redeem Fund shares. In addition, the impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discre- tion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund operations and other relevant factors. HOW TO SELL SHARES How Can I Sell Service Shares Of The Funds? Generally, Service Shares may be sold (redeemed) only through Service Orga- nizations. Customers of a Service Organization will normally give their redemption instructions to the Service Organization, and the Service Organi- zation will, in turn, place redemption orders with the Funds. Generally, each Fund will redeem its Service Shares upon request on any business day at their NAV next determined after receipt of such request in proper form. Redemption proceeds may be sent to recordholders by check or by wire (if the wire instructions are on record). A Service Organization may request redemptions in writing or by telephone if the optional telephone redemption privilege is elected on the Account Application. ------------------------------------------------ By Writing: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 ------------------------------------------------ By Telephone: 1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) ------------------------------------------------
What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests? The Trust, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent will not be liable for any loss you may incur in the event that the Trust accepts unauthorized tele- phone redemption requests that the Trust reasonably believes to be genuine. In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption and exchange requests by telephone, Goldman Sachs employs reasonable procedures specified by the Trust to confirm that such instructions are genuine. If reasonable procedures are not employed, the Trust may be liable for any loss due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. The following general policies are currently in effect: 44 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE .All telephone requests are recorded. .Any redemption request that requires money to go to an account or address other than that designated on the Account Application must be in writing and signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. The written request may be confirmed by telephone with both the requesting party and the designated bank account to verify instructions. .The telephone redemption option may be modified or terminated at any time. Note: It may be difficult to make telephone redemptions in times of drastic economic or market conditions. How Are Redemption Proceeds Paid? By Wire: The Funds will arrange for redemption proceeds to be wired as fed- eral funds to the bank account designated in the recordholder's Account Application. The following general policies govern wiring redemption pro- ceeds: .Redemption proceeds will normally be wired on the next business day in fed- eral funds (for a total of one business day delay), but may be paid up to three business days following receipt of a properly executed wire transfer redemption request. If the shares to be sold were recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay the redemption proceeds when the check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. If the Federal Reserve Bank is closed on the day that the redemption proceeds would ordinarily be wired, wiring the redemption proceeds may be delayed one additional business day. .To change the bank designated on your Account Application, you must send written instructions signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application to the Service Organization. .Neither the Trust nor Goldman Sachs assumes any responsibility for the per- formance of intermediaries or your Service Organization in the transfer process. If a problem with such performance arises, you should deal directly with such intermediaries or Service Organization. By Check: A recordholder may elect in writing to receive redemption proceeds by check. Redemption proceeds paid by check will normally be mailed to the address of record within three business days of receipt of a properly exe- cuted redemption request. If the shares to be sold were recently paid for by check, the Fund will pay the redemption proceeds when the check has cleared, which may take up to 15 days. What Else Do I Need To Know About Redemptions? The following generally applies to redemption requests: . Additional documentation may be required when deemed appropriate by the Transfer Agent. A redemption request will not be in proper form until such additional documentation has been received. 45 . Service Organizations are responsible for the timely transmittal of redemption requests by their customers to the Transfer Agent. In order to facilitate the timely transmittal of redemption requests, Service Organi- zations may set times by which they must receive redemption requests. Service Organizations may also require additional documentation from you. The Trust reserves the right to: . Redeem the Service Shares of any Service Organization whose account bal- ance falls below $50 as a result of a redemption. The Funds will not redeem Service Shares on this basis if the value of the account falls below the minimum account balance solely as a result of market conditions. The Fund will give 60 days' prior written notice to allow a Service Organ- ization to purchase sufficient additional shares of the Fund in order to avoid such redemption. . Redeem the shares in other circumstances determined by the Board of Trust- ees to be in the best interest of the Trust. . Pay redemptions by a distribution in-kind of securities (instead of cash). If you receive redemption proceeds in-kind, you should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of those securities. Can I Exchange My Investment From One Fund To Another? A Service Organization may exchange Service Shares of a Fund at NAV for Service Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund. The exchange privilege may be materially modified or withdrawn at any time upon 60 days' written notice.
Instructions For Exchanging Shares: --------------------------------------------------------------- By Writing: .Write a letter of instruction that includes: .The recordholder name(s) and signature(s) .The account number .The Fund names and Class of Shares .The dollar amount to be exchanged .Mail the request to: Goldman Sachs Funds 4900 Sears Tower--60th Floor Chicago, IL 60606-6372 --------------------------------------------------------------- By Telephone: If you have elected the telephone exchange privilege on your Account Application: .1-800-621-2550 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. New York time) ---------------------------------------------------------------
You should keep in mind the following factors when making or considering an exchange: .You should obtain and carefully read the prospectus of the Fund you are acquiring before making an exchange. 46 SHAREHOLDER GUIDE .All exchanges which represent an initial investment in a Fund must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirement of that Fund, except that this requirement may be waived at the discretion of the Trust. .Telephone exchanges normally will be made only to an identically registered account. .Shares may be exchanged among accounts with different names, addresses and social security or other taxpayer identification numbers only if the exchange instructions are in writing and are signed by an authorized person designated on the Account Application. .Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made. .It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic eco- nomic or market conditions. .Goldman Sachs may use reasonable procedures described under "What Do I Need To Know About Telephone Redemption Requests?" in an effort to prevent unau- thorized or fraudulent telephone exchange requests. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange is treated as a redemption of the shares surrendered in the exchange, on which you may be subject to tax, followed by a purchase of shares received in the exchange. You should con- sult your tax adviser concerning the tax consequences of an exchange. What Types Of Reports Will Be Sent Regarding Investments In Service Shares? Service Organizations will receive from the Funds annual reports containing audited financial statements and semi-annual reports. Service Organizations will also be provided with a printed confirmation for each transaction in their account and a monthly account statement. Service Organizations are responsible for providing these or other reports to their customers who are the beneficial owners of Service Shares in accordance with the rules that apply to their accounts with the Service Organizations. 47 Taxation TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS As with any investment, you should consider how your investment in the Funds will be taxed. The tax information below is provided as general information. More tax information is available in the Additional Statement. You should consult your tax adviser about the federal, state, local or foreign tax con- sequences of your investment in the Funds. Unless your investment is an IRA or other tax-advantaged account, you should consider the possible tax consequences of Fund distributions and the sale of your Fund shares. TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS Distributions you receive from the Funds are generally subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes. This is true whether you reinvest your distributions in additional Fund shares or receive them in cash. For federal tax purposes, the Funds' income dividend distribu- tions and short-term capital gain distributions are taxable to you as ordi- nary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are taxable as long- term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned your Fund shares. Although distributions are generally treated as taxable to you in the year they are paid, distributions declared in October, November or December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December. A percentage of the Funds' dividends paid to corporate shareholders may be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction. The Funds will inform sharehold- ers of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year. Each Fund may be subject to foreign withholding or other foreign taxes on income or gain from certain foreign securities. In general, the Funds may deduct these taxes in computing their taxable income. If you buy shares of a Fund before it makes a distribution, the distribution will be taxable to you even though it may actually be a return of a portion of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend." 48 TAXATION TAXES ON SALES Your sale of Fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes, and may also be subject to state and local taxes. For tax purpos- es, the exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Goldman Sachs Fund is the same as a sale. When you sell your shares, you will generally recognize a capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between your adjusted tax basis in the shares and the amount received. Gen- erally, this gain or loss is long-term or short-term depending on whether your holding period exceeds twelve months, except that any loss realized on shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the shares. OTHER INFORMATION When you open your account, you should provide your social security or tax identification number on your Account Application. By law, each Fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and any redemption proceeds if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or certify that it is correct, or if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. 49 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques A. General Portfolio Risks The Funds will be subject to the risks associated with equity securities. "Equity securities" include common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock pur- chase rights. In general, stock values fluctuate in response to the activi- ties of individual companies and in response to general market and economic conditions. Accordingly, the value of the stocks that a Fund holds may decline over short or extended periods. The stock markets tend to be cycli- cal, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when prices generally decline. The volatility of equity securities means that the value of your investment in the Funds may increase or decrease. As of the date of this Prospectus, certain stock markets were trading at or close to record high levels and there can be no guarantee that such levels will continue. To the extent that a Fund invests in fixed-income securities, that Fund will also be subject to the risks associated with its fixed-income securities. These risks include interest rate risk, credit risk and call/extension risk. In general, interest rate risk involves the risk that when interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to increase (al- though many mortgage related securities will have less potential than other debt securities for capital appreciation during periods of declining rates). Conversely, when interest rates increase, the market value of fixed-income securities tends to decline. Credit risk involves the risk that an issuer could default on its obligations, and a Fund will not recover its invest- ment. Call risk and extension risk are normally present in mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. For example, homeowners have the option to prepay their mortgages. Therefore, the duration of a security backed by home mortgages can either shorten (call risk) or lengthen (exten- sion risk). In general, if interest rates on new mortgage loans fall suffi- ciently below the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to increase. Conversely, if mortgage loan interest rates rise above the interest rates on existing outstanding mortgage loans, the rate of prepayment would be expected to decrease. In either case, a change in the prepayment rate can result in losses to invest- ors. The Investment Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a lim- iting factor in making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of port- folio turn- 50 APPENDIX A over (100% or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund and its shareholders. The portfolio turnover rate is calcu- lated by dividing the lesser of the dollar amount of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of a Fund's portfolio securities, excluding securities having a maturity at the date of purchase of one year or less. See "Financial Highlights" in Appendix B for a state- ment of the Funds' historical portfolio turnover rates. The following sections provide further information on certain types of secu- rities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associated risks. Additional information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Among other things, the Addi- tional Statement describes certain fundamental investment restrictions that cannot be changed without shareholder approval. You should note, however, that all investment objectives and policies not specifically designated as fundamental are non-fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval. If there is a change in a Fund's investment objective, you should consider whether that Fund remains an appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and needs. B. Other Portfolio Risks Risks of Investing in Small Capitalization Companies and REITs. Each Fund may invest in small capitalization companies and REITs. Investments in small capitalization companies and REITs involve greater risk and portfolio price volatility than investments in larger capitalization stocks. Among the rea- sons for the greater price volatility of these investments are the less cer- tain growth prospects of smaller firms and the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such securities. Small capitalization companies and REITs may be thinly traded and may have to be sold at a discount from current mar- ket prices or in small lots over an extended period of time. In addition, these securities are subject to the risk that during certain periods the liquidity of particular issuers or industries, or all securities in these investment categories, will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient mar- ket liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Small capitalization companies and REITs include "unseasoned" issuers that do not have an established financial history; often have limited prod- uct lines, markets or financial resources; may depend on or use a few key personnel for management; and may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy. Transaction costs for these investments are often higher than those of larger capitalization companies. Investments 51 in small capitalization companies and REITs may be more difficult to price precisely than other types of securities because of their characteristics and lower trading volumes. Risks of Foreign Investments. Certain Funds may invest in foreign invest- ments. Foreign investments involve special risks that are not typically associated with U.S. dollar denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Foreign investments may be affected by changes in currency rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such invest- ments and changes in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). A decline in the exchange rate of the currency (i.e., weakening of the cur- rency against the U.S. dollar) in which a portfolio security is quoted or denominated relative to the U.S. dollar would reduce the value of the port- folio security. In addition, if the currency in which a Fund receives divi- dends, interest or other payments declines in value against the U.S. dollar before such income is distributed as dividends to shareholders or converted to U.S. dollars, the Fund may have to sell portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to pay such dividends. The introduction of a single currency, the euro, on January 1, 1999 for par- ticipating nations in the European Economic and Monetary Union presents unique uncertainties, including the legal treatment of certain outstanding financial contracts after January 1, 1999 that refer to existing currencies rather than the euro; the establishment and maintenance of exchange rates for currencies being converted into the euro; the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies during the transition period from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2001 and beyond; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union ("EU"), may have an impact on the euro. These or other factors, including political and economic risks, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Funds. Because of the number of countries using this single currency, a significant portion of the assets held by the Funds may be denominated in the euro. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in international securities markets generally are more expensive than in the United States. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, such proce- dures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transac- tions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. There may 52 APPENDIX A be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of foreign markets, companies and securities dealers than in the United States. Foreign securities markets may have substantially less volume than U.S. securities markets and secu- rities of many foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than secu- rities of comparable domestic issuers. Efforts in foreign countries to reme- diate potential Year 2000 problems are not as extensive as those in the United States. As a result, the operations of foreign markets, foreign issuers and foreign governments may be disrupted by the Year 2000 Problem, and the investment portfolio of a Fund may be adversely affected. Further- more, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of with- holding or other taxes on dividend or interest payments (or, in some cases, capital gains), limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the Funds, and political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries. Concentration of a Fund's assets in one or a few countries and currencies will subject a Fund to greater risks than if a Fund's assets were not geo- graphically concentrated. Investment in sovereign debt obligations by certain Funds involves risks not present in debt obligations of corporate issuers. The issuer of the debt or the governmental authorities that control the repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt, and a Fund may have limited recourse to compel payment in the event of a default. Periods of economic uncertainty may result in the volatility of market prices of sovereign debt, and in turn a Fund's NAV, to a greater extent than the volatility inherent in debt obliga- tions of U.S. issuers. A sovereign debtor's willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign currency reserves, the avail- ability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sov- ereign debtor's policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. Investments in foreign securities may take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"). Certain Funds may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers. ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the United States. EDRs and GDRs are receipts 53 evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank. EDRs and GDRs are not neces- sarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. Risks of Emerging Countries. Certain Funds may invest in securities of issuers located in emerging countries. The risks of foreign investment are heightened when the issuer is located in an emerging country. Emerging coun- tries are generally located in the Asia-Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Latin and South America and Africa. A Fund's purchase and sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging countries may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on the aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a Fund, the Investment Adviser, its affiliates and their respective clients and other service providers. A Fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement vol- ume limitations have been reached. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees which may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative costs of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a spe- cific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the issuer available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportuni- ties in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a Fund. The repatriation of both investment income and capital from certain emerging countries is subject to restrictions such as the need for governmental consents. Due to restrictions on direct invest- ment in equity securities in certain Asian countries, it is anticipated that a Fund may invest in such countries through other investment funds in such countries. Many emerging countries have experienced currency devaluations and substan- tial (and, in some cases, extremely high) rates of inflation, which have had a negative effect on the economies and securities markets of such emerging countries. Economies in emerging countries generally are dependent heavily upon commodity prices and international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by the economies of their trading partners, trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. 54 APPENDIX A Many emerging countries are subject to a substantial degree of economic, political and social instability. Governments of some emerging countries are authoritarian in nature or have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while governments in other emerging countries have periodi- cally used force to suppress civil dissent. Disparities of wealth, the pace and success of democratization, and ethnic, religious and racial disaffec- tion, among other factors, have also led to social unrest, violence and/or labor unrest in some emerging countries. Unanticipated political or social developments may result in sudden and significant investment losses. Invest- ing in emerging countries involves greater risk of loss due to expropria- tion, nationalization, confiscation of assets and property or the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on repatriation of capital invested. A Fund's investment in emerging countries may also be subject to withholding or other taxes, which may be significant and may reduce the return from an investment in such country to the Fund. Settlement procedures in emerging countries are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the United States and often may involve a Fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addi- tion, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a Fund to value its portfolio securities and could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have a portion of its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities the Fund has delivered or the Fund's inability to com- plete its contractual obligations. The creditworthiness of the local securi- ties firms used by the Fund in emerging countries may not be as sound as the creditworthiness of firms used in more developed countries. As a result, the Fund may be subject to a greater risk of loss if a securities firm defaults in the performance of its responsibilities. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain emerg- ing countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those coun- tries may make a Fund's investments in such countries less liquid and more volatile than investments in countries with more developed securities mar- kets (such as the United States, Japan and most Western European countries). A Fund's investments in emerging countries are subject to the risk that the liquidity of a particular investment, or investments generally, in such countries will shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic, market or political conditions or adverse investor per- ceptions, whether or not accurate. Because of the lack of sufficient market liquidity, a Fund may incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and only then at a substantial drop in price. Invest- 55 ments in emerging countries may be more difficult to price precisely because of the characteristics discussed above and lower trading volumes. A Fund's use of foreign currency management techniques in emerging countries may be limited. Due to the limited market for these instruments in emerging countries, the Investment Adviser does not currently anticipate that a sig- nificant portion of the Funds' currency exposure in emerging countries, if any, will be covered by such instruments. Risks of Derivative Investments. A Fund's transactions, if any, in options, futures, options on futures, swaps, interest rate caps, floors and collars, structured securities and currency transactions involve additional risk of loss. Loss can result from a lack of correlation between changes in the value of derivative instruments and the portfolio assets (if any) being hedged, the potential illiquidity of the markets for derivative instruments, or the risks arising from margin requirements and related leverage factors associated with such transactions. The use of these management techniques also involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices, interest rates or currency prices. Each Fund may also invest in derivative investments for non-hedging purposes (that is, to seek to increase total return). Investing for non- hedging purposes is considered a speculative practice and presents even greater risk of loss. Risks of Illiquid Securities. Each Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities which cannot be disposed of in seven days in the ordinary course of business at fair value. Illiquid securities include: .Both domestic and foreign securities that are not readily marketable .Certain stripped mortgage-backed securities .Repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days .Certain over-the-counter options .Certain structured securities and all swap transactions .Certain restricted securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 ("144A Securities") and, therefore, is liquid. Investing in 144A Securities may decrease the liquidity of a Fund's portfo- lio to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities. The purchase price and subsequent valuation of restricted and illiquid securities normally reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of com- parable securities for which a liquid market exists. 56 APPENDIX A Credit Risks. Debt securities purchased by the Funds may include securities (including zero coupon bonds) issued by the U.S. government (and its agen- cies, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises), foreign governments, domestic and foreign corporations, banks and other issuers. Further informa- tion is provided in the Additional Statement. Debt securities rated BBB or higher by Standard & Poor's or Baa or higher by Moody's are considered "investment grade." Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered medium-grade obligations with speculative characteristics, and adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances may weaken their issuers' capacity to pay interest and repay principal. A security will be deemed to have met a rating requirement if it receives the minimum required rating from at least one such rating organization even though it has been rated below the minimum rating by one or more other rating organizations, or if unrated by such rating organizations, determined by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable credit quality. Certain Funds may invest in fixed-income securities rated BB or Ba or below (or comparable unrated securities) which are commonly referred to as "junk bonds." Junk bonds are considered predominantly speculative and may be ques- tionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, junk bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment grade standing and be in default. As a result, invest- ment in such bonds will present greater speculative risks than those associ- ated with investment in investment grade bonds. Also, to the extent that the rating assigned to a security in a Fund's portfolio is downgraded by a rat- ing organization, the market price and liquidity of such security may be adversely affected. Temporary Investment Risks. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a certain percentage of its total assets in: .U.S. government securities .Commercial paper rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's or P-2 by Moody's .Certificates of deposit .Bankers' acceptances .Repurchase agreements .Non-convertible preferred stocks and non-convertible corporate bonds with a remaining maturity of less than one year When a Fund's assets are invested in such instruments, the Fund may not be achieving its investment objective. 57 C. Portfolio Securities and Techniques This section provides further information on certain types of securities and investment techniques that may be used by the Funds, including their associ- ated risks. Further information is provided in the Additional Statement, which is available upon request. Convertible Securities. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Con- vertible securities are preferred stock or debt obligations that are con- vertible into common stock. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar qual- ity. Convertible securities in which a Fund invests are subject to the same rating criteria as its other investments in fixed-income securities. Con- vertible securities have both equity and fixed-income risk characteristics. Like all fixed-income securities, the value of convertible securities is susceptible to the risk of market losses attributable to changes in interest rates. Generally, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price of the convertible secu- rity, the convertible security tends to reflect the market price of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security, like a fixed-income security, tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Foreign Currency Transactions. A Fund may, to the extent consistent with its investment policies, purchase or sell foreign currencies on a cash basis or through forward contracts. A forward contract involves an obligation to pur- chase or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may engage in foreign currency transactions for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, certain Funds may also enter into such transactions to seek to increase total return, which is con- sidered a speculative practice. Some Funds may also engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of cor- relation between the two currencies. A Fund may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date (e.g., the Investment Adviser may anticipate the foreign currency to appreciate against the U.S. dollar). 58 APPENDIX A Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing, along with other factors, a Fund's NAV to fluctuate (when the Fund's NAV fluctuates, the value of your shares may go up or down). Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. Such contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the contract will default on its obli- gations. Since these contracts are not guaranteed by an exchange or clear- inghouse, a default on a contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized prof- its, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or could force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. Structured Securities. Each Fund may invest in structured securities. Struc- tured securities are securities whose value is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the "Reference") or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Structured securities may be posi- tively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may pro- duce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rates or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of changes in the value of the Refer- ence. Consequently, structured securities may present a greater degree of market risk than other types of fixed-income securities and may be more vol- atile, less liquid and more difficult to price accurately than less complex securities. REITs. Each Fund may invest in REITS. REITS are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in either real estate or real estate related loans. The value of a REIT is affected by changes in the value of the properties owned by the REIT or securing mortgage loans held by the REIT. REITs are dependent upon the ability of the REITs' managers, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and the qualification of the REITs under applicable regulatory requirements for favorable income tax treatment. REITs are also subject to risks generally associated with invest- ments in real estate including possible declines in the value of real estate, general and local economic conditions, environmental problems and changes in interest rates. To the extent that assets underlying a REIT are concentrated geographically, by property type or in certain other 59 respects, these risks may be heightened. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses, including management fees, paid by a REIT in which it invests. Options on Securities, Securities Indices and Foreign Currencies. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying instrument dur- ing the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer (seller) of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument during the option period. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options and purchase put and call options on any securities in which they may invest or on any securities index comprised of securities in which they may invest. A Fund may also, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves special investment risks. Options may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, or to seek to increase total return (which is con- sidered a speculative activity). The successful use of options depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctu- ations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities (or currency) markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in market prices or determination of the correlation between the instruments or indices on which options are written and purchased and the instruments in a Fund's investment portfolio, the Fund may incur losses that it would not otherwise incur. The use of options can also increase a Fund's transaction costs. Options written or purchased by the Funds may be traded on either U.S. or foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Foreign and over- the-counter options will present greater possibility of loss because of their greater illiquidity and credit risks. Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. Futures contracts are standardized, exchange-traded contracts that provide for the sale or pur- chase of a specified financial instrument or currency at a future time at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right (and the writer of the option the obligation) to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price within a specified period of time. A futures contract may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), foreign currencies, securities indices and other financial instruments and indices. The Funds may engage in futures transac- tions on both U.S. and foreign exchanges. Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on futures contracts, in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates, securities prices or, to the extent a Fund 60 APPENDIX A invests in foreign securities, currency exchange rates, or to otherwise man- age their term structures, sector selection and durations in accordance with their investment objectives and policies. Each Fund may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to such contracts and options. A Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as defined in regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. A Fund may not purchase or sell futures con- tracts or purchase or sell related options to seek to increase total return, except for closing purchase or sale transactions, if immediately thereafter the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on the Fund's outstanding positions in futures and related options entered into for the purpose of seeking to increase total return would exceed 5% of the mar- ket value of the Fund's net assets. Futures contracts and related options present the following risks: .While a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in poorer overall performance than if the Fund had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. .Because perfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio posi- tion that is intended to be protected is impossible to achieve, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to additional risk of loss. .The loss incurred by a Fund in entering into futures contracts and in writ- ing call options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. .Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of a Fund's NAV. .As a result of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trad- ing, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to a Fund. .Futures contracts and options on futures may be illiquid, and exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices during a single day. .Foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. Equity Swaps. Each Fund may invest in equity swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to a swap agreement to exchange the dividend income or other compo- nents of return on an equity investment (for example, a group of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment. An equity swap may be used by a Fund to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps are 61 derivatives and their value can be very volatile. To the extent that the Investment Adviser does not accurately analyze and predict the potential relative fluctuation of the components swapped with another party, a Fund may suffer a loss. The value of some components of an equity swap (such as the dividends on a common stock) may also be sensitive to changes in inter- est rates. Furthermore, a Fund may suffer a loss if the counterparty defaults. When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments. Each Fund may purchase when- issued securities and make contracts to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time. When-issued securities are securities that have been authorized, but not yet issued. When-issued securities are purchased in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield to the Fund at the time of entering into the transaction. A forward commitment involves the entering into a con- tract to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond the customary settlement period. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines before the settlement date. Conversely, the sale of securities on a forward commitment basis involves the risk that the value of the securities sold may increase before the settlement date. Although a Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of acquiring the securities for its portfolio, a Fund may dispose of when-issued securities or forward commitments prior to settlement if the Investment Adviser deems it appropriate. Repurchase Agreements. Repurchase agreements involve the purchase of securi- ties subject to the seller's agreement to repurchase them at a mutually agreed upon date and price. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. If the other party or "seller" defaults, a Fund might suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the underlying securities and other collateral held by the Fund are less than the repurchase price and the Fund's costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agree- ment. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy of the seller, a Fund could suffer additional losses if a court determines that the Fund's interest in the collateral is not enforceable. In evaluating whether to enter into a repurchase agreement, the Investment Adviser will carefully consider the creditworthiness of the seller. Certain Funds, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates, may trans- fer uninvested cash 62 APPENDIX A balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund may engage in securities lending. Securities lending involves the lending of securities owned by a Fund to financial institutions such as certain broker-dealers. The borrowers are required to secure their loan continuously with cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities or letters of credit in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral may be invested in cash equivalents. To the extent that cash collateral is invested in other investment securities, such collateral will be subject to market deprecia- tion or appreciation, and a Fund will be responsible for any loss that might result from its investment of the borrowers' collateral. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, the value of the securities loaned may not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). A Fund may lend its securities to increase its income. A Fund may, however, experience delay in the recovery of its securities if the institution with which it has engaged in a portfolio loan transaction breaches its agreement with the Fund. Short Sales Against-the-Box. Certain Funds may make short sales against-the- box. A short sale against-the-box means that at all times when a short posi- tion is open the Fund will own an equal amount of securities sold short, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, without payment of any fur- ther consideration, an equal amount of the securities of the same issuer as the securities sold short. Preferred Stock, Warrants and Rights. Each Fund may invest in preferred stock, warrants and rights. Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest providing the holder with claims on the issuer's earn- ings and assets before common stock owners but after bond owners. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of such preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default or other non-compliance by the issuer of the preferred stock. Warrants and other rights are options to buy a stated number of shares of common stock at a specified price at any time during the life of the warrant or right. The holders of warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. Other Investment Companies. Each Fund may invest in securities of other investment companies (including SPDRs and WEBs, as defined below) subject to statutory limitations prescribed by the Act. These limitations include a prohibition on 63 any Fund acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any other investment company, and a prohibition on investing more than 5% of a Fund's total assets in securities of any one investment company or more than 10% of its total assets in securities of all investment companies. A Fund will indi- rectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other investment companies. Such other investment com- panies will have investment objectives, policies and restrictions substan- tially similar to those of the acquiring Fund and will be subject to sub- stantially the same risks. .Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts. The Funds may, consistent with their investment policies, purchase Standard & Poor's Depository Receipts ("SPDRs"). SPDRs are securities traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX") that represent ownership in the SPDR Trust, a trust which has been established to accumulate and hold a portfolio of common stocks that is intended to track the price performance and dividend yield of the S&P 500. The SPDR Trust is sponsored by a subsidiary of the AMEX. SPDRs may be used for several reasons, including, but not limited to, facilitating the han- dling of cash flows or trading, or reducing transaction costs. The price movement of SPDRs may not perfectly parallel the price action of the S&P 500. .World Equity Benchmark Shares. World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") are shares of an investment company that invests substantially all of its assets in securities included in the MSCI indices for specified countries. WEBS are listed on the AMEX and were initially offered to the public in 1996. The market prices of WEBS are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and supply and demand of WEBS on the AMEX. To date, WEBS have traded at relatively modest discounts and premiums to their NAVs. However, WEBS have a limited operat- ing history and information is lacking regarding the actual performance and trading liquidity of WEBS for extended periods or over complete market cycles. In addition, there is no assurance that the requirements of the AMEX necessary to maintain the listing of WEBS will continue to be met or will remain unchanged. In the event substantial market or other disruptions affecting WEBS should occur in the future, the liquidity and value of a Fund's shares could also be substantially and adversely affected. If such disruptions were to occur, a Fund could be required to reconsider the use of WEBS as part of its investment strategy. Unseasoned Companies. Each Fund may invest in companies (including predeces- sors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such com- panies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned compa- 64 APPENDIX A nies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. Corporate Debt Obligations. Corporate debt obligations include bonds, notes, debentures, commercial paper and other obligations of corporations to pay interest and repay principal, and include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions. Each Fund may invest in corporate debt obliga- tions issued by U.S. and certain non-U.S. issuers which issue securities denominated in the U.S. dollar (including Yankee and Euro obligations). In addition to obligations of corporations, corporate debt obligations include securities issued by banks and other financial institutions and suprana- tional entities (i.e., the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, etc.). Bank Obligations. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitations, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be gen- eral obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulations. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. U.S. Government Securities and Related Custodial Receipts. Each Fund may invest in U.S. government securities and related custodial receipts. U.S. government securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities or spon- sored enterprises. U.S. government securities may be supported by (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury (such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae")); (b) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury (such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association); (c) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to pur- chase certain obligations of the issuer (such as the Federal National Mort- gage Association ("Fannie Mae") and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac")); or (d) only the credit of the issuer. U.S. government securities also include Treasury receipts, zero coupon bonds and other stripped U.S. government securities, where the interest and principal compo- nents of stripped U.S. government securities are traded independently. Interests in U.S. government securities may be purchased in the form of cus- todial receipts that evidence ownership of future interest payments, princi- pal payments 65 or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. government. Mortgage-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect partici- pations in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. Mortgage-backed securities can be backed by either fixed rate mortgage loans or adjustable rate mortgage loans, and may be issued by either a governmental or non-governmental entity. Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are normally structured with one or more types of "credit enhancement." However, these mortgage-backed securities typically do not have the same credit standing as U.S. government guaranteed mortgage- backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may include multiple class securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC") pass-through or participation certificates. CMOs provide an investor with a specified interest in the cash flow from a pool of underlying mortgages or of other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes. In many cases, payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in the order of their respective stated maturi- ties, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class until all other classes having an earlier stated maturity date are paid in full. A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment and invests in cer- tain mortgages principally secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Mortgaged-backed securities also include stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiple class mortgage-backed securities. SMBS are usually structured with two different classes: one that receives substantially all of the interest payments and the other that receives sub- stantially all of the principal payments from a pool of mortgage loans. The market value of SMBS consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on SMBS that receive all or most of the interest from mortgage loans are gener- ally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securi- ties because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Asset-Backed Securities. Certain Funds may invest in asset-backed securi- ties. Asset-backed securities are securities whose principal and interest payments are collateralized by pools of assets such as auto loans, credit card receivables, leases, installment contracts and personal property. Asset-backed securities are often sub- 66 APPENDIX A ject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the under- lying loans. During periods of declining interest rates, prepayment of loans underlying asset-backed securities can be expected to accelerate. According- ly, a Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. Asset-backed securities present credit risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. This is because asset-backed securities gener- ally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. There is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support pay- ments on these securities. In the event of a default, a Fund may suffer a loss if it cannot sell collateral quickly and receive the amount it is owed. Borrowings. Each Fund can borrow money from banks and other financial insti- tutions in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes. A Fund may not make additional investments if borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. 67 Appendix B Financial Highlights The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand a Fund's financial performance for the past five years (or less if the Fund has been in operation for less than five years). Certain information reflects finan- cial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table repre- sent the rate that an investor would have earned or lost on an investment in a Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, whose report, along with a Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's annual report (available upon request without charge). CORE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ --------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized and beginning income unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 9.98 $ 0.05 $ 0.84 1999 - Class B Shares 9.95 0.01 0.85 1999 - Class C Shares 9.96 0.01 0.85 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.06 0.09 0.85 1999 - Service Shares 10.02 0.01 0.90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 9.22 (0.01) 0.79 1999 - Class B Shares 9.21 -- 0.74 1999 - Class C Shares 9.22 -- 0.74 1999 - Institutional Shares 9.24 0.05 0.80 1999 - Service Shares 9.23 -- 0.81 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.78) 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) (0.77) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 (0.02) (0.76) 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.02 (0.76) 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 (0.78) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See page 95 for all footnotes. 68 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders ------------------------ Net increase Net (decrease) Net asset assets From net From net in net value, at end investment realized asset end of Total of period income gains value period return/b/ (in 000s) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ 0.89 $10.87 8.92%d $114,502 -- -- 0.86 10.81 8.64d 9,171 -- -- 0.86 10.82 8.63d 4,913 -- -- 0.94 11.00 9.34d 271,212 -- -- 0.91 10.93 9.08d 8 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.02) -- 0.76 9.98 8.37 110,338 -- -- 0.74 9.95 8.03 7,401 -- -- 0.74 9.96 8.03 3,742 (0.03) -- 0.82 10.06 9.20 280,731 (0.02) -- 0.79 10.02 8.74 22 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- (0.78) 9.22 (7.66)d 7,087 -- -- (0.79) 9.21 (7.90)d 2,721 -- -- (0.78) 9.22 (7.80)d 1,608 (0.02) -- (0.76) 9.24 (7.45)d 17,719 -- -- (0.77) 9.23 (7.70)d 1 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
69 CORE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of net investment net investment Ratio of income expenses income (loss) expenses (loss) to Portfolio to average to average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets net assets rate - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.66%c 0.78%c 1.76%c 0.68%c 64.97%d 1999 - Class B Shares 2.16c 0.26c 2.26c 0.16c 64.97d 1999 - Class C Shares 2.16c 0.23c 2.26c 0.13c 64.97d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.01c 1.43c 1.11c 1.33c 64.97d 1999 - Service Shares 1.51c 0.07c 1.61c (0.03)c 64.97d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.63 (0.11) 1.94 (0.42) 194.61 1999 - Class B Shares 2.08 (0.03) 2.39 (0.34) 194.61 1999 - Class C Shares 2.08 (0.04) 2.39 (0.35) 194.61 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.01 0.84 1.32 0.53 194.61 1999 - Service Shares 1.50 0.02 1.81 (0.29) 194.61 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.50c (0.27)c 4.87c (3.90)c 25.16d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.00c (0.72)c 5.12c (3.84)c 25.16d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.00c (0.73)c 5.12c (3.85)c 25.16d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.00c 0.59 c 4.12c (2.53)c 25.16d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 1.50c 0.26 c 4.62c (2.86)c 25.16d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70 [This page intentionally left blank] 71 INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $21.92 $ 0.04 $ 1.16 1999 - Class B Shares 21.63 (0.02) 1.12 1999 - Class C Shares 21.45 (0.03) 1.12 1999 - Institutional Shares 22.20 0.12e 1.17e 1999 - Service Shares 21.93 0.06 1.15 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 19.85 (0.06) 3.24 1999 - Class B Shares 19.70 (0.17) 3.21 1999 - Class C Shares 19.56 (0.15) 3.15 1999 - Institutional Shares 19.97 0.03 3.31 1999 - Service Shares 19.84 (0.04) 3.24 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1998 - Class A Shares 19.32 0.03 2.04 1998 - Class B Shares 19.24 (0.08) 2.02 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 22.60 (0.04) (1.38) 1998 - Institutional Shares 19.40 0.10 2.11 1998 - Service Shares 19.34 0.02 2.06 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 - Class A Shares 17.20 0.10 2.23 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 18.91 (0.06) 0.60 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 7, 1996) 17.45 0.04 2.15 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) 17.70 (0.02) 1.87 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 - Class A Shares 14.52 0.13 4.00 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
72 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders -------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gain value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 1.20 $23.12 5.47%d $943,473 1.79%c -- -- -- 1.10 22.73 5.09d 68,691 2.29c -- -- -- 1.09 22.54 5.08d 11,241 2.29c -- -- -- 1.29 23.49 5.81d 180,564 1.14c -- -- -- 1.21 23.14 5.52d 3,852 1.64c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (1.11) 2.07 21.92 16.39 947,973 1.73 -- -- (1.11) 1.93 21.63 15.80 69,231 2.24 -- -- (1.11) 1.89 21.45 15.70 11,619 2.24 -- -- (1.11) 2.23 22.20 17.09 111,315 1.13 -- -- (1.11) 2.09 21.93 16.49 3,568 1.63 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.30) (1.24) 0.53 19.85 11.12 697,590 1.67 -- (0.25) (1.23) 0.46 19.70 10.51 55,324 2.20 -- (0.38) (1.24) (3.04) 19.56 (5.92)d 3,369 2.27c (0.07) (0.33) (1.24) 0.57 19.97 11.82 56,263 1.08 -- (0.35) (1.23) 0.50 19.84 11.25 3,035 1.55 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- (0.21) 2.12 19.32 13.48 536,283 1.69 -- -- (0.21) 0.33 19.24 2.83d 19,198 2.23c (0.03) -- (0.21) 1.95 19.40 12.53d 68,374 1.10c -- -- (0.21) 1.64 19.34 10.42d 674 1.60c - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.58) -- (0.87) 2.68 17.20 28.68 330,860 1.52 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
73 INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary expense limitations -------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average to average net turnover assets net assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.31%c 1.84%c 0.26%c 61.10%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.19)c 2.34c (0.24)c 61.10d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.26)c 2.34c (0.31)c 61.10d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.89c 1.19c 0.84c 61.10d 1999 - Service Shares 0.47c 1.69c 0.42c 61.10d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.28) 1.82 (0.37) 113.79 1999 - Class B Shares (0.79) 2.32 (0.87) 113.79 1999 - Class C Shares (0.98) 2.32 (1.06) 113.79 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.23 1.21 0.15 113.79 1999 - Service Shares (0.18) 1.71 (0.26) 113.79 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares (0.27) 1.80 (0.40) 40.82 1998 - Class B Shares (0.90) 2.30 (1.00) 40.82 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) (1.43)c 2.37c (1.53)c 40.82 1998 - Institutional Shares 0.30 1.18 0.20 40.82 1998 - Service Shares (0.36) 1.65 (0.46) 40.82 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares (0.07) 1.88 (0.26) 38.01 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) (0.97)c 2.38c (1.12)c 38.01 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 7, 1996) 0.43c 1.25c 0.28c 38.01 1997 - Service Shares (commenced March 6, 1996) (0.40)c 1.75c (0.55)c 38.01 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 0.26 1.77 0.01 68.48 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
74 [This page intentionally left blank] 75 EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period loss gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $12.20 $0.05 $(0.50) 1999 - Class B Shares 12.19 0.03 (0.51) 1999 - Class C Shares 12.20 0.04 (0.52) 1999 - Institutional Shares 12.23 0.18 (0.59) 1999 - Service Shares 12.20 0.08 (0.52) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.03) 2.23 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 2.21 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.01) 2.21 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.01) 2.24 1999 - Service Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.03) 2.23 - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
76 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------ In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $(0.45) $11.75 (3.69)%d $74,862 1.79%c -- -- -- (0.48) 11.71 (3.94)d 879 2.29c -- -- -- (0.48) 11.72 (3.93)d 388 2.29c -- -- -- (0.41) 11.82 (3.35)d 5,965 1.14c -- -- -- (0.44) 11.76 (3.61)d 2 1.64c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 61,151 1.79c -- -- -- 2.19 12.19 21.90d 432 2.29c -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 587 2.29c -- -- -- 2.23 12.23 22.30d 12,740 1.14c -- -- -- 2.20 12.20 22.00d 2 1.64c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
77 EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ------------------------ Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment income (loss) to expenses to income (loss) Portfolio average net average net to average net turnover assets assets assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.80%c 2.29%c 0.30%c 54.98%d 1999 - Class B Shares 0.43c 2.79c (0.07)c 54.98d 1999 - Class C Shares 0.42c 2.79c (0.08)c 54.98d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.53c 1.64c 1.03c 54.98d 1999 - Service Shares 1.10c 2.14c 0.60c 54.98d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.19)c 2.80c (2.20)c 70.77d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.78)c 3.30c (2.79)c 70.77d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (1.83)c 3.30c (2.84)c 70.77d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced Octo- ber 1, 1998) (0.33)c 2.15c (1.34)c 70.77d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced October 1, 1998) (0.69)c 2.65c (1.70)c 70.77d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
78 [This page intentionally left blank] 79 JAPANESE EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period loss gains - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $11.06 $(0.06) $5.24 1999 - Class B Shares 11.03 (0.09) 5.20 1999 - Class C Shares 11.04 (0.08) 5.20 1999 - Institutional Shares 11.10 (0.03) 5.29 1999 - Service Shares 11.04 (0.06) 5.24 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.06) 1.12 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.08) 1.11 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.09) 1.13 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 1.13 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.05) 1.09 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
80 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders - ------------------------------------- In excess Net assets Ratio of From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $5.18 $16.24 46.84%d $34,279 1.70%c -- -- -- 5.11 16.14 46.33d 4,219 2.20c -- -- -- 5.12 16.16 46.41d 3,584 2.20c -- -- -- 5.26 16.36 47.40d 22,709 1.05c -- -- -- 5.18 16.22 46.92d 3 1.55c - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 1.06 11.06 10.60d 8,391 1.64c -- -- -- 1.03 11.03 10.30d 1,427 2.15c -- -- -- 1.04 11.04 10.40d 284 2.15c -- (0.01) -- 1.10 11.10 11.06d 11,418 1.03c -- -- -- 1.04 11.04 10.43d 2 1.53c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
81 JAPANESE EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net investment Ratio of net investment loss to expenses to loss to average Portfolio average net average net turnover assets net assets assets rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (1.17)%c 2.62%c (2.09)%c 44.83%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.57)c 3.12c (2.49)c 44.83d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.81)c 3.12c (2.73)c 44.83d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.37)c 1.97c (1.29)c 44.83d 1999 - Service Shares (0.74)c 2.47c (1.66)c 44.83d - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.20)c 4.18c (3.74)c 53.29d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.76)c 4.69c (4.30)c 53.29d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.69)c 4.69c (4.23)c 53.29d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.36)c 3.57c (2.90)c 53.29d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.68)c 4.07c (3.22)c 53.29d - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
82 [This page intentionally left blank] 83 INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset value, Net Net realized beginning investment and unrealized of period loss gain - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $10.62 $(0.03) $2.65 1999 - Class B Shares 10.61 (0.08)e 2.66e 1999 - Class C Shares 10.61 (0.08)e 2.66e 1999 - Institutional Shares 10.66 -- 2.69 1999 - Service Shares 10.61 (0.02) 2.65 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.04) 0.66 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.10) 0.71 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.06) 0.67 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 -- 0.67 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) 10.00 (0.02) 0.63 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
84 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- Ratio of In excess Net assets net From net of net Net increase Net asset at end of expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income loss realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $2.62 $13.24 24.67%d $69,458 2.05%c -- -- -- 2.58 13.19 24.32d 303 2.55c -- -- -- 2.58 13.19 24.32d 419 2.55c -- -- -- 2.69 13.35 25.24d 65,772 1.40c -- -- -- 2.63 13.24 24.79d 2 1.90c - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- 0.62 10.62 6.20d 33,002 2.02c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 213 2.51c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 175 2.51c -- (0.01) -- 0.66 10.66 6.67d 36,992 1.40c -- -- -- 0.61 10.61 6.10d 2 1.90c - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
85 INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of Ratio of net net investment Ratio of investment loss to expenses loss to Portfolio average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.68)%c 2.42%c (1.05)%c 58.81%d 1999 - Class B Shares (1.16)c 2.92c (1.53)c 58.81d 1999 - Class C Shares (1.21)c 2.92c (1.58)c 58.81d 1999 - Institutional Shares (0.05)c 1.77c (0.42)c 58.81d 1999 - Service Shares (0.35)c 2.27c (0.72)c 58.81d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.03)c 3.60c (2.61)c 96.11d 1999 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.30)c 4.09c (2.88)c 96.11d 1999 - Class C Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (1.45)c 4.09c (3.03)c 96.11d 1999 - Institutional Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.19)c 2.98c (1.77)c 96.11d 1999 - Service Shares (commenced May 1, 1998) (0.26)c 3.48c (1.84)c 96.11d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
86 [This page intentionally left blank] 87 EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 7.04 $(0.01) $ 2.23 1999 - Class B Shares 7.03 (0.03) 2.21 1999 - Class C Shares 7.05 (0.03) 2.22 1999 - Institutional Shares 7.09 0.02 2.26 1999 - Service Shares 6.87 0.01 2.17 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 9.69 0.04 (2.40) 1999 - Class B Shares 9.69 0.03 (2.41) 1999 - Class C Shares 9.70 0.01 (2.39) 1999 - Institutional Shares 9.70 0.06 (2.36) 1999 - Service Shares 9.69 (0.13) (2.41) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.30) 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 0.01 (0.31) 1998 - Service Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 10.00 -- (0.31) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
88 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------------- In excess Net increase Net assets Ratio of From net of net (decrease) Net asset at end of net expenses investment investment From net in net asset value, end Total period to average income income realized gains value of period return/b/ (in 000s) net assets - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 2.22 $9.26 31.53%d $ 65,698 2.04%c -- -- -- 2.18 9.21 31.01d 972 2.54c -- -- -- 2.19 9.24 31.06d 1,095 2.54c -- -- -- 2.28 9.37 32.16d 108,574 1.39c -- -- -- 2.18 9.05 31.73d 2 1.89c - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (0.07) (0.22) -- (2.65) 7.04 (24.32) 52,704 2.09 (0.07) (0.21) -- (2.66) 7.03 (24.51) 459 2.59 (0.07) (0.20) -- (2.65) 7.05 (24.43) 273 2.59 (0.08) (0.23) -- (2.61) 7.09 (23.66) 90,189 1.35 (0.07) (0.21) -- (2.82) 6.87 (26.17) 1 1.85 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 17,681 1.90c -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 64 2.41c -- -- -- (0.30) 9.70 (3.00)d 73 2.48c -- -- -- (0.30) 9.70 (3.00)d 19,120 1.30c -- -- -- (0.31) 9.69 (3.10)d 2 2.72c - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations ---------------------------- Ratio Ratio of net of net investment investment Ratio of income income (loss) expenses to (loss) to Portfolio to average average net average turnover net assets assets net assets rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares (0.15)%c 2.41%c (0.52)%c 63.24%d 1999 - Class B Shares (0.71)c 2.91c (1.08)c 63.24d 1999 - Class C Shares (0.85)c 2.91c (1.22)c 63.24d 1999 - Institutional Shares 0.50c 1.76c 0.13c 63.24d 1999 - Service Shares 0.12c 2.26c (0.25)c 63.24d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Year Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 0.80 2.53 0.36 153.67 1999 - Class B Shares 0.19 3.03 (0.25) 153.67 1999 - Class C Shares 0.28 3.03 (0.16) 153.67 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.59 1.79 1.15 153.67 1999 - Service Shares (1.84) 2.29 (2.28) 153.67 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For the Period Ended January 31, 1998 - Class A Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 0.55c 5.88c (3.43)c 3.35d 1998 - Class B Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) 0.05c 6.39c (3.93)c 3.35d 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) (0.27)c 6.46c (4.25)c 3.35d 1998 - Institutional Shares (commenced Decem- ber 15, 1997) 0.80c 5.28c (3.18)c 3.35d 1998 - Service Shares (commenced December 15, 1997) (0.05)c 6.70c (4.03)c 3.35d - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90 [This page intentionally left blank] 91 ASIA GROWTH FUND
Income from investment operations/a/ ------------------------- Net asset Net value, investment Net realized beginning income and unrealized of period (loss) gain (loss) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares $ 7.79 $(0.02) $3.30 1999 - Class B Shares 7.68 (0.04) 3.24 1999 - Class C Shares 7.68 (0.04) 3.21 1999 - Institutional Shares 7.91 0.01 3.36 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 8.38 0.07 (0.66) 1999 - Class B Shares 8.31 0.01 (0.64) 1999 - Class C Shares 8.29 -- (0.61) 1999 - Institutional Shares 8.44 0.03 (0.56) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 16.31 -- (7.90) 1998 - Class B Shares 16.24 0.01 (7.91) 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 15.73 0.01 (7.42) 1998 - Institutional Shares 16.33 0.10 (7.96) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 16.49 0.06 (0.11) 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 17.31 (0.05) (0.48) 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 2, 1996) 16.61 0.04 (0.11) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 13.31 0.17 3.44 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1995 - Class A Shares (commenced July 8, 1994) 14.18 0.11 (0.89) - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
92 APPENDIX B
Distributions to shareholders --------------------------------- Net In excess increase Net assets From net of net From net (decrease) Net asset at end investment investment realized in net value, end Total of period income income gains asset value of period return/b/ (in 000s) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 3.28 $11.07 42.11%d $ 84,269 -- -- -- 3.20 10.88 41.67d 7,258 -- -- -- 3.17 10.85 41.28d 2,281 -- (0.04) -- 3.33 11.24 42.61d 12,363 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- -- -- (0.59) 7.79 (7.04) 59,940 -- -- -- (0.63) 7.68 (7.58) 4,190 -- -- -- (0.61) 7.68 (7.36) 999 -- -- -- (0.53) 7.91 (6.28) 4,200 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- (0.03) -- (7.93) 8.38 (48.49) 87,437 -- (0.03) -- (7.93) 8.31 (48.70) 3,359 -- (0.03) -- (7.44) 8.29 (47.17)d 436 (0.03) -- -- (7.89) 8.44 (48.19) 874 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) -- (0.01) (0.18) 16.31 (1.01) 263,014 (0.51) (0.03) -- (1.07) 16.24 (6.02)d 3,354 (0.11) (0.06) (0.04) (0.28) 16.33 (1.09)d 13,322 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (0.12) (0.14) (0.17) 3.18 16.49 26.49 205,539 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 0.01 -- (0.10) (0.87) 13.31 (5.46)d 124,298 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
93 ASIA GROWTH FUND (continued)
Ratios assuming no voluntary waiver of fees or expense limitations --------------------- Ratio of net Ratio of Ratio of net investment net investment Ratio of income expenses income (loss) expenses (loss) to Portfolio to average to average to average average turnover net assets net assets net assets net assets rate - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Seven-Month Period Ended August 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.85%c (0.38)%c 2.27%c (0.80)%c 96.58%d 1999 - Class B Shares 2.35c (0.90)c 2.77c (1.32)c 96.58d 1999 - Class C Shares 2.35c (0.89)c 2.77c (1.31)c 96.58d 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.20c 0.14c 1.62c (0.28)c 96.58d - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Years Ended January 31, 1999 - Class A Shares 1.93 0.63 2.48 0.08 106.00 1999 - Class B Shares 2.45 0.10 2.97 (0.42) 106.00 1999 - Class C Shares 2.45 0.10 2.97 (0.42) 106.00 1999 - Institutional Shares 1.16 1.10 1.68 0.58 106.00 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 - Class A Shares 1.75 0.31 1.99 0.07 105.16 1998 - Class B Shares 2.30 (0.29) 2.50 (0.49) 105.16 1998 - Class C Shares (commenced August 15, 1997) 2.35c (0.26)c 2.55c (0.46)c 105.16 1998 - Institutional Shares 1.11 0.87 1.31 0.67 105.16 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - Class A Shares 1.67 0.20 1.87 -- 48.40 1997 - Class B Shares (commenced May 1, 1996) 2.21c (0.56)c 2.37c (0.72)c 48.40 1997 - Institutional Shares (commenced February 2, 1996) 1.10c 0.54c 1.26c 0.38c 48.40 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 - Class A Shares 1.77 1.05 2.02 0.80 88.80 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Period Ended January 31, 1995 - Class A Shares (commenced July 8, 1994) 1.90c 1.83c 2.38c 1.35c 36.08d - -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
94 APPENDIX B a Includes the balancing effect of calculating per share amounts. b Assumes investment at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, a complete redemption of the investment at the net asset value at the end of the period and no sales or redemption charges. Total return would be reduced if a sales or redemption charge were taken into account. c Annualized. d Not annualized. e Calculated based on the average shares methodology. 95 Index 1 General Investment Management Approach 3 Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies 3 Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund 4 Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund 5 Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund 6 Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund 8 Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund 9 Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund 11 Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund 14 Other Investment Practices and Securities 18 Principal Risks of the Funds 21 Fund Performance 26 Fund Fees and Expenses 30 Service Providers 40 Dividends 41 Shareholder Guide 41 How To Buy Shares 44 How to Sell Shares 48 Taxation 50 Appendix A Additional Information on Portfolio Risks, Securities and Techniques 68 Appendix B Financial Highlights
International Equity Funds Prospectus (Service Shares) FOR MORE INFORMATION Annual/Semi-annual Report Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds' annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during the last fiscal year. Statement of Additional Information Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). The Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (is legally considered part of this Prospectus). The Funds' annual and semi-annual reports, and the Additional Statement, are available free upon request by calling Goldman Sachs at 1-800-621-2550. To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries: By telephone - Call 1-800-621-2550 By mail - Goldman Sachs Funds, 4900 Sears Tower-60th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-6372 By e-mail - gs-funds@gs.com On the Internet - Text-only versions of the Funds' documents are located online and may be downloaded from: SEC EDGAR database - http://www.sec.gov You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents, after paying a duplicating fee, by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102 or by electronic request to: publicinfo@sec.gov. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (202) 942-8090. [LOGO OF GOLDMAN SACHS] The Funds' investment company registration number is 811-5349. CORE SM is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. EQINTLPROSVC PART B STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CLASS A SHARES CLASS B SHARES CLASS C SHARES SERVICE SHARES INSTITUTIONAL SHARES GOLDMAN SACHS BALANCED FUND GOLDMAN SACHS GROWTH AND INCOME FUND GOLDMAN SACHS CORE/SM/ LARGE CAP VALUE FUND GOLDMAN SACHS CORE/SM/ U.S. EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS CORE/SM/ LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND GOLDMAN SACHS CORE/SM/ SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS CORE/SM/ INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS CAPITAL GROWTH FUND GOLDMAN SACHS STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND GOLDMAN SACHS GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND GOLDMAN SACHS MID CAP VALUE FUND GOLDMAN SACHS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND GOLDMAN SACHS LARGE CAP VALUE FUND GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS JAPANESE EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP FUND GOLDMAN SACHS EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND GOLDMAN SACHS ASIA GROWTH FUND (Equity Portfolios of Goldman Sachs Trust) 4900 Sears Tower Chicago, Illinois 60606-6303 This Statement of Additional Information (the "Additional Statement") is not a Prospectus. This Additional Statement should be read in conjunction with the Prospectuses for the Class A Shares, Class B Shares, Class C Shares, Service Shares and Institutional Shares of: Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund, Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund, Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund, Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund, Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund, Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund, Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund, Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund, Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund, Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund, Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund, Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund, Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund, and Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund dated November 30, 1999 (the "Prospectuses"), which may be obtained without charge from Goldman, Sachs & Co. by calling the telephone number, or writing to one of the addresses, listed below. The audited financial statements and related report of Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants, for each Fund contained in each Fund's 1999 annual report is incorporated herein by reference in the section "Financial Statements." No other portions of the Fund's Annual Report are incorporated by reference. CORE/SM/ is a service mark of Goldman, Sachs & Co. B-2
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page ----- INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................ B-5 INVESTMENT POLICIES......................................................................................................... B-7 INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS..................................................................................................... B-49 MANAGEMENT.................................................................................................................. B-52 PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE........................................................................................ B-81 NET ASSET VALUE............................................................................................................. B-91 PERFORMANCE INFORMATION..................................................................................................... B-92 SHARES OF THE TRUST......................................................................................................... B-105 TAXATION.................................................................................................................... B-112 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS........................................................................................................ B-120 OTHER INFORMATION........................................................................................................... B-120 DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLANS.............................................................................................. B-122 OTHER INFORMATION REGARDING MAXIMUM SALES CHARGE, PURCHASES, REDEMPTIONS, EXCHANGES AND DIVIDENDS........................... B-136 SERVICE PLAN................................................................................................................ B-140 Appendix A (Description of Securities Ratings).............................................................................. 1-A Appendix B (Business Principles of Goldman, Sachs & Co.).................................................................... 1-B Appendix C (Statement of Intention and Escrow Agreement).................................................................... 1-C
The date of this Additional Statement is November 30, 1999. B-3 GOLDMAN SACHS FUNDS MANAGEMENT, L.P. Investment Adviser to: Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund 32 Old Slip New York, New York 10005 GOLDMAN SACHS ASSET MANAGEMENT Investment Adviser to: Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund 32 Old Slip New York, New York 10005 GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO. Distributor 85 Broad Street New York, New York 10004 GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO. Transfer Agent 4900 Sears Tower Chicago, Illinois 60606 GOLDMAN SACHS ASSET MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL Investment Adviser to: Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund 133 Peterborough Court London, England EC4A 2BB Toll free (in U.S.) . . . 800-621-2550 B-4 INTRODUCTION Goldman Sachs Trust (the "Trust") is an open-end, management investment company. The Trust is organized as a Delaware business trust, and is a successor to a Massachusetts business trust that was combined with the Trust on April 30, 1997. The following series of the Trust are described in this Additional Statement: Goldman Sachs Balanced Fund ("Balanced Fund"), Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Fund ("Growth and Income Fund"), Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Value Fund ("CORE Large Cap Value Fund"), Goldman Sachs CORE U.S. Equity Fund ("CORE U.S. Equity Fund")(formerly known as "Goldman Sachs Select Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs CORE Large Cap Growth Fund ("CORE Large Cap Growth Fund"), Goldman Sachs CORE Small Cap Equity Fund ("CORE Small Cap Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs CORE International Equity Fund ("CORE International Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs Capital Growth Fund ("Capital Growth Fund"), Goldman Sachs Strategic Growth Fund ("Strategic Growth Fund"), Goldman Sachs Growth Opportunities Fund ("Growth Opportunities Fund"), Goldman Sachs Mid Cap Value Fund ("Mid Cap Value Fund") (formerly known as "Mid Cap Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs Small Cap Value Fund ("Small Cap Value Fund"), Goldman Sachs Large Cap Value Fund ("Large Cap Value Fund"), Goldman Sachs International Equity Fund ("International Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs European Equity Fund ("European Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs Japanese Equity Fund ("Japanese Equity Fund"), Goldman Sachs International Small Cap Fund ("International Small Cap Fund"), Goldman Sachs Emerging Markets Equity Fund ("Emerging Markets Equity Fund") and Goldman Sachs Asia Growth Fund ("Asia Growth Fund") (collectively referred to herein as the "Funds"). The Funds, except the European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE International Equity, Strategic Growth Fund, Growth Opportunities, CORE Small Cap Equity and Large Cap Value Funds were initially organized as a series of a corporation formed under the laws of the State of Maryland on September 27, 1989 and were reorganized as a Delaware business trust as of April 30, 1997. The Trustees have authority under the Trust's charter to create and classify shares into separate series and to classify and reclassify any series or portfolio of shares into one or more classes without further action by shareholders. Pursuant thereto, the Trustees have created the Funds and other series. Additional series may be added in the future from time to time. Each Fund currently offers five classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class B Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Service Shares. See "Shares of the Trust." Goldman Sachs Asset Management ("GSAM"), a separate operating division of Goldman, Sachs & Co. ("Goldman Sachs"), serves as the Investment Adviser to the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, CORE International Equity, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds. Goldman Sachs Funds Management, L.P. ("GSFM"), an affiliate of Goldman Sachs, serves as the Investment Adviser to the CORE U.S. Equity and Capital Growth Funds. Goldman Sachs Asset Management International ("GSAMI"), an affiliate of Goldman Sachs, serves as the Investment Adviser to the International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds. GSAM, GSFM and GSAMI are sometimes individually referred to as an "Investment Adviser" and B-5 collectively herein as the "Investment Advisers." In addition, Goldman Sachs serves as each Fund's distributor and transfer agent. Each Fund's custodian is State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"). The following information relates to and supplements the description of each Fund's investment policies contained in the Prospectuses. See the Prospectuses for a more complete description of the Funds' investment objectives and policies. There is no assurance that a Fund will achieve its objective. B-6 INVESTMENT POLICIES Each Fund has distinct investment objectives and policies. There can be no assurance that a Fund's objectives will be achieved. Each Fund is a diversified open-end management company as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"). Each Fund's share price will fluctuate with market, economic and, to the extent applicable, foreign exchange conditions, so that an investment in any of the Funds may be worth more or less when redeemed than when purchased. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program. General Information Regarding All Funds. - --------------------------------------- The Investment Adviser may purchase for the Funds common stocks, preferred stocks, interests in real estate investment trusts, convertible debt obligations, convertible preferred stocks, equity interests in trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, limited liability companies and similar enterprises, warrants and stock purchase rights ("equity securities"). In choosing a Fund's securities, the Investment Adviser utilizes first-hand fundamental research, including visiting company facilities to assess operations and to meet decision-makers. The Investment Adviser may also use macro analysis of numerous economic and valuation variables to anticipate changes in company earnings and the overall investment climate. The Investment Adviser is able to draw on the research and market expertise of the Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research Department and other affiliates of the Investment Adviser, as well as information provided by other securities dealers. Equity securities in a Fund's portfolio will generally be sold when the Investment Adviser believes that the market price fully reflects or exceeds the securities' fundamental valuation or when other more attractive investments are identified. Value Style Funds. The Growth and Income Fund, Mid Cap Value Fund, Small Cap Value Fund, Large Cap Value Fund and a portion of the equity portion of Balanced Fund are managed using a value oriented approach. (The equity portion of the Balanced Fund utilizes a blend of value and growth investment styles. See "Growth Style Funds" below). The Investment Adviser evaluates securities using fundamental analysis and intends to purchase equity securities that are, in its view, underpriced relative to a combination of such companies' long-term earnings prospects, growth rate, free cash flow and/or dividend-paying ability. Consideration will be given to the business quality of the issuer. Factors positively affecting the Investment Adviser's view of that quality include the competitiveness and degree of regulation in the markets in which the company operates, the existence of a management team with a record of success, the position of the company in the markets in which it operates, the level of the company's financial leverage and the sustainable return on capital invested in the business. The Funds may also purchase securities of companies that have experienced difficulties and that, in the opinion of the Investment Adviser, are available at attractive prices. Growth Style Funds. The Capital Growth, Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds and a portion of the equity portion of the Balanced Fund are managed using a growth equity oriented approach. Equity securities for these Funds are selected based on their prospects for above B-7 average growth. The Investment Adviser will select securities of growth companies trading, in the Investment Adviser's opinion, at a reasonable price relative to other industries, competitors and historical price/earnings multiples. The Funds will generally invest in companies whose earnings are believed to be in a relatively strong growth trend, or, to a lesser extent, in companies in which significant further growth is not anticipated but whose market value per share is thought to be undervalued. In order to determine whether a security has favorable growth prospects, the Investment Adviser ordinarily looks for one or more of the following characteristics in relation to the security's prevailing price: prospects for above average sales and earnings growth per share; high return on invested capital; free cash flow generation; sound balance sheet, financial and accounting policies, and overall financial strength; strong competitive advantages; effective research, product development, and marketing; pricing flexibility; strength of management; and general operating characteristics that will enable the company to compete successfully in its marketplace. Quantitative Style Funds. CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds (the "CORE Equity Funds") are managed using both quantitative and fundamental techniques. CORE is an acronym for "Computer-Optimized, Research-Enhanced," which reflects the CORE Funds' investment process. This investment process and the proprietary multifactor model used to implement it are discussed below. Investment Process. The Investment Adviser begins with a broad universe of U.S. equity securities for the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds (the "CORE U.S. Equity Funds"), and and a broad universe of foreign equity securities for CORE International Equity Fund. As described more fully below, the Investment Adviser uses a proprietary multifactor model (the "Multifactor Model") to forecast the returns of different markets, currencies and individual securities. In the case of an equity security followed by the Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research Department (the "Research Department"), a rating is assigned based upon the Research Department's evaluation. In the discretion of the Investment Adviser, ratings may also be assigned to equity securities based on research ratings obtained from other industry sources. In building a diversified portfolio for each CORE Equity Fund, the Investment Adviser utilizes optimization techniques to seek to maximize the Fund's expected return, while maintaining a risk profile similar to the Fund's benchmark. Each portfolio is primarily composed of securities rated highest by the foregoing investment process and has risk characteristics and industry weightings similar to the relevant Fund's benchmark. Multifactor Models. The Multifactor Models are rigorous computerized rating systems for forecasting the returns of different equity markets, currencies and individual equity securities according to fundamental investment characteristics. The CORE U.S. Equity Funds use one Multifactor Model to forecast the returns of securities held in each Fund's portfolio. The CORE International Equity Fund uses multiple Multifactor Models to forecast returns. Currently, the CORE International Equity Fund uses one model to forecast equity market returns, one model to forecast currency returns and 22 separate models to forecast individual equity security returns in 22 B-8 different countries. Despite this variety, all Multifactor Models incorporate common variables covering measures of value, growth, momentum and risk (e.g., book/price ratio, earnings/price ratio, price momentum, price volatility, consensus growth forecasts, earnings estimate revisions, earnings stability, and, in the case of models for CORE International Equity Fund, currency momentum and country political risk ratings). All of the factors used in the Multifactor Models have been shown to significantly impact the performance of the securities, currencies and markets they were designed to forecast. The weightings assigned to the factors in the Multifactor Model used by the CORE U.S. Equity Funds are derived using a statistical formulation that considers each factor's historical performance in different market environments. As such, the U.S. Multifactor Model is designed to evaluate each security using only the factors that are statistically related to returns in the anticipated market environment. Because they include many disparate factors, the Investment Adviser believes that all the Multifactor Models are broader in scope and provide a more thorough evaluation than most conventional quantitative models. Securities and markets ranked highest by the relevant Multifactor Model do not have one dominant investment characteristic; rather, they possess an attractive combination of investment characteristics. By using a variety of relevant factors to select securities, currencies or markets, the Investment Adviser believes that the Fund will be better balanced and have more consistent performance than an investment portfolio that uses only one or two factors to select such investments. The Investment Adviser will monitor, and may occasionally suggest and make changes to, the method by which securities, currencies or markets are selected for or weighted in a Fund. Such changes (which may be the result of changes in the Multifactor Models or the method of applying the Multifactor Models) may include: (i) evolutionary changes to the structure of the Multifactor Models (e.g., the addition of new factors or a new means of weighting the factors); (ii) changes in trading procedures (e.g., trading frequency or the manner in which a Fund uses futures); or (iii) changes in the method by which securities, currencies or markets are weighted in a Fund. Any such changes will preserve a Fund's basic investment philosophy of combining qualitative and quantitative methods of selecting securities using a disciplined investment process. Research Department. In assigning ratings to equity securities, the Research Department uses a four category rating system ranging from "recommended for purchase" to "likely to under perform." The ratings reflect the analyst's judgment as to the investment results of a specific security and incorporate economic outlook, valuation, risk and a variety of other factors. By employing both a quantitative (i.e., the Multifactor Models) and a qualitative (i.e., research enhanced) method of selecting securities, each CORE Equity Fund seeks to capitalize on the strengths of each discipline. Other Information. Since normal settlement for equity securities is three trading days (for certain international markets settlement may be longer), the Funds will need to hold cash balances to satisfy shareholder redemption requests. Such cash balances will normally range from 2% to 5% of a Fund's net assets. CORE U.S. Equity Fund may enter into futures B-9 transactions only with respect to the S&P 500 Index and the CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Large Cap Value and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds may enter into futures transactions only with respect to a representative index in order to keep a Fund's effective equity exposure close to 100%. CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds may purchase other types of futures contracts. For example, if cash balances are equal to 5% of the net assets, the Fund may enter into long futures contracts covering an amount equal to 5% of the Fund's net assets. As cash balances fluctuate based on new contributions or withdrawals, a Fund may enter into additional contracts or close out existing positions. Actively Managed International Funds. The International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds are managed using an active international approach, which utilizes a consistent process of stock selection undertaken by portfolio management teams located within each of the major investment regions, including Europe, Japan, Asia and the United States. In selecting securities, the Investment Adviser uses a long-term, bottom-up strategy based on first-hand fundamental research that is designed to give broad exposure to the available opportunities while seeking to add return primarily through stock selection. Equity securities for these Funds are evaluated based on three key factors--the business, the management and the valuation. The Investment Adviser ordinarily seeks securities that have, in the Investment Adviser's opinion, superior earnings growth potential, sustainable franchise value with management attuned to creating shareholder value and relatively discounted valuations. In addition, the Investment Adviser uses a multi-factor risk model which seeks to assure that deviations from the benchmark are justifiable. Additional Information About the Balanced Fund - ---------------------------------------------- The investment objective of the Balanced Fund is to provide long-term growth of capital and current income. The Fund seeks growth of capital primarily through investments in equity securities (stocks). The Fund seeks to provide current income through investment in fixed-income securities. The Balanced Fund is intended to provide a foundation on which an investor can build an investment portfolio or to serve as the core of an investment program, depending on the investor's goals. The Balanced Fund is designed for relatively conservative investors who seek a combination of long-term capital growth and current income in a single investment. The Balanced Fund offers a portfolio of equity and fixed-income securities intended to provide less volatility than a portfolio completely invested in equity securities and greater diversification than a portfolio invested in only one asset class. Balanced Fund may be appropriate for people who seek capital appreciation but are concerned about the volatility typically associated with a fund that invests solely in stocks and other equity securities. Fixed-Income Strategies Designed to Maximize Return and Manage Risk. GSAM's approach to managing the fixed-income portion of the Balanced Fund's portfolio seeks to provide high returns relative to a market benchmark, the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index (the "Index"), while also seeking to provide high current income. This approach emphasizes (1) sector allocation strategies which enable GSAM to tactically overweight or underweight one sector of the B-10 fixed-income market (i.e., mortgages, corporate bonds, U.S. Treasuries, non- dollar bonds, emerging market debt) versus another; (2) individual security selection based on identifying relative value (fixed-income securities inexpensive relative to others in their sector); and (3) to a lesser extent, strategies based on GSAM's expectation of the direction of interest rates or the spread between short-term and long-term interest rates such as yield curve strategy. The Index currently includes U.S. Government Securities and fixed-rate, publicly issued, U.S. dollar-denominated fixed income securities rated at least BBB or Baa by a nationally recognized statistical ratings organization ("NRSRO"). The securities currently included in the Index have at least one year remaining to maturity; have an outstanding principal amount of at least $100 million; and are issued by the following types of issuers, with each category receiving a different weighting in the Index: U.S. Treasury; agencies, authorities or instrumentalities of the U.S. government; issuers of mortgage- backed securities; utilities; industrial issuers; financial institutions; foreign issuers; and issuers of asset-backed securities. The Index is a trademark of Lehman Brothers. Inclusion of a security in the Index does not imply an opinion by Lehman Brothers as to its attractiveness or appropriateness for investment. Although Lehman Brothers obtains factual information used in connection with the Index from sources which it considers reliable, Lehman Brothers claims no responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or timeliness or such information and has no liability to any person for any loss arising from results obtained from the use of the Index data. GSAM seeks to manage fixed-income portfolio risk in a number of ways. These include diversifying the fixed-income portion of the Balanced Fund's portfolio among various types of fixed-income securities and utilizing sophisticated quantitative models to understand how the fixed-income portion of the portfolio will perform under a variety of market and economic scenarios. In addition, GSAM uses extensive credit analysis to select and to monitor any investment-grade or non-investment grade bonds that may be included in the Balanced Fund's portfolio. In employing this and other investment strategies, the GSAM team has access to extensive fundamental research and analysis available through Goldman Sachs and a broad range of other sources. A number of investment strategies will be used in selecting fixed-income securities for the Fund's portfolio. GSAM's fixed-income investment philosophy is to actively manage the portfolio within a risk-controlled framework. The Investment Adviser de-emphasizes interest rate anticipation by monitoring the duration of the portfolio within a narrow range of the Investment Adviser's target duration, and instead focuses on seeking to add value through sector selection, security selection and yield curve strategies. Market Sector Selection. Market sector selection is the underweighting or overweighting of one or more market sectors (i.e., U.S. Treasuries, U.S. Government agency securities, corporate securities, mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities). GSAM may decide to overweight or underweight a given market sector or subsector (e.g., within the corporate sector, industrials, financial issuers and utilities) based on, among other things, expectations of future yield spreads between different sectors or subsectors. B-11 Issuer Selection. Issuer selection is the purchase and sale of corporate securities based on a corporation's current and expected credit standing (within the constraints imposed by the Balanced Fund's minimum credit quality requirements). This strategy focuses on four types of investment-grade corporate issuers. Selection of securities from the first type of issuers - those with low but stable credit - is intended to enhance total returns by providing incremental yield. Selecting securities from the second type of issuers - those with low and intermediate but improving credit quality - is intended to enhance total returns in two stages. Initially, these securities are expected to provide incremental yield. Eventually, price appreciation should occur relative to alternative securities as credit quality improves, the NRSROs upgrade credit ratings, and credit spreads narrow. Securities from the third type of issuers - issuers with deteriorating credit quality - will be avoided, since total returns are typically enhanced by avoiding the widening of credit spreads and the consequent relative price depreciation. Finally, total returns can be enhanced by focusing on securities that are rated differently by different rating organizations. If the securities are trading in line with the higher published quality rating while GSAM concurs with the lower published quality rating, the securities would generally be sold and any potential price deterioration avoided. On the other hand, if the securities are trading in line with the lower published quality rating while the higher published quality rating is considered more realistic, the securities may be purchased in anticipation of the expected market reevaluation and relative price appreciation. Yield Curve Strategy. Yield curve strategy consists of overweighting or underweighting different maturity sectors relative to a benchmark to take advantage of the shape of the yield curve. Three alternative maturity sector selections are available: a "barbell" strategy in which short and long maturity sectors are overweighted while intermediate maturity sectors are underweighted; a "bullet" strategy in which, conversely, short-and long-maturity sectors are underweighted while intermediate-maturity sectors are overweighted; and a "neutral yield curve" strategy in which the maturity distribution mirrors that of a benchmark. Additional Information About the International Equity Fund - ---------------------------------------------------------- The International Equity Fund will seek to achieve its investment objective by investing primarily in equity securities of companies that are organized outside the United States or whose securities are principally traded outside the United States. Because research coverage outside the United States is fragmented and relatively unsophisticated, many foreign companies that are well- positioned to grow and prosper have not come to the attention of investors. GSAMI believes that the high historical returns and less efficient pricing of foreign markets create favorable conditions for the International Equity Fund's highly focused investment approach. For a description of the risks of the International Equity Fund's investments in Asia, see "Investing in Emerging Markets, including Asia and Eastern Europe." A Rigorous Process of Stock Selection. Using fundamental industry and company research, GSAMI's equity team in London, Singapore and Tokyo seeks to identify companies that may achieve superior long-term returns. Stocks are carefully selected for the International Equity Fund's portfolio through a three-stage investment process. Because the International Equity Fund is a long-term holder of stocks, the portfolio managers adjust the Fund's portfolio only when expected B-12 returns fall below acceptable levels or when the portfolio managers identify substantially more attractive investments. Using the research of Goldman Sachs as well as information gathered from other sources in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, the Investment Adviser seeks to identify attractive industries around the world. Such industries are expected to have favorable underlying economics and allow companies to generate sustainable and predictable high returns. As a rule, they are less economically sensitive, relatively free of regulation and favor strong franchises. Within these industries the Investment Adviser seeks to identify well-run companies that enjoy a stable competitive advantage and are able to benefit from the favorable dynamics of the industry. This stage includes analyzing the current and expected financial performance of the company; contacting suppliers, customers and competitors; and meeting with management. In particular, the portfolio managers look for companies whose managers have a strong commitment to both maintaining the high returns of the existing business and reinvesting the capital generated at high rates of return. Management should act in the interests of the owners and seek to maximize returns to all stockholders. GSAMI's currency team manages the foreign exchange risk embedded in foreign equities by means of a currency overlay program. The program may be utilized to protect the value of foreign investments in sustained periods of dollar appreciation and to add returns by seeking to take advantage of foreign exchange fluctuations. The members of GSAMI's international equity team bring together years of experience in analyzing and investing in companies in Europe and the Asia- Pacific region. Their expertise spans a wide range of skills including investment analysis, investment management, investment banking and business consulting. GSAMI's worldwide staff of over 300 professionals includes portfolio managers based in London, Singapore and Tokyo who bring firsthand knowledge of their local markets and companies to every investment decision. Corporate Debt Obligations - -------------------------- Each Fund may, under normal market conditions, invest in corporate debt obligations, including obligations of industrial, utility and financial issuers. CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds may only invest in debt securities that are cash equivalents. Corporate debt obligations are subject to the risk of an issuer's inability to meet principal and interest payments on the obligations and may also be subject to price volatility due to such factors as market interest rates, market perception of the creditworthiness of the issuer and general market liquidity. An economic downturn could severely affect the ability of highly leveraged issuers of junk bond securities to service their debt obligations or to repay their obligations upon maturity. Factors having an adverse impact on the market value of junk bonds will have an adverse effect on a Fund's net asset value to the extent it invests in such securities. In addition, a Fund may incur additional B-13 expenses to the extent it is required to seek recovery upon a default in payment of principal or interest on its portfolio holdings. The secondary market for junk bonds, which is concentrated in relatively few market makers, may not be as liquid as the secondary market for more highly rated securities. This reduced liquidity may have an adverse effect on the ability of Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value, Large Cap Value, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds to dispose of a particular security when necessary to meet their redemption requests or other liquidity needs. Under adverse market or economic conditions, the secondary market for junk bonds could contract further, independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer. As a result, the Investment Advisers could find it difficult to sell these securities or may be able to sell the securities only at prices lower than if such securities were widely traded. Prices realized upon the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities, under such circumstances, may be less than the prices used in calculating a Fund's net asset value. Since investors generally perceive that there are greater risks associated with the medium to lower rated securities of the type in which Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value, Large Cap Value, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may invest, the yields and prices of such securities may tend to fluctuate more than those for higher rated securities. In the lower quality segments of the fixed-income securities market, changes in perceptions of issuers' creditworthiness tend to occur more frequently and in a more pronounced manner than do changes in higher quality segments of the fixed-income securities market, resulting in greater yield and price volatility. Another factor which causes fluctuations in the prices of fixed-income securities is the supply and demand for similarly rated securities. In addition, the prices of fixed-income securities fluctuate in response to the general level of interest rates. Fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities subsequent to their acquisition will not affect cash income from such securities but will be reflected in a Fund's net asset value. Medium to lower rated and comparable non-rated securities tend to offer higher yields than higher rated securities with the same maturities because the historical financial condition of the issuers of such securities may not have been as strong as that of other issuers. Since medium to lower rated securities generally involve greater risks of loss of income and principal than higher rated securities, investors should consider carefully the relative risks associated with investment in securities which carry medium to lower ratings and in comparable unrated securities. In addition to the risk of default, there are the related costs of recovery on defaulted issues. The Investment Adviser will attempt to reduce these risks through portfolio diversification and by analysis of each issuer and its ability to make timely payments of income and principal, as well as broad economic trends and corporate developments. B-14 The Investment Adviser employs its own credit research and analysis, which includes a study of existing debt, capital structure, ability to service debt and to pay dividends, the issuer's sensitivity to economic conditions, its operating history and the current trend of earnings. The Investment Adviser continually monitors the investments in a Fund's portfolio and evaluates whether to dispose of or to retain non-investment grade and comparable unrated securities whose credit ratings or credit quality may have changed. U.S. Government Securities - -------------------------- Each Fund may invest in U.S. Government securities. Generally, these securities include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises. U.S. Government securities also include Treasury receipts and other stripped U.S. Government securities, where the interest and principal components of stripped U.S. Government securities are traded independently. A Fund may also invest in zero coupon U.S. Treasury securities and in zero coupon securities issued by financial institutions, which represent a proportionate interest in underlying U.S. Treasury securities. A zero coupon security pays no interest to its holder during its life and its value consists of the difference between its face value at maturity and its cost. The market prices of zero coupon securities generally are more volatile than the market prices of securities that pay interest periodically. Bank Obligations - ---------------- Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. or foreign banks. Bank obligations, including without limitation, time deposits, bankers' acceptances and certificates of deposit, may be general obligations of the parent bank or may be limited to the issuing branch by the terms of the specific obligations or by government regulation. Banks are subject to extensive but different governmental regulations which may limit both the amount and types of loans which may be made and interest rates which may be charged. In addition, the profitability of the banking industry is largely dependent upon the availability and cost of funds for the purpose of financing lending operations under prevailing money market conditions. General economic conditions as well as exposure to credit losses arising from possible financial difficulties of borrowers play an important part in the operation of this industry. Zero Coupon Bonds - ----------------- A Fund's investments in fixed-income securities may include zero coupon bonds, which are debt obligations issued or purchased at a significant discount from face value. The discount approximates the total amount of interest the bonds would have accrued and compounded over the period until maturity. Zero coupon bonds do not require the periodic payment of interest. Such investments benefit the issuer by mitigating its need for cash to meet debt service but also require a higher rate of return to attract investors who are willing to defer receipt of such cash. Such investments may experience greater volatility in market value than debt obligations which provide for regular payments of interest. In addition, if an issuer of zero coupon bonds held by a Fund defaults, the Fund may obtain no return at all on its investment. Each Fund will accrue income on B-15 such investments for each taxable year which (net of deductible expenses, if any) is distributable to shareholders and which, because no cash is generally received at the time of accrual, may require the liquidation of other portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to satisfy the Fund's distribution obligations. Variable and Floating Rate Securities - ------------------------------------- The interest rates payable on certain fixed-income securities in which a Fund may invest are not fixed and may fluctuate based upon changes in market rates. A variable rate obligation has an interest rate which is adjusted at predesignated periods in response to changes in the market rate of interest on which the interest rate is based. Variable and floating rate obligations are less effective than fixed rate instruments at locking in a particular yield. Nevertheless, such obligations may fluctuate in value in response to interest rate changes if there is a delay between changes in market interest rates and the interest reset date for the obligation. Custodial Receipts - ------------------ Each Fund may invest in custodial receipts in respect of securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. Such custodial receipts evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments or both on certain notes or bonds issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies, instrumentalities, political subdivisions or authorities. These custodial receipts are known by various names, including "Treasury Receipts," "Treasury Investors Growth Receipts" ("TIGRs"), and "Certificates of Accrual on Treasury Securities" ("CATs"). For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered U.S. Government securities. Municipal Securities - -------------------- The Balanced Fund may invest in municipal securities. Municipal securities consist of bonds, notes and other instruments issued by or on behalf of states, territories and possessions of the United States (including the District of Columbia) and their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities, the interest on which is exempt from regular federal income tax. Municipal securities are often issued to obtain funds for various public purposes. Municipal securities also include "private activity bonds" or industrial development bonds, which are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to obtain funds for privately operated facilities, such as airports and waste disposal facilities, and, in some cases, commercial and industrial facilities. The yields and market values of municipal securities are determined primarily by the general level of interest rates, the creditworthiness of the issuers of municipal securities and economic and political conditions affecting such issuers. Due to their tax exempt status, the yields and market prices of municipal securities may be adversely affected by changes in tax rates and policies, which may have less effect on the market for taxable fixed-income securities. Moreover, certain types of municipal securities, such as housing revenue bonds, involve prepayment risks which could affect the yield on such securities. The credit rating assigned to municipal securities B-16 may reflect the existence of guarantees, letters of credit or other credit enhancement features available to the issuers or holders of such municipal securities. Investments in municipal securities are subject to the risk that the issuer could default on its obligations. Such a default could result from the inadequacy of the sources or revenues from which interest and principal payments are to be made or the assets collateralizing such obligations. Revenue bonds, including private activity bonds, are backed only by specific assets or revenue sources and not by the full faith and credit of the governmental issuer. Mortgage-Backed Securities - -------------------------- General Characteristics. Each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds) may invest in mortgage-backed securities. Each mortgage pool underlying mortgage-backed securities consists of mortgage loans evidenced by promissory notes secured by first mortgages or first deeds of trust or other similar security instruments creating a first lien on owner occupied and non-owner occupied one-unit to four-unit residential properties, multifamily (i.e., five or more) properties, agriculture properties, commercial properties and mixed use properties (the "Mortgaged Properties"). The Mortgaged Properties may consist of detached individual dwelling units, multifamily dwelling units, individual condominiums, townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, row houses, individual units in planned unit developments and other attached dwelling units. The Mortgaged Properties may also include residential investment properties and second homes. The investment characteristics of adjustable and fixed rate mortgage-backed securities differ from those of traditional fixed-income securities. The major differences include the payment of interest and principal on mortgage-backed securities on a more frequent (usually monthly) schedule, and the possibility that principal may be prepaid at any time due to prepayments on the underlying mortgage loans or other assets. These differences can result in significantly greater price and yield volatility than is the case with traditional fixed- income securities. As a result, if a Fund purchases mortgage-backed securities at a premium, a faster than expected prepayment rate will reduce both the market value and the yield to maturity from those which were anticipated. A prepayment rate that is slower than expected will have the opposite effect of increasing yield to maturity and market value. Conversely, if a Fund purchases mortgage- backed securities at a discount, faster than expected prepayments will increase, while slower than expected prepayments will reduce yield to maturity and market values. To the extent that a Fund invests in mortgage-backed securities, its Investment Adviser may seek to manage these potential risks by investing in a variety of mortgage-backed securities and by using certain hedging techniques. Government Guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities. There are several types of guaranteed mortgage-backed securities currently available, including guaranteed mortgage pass-through certificates and multiple class securities, which include guaranteed Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit Certificates ("REMIC Certificates"), collateralized mortgage obligations and stripped mortgage-backed securities. A Fund is permitted to invest in other types of mortgage- B-17 backed securities that may be available in the future to the extent consistent with its investment policies and objective. A Fund's investments in mortgage-backed securities may include securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or one of its agencies, authorities, instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises, such as the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), the Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac"). Ginnie Mae Certificates. Ginnie Mae is a wholly-owned corporate instrumentality of the United States. Ginnie Mae is authorized to guarantee the timely payment of the principal of and interest on certificates that are based on and backed by a pool of mortgage loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration ("FHA Loans"), or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration ("VA Loans"), or by pools of other eligible mortgage loans. In order to meet its obligations under any guaranty, Ginnie Mae is authorized to borrow from the United States Treasury in an unlimited amount. Fannie Mae Certificates. Fannie Mae is a stockholder-owned corporation chartered under an act of the United States Congress. Each Fannie Mae Certificate is issued and guaranteed by Fannie Mae and represents an undivided interest in a pool of mortgage loans (a "Pool") formed by Fannie Mae. Each Pool consists of residential mortgage loans ("Mortgage Loans") either previously owned by Fannie Mae or purchased by it in connection with the formation of the Pool. The Mortgage Loans may be either conventional Mortgage Loans (i.e., not insured or guaranteed by any U.S. Government agency) or Mortgage Loans that are either insured by the Federal Housing Administration ("FHA") or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration ("VA"). However, the Mortgage Loans in Fannie Mae Pools are primarily conventional Mortgage Loans. The lenders originating and servicing the Mortgage Loans are subject to certain eligibility requirements established by Fannie Mae. Fannie Mae has certain contractual responsibilities. With respect to each Pool, Fannie Mae is obligated to distribute scheduled monthly installments of principal and interest after Fannie Mae's servicing and guaranty fee, whether or not received, to Certificate holders. Fannie Mae also is obligated to distribute to holders of Certificates an amount equal to the full principal balance of any foreclosed Mortgage Loan, whether or not such principal balance is actually recovered. The obligations of Fannie Mae under its guaranty of the Fannie Mae Certificates are obligations solely of Fannie Mae. Freddie Mac Certificates. Freddie Mac is a publicly held U.S. Government sponsored enterprise. The principal activity of Freddie Mac currently is the purchase of first lien, conventional, residential mortgage loans and participation interests in such mortgage loans and their resale in the form of mortgage securities, primarily Freddie Mac Certificates. A Freddie Mac Certificate represents a pro rata interest in a group of mortgage loans or participation in mortgage loans (a "Freddie Mac Certificate group") purchased by Freddie Mac. B-18 Freddie Mac guarantees to each registered holder of a Freddie Mac Certificate the timely payment of interest at the rate provided for by such Freddie Mac Certificate (whether or not received on the underlying loans). Freddie Mac also guarantees to each registered Certificate holder ultimate collection of all principal of the related mortgage loans, without any offset or deduction, but does not, generally, guarantee the timely payment of scheduled principal. The obligations of Freddie Mac under its guaranty of Freddie Mac Certificates are obligations solely of Freddie Mac. The mortgage loans underlying the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae Certificates consist of adjustable rate or fixed rate mortgage loans with original terms to maturity of between five and thirty years. Substantially all of these mortgage loans are secured by first liens on one-to-four-family residential properties or multifamily projects. Each mortgage loan must meet the applicable standards set forth in the law creating Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. A Freddie Mac Certificate group may include whole loans, participation interests in whole loans and undivided interests in whole loans and participations comprising another Freddie Mac Certificate group. Mortgage Pass-Through Securities. Each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds) may invest in both government guaranteed and privately issued mortgage pass-through securities ("Mortgage Pass-Throughs"); that is, fixed or adjustable rate mortgage-backed securities which provide for monthly payments that are a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the pooled mortgage loans, net of any fees or other amounts paid to any guarantor, administrator and/or servicer of the underlying mortgage loans. The following discussion describes only a few of the wide variety of structures of Mortgage Pass-Throughs that are available or may be issued. Description of Certificates. Mortgage Pass-Throughs may be issued in one or more classes of senior certificates and one or more classes of subordinate certificates. Each such class may bear a different pass-through rate. Generally, each certificate will evidence the specified interest of the holder thereof in the payments of principal or interest or both in respect of the mortgage pool comprising part of the trust fund for such certificates. Any class of certificates may also be divided into subclasses entitled to varying amounts of principal and interest. If a REMIC election has been made, certificates of such subclasses may be entitled to payments on the basis of a stated principal balance and stated interest rate, and payments among different subclasses may be made on a sequential, concurrent, pro rata or disproportionate -------- basis, or any combination thereof. The stated interest rate on any such subclass of certificates may be a fixed rate or one which varies in direct or inverse relationship to an objective interest index. Generally, each registered holder of a certificate will be entitled to receive its pro rata share of monthly distributions of all or a portion of -------- principal of the underlying mortgage loans or of interest on the principal balances thereof, which accrues at the applicable mortgage pass-through rate, or both. The difference between the mortgage interest rate and the related mortgage pass- B-19 through rate (less the amount, if any, of retained yield) with respect to each mortgage loan will generally be paid to the servicer as a servicing fee. Since certain adjustable rate mortgage loans included in a mortgage pool may provide for deferred interest (i.e., negative amortization), the amount of interest actually paid by a mortgagor in any month may be less than the amount of interest accrued on the outstanding principal balance of the related mortgage loan during the relevant period at the applicable mortgage interest rate. In such event, the amount of interest that is treated as deferred interest will be added to the principal balance of the related mortgage loan and will be distributed pro rata to certificate-holders as principal of such mortgage loan -------- when paid by the mortgagor in subsequent monthly payments or at maturity. Ratings. The ratings assigned by a rating organization to Mortgage Pass- Throughs address the likelihood of the receipt of all distributions on the underlying mortgage loans by the related certificate-holders under the agreements pursuant to which such certificates are issued. A rating organization's ratings take into consideration the credit quality of the related mortgage pool, including any credit support providers, structural and legal aspects associated with such certificates, and the extent to which the payment stream on such mortgage pool is adequate to make payments required by such certificates. A rating organization's ratings on such certificates do not, however, constitute a statement regarding frequency of prepayments on the related mortgage loans. In addition, the rating assigned by a rating organization to a certificate does not address the remote possibility that, in the event of the insolvency of the issuer of certificates where a subordinated interest was retained, the issuance and sale of the senior certificates may be recharacterized as a financing and, as a result of such recharacterization, payments on such certificates may be affected. Credit Enhancement. Credit support falls generally into two categories: (i) liquidity protection and (ii) protection against losses resulting from default by an obligor on the underlying assets. Liquidity protection refers to the provision of advances, generally by the entity administering the pools of mortgages, the provision of a reserve fund, or a combination thereof, to ensure, subject to certain limitations, that scheduled payments on the underlying pool are made in a timely fashion. Protection against losses resulting from default ensures ultimate payment of the obligations on at least a portion of the assets in the pool. Such credit support can be provided by, among other things, payment guarantees, letters of credit, pool insurance, subordination, or any combination thereof. Subordination; Shifting of Interest; Reserve Fund. In order to achieve ratings on one or more classes of Mortgage Pass-Throughs, one or more classes of certificates may be subordinate certificates which provide that the rights of the subordinate certificate-holders to receive any or a specified portion of distributions with respect to the underlying mortgage loans may be subordinated to the rights of the senior certificate-holders. If so structured, the subordination feature may be enhanced by distributing to the senior certificate- holders on certain distribution dates, as payment of principal, a specified percentage (which generally declines over time) of all principal payments received during the preceding prepayment period ("shifting interest credit enhancement"). This will have the effect of accelerating the amortization of the senior certificates while increasing the interest in the trust fund evidenced by the subordinate certificates. Increasing the interest of the subordinate certificates relative to that of the senior certificates is intended to preserve the availability of the subordination provided by the subordinate certificates. In addition, B-20 because the senior certificate-holders in a shifting interest credit enhancement structure are entitled to receive a percentage of principal prepayments which is greater than their proportionate interest in the trust fund, the rate of principal prepayments on the mortgage loans will have an even greater effect on the rate of principal payments and the amount of interest payments on, and the yield to maturity of, the senior certificates. In addition to providing for a preferential right of the senior certificate-holders to receive current distributions from the mortgage pool, a reserve fund may be established relating to such certificates (the "Reserve Fund"). The Reserve Fund may be created with an initial cash deposit by the originator or servicer and augmented by the retention of distributions otherwise available to the subordinate certificate-holders or by excess servicing fees until the Reserve Fund reaches a specified amount. The subordination feature, and any Reserve Fund, are intended to enhance the likelihood of timely receipt by senior certificate-holders of the full amount of scheduled monthly payments of principal and interest due them and will protect the senior certificate-holders against certain losses; however, in certain circumstances the Reserve Fund could be depleted and temporary shortfalls could result. In the event the Reserve Fund is depleted before the subordinated amount is reduced to zero, senior certificate-holders will nevertheless have a preferential right to receive current distributions from the mortgage pool to the extent of the then outstanding subordinated amount. Unless otherwise specified, until the subordinated amount is reduced to zero, on any distribution date any amount otherwise distributable to the subordinate certificates or, to the extent specified, in the Reserve Fund will generally be used to offset the amount of any losses realized with respect to the mortgage loans ("Realized Losses"). Realized Losses remaining after application of such amounts will generally be applied to reduce the ownership interest of the subordinate certificates in the mortgage pool. If the subordinated amount has been reduced to zero, Realized Losses generally will be allocated pro rata among -------- all certificate-holders in proportion to their respective outstanding interests in the mortgage pool. Alternative Credit Enhancement. As an alternative, or in addition to the credit enhancement afforded by subordination, credit enhancement for Mortgage Pass-Throughs may be provided by mortgage insurance, hazard insurance, by the deposit of cash, certificates of deposit, letters of credit, a limited guaranty or by such other methods as are acceptable to a rating agency. In certain circumstances, such as where credit enhancement is provided by guarantees or a letter of credit, the security is subject to credit risk because of its exposure to an external credit enhancement provider. Voluntary Advances. Generally, in the event of delinquencies in payments on the mortgage loans underlying the Mortgage Pass-Throughs, the servicer agrees to make advances of cash for the benefit of certificate-holders, but only to the extent that it determines such voluntary advances will be recoverable from future payments and collections on the mortgage loans or otherwise. Optional Termination. Generally, the servicer may, at its option with respect to any certificates, repurchase all of the underlying mortgage loans remaining outstanding at such time if B-21 the aggregate outstanding principal balance of such mortgage loans is less than a specified percentage (generally 5-10%) of the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the mortgage loans as of the cut-off date specified with respect to such series. Multiple Class Mortgage-Backed Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. A Fund may invest in multiple class securities including collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") and REMIC Certificates. These securities may be issued by U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities such as Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac or by trusts formed by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, mortgage bankers, commercial banks, insurance companies, investment banks and special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing. In general, CMOs are debt obligations of a legal entity that are collateralized by, and multiple class mortgage-backed securities represent direct ownership interests in, a pool of mortgage loans or mortgage-backed securities the payments on which are used to make payments on the CMOs or multiple class mortgage-backed securities. Fannie Mae REMIC Certificates are issued and guaranteed as to timely distribution of principal and interest by Fannie Mae. In addition, Fannie Mae will be obligated to distribute the principal balance of each class of REMIC Certificates in full, whether or not sufficient funds are otherwise available. Freddie Mac guarantees the timely payment of interest on Freddie Mac REMIC Certificates and also guarantees the payment of principal as payments are required to be made on the underlying mortgage participation certificates ("PCs"). PCs represent undivided interests in specified level payment, residential mortgages or participations therein purchased by Freddie Mac and placed in a PC pool. With respect to principal payments on PCs, Freddie Mac generally guarantees ultimate collection of all principal of the related mortgage loans without offset or deduction. Freddie Mac also guarantees timely payment of principal of certain PCs. CMOs and guaranteed REMIC Certificates issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are types of multiple class mortgage-backed securities. Investors may purchase beneficial interests in REMICs, which are known as "regular" interests or "residual" interests. The Funds do not intend to purchase residual interests in REMICs. The REMIC Certificates represent beneficial ownership interests in a REMIC trust, generally consisting of mortgage loans or Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae guaranteed mortgage-backed securities (the "Mortgage Assets"). The obligations of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac under their respective guaranty of the REMIC Certificates are obligations solely of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, respectively. CMOs and REMIC Certificates are issued in multiple classes. Each class of CMOs or REMIC Certificates, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a specific adjustable or fixed interest rate and must be fully retired no later than its final distribution date. Principal prepayments on the Mortgage Loans or the Mortgage Assets underlying the CMOs or REMIC Certificates may cause some or all of the classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates to be retired substantially earlier than their final distribution dates. Generally, interest is paid or accrues on all classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates on a monthly basis. B-22 The principal of and interest on the Mortgage Assets may be allocated among the several classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates in various ways. In certain structures (known as "sequential pay" CMOs or REMIC Certificates), payments of principal, including any principal prepayments, on the Mortgage Assets generally are applied to the classes of CMOs or REMIC Certificates in the order of their respective final distribution dates. Thus, no payment of principal will be made on any class of sequential pay CMOs or REMIC Certificates until all other classes having an earlier final distribution date have been paid in full. Additional structures of CMOs and REMIC Certificates include, among others, "parallel pay" CMOs and REMIC Certificates. Parallel pay CMOs or REMIC Certificates are those which are structured to apply principal payments and prepayments of the Mortgage Assets to two or more classes concurrently on a proportionate or disproportionate basis. These simultaneous payments are taken into account in calculating the final distribution date of each class. A wide variety of REMIC Certificates may be issued in parallel pay or sequential pay structures. These securities include accrual certificates (also known as "Z-Bonds"), which only accrue interest at a specified rate until all other certificates having an earlier final distribution date have been retired and are converted thereafter to an interest-paying security, and planned amortization class ("PAC") certificates, which are parallel pay REMIC Certificates that generally require that specified amounts of principal be applied on each payment date to one or more classes or REMIC Certificates (the "PAC Certificates"), even though all other principal payments and prepayments of the Mortgage Assets are then required to be applied to one or more other classes of the PAC Certificates. The scheduled principal payments for the PAC Certificates generally have the highest priority on each payment date after interest due has been paid to all classes entitled to receive interest currently. Shortfalls, if any, are added to the amount payable on the next payment date. The PAC Certificate payment schedule is taken into account in calculating the final distribution date of each class of PAC. In order to create PAC tranches, one or more tranches generally must be created that absorb most of the volatility in the underlying mortgage assets. These tranches tend to have market prices and yields that are much more volatile than other PAC classes. Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Balanced Fund may invest in stripped mortgage-backed securities ("SMBS"), which are derivative multiclass mortgage securities. Although the market for such securities is increasingly liquid, certain SMBS may not be readily marketable and will be considered illiquid for purposes of the Fund's limitation on investments in illiquid securities. The market value of the class consisting entirely of principal payments generally is unusually volatile in response to changes in interest rates. The yields on a class of SMBS that receives all or most of the interest from Mortgage Assets are generally higher than prevailing market yields on other mortgage-backed securities because their cash flow patterns are more volatile and there is a greater risk that the initial investment will not be fully recouped. Inverse Floating Rate Securities - -------------------------------- The Balanced Fund may invest in leveraged inverse floating rate debt instruments ("inverse floaters"). The interest rate on an inverse floater resets in the opposite direction from the market B-23 rate of interest to which the inverse floater is indexed. An inverse floater may be considered to be leveraged to the extent that its interest rate varies by a magnitude that exceeds the magnitude of the change in the index rate of interest. The higher degree of leverage inherent in inverse floaters is associated with greater volatility in their market values. Accordingly, the duration of an inverse floater may exceed its stated final maturity. Certain inverse floaters may be deemed to be illiquid securities for purposes of each Fund's 15% limitation on investments in such securities. Asset-Backed Securities - ----------------------- Each Fund (except the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds) may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities represent participation in, or are secured by and payable from, assets such as motor vehicle installment sales, installment loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property, receivables from revolving credit (credit card) agreements and other categories of receivables. Such assets are securitized through the use of trusts and special purpose corporations. Payments or distributions of principal and interest may be guaranteed up to certain amounts and for a certain time period by a letter of credit or a pool insurance policy issued by a financial institution unaffiliated with the trust or corporation, or other credit enhancements may be present. Like mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities are often subject to more rapid repayment than their stated maturity date would indicate as a result of the pass-through of prepayments of principal on the underlying loans. A Fund's ability to maintain positions in such securities will be affected by reductions in the principal amount of such securities resulting from prepayments, and its ability to reinvest the returns of principal at comparable yields is subject to generally prevailing interest rates at that time. To the extent that a Fund invests in asset-backed securities, the values of such Fund's portfolio securities will vary with changes in market interest rates generally and the differentials in yields among various kinds of asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities present certain additional risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities because asset-backed securities generally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. Credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors on such receivables are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which give such debtors the right to set-off certain amounts owed on the credit cards, thereby reducing the balance due. Automobile receivables generally are secured, but by automobiles rather than residential real property. Most issuers of automobile receivables permit the loan servicers to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the asset-backed securities. In addition, because of the large number of vehicles involved in a typical issuance and technical requirements under state laws, the trustee for the holders of the automobile receivables may not have a proper security interest in the underlying automobiles. Therefore, there is the possibility that, in some cases, recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on these securities. B-24 Loan Participations - ------------------- The Balanced Fund may invest in loan participations. Such loans must be to issuers in whose obligations Balanced Fund may invest. A loan participation is an interest in a loan to a U.S. or foreign company or other borrower which is administered and sold by a financial intermediary. In a typical corporate loan syndication, a number of lenders, usually banks (co-lenders), lend a corporate borrower a specified sum pursuant to the terms and conditions of a loan agreement. One of the co-lenders usually agrees to act as the agent bank with respect to the loan. Participation interests acquired by the Balanced Fund may take the form of a direct or co-lending relationship with the corporate borrower, an assignment of an interest in the loan by a co-lender or another participant, or a participation in the seller's share of the loan. When the Balanced Fund acts as co-lender in connection with a participation interest or when the Balanced Fund acquires certain participation interests, the Balanced Fund will have direct recourse against the borrower if the borrower fails to pay scheduled principal and interest. In cases where the Balanced Fund lacks direct recourse, it will look to the agent bank to enforce appropriate credit remedies against the borrower. In these cases, the Balanced Fund may be subject to delays, expenses and risks that are greater than those that would have been involved if the Fund had purchased a direct obligation (such as commercial paper) of such borrower. For example, in the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of the corporate borrower, a loan participation may be subject to certain defenses by the borrower as a result of improper conduct by the agent bank. Moreover, under the terms of the loan participation, the Balanced Fund may be regarded as a creditor of the agent bank (rather than of the underlying corporate borrower), so that the Balanced Fund may also be subject to the risk that the agent bank may become insolvent. The secondary market, if any, for these loan participations is limited and any loan participations purchased by the Balanced Fund will be regarded as illiquid. For purposes of certain investment limitations pertaining to diversification of the Balanced Fund's portfolio investments, the issuer of a loan participation will be the underlying borrower. However, in cases where the Balanced Fund does not have recourse directly against the borrower, both the borrower and each agent bank and co-lender interposed between the Balanced Fund and the borrower will be deemed issuers of a loan participation. Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts - -------------------------------------------------- Each Fund may purchase and sell futures contracts and may also purchase and write options on futures contracts. The CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds may only enter into such transactions with respect to a representative index. The CORE U.S. Equity Fund may enter into futures transactions only with respect to the S&P 500 Index. The other Funds may purchase and sell futures contracts based on various securities (such as U.S. Government securities), securities indices, foreign currencies and other financial instruments and indices. Each Fund will engage in futures and related options transactions only for bona fide hedging purposes as defined below or for purposes of seeking to increase total return to the extent permitted by regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). Futures contracts entered into by a Fund are traded on U.S. exchanges or boards of trade that are licensed B-25 and regulated by the CFTC or on foreign exchanges. Neither the CFTC, National Futures Association nor any domestic exchange regulates activities of any foreign exchange or boards of trade, including the execution, delivery and clearing of transactions, or has the power to compel enforcement of the rules of a foreign exchange or board of trade or any applicable foreign law. This is true even if the exchange is formally linked to a domestic market so that a position taken on the market may be liquidated by a transaction on another market. Moreover, such laws or regulations will vary depending on the foreign country in which the foreign futures or foreign options transaction occurs. For these reasons, persons who trade foreign futures or foreign options contracts may not be afforded certain of the protective measures provided by the Commodity Exchange Act, the CFTC's regulations and the rules of the National Futures Association and any domestic exchange, including the right to use reparations proceedings before the CFTC and arbitration proceedings provided by the National Futures Association or any domestic futures exchange. In particular, a Fund's investments in foreign futures or foreign options transactions may not be provided the same protections in respect of transactions on United States futures exchanges. Futures Contracts. A futures contract may generally be described as an agreement between two parties to buy and sell particular financial instruments for an agreed price during a designated month (or to deliver the final cash settlement price, in the case of a contract relating to an index or otherwise not calling for physical delivery at the end of trading in the contract). When interest rates are rising or securities prices are falling, a Fund can seek through the sale of futures contracts to offset a decline in the value of its current portfolio securities. When rates are falling or prices are rising, a Fund, through the purchase of futures contracts, can attempt to secure better rates or prices than might later be available in the market when it effects anticipated purchases. Similarly, each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) can purchase and sell futures contracts on a specified currency in order to seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in currency exchange rates. Each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) can purchase futures contracts on foreign currency to establish the price in U.S. dollars of a security quoted or denominated in such currency that such Fund has acquired or expects to acquire. The Balanced Fund may also use futures contracts to manage the term structure and duration of its fixed-income securities holdings in accordance with that Fund's investment objectives and policies. Positions taken in the futures market are not normally held to maturity, but are instead liquidated through offsetting transactions which may result in a profit or a loss. While each Fund will usually liquidate futures contracts on securities or currency in this manner, a Fund may instead make or take delivery of the underlying securities or currency whenever it appears economically advantageous for the Fund to do so. A clearing corporation associated with the exchange on which futures are traded guarantees that, if still open, the sale or purchase will be performed on the settlement date. Hedging Strategies. Hedging, by use of futures contracts, seeks to establish with more certainty than would otherwise be possible the effective price, rate of return or currency exchange rate on portfolio securities or securities that a Fund owns or proposes to acquire. A Fund may, for B-26 example, take a "short" position in the futures market by selling futures contracts to seek to hedge against an anticipated rise in interest rates or a decline in market prices or (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, the CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) foreign currency rates that would adversely affect the dollar value of such Fund's portfolio securities. Similarly, each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) may sell futures contracts on a currency in which its portfolio securities are quoted or denominated or in one currency to seek to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities quoted or denominated in a different currency if there is an established historical pattern of correlation between the two currencies. If, in the opinion of the applicable Investment Adviser, there is a sufficient degree of correlation between price trends for a Fund's portfolio securities and futures contracts based on other financial instruments, securities indices or other indices, a Fund may also enter into such futures contracts as part of its hedging strategy. Although under some circumstances prices of securities in a Fund's portfolio may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the Investment Advisers will attempt to estimate the extent of this volatility difference based on historical patterns and compensate for any such differential by having a Fund enter into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by attempting to achieve only a partial hedge against price changes affecting a Fund's securities portfolio. When hedging of this character is successful, any depreciation in the value of portfolio securities will be substantially offset by appreciation in the value of the futures position. On the other hand, any unanticipated appreciation in the value of a Fund's portfolio securities would be substantially offset by a decline in the value of the futures position. On other occasions, a Fund may take a "long" position by purchasing such futures contracts. This may be done, for example, when a Fund anticipates the subsequent purchase of particular securities when it has the necessary cash, but expects the prices or currency exchange rates then available in the applicable market to be less favorable than prices or rates that are currently available. Options on Futures Contracts. The acquisition of put and call options on futures contracts will give a Fund the right (but not the obligation), for a specified price, to sell or to purchase, respectively, the underlying futures contract at any time during the option period. As the purchaser of an option on a futures contract, a Fund obtains the benefit of the futures position if prices move in a favorable direction but limits its risk of loss in the event of an unfavorable price movement to the loss of the premium and transaction costs. The writing of a call option on a futures contract generates a premium which may partially offset a decline in the value of a Fund's assets. By writing a call option, a Fund becomes obligated, in exchange for the premium, to sell a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value higher than the exercise price. Conversely, the writing of a put option on a futures contract generates a premium, which may partially offset an increase in the price of securities that a Fund intends to purchase. However, a Fund becomes obligated to purchase a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value lower than the exercise price. Thus, the loss incurred by a Fund in writing options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. A Fund will incur transaction costs in connection with the writing of options on futures. B-27 The holder or writer of an option on a futures contract may terminate its position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option on the same financial instrument. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected. A Fund's ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid market. Other Considerations. Each Fund will engage in futures transactions and will engage in related options transactions only for bona fide hedging as defined in the regulations of the CFTC or to seek to increase total return to the extent permitted by such regulations. In addition to bona fide hedging, a CFTC regulation permits a Fund to engage in other future transactions if the aggregate initial margin and premiums required to establish such positions in futures contracts and options on futures do not exceed 5% of the net asset value of such Fund's portfolio, after taking into account unrealized profits and losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which such options were in-the-money at the time of purchase. A Fund will engage in transactions in futures contracts and related options transactions only to the extent such transactions are consistent with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended (the "Code") for maintaining its qualification as a regulated investment company for federal income tax purposes. Transactions in futures contracts and options on futures involve brokerage costs, require margin deposits and, in certain cases, require the Fund to segregate with its custodian cash or liquid assets in an amount equal to the underlying value of such contracts and options. While transactions in futures contracts and options on futures may reduce certain risks, such transactions themselves entail certain other risks. Thus, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance for a Fund than if it had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. In the event of an imperfect correlation between a futures position and a portfolio position which is intended to be protected, the desired protection may not be obtained and a Fund may be exposed to risk of loss. Perfect correlation between a Fund's futures positions and portfolio positions will be difficult to achieve because no futures contracts based on individual equity or corporate fixed-income securities are currently available. In addition, it is not possible for a Fund to hedge fully or perfectly against currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities quoted or denominated in foreign currencies because the value of such securities is likely to fluctuate as a result of independent factors not related to currency fluctuations. The profitability of a Fund's trading in futures depends upon the ability of the Investment Adviser to analyze correctly the futures markets. Options on Securities and Securities Indices - -------------------------------------------- Writing Covered Options. Each Fund may write (sell) covered call and put options on any securities in which it may invest. A call option written by a Fund obligates such Fund to sell specified securities to the holder of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. All call options written by a Fund are covered, which means that B-28 such Fund will own the securities subject to the option as long as the option is outstanding or such Fund will use the other methods described below. A Fund's purpose in writing covered call options is to realize greater income than would be realized on portfolio securities transactions alone. However, a Fund may forego the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the underlying security. A put option written by a Fund would obligate such Fund to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. All put options written by a Fund would be covered, which means that such Fund will segregate cash or liquid assets with a value at least equal to the exercise price of the put option or will use the other methods described below. The purpose of writing such options is to generate additional income for the Fund. However, in return for the option premium, each Fund accepts the risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying securities at a price in excess of the securities' market value at the time of purchase. Call and put options written by a Fund will also be considered to be covered to the extent that the Fund's liabilities under such options are wholly or partially offset by its rights under call and put options purchased by the Fund or by an offsetting forward contract which, by virtue of its exercise price or otherwise, reduces a Fund's net exposure on its written option position. A Fund may also write (sell) covered call and put options on any securities index consisting of securities in which it may invest. Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather than price fluctuations in a single security. A Fund may cover call options on a securities index by owning securities whose price changes are expected to be similar to those of the underlying index, or by having an absolute and immediate right to acquire such securities without additional cash consideration (or for additional cash consideration which has been segregated by the Fund) upon conversion or exchange of other securities in its portfolio. A Fund may cover call and put options on a securities index by segregating cash or liquid assets with a value equal to the exercise price. A Fund may terminate its obligations under an exchange traded call or put option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Obligations under over-the-counter options may be terminated only by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparty to such option. Such purchases are referred to as "closing purchase transactions." Purchasing Options. Each Fund may purchase put and call options on any securities in which it may invest or options on any securities index composed of securities in which it may invest. A Fund would also be able to enter into closing sale transactions in order to realize gains or minimize losses on options it had purchased. B-29 A Fund may purchase call options in anticipation of an increase in the market value of securities of the type in which it may invest. The purchase of a call option would entitle a Fund, in return for the premium paid, to purchase specified securities at a specified price during the option period. A Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of such securities exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs; otherwise such a Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option. A Fund may purchase put options in anticipation of a decline in the market value of securities in its portfolio ("protective puts") or in securities in which it may invest. The purchase of a put option would entitle a Fund, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell specified securities at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of a Fund's securities. Put options may also be purchased by a Fund for the purpose of affirmatively benefiting from a decline in the price of securities which it does not own. A Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying securities decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to more than cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise such a Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of protective put options would tend to be offset by countervailing changes in the value of the underlying portfolio securities. A Fund would purchase put and call options on securities indices for the same purposes as it would purchase options on individual securities. For a description of options on securities indices, see "Writing Covered Options" above. Yield Curve Options. The Balanced Fund may enter into options on the yield "spread" or differential between two securities. Such transactions are referred to as "yield curve" options. In contrast to other types of options, a yield curve option is based on the difference between the yields of designated securities, rather than the prices of the individual securities, and is settled through cash payments. Accordingly, a yield curve option is profitable to the holder if this differential widens (in the case of a call) or narrows (in the case of a put), regardless of whether the yields of the underlying securities increase or decrease. The Balanced Fund may purchase or write yield curve options for the same purposes as other options on securities. For example, the Fund may purchase a call option on the yield spread between two securities if it owns one of the securities and anticipates purchasing the other security and wants to hedge against an adverse change in the yield spread between the two securities. The Balanced Fund may also purchase or write yield curve options in an effort to increase current income if, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, the Fund will be able to profit from movements in the spread between the yields of the underlying securities. The trading of yield curve options is subject to all of the risks associated with the trading of other types of options. In addition, however, such options present risk of loss even if the yield of one of the underlying securities remains constant, if the spread moves in a direction or to an extent which was not anticipated. B-30 Yield curve options written by the Balanced Fund will be "covered." A call (or put) option is covered if the Fund holds another call (or put) option on the spread between the same two securities and segregates cash or liquid assets sufficient to cover the Fund's net liability under the two options. Therefore, the Fund's liability for such a covered option is generally limited to the difference between the amount of such Fund's liability under the option written by the Fund less the value of the option held by the Fund. Yield curve options may also be covered in such other manner as may be in accordance with the requirements of the counterparty with which the option is traded and applicable laws and regulations. Yield curve options are traded over-the-counter, and because they have been only recently introduced, established trading markets for these options have not yet developed. Risks Associated with Options Transactions. There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an options exchange will exist for any particular exchange-traded option or at any particular time. If a Fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options it has written, the Fund will not be able to sell the underlying securities or dispose of segregated assets until the options expire or are exercised. Similarly, if a Fund is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it will have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities. Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options Clearing Corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would cease to exist, although outstanding options on that exchange that had been issued by the Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms. Each Fund may purchase and sell both options that are traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges and options traded over-the-counter with broker-dealers who make markets in these options. The ability to terminate over-the-counter options is more limited than with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that broker-dealers participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations. Transactions by each Fund in options on securities and indices will be subject to limitations established by each of the exchanges, boards of trade or other trading facilities governing the maximum number of options in each class which may be written or purchased by a single investor or group of investors acting in concert. Thus, the number of options which a Fund may write or purchase may be affected by options written or purchased by other investment advisory clients of the Investment Advisers. An exchange, board of trade or other trading facility may order the B-31 liquidation of positions found to be in excess of these limits, and it may impose certain other sanctions. The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The use of options to seek to increase total return involves the risk of loss if the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of fluctuations in securities prices or interest rates. The successful use of options for hedging purposes also depends in part on the ability of the Investment Adviser to manage future price fluctuations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities markets. If the Investment Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of changes in securities prices or determination of the correlation between the securities indices on which options are written and purchased and the securities in a Fund's investment portfolio, the investment performance of the Fund will be less favorable than it would have been in the absence of such options transactions. The writing of options could increase a Fund's portfolio turnover rate and, therefore, associated brokerage commissions or spreads. Real Estate Investment Trusts - ----------------------------- Each Fund may invest in shares of REITs. REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate or real estate related loans or interest. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real property and derive income primarily from the collection of rents. Equity REITs can also realize capital gains by selling properties that have appreciated in value. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and derive income from the collection of interest payments. Like regulated investment companies such as the Funds, REITs are not taxed on income distributed to shareholders provided they comply with certain requirements under the Code. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by REITs in which it invests in addition to the expenses paid by a Fund. Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by such REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, are not diversified (except to the extent the Code requires), and are subject to the risks of financing projects. REITs are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers, self- liquidation, and the possibilities of failing to qualify for the exemption from tax for distributed income under the Code and failing to maintain their exemptions from the Act. REITs (especially mortgage REITs) are also subject to interest rate risks. Warrants and Stock Purchase Rights - ---------------------------------- Each Fund may invest in warrants or rights (in addition to those acquired in units or attached to other securities) which entitle the holder to buy equity securities at a specific price for a specific period of time. A Fund will invest in warrants and rights only if such equity securities are deemed appropriate by the Investment Adviser for investment by the Fund. The CORE Large Cap B-32 Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds have no present intention of acquiring warrants or rights. Warrants and rights have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer. Foreign Securities - ------------------ Each Fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers. The Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds may invest in the aggregate up to 10%, 25%, 10%, 10%, 10%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively, of their total assets in foreign securities. The CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Fund will invest primarily in foreign securities under normal circumstances. With respect to the CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Large Cap Value and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds, equity securities of foreign issuers must be traded in the United States. Investments in foreign securities may offer potential benefits not available from investments solely in U.S. dollar-denominated or quoted securities of domestic issuers. Such benefits may include the opportunity to invest in foreign issuers that appear, in the opinion of the applicable Investment Adviser, to offer the potential for long-term growth of capital and income, the opportunity to invest in foreign countries with economic policies or business cycles different from those of the United States and the opportunity to reduce fluctuations in portfolio value by taking advantage of foreign stock markets that do not necessarily move in a manner parallel to U.S. markets. Investing in foreign securities involves certain special risks, including those set forth below, which are not typically associated with investing in U.S. dollar-denominated or quoted securities of U.S. issuers. Investments in foreign securities usually involve currencies of foreign countries. Accordingly, any Fund that invests in foreign securities may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in currency rates and in exchange control regulations and may incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies. The Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE International Equity, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, International Equity, Small Cap Value, Large Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may be subject to currency exposure independent of their securities positions. To the extent that a Fund is fully invested in foreign securities while also maintaining currency positions, it may be exposed to greater combined risk. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time. They generally are determined by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets and the relative merits of investments in different countries, actual or anticipated changes in interest rates and other complex factors, as seen from an international perspective. Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by intervention by U.S. or foreign governments or central banks B-33 or the failure to intervene or by currency controls or political developments in the United States or abroad. Since foreign issuers generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than about a U.S. company. Volume and liquidity in most foreign securities markets are less than in the United States and securities of many foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Fixed commissions on foreign securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S. exchanges, although each Fund endeavors to achieve the most favorable net results on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities exchanges, brokers, dealers and listed and unlisted companies than in the United States. Foreign markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Such delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when some of a Fund's assets are uninvested and no return is earned on such assets. The inability of a Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio securities or, if the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the securities, could result in possible liability to the purchaser. In addition, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments which could affect a Fund's investments in those countries. Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Each Fund may invest in foreign securities which take the form of sponsored and unsponsored American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs") and (except for the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) may also invest in European Depository Receipts ("EDRs") or other similar instruments representing securities of foreign issuers (together, "Depository Receipts"). ADRs represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a correspondent bank. ADRs are traded on domestic exchanges or in the U.S. over-the-counter market and, generally, are in registered form. EDRs and GDRs are receipts evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank similar to that for ADRs and are designed for use in the non-U.S. securities markets. EDRs and GDRs are not necessarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. To the extent a Fund acquires Depository Receipts through banks which do not have a contractual relationship with the foreign issuer of the security underlying the Depository Receipts B-34 to issue and service such Depository Receipts (unsponsored), there may be an increased possibility that the Fund would not become aware of and be able to respond to corporate actions such as stock splits or rights offerings involving the foreign issuer in a timely manner. In addition, the lack of information may result in inefficiencies in the valuation of such instruments. Investment in Depository Receipts does not eliminate all the risks inherent in investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers. The market value of Depository Receipts is dependent upon the market value of the underlying securities and fluctuations in the relative value of the currencies in which the Depository receipts and the underlying securities are quoted. However, by investing in Depository Receipts, such as ADRs, that are quoted in U.S. dollars, a Fund may avoid currency risks during the settlement period for purchases and sales. As described more fully below, each Fund (except the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) may invest in countries with emerging economies or securities markets. Political and economic structures in many of such countries may be undergoing significant evolution and rapid development, and such countries may lack the social, political and economic stability characteristic of more developed countries. Certain of such countries may have in the past failed to recognize private property rights and have at times nationalized or expropriated the assets of private companies. As a result, the risks described above, including the risks of nationalization or expropriation of assets, may be heightened. See "Investing in Emerging Markets, including Asia and Eastern Europe," below. Investing in Emerging Countries, including Asia and Eastern Europe. CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Asia Growth and Emerging Markets Equity Funds are intended for long-term investors who can accept the risks associated with investing primarily in equity and equity-related securities of foreign issuers, including emerging country issuers, as well as the risks associated with investments quoted or denominated in foreign currencies. The Balanced, Growth and Income, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value and Small Cap Value Funds may invest, to a lesser extent, in equity and equity-related securities of foreign issuers, including emerging country issuers. Each of the securities markets of the emerging countries is less liquid and subject to greater price volatility and has a smaller market capitalization than the U.S. securities markets. Issuers and securities markets in such countries are not subject to as extensive and frequent accounting, financial and other reporting requirements or as comprehensive government regulations as are issuers and securities markets in the U.S. In particular, the assets and profits appearing on the financial statements of emerging country issuers may not reflect their financial position or results of operations in the same manner as financial statements for U.S. issuers. Substantially less information may be publicly available about emerging country issuers than is available about issuers in the United States. Emerging country securities markets are typically marked by a high concentration of market capitalization and trading volume in a small number of issuers representing a limited number of industries, as well as a high concentration of ownership of such securities by a limited number of investors. The markets for securities in certain emerging countries are in the earliest stages of their B-35 development. Even the markets for relatively widely traded securities in emerging countries may not be able to absorb, without price disruptions, a significant increase in trading volume or trades of a size customarily undertaken by institutional investors in the securities markets of developed countries. The limited size of many of these securities markets can cause prices to be erratic for reasons apart from factors that affect the soundness and competitiveness of the securities issuers. For example, prices may be unduly influenced by traders who control large positions in these markets. Additionally, market making and arbitrage activities are generally less extensive in such markets, which may contribute to increased volatility and reduced liquidity of such markets. The limited liquidity of emerging country markets may also affect a Fund's ability to accurately value its portfolio securities or to acquire or dispose of securities at the price and time it wishes to do so or in order to meet redemption requests. Transaction costs, including brokerage commissions or dealer mark-ups, in emerging countries may be higher than in the United States and other developed securities markets. In addition, existing laws and regulations are often inconsistently applied. As legal systems in emerging countries develop, foreign investors may be adversely affected by new or amended laws and regulations. In circumstances where adequate laws exist, it may not be possible to obtain swift and equitable enforcement of the law. Foreign investment in the securities markets of certain emerging countries is restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions may limit a Fund's investment in certain emerging countries and may increase the expenses of the Fund. Certain emerging countries require governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a specific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of the company available for purchase by nationals. In addition, the repatriation of both investment income and capital from several of the emerging countries is subject to restrictions which require governmental consents or prohibit repatriation entirely for a period of time. Even where there is no outright restriction on repatriation of capital, the mechanics of repatriation may affect certain aspects of the operation of a Fund. A Fund may be required to establish special custodial or other arrangements before investing in certain emerging countries. Each of the emerging countries may be subject to a substantially greater degree of economic, political and social instability and disruption than is the case in the United States, Japan and most Western European countries. This instability may result from, among other things, the following: (i) authoritarian governments or military involvement in political and economic decision making, including changes or attempted changes in governments through extra-constitutional means; (ii) popular unrest associated with demands for improved political, economic or social conditions; (iii) internal insurgencies; (iv) hostile relations with neighboring countries; (v) ethnic, religious and racial disaffection or conflict; and (vi) the absence of developed legal structures governing foreign private investments and private property. Such economic, political and social instability could disrupt the principal financial markets in which the Funds may invest and adversely affect the value of the Funds' assets. A Fund's investments could in the future be adversely affected by any increase in taxes or by political, economic or diplomatic developments. Certain Funds may seek investment opportunities within former "east bloc" countries in Eastern B-36 Europe. See "Fund Investment Objectives and Strategies" in the prospectus. All or a substantial portion of such investments may be considered "not readily marketable" for purposes of the limitation set forth below. For example, most Eastern European countries have had a centrally planned, socialist economy since shortly after World War II. The governments of a number of Eastern European countries currently are implementing reforms directed at political and economic liberalization, including efforts to decentralize the economic decision-making process and move towards a market economy. However, business entities in many Eastern European countries do not have any recent history of operating in a market-oriented economy, and the ultimate impact of Eastern European countries' attempts to move toward more market-oriented economies is currently unclear. In addition, any change in the leadership or policies of Eastern European countries may halt the expansion of or reverse the liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect existing investment opportunities. The economies of emerging countries may differ unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross domestic product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resources, self-sufficiency and balance of payments. Many emerging countries have experienced in the past, and continue to experience, high rates of inflation. In certain countries inflation has at times accelerated rapidly to hyperinflationary levels, creating a negative interest rate environment and sharply eroding the value of outstanding financial assets in those countries. The economies of many emerging countries are heavily dependent upon international trade and are accordingly affected by protective trade barriers and the economic conditions of their trading partners. In addition, the economies of some emerging countries are vulnerable to weakness in world prices for their commodity exports. A Fund's income and, in some cases, capital gains from foreign stocks and securities will be subject to applicable taxation in certain of the countries in which it invests, and treaties between the U.S. and such countries may not be available in some cases to reduce the otherwise applicable tax rates. See "Taxation." Foreign markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Such delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of a Fund remain uninvested and no return is earned on such assets. The inability of a Fund to make intended security purchases or sales due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio securities or, if the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the securities, could result in possible liability to the purchaser. Investing in Japan. The Japanese Equity Fund invests in the equity securities of Japanese companies. Japan's economy, the second largest in the world, has grown substantially over the last three decades. The boom in Japan's equity and property markets during the expansion of the late 1980's supported high rates of investment and consumer spending on durable goods, but both of these components of demand have since retreated sharply following the decline in asset prices. Japan's economic growth in the 1990's has been substantially below the levels of earlier decades. Its economy has drifted between modest growth and recession. Profits have fallen sharply, B-37 unemployment has reached a historical high and consumer confidence is low. The banking sector continues to suffer from non-performing loans and this economy is subject to deflationary pressures. Numerous discount-rate cuts since its peak in 1991, a succession of fiscal stimulus packages, support plans for the debt- burdened financial system and spending for reconstruction following the Kobe earthquake may help to contain the recessionary forces, but substantial uncertainties remain. In calendar year 1998, Japan's gross national product contracted by 2.8%, its worse performance in the post-war period. In addition to the cyclical downturn, Japan is suffering through structural adjustments. Like the Europeans, the Japanese have seen a deterioration of their competitiveness due to high wages, a strong currency and structural rigidities. Finally, Japan is reforming its political process and deregulating its economy. This has brought about turmoil, uncertainty and a crisis of confidence. While the Japanese governmental system itself seems stable, the dynamics of the country's politics have been unpredictable in recent years. The economic crisis of 1990-92 brought the downfall of the conservative Liberal Democratic Party, which had ruled since 1955. Since then, the country has seen a series of unstable multi-party coalitions and several prime ministers come and go, because of politics as well as personal scandals. With the pending formation of a three-party coalition government, the political environment appears to be in the process of stabilizing. However, should the political instability continue, efforts to establish effective economic and fiscal policies may be hampered. Future political developments may lead to changes in policy that might adversely affect the Fund's investments. Japan's heavy dependence on international trade has been adversely affected by trade tariffs and other protectionist measures as well as the economic condition of its trading partners. While Japan subsidizes its agricultural industry, only 19% of its land is suitable for cultivation and it is only 50% self-sufficient in food production. Accordingly, it is highly dependent on large imports of wheat, sorghum and soybeans. In addition, its export industry, its most important economic sector, depends on imported raw materials and fuels, including iron ore, copper, oil and many forest products. Japan's high volume of exports, such as automobiles, machine tools and semiconductors, has caused trade tensions, particularly with the United States. Some trade agreements, however, have been implemented to reduce these tensions. The relaxing of official and de facto barriers to imports, or hardships created by any pressures brought by trading partners, could adversely affect Japan's economy. A substantial rise in world oil or commodity prices could also have a negative affect. The Japanese Yen has fluctuated widely over the last year. As of September 1999, the Yen had restrengthened. The strength of the yen itself may prove an impediment to strong continued exports and economic recovery, because it makes Japanese goods sold in other countries more expensive and reduces the value of foreign earnings repatriated to Japan. Because the Japanese economy is so dependent on exports, any fall-off in exports may be seen as a sign of economic weakness, which may adversely affect the market. Geologically, Japan is located in a volatile area of the world, and has historically been vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes and other natural disasters. As demonstrated by the Kobe earthquake in January of 1995, in which 5,000 people were killed and billions of dollars of damage was sustained, these natural disasters can be significant enough to affect the country's economy. B-38 Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts. The Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Capital Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts for hedging purposes and to seek to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates. The Balanced, CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts for hedging purposes and to seek to increase total return. A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. These contracts are traded in the interbank market between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are generally charged at any stage for trades. At the maturity of a forward contract a Fund may either accept or make delivery of the currency specified in the contract or, at or prior to maturity, enter into a closing transaction involving the purchase or sale of an offsetting contract. Closing transactions with respect to forward contracts are often, but not always, effected with the currency trader who is a party to the original forward contract. A Fund may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts in several circumstances. First, when a Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security denominated or quoted in a foreign currency, or when a Fund anticipates the receipt in a foreign currency of dividend or interest payments on such a security which it holds, the Fund may desire to "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of the security or the U.S. dollar equivalent of such dividend or interest payment, as the case may be. By entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale, for a fixed amount of dollars, of the amount of foreign currency involved in the underlying transactions, the Fund will attempt to protect itself against an adverse change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the subject foreign currency during the period between the date on which the security is purchased or sold, or on which the dividend or interest payment is declared, and the date on which such payments are made or received. Additionally, when the Investment Adviser believes that the currency of a particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S. dollar, it may enter into a forward contract to sell, for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars, the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of such Fund's portfolio securities quoted or denominated in such foreign currency. The precise matching of the forward contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible because the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities between the date on which the contract is entered into and the date it matures. Using forward contracts to protect the value of a Fund's portfolio securities against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities. It simply establishes a rate of exchange, which a Fund can achieve at some future point in time. The precise projection of short-term B-39 currency market movements is not possible, and short-term hedging provides a means of fixing the U.S. dollar value of only a portion of a Fund's foreign assets. The Balanced, CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in one currency to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities quoted or denominated in a different currency if GSAM or GSAMI determines that there is a pattern of correlation between the two currencies. The Balanced, CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may also enter into forward contracts to seek to increase total return. Unless otherwise covered in accordance with applicable regulations, cash or liquid assets of a Fund will be segregated in an amount equal to the value of the Fund's total assets committed to the consummation of forward foreign currency exchange contracts. The segregated assets will be marked-to-market on a daily basis. If the value of the segregated assets declines, additional cash or liquid assets will be segregated on a daily basis so that the value of the assets will equal the amount of a Fund's commitments with respect to such contracts. Although the contracts are not presently regulated by the CFTC, the CFTC may in the future assert authority to regulate these contracts. If this happens, a Fund's ability to utilize forward foreign currency exchange contracts may be restricted. While a Fund may enter into forward contracts to reduce currency exchange rate risks, transactions in such contracts involve certain other risks. Thus, while the Fund may benefit from such transactions, unanticipated changes in currency prices may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in any such transactions. Moreover, there may be imperfect correlation between a Fund's portfolio holdings of securities quoted or denominated in a particular currency and forward contracts entered into by such Fund. Such imperfect correlation may cause a Fund to sustain losses which will prevent the Fund from achieving a complete hedge or expose the Fund to risk of foreign exchange loss. Markets for trading foreign forward currency contracts offer less protection against defaults than is available when trading in currency instruments on an exchange. Forward contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to such contract will default on its obligations. Since a forward foreign currency exchange contract is not guaranteed by an exchange or clearinghouse, a default on the contract would deprive a Fund of unrealized profits, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or force the Fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. A Fund will not enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps or other privately negotiated currency instruments unless the credit quality of the unsecured senior debt or the claims-paying ability of the counterparty is considered to be investment grade by the Investment Adviser. To the extent that a substantial portion of a Fund's total assets, adjusted to reflect the Fund's net position after giving effect to currency transactions, is denominated or quoted in the currencies of foreign countries, the Fund will be more susceptible to the risk of adverse economic and political developments within those countries. B-40 Writing and Purchasing Currency Call and Put Options. Each Fund may, to the extent that it invests in foreign securities, write and purchase put and call options on foreign currencies for the purpose of protecting against declines in the U.S. dollar value of foreign portfolio securities and against increases in the U.S. dollar cost of foreign securities to be acquired. As with other kinds of option transactions, however, the writing of an option on foreign currency will constitute only a partial hedge, up to the amount of the premium received. If and when a Fund seeks to close out an option, the Fund could be required to purchase or sell foreign currencies at disadvantageous exchange rates, thereby incurring losses. The purchase of an option on foreign currency may constitute an effective hedge against exchange rate fluctuations; however, in the event of exchange rate movements adverse to a Fund's position, the Fund may forfeit the entire amount of the premium plus related transaction costs. Options on foreign currencies to be written or purchased by a Fund will be traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. Options on currency may be used for either hedging or cross-hedging purposes, which involves writing or purchasing options on one currency to hedge against changes in exchange rates for a different currency with a pattern of correlation, or to seek to increase total return when the Investment Adviser anticipates that the currency will appreciate or depreciate in value, but the securities quoted or denominated in that currency do not present attractive investment opportunities and are not included in the Fund's portfolio. A call option written by a Fund obligates a Fund to sell a specified currency to the holder of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. A put option written by a Fund would obligate a Fund to purchase a specified currency from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. The writing of currency options involves a risk that a Fund will, upon exercise of the option, be required to sell currency subject to a call at a price that is less than the currency's market value or be required to purchase currency subject to a put at a price that exceeds the currency's market value. For a description of how to cover written put and call options, see "Writing Covered Options" above. A Fund may terminate its obligations under a call or put option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Such purchases are referred to as "closing purchase transactions." A Fund may enter into closing sale transactions in order to realize gains or minimize losses on options purchased by the Fund. A Fund would normally purchase call options on foreign currency in anticipation of an increase in the U.S. dollar value of currency in which securities to be acquired by a Fund are quoted or denominated. The purchase of a call option would entitle the Fund, in return for the premium paid, to purchase specified currency at a specified price during the option period. A Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of such currency exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option. A Fund would normally purchase put options in anticipation of a decline in the U.S. dollar value of currency in which securities in its portfolio are quoted or denominated ("protective puts"). The purchase of a put option would entitle a Fund, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell B-41 specified currency at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed merely to offset or hedge against a decline in the dollar value of a Fund's portfolio securities due to currency exchange rate fluctuations. A Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying currency decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to more than cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of protective put options would tend to be offset by countervailing changes in the value of underlying currency or portfolio securities. In addition to using options for the hedging purposes described above, the Funds may use options on currency to seek to increase total return. The Funds may write (sell) covered put and call options on any currency in order to realize greater income than would be realized on portfolio securities transactions alone. However, in writing covered call options for additional income, the Funds may forego the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market value of the underlying currency. Also, when writing put options, the Funds accept, in return for the option premium, the risk that they may be required to purchase the underlying currency at a price in excess of the currency's market value at the time of purchase. Special Risks Associated With Options on Currency. An exchange-traded options position may be closed out only on an options exchange, which provides a secondary market for an option of the same series. Although a Fund will generally purchase or write only those options for which there appears to be an active secondary market, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an exchange will exist for any particular option, or at any particular time. For some options no secondary market on an exchange may exist. In such event, it might not be possible to effect closing transactions in particular options, with the result that a Fund would have to exercise its options in order to realize any profit and would incur transaction costs upon the sale of underlying securities pursuant to the exercise of put options. If a Fund as a covered call option writer is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction in a secondary market, it will not be able to sell the underlying currency (or security quoted or denominated in that currency) until the option expires or it delivers the underlying currency upon exercise. There is no assurance that higher than anticipated trading activity or other unforeseen events might not, at times, render certain of the facilities of the Options Clearing Corporation inadequate, and thereby result in the institution by an exchange of special procedures which may interfere with the timely execution of customers' orders. A Fund may purchase and write over-the-counter options to the extent consistent with its limitation on investments in illiquid securities. Trading in over-the-counter options is subject to the risk that the other party will be unable or unwilling to close out options purchased or written by a Fund. The amount of the premiums, which a Fund may pay or receive, may be adversely affected as new or existing institutions, including other investment companies, engage in or increase their option purchasing and writing activities. B-42 Currency Swaps, Mortgage Swaps, Credit Swaps, Index Swaps and Interest Rate - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars - ------------------------------- The Balanced, CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may enter into currency swaps for both hedging purposes and to seek to increase total return. In addition, the Balanced Fund may enter into mortgage, credit, index and interest rate swaps and other interest rate swap arrangements such as rate caps, floors and collars, for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. Currency swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, such as an exchange of fixed rate payments for floating rate payments. Mortgage swaps are similar to interest rate swaps in that they represent commitments to pay and receive interest. The notional principal amount, however, is tied to a reference pool or pools of mortgages. Index swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with another party of the respective amounts payable with respect to a notional principal amount at interest rates equal to two specified indices. Credit swaps involve the receipt of floating or fixed rate payments in exchange for assuming potential credit losses of an underlying security. Credit swaps give one party to a transaction the right to dispose of or acquire an asset (or group of assets), or the right to receive or make a payment for the other party, upon the occurrence of specified credit events. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate, to receive payment of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling such interest rate cap. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser, to the extent that a specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate, to receive payments of interest on a notional principal amount from the party selling the interest rate floor. An interest rate collar is the combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest rates. A Fund will enter into interest rate, mortgage and index swaps only on a net basis, which means that the two payment streams are netted out, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. Interest rate, index and mortgage swaps do not involve the delivery of securities, other underlying assets or principal. Accordingly, the risk of loss with respect to interest rate, index and mortgage swaps is limited to the net amount of interest payments that the Fund is contractually obligated to make. If the other party to an interest rate, index or mortgage swap defaults, the Fund's risk of loss consists of the net amount of interest payments that the Fund is contractually entitled to receive. In contrast, currency swaps usually involve the delivery of a gross payment stream in one designated currency in exchange for the gross payment stream in another designated currency. Therefore, the entire payment stream under a currency swap is subject to the risk that the other party to the swap will default on its contractual delivery obligations. To the extent that the Fund's potential exposure in a transaction involving a swap or an interest rate floor, cap or collar is covered by the segregation of cash or liquid assets or otherwise, the Funds and the Investment Advisers believe that swaps do not constitute senior securities under the Act and, accordingly, will not treat them as being subject to a Fund's borrowing restrictions. B-43 A Fund will not enter into transactions involving swaps, caps, floors or collars unless the unsecured commercial paper, senior debt or claims paying ability of the other party thereto is considered to be investment grade by the Investment Adviser. The use of interest rate, mortgage, index, credit and currency swaps, as well as interest rate caps, floors and collars, is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. If an Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market values, interest rates and currency exchange rates, the investment performance of a Fund would be less favorable than it would have been if this investment technique were not used. The Investment Advisers, under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, are responsible for determining and monitoring the liquidity of the Funds' transactions in swaps, caps, floors and collars. Convertible Securities - ---------------------- Each Fund may invest in convertible securities. Convertible securities include corporate notes or preferred stock but are ordinarily long-term debt obligation of the issuer convertible at a stated exchange rate into common stock of the issuer. As with all debt securities, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar quality. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price, the price of the convertible security tends to reflect the value of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not depreciate to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Convertible securities rank senior to common stocks in an issuer's capital structure and consequently entail less risk than the issuer's common stock. In evaluating a convertible security, the Investment Adviser will give primary emphasis to the attractiveness of the underlying common stock. Convertible debt securities are equity investments for purposes of each Fund's investment policies. Preferred Securities - -------------------- Each Fund may invest in preferred securities. Unlike debt securities, the obligations of an issuer of preferred stock, including dividend and other payment obligations, may not typically be accelerated by the holders of preferred stock on the occurrence of an event of default (such as a covenant default or filing of a bankruptcy petition) or other non-compliance by the issuer with the terms of the preferred stock. Often, however, on the occurrence of any such event of default or non-compliance by the issuer, preferred stockholders will be entitled to gain representation on the issuer's board of directors or increase their existing board representation. In addition, preferred stockholders may be granted voting rights with respect to certain issues on the occurrence of any event of default. B-44 Equity Swaps - ------------ Each Fund may enter into equity swap contracts to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances in which direct investment is restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impracticable. Equity swaps may also be used for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. The counterparty to an equity swap contract will typically be a bank, investment banking firm or broker/dealer. Equity swap contracts may be structured in different ways. For example, a counterparty may agree to pay the Fund the amount, if any, by which the notional amount of the equity swap contract would have increased in value had it been invested in the particular stocks (or an index of stocks), plus the dividends that would have been received on those stocks. In these cases, the Fund may agree to pay to the counterparty a floating rate of interest on the notional amount of the equity swap contract plus the amount, if any, by which that notional amount would have decreased in value had it been invested in such stocks. Therefore, the return to the Fund on the equity swap contract should be the gain or loss on the notional amount plus dividends on the stocks less the interest paid by the Fund on the notional amount. In other cases, the counterparty and the Fund may each agree to pay the other the difference between the relative investment performances that would have been achieved if the notional amount of the equity swap contract had been invested in different stocks (or indices of stocks). A Fund will enter into equity swaps only on a net basis, which means that the two payment streams are netted out, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. Payments may be made at the conclusion of an equity swap contract or periodically during its term. Equity swaps do not involve the delivery of securities or other underlying assets. Accordingly, the risk of loss with respect to equity swaps is limited to the net amount of payments that a Fund is contractually obligated to make. If the other party to an equity swap defaults, a Fund's risk of loss consists of the net amount of payments that such Fund is contractually entitled to receive, if any. Inasmuch as these transactions are entered into for hedging purposes or are offset by segregated cash or liquid assets to cover the Funds' potential exposure, the Funds and their Investment Advisers believe that transactions do not constitute senior securities under the Act and, accordingly, will not treat them as being subject to a Fund's borrowing restrictions. A Fund will not enter into swap transactions unless the unsecured commercial paper, senior debt or claims paying ability of the other party thereto is considered to be investment grade by the Investment Adviser. Lending of Portfolio Securities - ------------------------------- Each Fund may lend portfolio securities. Under present regulatory policies, such loans may be made to institutions, such as brokers or dealers and would be required to be secured continuously by collateral in cash, cash equivalents, letters of credit or U.S. Government securities maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. A Fund would be required to have the right to call a loan and obtain the securities loaned at any time on five days' notice. For the duration of a loan, a Fund would continue to receive the equivalent of the interest or dividends paid by the issuer on the securities loaned and would also B-45 receive compensation from investment of the collateral. A Fund would not have the right to vote any securities having voting rights during the existence of the loan, but a Fund would call the loan in anticipation of an important vote to be taken among holders of the securities or the giving or withholding of their consent on a material matter affecting the investment. As with other extensions of credit there are risks of delay in recovering, or even loss of rights in, the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially. However, the loans would be made only to firms deemed by the Investment Adviser to be of good standing, and when, in the judgment of the Investment Adviser, the consideration which can be earned currently from securities loans of this type justifies the attendant risk. If the Investment Adviser determines to make securities loans, it is intended that the value of the securities loaned would not exceed one- third of the value of the total assets of a Fund (including the loan collateral). Cash received as collateral for securities lending transactions may be invested in other investment eligible securities. Investing the collateral subjects it to market depreciation or appreciation, and the Fund is responsible for any loss that may result from its investment of the borrowed collateral. When-Issued Securities and Forward Commitments - ---------------------------------------------- Each Fund may purchase securities on a when-issued basis or purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis. These transactions involve a commitment by a Fund to purchase or sell securities at a future date. The price of the underlying securities (usually expressed in terms of yield) and the date when the securities will be delivered and paid for (the settlement date) are fixed at the time the transaction is negotiated. When-issued purchases and forward commitment transactions are negotiated directly with the other party, and such commitments are not traded on exchanges. A Fund will generally purchase securities on a when-issued basis or purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis only with the intention of completing the transaction and actually purchasing or selling the securities. If deemed advisable as a matter of investment strategy, however, a Fund may dispose of or negotiate a commitment after entering into it. A Fund may realize a capital gain or loss in connection with these transactions. For purposes of determining a Fund's duration, the maturity of when-issued or forward commitment securities will be calculated from the commitment date. A Fund is generally required to segregate until three days prior to the settlement date, cash and liquid assets in an amount sufficient to meet the purchase price unless the Fund's obligations are otherwise covered. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or forward commitment basis involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior to the settlement date or if the value of the security to be sold increases prior to the settlement date. Investment in Unseasoned Companies - ---------------------------------- Each Fund may invest in companies (including predecessors) which have operated less than three years. The securities of such companies may have limited liquidity, which can result in their being priced higher or lower than might otherwise be the case. In addition, investments in unseasoned companies are more speculative and entail greater risk than do investments in companies with an established operating record. B-46 Other Investment Companies - -------------------------- A Fund reserves the right to invest up to 10% of its total assets in the securities of all investment companies (including SPDRs and Webs) but may not acquire more than 3% of the voting securities of any other investment company. Pursuant to an exemptive order obtained from the SEC, the Funds may invest in money market funds for which an Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates serves as investment adviser. A Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by investment companies in which it invests in addition to the advisory and administration fees (and other expenses) paid by the Fund. However, to the extent that the Fund invests in a money market fund for which an Investment Adviser or any of its affiliates acts as Investment Adviser, the advisory and administration fees payable by the Fund to an Investment Adviser will be reduced by an amount equal to the Fund's proportionate share of the advisory and administration fees paid by such money market fund to the Investment Adviser. SPDRs are interests in a unit investment trust ("UIT") that may be obtained from the UIT or purchased in the secondary market (SPDRs are listed on the American Stock Exchange). There is a 5% limit based on total assets on investments by any one Fund in SPDRs. The UIT will issue SPDRs in aggregations known as "Creation Units" in exchange for a "Portfolio Deposit" consisting of (a) a portfolio of securities substantially similar to the component securities ("Index Securities") of the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index (the "S&P Index"), (b) a cash payment equal to a pro rata portion of the dividends accrued on the UIT's portfolio securities since the last dividend payment by the UIT, net of expenses and liabilities, and (c) a cash payment or credit ("Balancing Amount") designed to equalize the net asset value of the S&P Index and the net asset value of a Portfolio Deposit. SPDRs are not individually redeemable, except upon termination of the UIT. To redeem, the Portfolio must accumulate enough SPDRs to reconstitute a Creation Unit. The liquidity of small holdings of SPDRs, therefore, will depend upon the existence of a secondary market. Upon redemption of a Creation Unit, the Portfolio will receive Index Securities and cash identical to the Portfolio Deposit required of an investor wishing to purchase a Creation Unit that day. The price of SPDRs is derived from and based upon the securities held by the UIT. Accordingly, the level of risk involved in the purchase or sale of a SPDR is similar to the risk involved in the purchase or sale of traditional common stock, with the exception that the pricing mechanism for SPDRs is based on a basket of stocks. Disruptions in the markets for the securities underlying SPDRs purchased or sold by the Funds could result in losses on SPDRs. Each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) may also purchase shares of investment companies investing primarily in foreign securities, including "country funds." Country funds have portfolios consisting primarily of securities of issuers located in one foreign country or region. Each Fund may, subject to the limitations stated above, invest in World Equity Benchmark Shares ("WEBS") and similar securities that invest in securities included in foreign securities indices. B-47 Repurchase Agreements - --------------------- Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with dealers in U.S. Government securities and member banks of the Federal Reserve System which furnish collateral at least equal in value or market price to the amount of their repurchase obligation. CORE International Equity, International Equity, Japanese Equity, European Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity, Asia Growth and Balanced Funds may also enter into repurchase agreements involving certain foreign government securities. A repurchase agreement is an arrangement under which a Fund purchases securities and the seller agrees to repurchase the securities within a particular time and at a specified price. Custody of the securities is maintained by a Fund's custodian (or subcustodian). The repurchase price may be higher than the purchase price, the difference being income to a Fund, or the purchase and repurchase prices may be the same, with interest at a stated rate due to a Fund together with the repurchase price on repurchase. In either case, the income to a Fund is unrelated to the interest rate on the security subject to the repurchase agreement. For purposes of the Act and generally for tax purposes, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a loan from a Fund to the seller of the security. For other purposes, it is not always clear whether a court would consider the security purchased by a Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being owned by a Fund or as being collateral for a loan by a Fund to the seller. In the event of commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with respect to the seller of the security before repurchase of the security under a repurchase agreement, a Fund may encounter delay and incur costs before being able to sell the security. Such a delay may involve loss of interest or a decline in price of the security. If the court characterizes the transaction as a loan and a Fund has not perfected a security interest in the security, a Fund may be required to return the security to the seller's estate and be treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured creditor, a Fund would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and interest involved in the transaction. The Investment Adviser seeks to minimize the risk of loss from repurchase agreements by analyzing the creditworthiness of the obligor, in this case the seller of the security. Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to repurchase the security. However, if the market value of the security subject to the repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase price (including accrued interest), a Fund will direct the seller of the security to deliver additional securities so that the market value of all securities subject to the repurchase agreement equals or exceeds the repurchase price. Certain repurchase agreements which provide for settlement in more than seven days can be liquidated before the nominal fixed term on seven days or less notice. Such repurchase agreements will be regarded as liquid instruments. In addition, a Fund, together with other registered investment companies having advisory agreements with the Investment Advisers or their affiliates, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a single joint account, the daily aggregate balance of which will be invested in one or more repurchase agreements. B-48 Reverse Repurchase Agreements - ----------------------------- A Fund may borrow money by entering into transactions called reverse repurchase agreements. Under these arrangements, the Fund will sell portfolio securities to dealers in U.S. Government Securities or members of the Federal Reserve System, with an agreement to repurchase the security on an agreed date, price and interest payment. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the possible risk that the value of portfolio securities the Fund relinquishes may decline below the price the Fund must pay when the transaction closes. Borrowings may magnify the potential for gain or loss on amounts invested resulting in an increase in the speculative character of the Fund's outstanding shares. When a Fund enters into a reverse repurchase agreement, it places in a separate custodial account either liquid assets or other high-grade debt securities that have a value equal to or greater than the repurchase price. The account is then continuously monitored to make sure that an appropriate value is maintained. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to be borrowings under the Act. Mortgage Dollar Rolls - --------------------- When the Balanced Fund enters into a mortgage dollar roll, it will segregate cash or liquid assets in an amount equal to the forward purchase price until the settlement date. Portfolio Turnover - ------------------ Each Fund may engage in active short-term trading to benefit from yield disparities among different issues of securities or among the markets for equity securities, or for other reasons. It is anticipated that the portfolio turnover rate of each Fund will vary from year to year. INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS The following investment restrictions have been adopted by the Trust as fundamental policies that cannot be changed without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority (as defined in the Act) of the outstanding voting securities of the affected Fund. The investment objective of each Fund and all other investment policies or practices of each Fund are considered by the Trust not to be fundamental and accordingly may be changed without shareholder approval. See "Investment Objectives and Policies" in the Prospectuses. For purposes of the Act, "majority" means the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the shares of the Trust or a Fund present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Trust or a Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the shares of the Trust or a Fund. For purposes of the following limitations, any limitation which involves a maximum percentage shall not be considered violated unless an excess over the percentage occurs immediately after, and is caused by, an acquisition or encumbrance of securities or assets of, or borrowings by, a Fund. With respect to the Funds' fundamental investment restriction no. 3, asset coverage of at least 300% (as defined in the Act), inclusive of any amounts borrowed, must be maintained at all times. B-49 A Fund may not: (1) Make any investment inconsistent with the Fund's classification as a diversified company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"). This restriction does not, however, apply to any Fund classified as a non-diversified company under the Act. (2) Invest 25% or more of its total assets in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry (excluding the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities). (3) Borrow money, except (a) the Fund may borrow from banks (as defined in the Act) or through reverse repurchase agreements in amounts up to 33-1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed), (b) the Fund may, to the extent permitted by applicable law, borrow up to an additional 5% of its total assets for temporary purposes, (c) the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of portfolio securities, (d) the Fund may purchase securities on margin to the extent permitted by applicable law and (e) the Fund may engage in transactions in mortgage dollar rolls which are accounted for as financings. (4) Make loans, except through (a) the purchase of debt obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, (b) repurchase agreements with banks, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions, and (c) loans of securities as permitted by applicable law. (5) Underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the sale of portfolio securities by the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriting. (6) Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, although a Fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein, securities of real estate investment trusts and mortgage-related securities and may hold and sell real estate acquired by a Fund as a result of the ownership of securities. (7) Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that the Fund may invest in currency and financial instruments and contracts that are commodities or commodity contracts. (8) Issue senior securities to the extent such issuance would violate applicable law. B-50 Each Fund may, notwithstanding any other fundamental investment restriction or policy, invest some or all of its assets in a single open-end investment company or series thereof with substantially the same investment objective, restrictions and policies as the Fund. In addition to the fundamental policies mentioned above, the Trustees have adopted the following non-fundamental policies which can be changed or amended by action of the Trustees without approval of shareholders. A Fund may not: (a) Invest in companies for the purpose of exercising control or management. (b) Invest more than 15% of the Fund's net assets in illiquid investments including repurchase agreements with a notice or demand period of more than seven days, securities which are not readily marketable and restricted securities not eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") (c) Purchase additional securities if the Fund's borrowings (excluding covered mortgage dollar rolls) exceed 5% of its net assets. (d) Make short sales of securities, except short sales against the box. B-51 MANAGEMENT The Trustees are responsible for deciding matters of general policy and reviewing the actions of the Investment Advisers, distributor and transfer agent. The officers of the Trust conduct and supervise each Fund's daily business operations. Information pertaining to the Trustees and officers of the Trust is set forth below. Trustees and officers deemed to be "interested persons" of the Trust for purposes of the Act are indicated by an asterisk.
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- Ashok N. Bakhru, 57 Chairman Chairman of the Board and Trustee - P.O. Box 143 & Trustee Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust Lima, PA 19037 (registered investment company) (since October 1997); President, ABN Associates (July 1994-March 1996 and November 1998 to present); Executive Vice President - Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer, Coty Inc. (manufacturer of fragrances and cosmetics) (April 1996-November 1998); Senior Vice President of Scott Paper Company (until June 1994); Director of Arkwright Mutual Insurance Company (1994-Present); Trustee of International House of Philadelphia (1989-Present); Member of Cornell University Council (1992-Present); Trustee of the Walnut Street Theater (1992-Present); Director, Private Equity Investors-III (since November 1998); Trustee, Citizens Scholarship Foundation of America (since 1998).
B-52
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- *David B. Ford, 53 Trustee Trustee- Goldman Sachs Variable 32 Old Slip Insurance Trust (registered investment New York, NY 10005 company) (since October 1997); Director, Commodities Corp. LLC (futures and commodities traders) (since April 1997); Managing Director, J. Aron & Company (commodity dealer and risk management adviser) (since November 1996); Managing Director, Goldman Sachs & Co. Investment Banking Division (since November 1996); Chief Executive Officer and Director, CIN Management (investment adviser) (since August 1996); Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director and Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management International (since November 1995 and December 1994, respectively); Co-Head, Goldman Sachs Asset Management Division (since November 1995); Co-Head and Director, Goldman Sachs Funds Management Inc. (since November 1995 and December 1994, respectively); Chairman and Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management Japan Limited (since November 1994). *Douglas C. Grip, 37 Trustee Trustee and President - Goldman Sachs 32 Old Slip & President Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10005 investment company) (since October 1997); Managing Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management Division (since November 1997); President, Goldman Sachs Fund Group (since April 1996); President, MFS Retirement Services Inc., of Massachusetts Financial Services (prior thereto).
B-53
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- *John P. McNulty, 47 Trustee Trustee - Goldman Sachs Variable 32 Old Slip Insurance Trust (registered investment New York, NY 10005 company) (since October 1997); Managing Director, Goldman Sachs (since November 1996); General Partner, J. Aron & Company (since November 1995); Director and Co-Head, Goldman Sachs Funds Management Inc. (since November 1995); Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management International (since January 1996); Co-Head, GSAM (November 1995 to present); Director, Global Capital Reinsurance (insurance) (since 1989); Director, Commodities Corp. LLC (since April 1997); Limited Partner of Goldman Sachs (1994 - November 1995) and Trustee, Trust for Credit Unions (registered investment company) (since January 1996).
B-54
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- Mary P. McPherson, 64 Trustee Trustee - Goldman Sachs Variable The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Insurance Trust (registered investment 140 East 62nd Street company) (since October 1997); Vice New York, NY 10021 President and Senior Program Officer, The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation (provider of grants for conservation, environmental and educational purposes) (since October 1997); President of Bryn Mawr College (1978-1997); Director, Smith College (since 1998); Director, Josiah Macy, Jr. Foundation (health education programs) (since 1977); Director of the Philadelphia Contributionship (insurance) (since 1985); Director, Amherst College (1986-1998); Director, Dayton Hudson Corporation (general retailing merchandising) (1988-1997); Director, The Spenser Foundation (educational research) (since 1993); and member of PNC Advisory Board (banking) (since 1993). *Alan A. Shuch, 50 Trustee Trustee - Goldman Sachs Variable 32 Old Slip Insurance Trust (registered investment New York, NY 10005 company) (since October 1997); Limited Partner, Goldman Sachs (since December 1994); Consultant to GSAM (since December 1994); Director, Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Goldman Sachs Funds Management Inc. (from November 1993 - November 1994); Chairman and Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management - Japan Limited (November 1993 - November 1994); Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management International (November 1993 - November 1994); General Partner, Goldman Sachs & Co. Investment Banking Division (December 1986 - November 1994).
B-55
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- Jackson W. Smart, Jr., 69 Trustee Trustee - Goldman Sachs Variable One Northfield Plaza, Suite 218 Insurance Trust (registered investment Northfield, IL 60093 company) (since October 1997); Chairman, Executive Committee and Director, First Commonwealth, Inc. (a managed dental care company) (since January 1996); Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, MSP Communications Inc. (a company engaged in radio broadcasting) (October 1988 - December 1997); Director, Federal Express Corporation (NYSE) (since 1976); Director, Evanston Hospital Corporation (since 1980). William H. Springer, 70 Trustee Trustee - Goldman Sachs Variable 701 Morningside Drive Insurance Trust (registered investment Lake Forest, IL 60045 company) (since October 1997); Director, The Walgreen Co. (a retail drug store business) (since April 1988); Director of Baker, Fentress & Co. (a closed-end, non-diversified management investment company) (April 1992 - present); Chairman and Trustee, Northern Institutional Funds (since April 1984).
B-56
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- Richard P. Strubel, 60 Trustee Trustee - Goldman Sachs Variable 737 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1405 Insurance Trust (registered investment Chicago, IL 60611 company) (since October 1997); Director, Gildan Activewear Inc. (since February 1999); Director of Kaynar Technologies Inc. (since March 1997); Managing Director, Tandem Partners, Inc. (since 1990); President and Chief Executive Officer, Microdot, Inc. (a diversified manufacturer of fastening systems and connectors) (January 1984 - October 1994); Trustee, Northern Institutional Funds (since December 1982). *Nancy L. Mucker, 50 Vice President Vice President - Goldman Sachs Variable 4900 Sears Tower Insurance Trust (registered investment Chicago, IL 60606 company) (since 1997); Vice President, Goldman Sachs (since April 1985); Co-Manager of Shareholder Servicing of Goldman Sachs Asset Management (since November 1989). *John M. Perlowski, 35 Treasurer Treasurer - Goldman Sachs Variable 32 Old Slip Insurance Trust (registered investment New York, NY 10005 company) (since 1997); Vice President, Goldman Sachs (since July 1995); Banking Director, Investors Bank and Trust (November 1993 - July 1995). *James A. Fitzpatrick, 39 Vice President Vice President - Goldman Sachs Variable 4900 Sears Tower Insurance Trust (registered investment Chicago, IL 60606 company) (since October 1997); Vice President, Goldman Sachs (since 1998); Vice President of GSAM (since April 1997); Vice President and General Manager, First Data Corporation - Investor Services Group (1994 to 1997).
B-57
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- *Jesse Cole, 36 Vice President Vice President - Goldman Sachs Variable 4900 Sears Tower Insurance Trust (registered investment Chicago, IL 60606 company) (since 1998); Vice President, GSAM (June 1998 to Present); Vice President, AIM Management Group, Inc. (investment advisor) (April 1996-June 1998); Assistant Vice President, The Northern Trust Company (June 1987-April 1996). *Philip V. Giuca, Jr., 37 Assistant Treasurer Assistant Treasurer - Goldman Sachs 32 Old Slip Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10005 investment company) (since 1997); Vice President, Goldman Sachs (May 1992- Present). *Adrien Deberghes, 31 Assistant Treasurer Assistant Treasurer - Goldman Sachs 32 Old Slip Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10005 investment company) (since 1999); Vice President, Mutual Fund Administration, GSAM (since 1998); Senior Associate, GSAM (1997-1998). *Michael J. Richman, 39 Secretary Secretary - Goldman Sachs Variable 85 Broad Street Insurance Trust (registered investment New York, NY 10004 company) (since 1997); General Counsel of the Funds Group of GSAM (since December 1997); Associate General Counsel of GSAM (February 1994 - December 1997); Counsel to the Funds Group, GSAM (June 1992 to December 1997); Associate General Counsel, Goldman Sachs (since December 1998); Vice President of Goldman Sachs (since June 1992); and Assistant General Counsel of Goldman Sachs (June 1992 to December 1998).
B-58
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- *Howard B. Surloff, 34 Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary - Goldman Sachs 85 Broad Street Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10004 investment company) (since 1997); Assistant General Counsel, GSAM and Associate General Counsel to the Funds Group (since December 1997); Assistant General Counsel and Vice President, Goldman Sachs (since November 1993 and May 1994, respectively); Counsel to the Funds Group, GSAM (November 1993 - December 1997); Associate of Shereff, Friedman, Hoffman & Goodman (October 1990 to November 1993). *Valerie A. Zondorak, 34 Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary - Goldman Sachs 85 Broad Street Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10004 investment company) (since 1997); Assistant General Counsel, GSAM and Assistant General Counsel to the Funds Group (since December 1997); Vice President and Counsel, Goldman Sachs (since March 1997); Counsel to the Funds Group, GSAM (March 1997 - December 1997); Associate of Shereff, Friedman, Hoffman & Goodman (September 1990 to February 1997). *Deborah A. Farrell, 28 Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary - Goldman Sachs 85 Broad Street Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10004 investment company) (since 1997); Legal Products Analyst, Goldman Sachs (since December 1998); Legal Assistant, Goldman Sachs (January 1996 - December 1998); Assistant Secretary to the Funds Group (1996 to present); Executive Secretary, Goldman Sachs (January 1994 - January 1996); Legal Secretary, Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen and Hamilton (September 1990 to January 1994).
B-59
Name, Age Positions Principal Occupation(s) and Address with Trust During Past 5 Years - ----------------------------------- ------------------- ----------------------------------------- *Kaysie P. Uniacke, 38 Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary - Goldman Sachs 32 Old Slip Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10005 investment company) (since 1997); Managing Director, GSAM (since 1997); Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager, GSAM (1988 to 1997). *Elizabeth D. Anderson, 30 Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary - Goldman Sachs 32 Old Slip Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10005 investment company) (since 1997); Portfolio Manager, GSAM (since April 1996); Junior Portfolio Manager, GSAM (1995 - April 1996); Funds Trading Assistant, GSAM (1993 - 1995); Compliance Analyst, Prudential Insurance (1991 - 1993). *Amy E. Belanger, 30 Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary - Goldman Sachs 85 Broad Street Variable Insurance Trust (registered New York, NY 10004 investment company) (since 1999); Counsel, Goldman Sachs (since 1998); Associate, Dechert Price & Rhoads (September 1996-1998).
Each interested Trustee and officer holds comparable positions with certain other companies of which Goldman Sachs, GSAM or an affiliate thereof is the investment adviser, administrator and/or distributor. As of October 31, 1999, the Trustees and officers of the Trust as a group owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of beneficial interest of each Fund. The Trust pays each Trustee, other than those who are "interested persons" of Goldman Sachs, a fee for each Trustee meeting attended and an annual fee. Such Trustees are also reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in connection with attending such meetings. B-60 The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the compensation of each Trustee of the Trust for the fiscal period from February 1, 1999 to August 31, 1999:
Aggregate Pension or Retirement Benefits Total Compensation from Goldman Sachs Compensation Accrued as Part of Funds' Trust and the Goldman Sachs fund complex Name of Trustee from the Funds2 Expenses (including the Funds)3 - --------------- --------------- -------- ---------------------- Ashok N. Bakhru1 $21,434 $ - $71,000 David B. Ford 0 - 0 Douglas C. Grip 0 - 0 John P. McNulty 0 - 0 Mary P. McPherson 16,151 - 53,500 Alan A. Shuch 0 - 0 Jackson W. Smart 16,151 - 53,500 William H. Springer 16,151 - 53,500 Richard P. Strubel 16,151 - 53,500
1 Includes compensation as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. 2 Reflects amount paid by the Funds during the period from February 1, 1999 to August 31, 1999. 3 The Goldman Sachs Fund complex consists of the Goldman Sachs Trust and Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust. Goldman Sachs Trust consisted of 49 mutual funds, including 19 equity funds, as of August 31, 1999. Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust consisted of 8 mutual funds as of August 31, 1999. B-61 The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the compensation of each Trustee of the Trust for the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999:
Aggregate Pension or Retirement Benefits Total Compensation from Goldman Sachs Compensation Accrued as Part of Funds' Trust and the Goldman Sachs fund complex Name of Trustee from the Funds2 Expenses (including the Funds)3 - --------------- --------------- -------- ---------------------- Ashok N. Bakhru1 $28,888 $0 $112,566 David B. Ford 0 0 0 Douglas C. Grip 0 0 0 John P. McNulty 0 0 0 Mary P. McPherson 21,848 0 86,375 Alan A. Shuch 0 0 0 Jackson W. Smart 20,201 0 86,375 William H. Springer 20,201 0 86,375 Richard P. Strubel 20,201 0 86,375
- ------------------------ 1 Includes compensation as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. 2 Reflects amount paid by the Funds during the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999. 3 The Goldman Sachs Fund complex consists of the Goldman Sachs Trust and Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust. Goldman Sachs Trust consisted of 47 mutual funds, including 17 equity funds, as of January 31, 1999. Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust consisted of 8 mutual funds of January 31, 1999. B-62 Class A Shares of the Fund may be sold at net asset value without payment of any sales charge to Goldman Sachs, its affiliates or their respective officers, partners, directors or employees (including rehired employees and former partners), any partnership of which Goldman Sachs is a general partner, any trustee or officer of the Trust and designated family members of any of the above individuals. The sales load waivers are due to the nature of the investors and the reduced sales effort that is needed to obtain such investments. Management Services =================== As stated in the Funds' Prospectus, GSFM, 32 Old Slip, New York, New York, a Delaware limited partnership and an affiliate of Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York, serves as Investment Adviser to CORE U.S. Equity and Capital Growth Funds. GSAM, 32 Old Slip, New York, New York, a separate operating division of Goldman Sachs, serves as Investment Adviser to the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, CORE International Equity, Mid Cap Value, Small Cap Value and Large Cap Value Funds. GSAMI, 133 Petersborough Court, London, England EC4A 2BB serves as Investment Adviser to the International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds. GSAMI is also an affiliate of Goldman Sachs. See "Service Providers" in the Funds' Prospectus for a description of the applicable Investment Adviser's duties to the Funds. The Goldman Sachs Group, L.P. which controls the Funds' Investment Advisers merged into the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. as a result of an initial public offering. Founded in 1869, Goldman Sachs is among the oldest and largest investment banking firms in the United States. Goldman Sachs is a leader in developing portfolio strategies and in many fields of investing and financing, participating in financial markets worldwide and serving individuals, institutions, corporations and governments. Goldman Sachs is also among the principal market sources for current and thorough information on companies, industrial sectors, markets, economies and currencies, and trades and makes markets in a wide range of equity and debt securities 24-hours a day. The firm is headquartered in New York and has offices throughout the United States and in Beijing, Frankfurt, George Town, Hong Kong, London, Madrid, Mexico City, Milan, Montreal, Osaka, Paris, Sao Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo, Toronto, Vancouver and Zurich. It has trading professionals throughout the United States, as well as in London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore. The active participation of Goldman Sachs in the world's financial markets enhances its ability to identify attractive investments. Goldman Sachs has agreed to permit the Funds to use the name "Goldman Sachs" or a derivative thereof as part of each Fund's name for as long as a Fund's Management Agreement is in effect. The Investment Advisers are able to draw on the substantial research and market expertise of Goldman Sachs, whose investment research effort is one of the largest in the industry. The Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research Department covers approximately B-63 2,200 companies, including approximately 1,000 U.S. corporations in 60 industries. The in-depth information and analyses generated by Goldman Sachs' research analysts are available to the Investment Advisers. For more than a decade, Goldman Sachs has been among the top-ranked firms in Institutional Investor's annual "All-America Research Team" survey. In addition, many of Goldman Sachs' economists, securities analysts, portfolio strategists and credit analysts have consistently been highly ranked in respected industry surveys conducted in the U.S. and abroad. Goldman Sachs is also among the leading investment firms using quantitative analytics (now used by a growing number of investors) to structure and evaluate portfolios. In managing the Funds, the Investment Advisers have access to Goldman Sachs' economics research. The Economics Research Department based in London, conducts economic, financial and currency markets research which analyzes economic trends and interest and exchange rate movement worldwide. The Economics Research Department tracks factors such as inflation and money supply figures, balance of trade figures, economic growth, commodity prices, monetary and fiscal policies, and political events that can influence interest rates and currency trends. The success of Goldman Sachs' international research team has brought wide recognition to its members. The team has earned top rankings in various external surveys such as Extel, Institutional Investor and Reuters. These rankings acknowledge the achievements of the firm's economists, strategists and equity analysts. In allocating assets among foreign countries and currencies for the Funds which can invest in foreign securities (in particular, the CORE International Equity, International Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds), the Investment Advisers will have access to the Global Asset Allocation Model. The model is based on the observation that the prices of all financial assets, including foreign currencies, will adjust until investors globally are comfortable holding the pool of outstanding assets. Using the model, the Investment Advisers will estimate the total returns from each currency sector which are consistent with the average investor holding a portfolio equal to the market capitalization of the financial assets among those currency sectors. These estimated equilibrium returns are then combined with the expectations of Goldman Sachs' research professionals to produce an optimal currency and asset allocation for the level of risk suitable for a Fund given its investment objectives and criteria. The Management Agreements provide that GSAM, GSFM and GSAMI, in their capacity as Investment Advisers, may render similar services to others as long as the services under the Management Agreements are not impaired thereby. The Large Cap Value, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, CORE Large Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds' Management Agreements were initially approved by the Trustees, including a majority of the non-interested Trustees (as defined below) who are not parties to the Management Agreement on October 26, 1999, April 28, 1999, April 28, 1999, November 3, 1998, July 22, 1998, April 23, 1998 and April 23, 1998, respectively. The CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds' Management Agreements were initially B-64 approved by the Trustees, including a majority of the non-interested Trustees (as defined below) who are not parties to the Management Agreements, on July 22, 1997. The CORE Large Cap Growth and Emerging Markets Equity Funds' Management Agreements were initially approved by the Trustees, including a majority of the non-interested Trustees (as defined below) who are not parties to the Management Agreements, on April 23, 1997 and January 28, 1997, respectively. The Funds' Management Agreements were most recently approved by the Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Management Agreements or "interested persons" (as such term is defined in the Act) of any party thereto (the "non-interested Trustees"), on April 27, 1999. These arrangements were most recently approved by the shareholders of each Fund (other than Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, Large Cap Value, CORE International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and European Equity Funds) on April 21, 1997. The sole shareholder of the Large Cap Value, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and European Equity Funds approved these arrangements on October 26, 1999, April 28, 1999, April 28, 1999, November 3, 1998, April 30, 1997, July 21, 1997, July 21, 1997, January 28, 1997, April 23, 1998, April 23, 1998 and July 22, 1998, respectively. Each Management Agreement will remain in effect until June 30, 2000 and will continue in effect with respect to the applicable Fund from year to year thereafter provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (a) the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of such Fund or a majority of the Trustees of the Trust, and (b) the vote of a majority of the non-interested Trustees of the Trust, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. Each Management Agreement will terminate automatically if assigned (as defined in the Act). Each Management Agreement is also terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund on 60 days' written notice to the applicable Investment Adviser and by the Investment Adviser on 60 days' written notice to the Trust. B-65 Pursuant to the Management Agreements the Investment Advisers are entitled to receive the fees set forth below, payable monthly based on such Fund's average daily net assets. In addition, as of the date of this Additional Statement the Investment Advisers were voluntarily limiting their management fees for certain funds to the annual rates also listed below:
Management Management With Fee Without Fee Fund Limitations Limitations - ---- ----------- ----------- GSAM Balanced Fund 0.65% 0.65% Growth and Income Fund 0.70% 0.70% CORE Large Cap Value Fund 0.60% 0.60% CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 0.60% 0.75% CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 0.85% 0.85% Strategic Growth Fund 1.00% 1.00% Growth Opportunities Fund 1.00% 1.00% CORE International Equity Fund 0.85% 0.85% Mid Cap Value Fund 0.75% 0.75% Small Cap Value Fund 1.00% 1.00% Large Cap Value Fund 0.75% 0.75% GSFM CORE U.S. Equity Fund 0.70% 0.75% Capital Growth Fund 1.00% 1.00% GSAMI International Equity Fund 1.00% 1.00% European Equity 1.00% 1.00% Japanese Equity Fund 1.00% 1.00% International Small Cap Fund 1.20% 1.20% Emerging Markets Equity Fund 1.20% 1.20% Asia Growth Fund 1.00% 1.00%
B-66 GSAM, GSFM and GSAMI may discontinue or modify the above limitations in the future at their discretion. Prior to May 1, 1997, the Funds then in operation had separate investment advisory (and subadvisory, in the case of the International Equity Fund) and administration agreements. Effective May 1, 1997, the services under such agreements were combined in the management agreement. The services required to be performed for the Funds and the combined advisory (and subadvisory, in the case of the International Equity Fund) and administration fees payable by the Funds under the former advisory (and subadvisory, in the case of the International Equity Fund) and administration agreements are identical to the services and fees under the management agreement. B-67 For the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997 the amounts of the combined investment advisory (and subadvisory, in the case of the International Equity Fund) and administration fees incurred by each Fund then in existence were as follows (with and without the fee limitations that were then in effect):
Fiscal period ended Fiscal year ended Fiscal year ended =================== ================= ================= August 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 ========================= ========================= ========================= With Fee Without Fee With Fee Without Fee With Fee Without Fee Limitations Limitations Limitations Limitations Limitations Limitations ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Balanced Fund $ 928,470 $ 928,470 $ 1,609,311 $ 1,609,311 $ 870,444 $ 870,844 Growth and Income Fund 5,645,766 5,645,766 13,527,887 13,527,887 7,740,380 7,740,380 CORE Large Cap Value Fund1 869,263 869,263 12,245 12,245 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 4,865,259 5,212,778 5,691,415 6,647,941 3,087,383 3,924,639 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund1 2,640,795 3,300,994 1,658,095 2,072,619 182,628 228,283 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund1 689,175 689,175 730,302 769,013 65,418 74,140 CORE International Equity Fund1 1,938,801 1,938,801 1,810,772 1,890,475 51,031 57,835 Capital Growth Fund 15,000,472 15,000,472 17,460,353 17,460,353 10,913,224 10,913,224 Strategic Growth Fund1, 2 29,606 29,606 N/A N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund1, 2 23,911 23,911 N/A N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund 1,332,432 1,332,432 2,953,154 2,953,154 1,653,946 1,653,946 Small Cap Value Fund 1,733,424 1,733,424 4,417,249 4,417,249 3,206,411 3,206,411 Large Cap Value1, 3 NA NA N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 6,475,659 6,475,659 9,243,090 9,814,989 6,772,826 7,525,362 European Equity Fund1 451,498 451,498 171,505 171,505 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund1 226,009 226,009 118,094 122,901 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund1 598,694 598,694 280,977 287,765 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund1 1,148,664 1,148,664 1,454,673 1,519,721 31,937 34,840 Asia Growth Fund 501,770 501,770 736,821 808,815 1,874,193 2,179,299 Fiscal year ended ================= January 31, 1997 ========================= With Fee Without Fee Limitations Limitations ----------- ----------- Balanced Fund $ 402,183 $ 402,183 Growth and Income Fund 3,541,318 3,541,318 CORE Large Cap Value Fund1 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 1,667,381 2,119,552 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund1 N/A N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund1 N/A N/A CORE International Equity Fund1 N/A N/A Capital Growth Fund 8,697,265 8,697,265 Strategic Growth Fund1, 2 N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund1, 2 N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund 964,945 964,945 Small Cap Value Fund 2,130,703 2,130,703 Large Cap Value1, 3 N/A N/A International Equity Fund 4,124,076 4,638,203 European Equity Fund1 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund1 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund1 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund1 N/A N/A Asia Growth Fund 2,221,857 2,583,555
1 The CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Large Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and Emerging Markets Equity Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 1, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, May 24, 1999, May 24, 1999, November 30, 1999, October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and December 15, 1997, respectively. 2 During the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, no Shares of the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities and Large Cap Value Funds had been offered. 3 During the fiscal years ended August 31, 1999, no Shares of the Large Cap Value Funds had been offered. B-68 Under the Management Agreement, each Investment Adviser also: (i) supervises all non-advisory operations of each Fund that it advises; (ii) provides personnel to perform such executive, administrative and clerical services as are reasonably necessary to provide effective administration of each Fund; (iii) arranges for at each Fund's expense: (a) the preparation of all required tax returns, (b) the preparation and submission of reports to existing shareholders, (c) the periodic updating of prospectuses and statements of additional information and (d) the preparation of reports to be filed with the SEC and other regulatory authorities; (iv) maintains each Fund's records; and (v) provides office space and all necessary office equipment and services. Activities of Goldman Sachs and Its Affiliates and Other Accounts Managed by Goldman Sachs. The involvement of the Investment Advisers and Goldman Sachs and their affiliates in the management of, or their interest in, other accounts and other activities of Goldman Sachs may present conflicts of interest with respect to the Funds or impede their investment activities. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, including, without limitation, the Investment Advisers and their advisory affiliates, have proprietary interests in, and may manage or advise with respect to, accounts or funds (including separate accounts and other funds and collective investment vehicles) which have investment objectives similar to those of the Funds and/or which engage in transactions in the same types of securities, currencies and instruments as the Funds. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates are major participants in the global currency, equities, swap and fixed-income markets, in each case both on a proprietary basis and for the accounts of customers. As such, Goldman Sachs and its affiliates are actively engaged in transactions in the same securities, currencies and instruments in which the Funds invest. Such activities could affect the prices and availability of the securities, currencies and instruments in which the Funds will invest, which could have an adverse impact on each Fund's performance. Such transactions, particularly in respect of proprietary accounts or customer accounts other than those included in the Investment Advisers' and their advisory affiliates' asset management activities, will be executed independently of the Funds' transactions and thus at prices or rates that may be more or less favorable. When the Investment Advisers and their advisory affiliates seek to purchase or sell the same assets for their managed accounts, including the Funds, the assets actually purchased or sold may be allocated among the accounts on a basis determined in its good faith discretion to be equitable. In some cases, this system may adversely affect the size or the price of the assets purchased or sold for the Funds. From time to time, the Funds' activities may be restricted because of regulatory restrictions applicable to Goldman Sachs and its affiliates, and/or their internal policies designed to comply with such restrictions. As a result, there may be periods, for example, when the Investment Advisers and/or their affiliates will not initiate or recommend certain types of transactions in certain securities or instruments with respect to which the Investment Advisers and/or their affiliates are performing services or when position limits have been reached. In connection with their management of the Funds, the Investment Advisers may have access to certain fundamental analysis and proprietary technical models developed by Goldman B-69 Sachs and other affiliates. The Investment Advisers will not be under any obligation, however, to effect transactions on behalf of the Funds in accordance with such analysis and models. In addition, neither Goldman Sachs nor any of its affiliates will have any obligation to make available any information regarding their proprietary activities or strategies, or the activities or strategies used for other accounts managed by them, for the benefit of the management of the Funds and it is not anticipated that the Investment Advisers will have access to such information for the purpose of managing the Funds. The proprietary activities or portfolio strategies of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates or the activities or strategies used for accounts managed by them or other customer accounts could conflict with the transactions and strategies employed by the Investment Advisers in managing the Funds. The results of each Fund's investment activities may differ significantly from the results achieved by the Investment Advisers and their affiliates for their proprietary accounts or accounts (including investment companies or collective investment vehicles) managed or advised by them. It is possible that Goldman Sachs and its affiliates and such other accounts will achieve investment results which are substantially more or less favorable than the results achieved by a Fund. Moreover, it is possible that a Fund will sustain losses during periods in which Goldman Sachs and its affiliates achieve significant profits on their trading for proprietary or other accounts. The opposite result is also possible. The investment activities of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates for their proprietary accounts and accounts under their management may also limit the investment opportunities for the Fund in certain emerging markets in which limitations are imposed upon the aggregate amount of investment, in the aggregate or individual issuers, by affiliated foreign investors. An investment policy committee which may include partners of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates may develop general policies regarding a Fund's activities but will not be involved in the day-to-day management of such Fund. In such instances, those individuals may, as a result, obtain information regarding the Fund's proposed investment activities which is not generally available to the public. In addition, by virtue of their affiliation with Goldman Sachs, any such member of an investment policy committee will have direct or indirect interests in the activities of Goldman Sachs and its affiliates in securities and investments similar to those in which the Fund invests. In addition, certain principals and certain of the employees of the Investment Advisers are also principals or employees of Goldman Sachs or their affiliated entities. As a result, the performance by these principals and employees of their obligations to such other entities may be a consideration of which investors in the Funds should be aware. Each Investment Adviser may enter into transactions and invest in currencies or instruments on behalf of a Fund in which customers of Goldman Sachs serve as the counterparty, principal or issuer. In such cases, such party's interests in the transaction will be adverse to the interests of a Fund, and such party may have no incentive to assure that the Funds obtain the best possible prices or terms in connection with the transactions. Goldman Sachs and its affiliates may also create, write or issue derivative instruments for customers of Goldman Sachs or its affiliates, the B-70 underlying securities or instruments of which may be those in which a Fund invests or which may be based on the performance of a Fund. The Funds may, subject to applicable law, purchase investments which are the subject of an underwriting or other distribution by Goldman Sachs or its affiliates and may also enter into transactions with other clients of Goldman Sachs or its affiliates where such other clients have interests adverse to those of the Funds. At times, these activities may cause departments of the Firm to give advice to clients that may cause these clients to take actions adverse to the interests of the client. To the extent affiliated transactions are permitted, the Funds will deal with Goldman Sachs and its affiliates on an arms-length basis. Each Fund will be required to establish business relationships with its counterparties based on the Fund's own credit standing. Neither Goldman Sachs nor its affiliates will have any obligation to allow their credit to be used in connection with a Fund's establishment of its business relationships, nor is it expected that a Fund's counterparties will rely on the credit of Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates in evaluating the Fund's creditworthiness. From time to time, Goldman Sachs or any of its affiliates may, but is not required to, purchase and hold shares of a Fund in order to increase the assets of the Fund. Increasing a Fund's assets may enhance investment flexibility and diversification and may contribute to economies of scale that tend to reduce the Fund's expense ratio. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to redeem at any time some or all of the shares of a Fund acquired for its own account. A large redemption of shares of a Fund by Goldman Sachs could significantly reduce the asset size of the Fund, which might have an adverse effect on the Fund's investment flexibility, portfolio diversification and expense ratio. Goldman Sachs will consider the effect of redemptions on a Fund and other shareholders in deciding whether to redeem its shares. It is possible that a Fund's holdings will include securities of entities for which Goldman Sachs performs investment banking services as well as securities of entities in which Goldman Sachs makes a market. From time to time, Goldman Sachs' activities may limit the Funds' flexibility in purchases and sales of securities. When Goldman Sachs is engaged in an underwriting or other distribution of securities of an entity, the Investment Advisers may be prohibited from purchasing or recommending the purchase of certain securities of that entity for the Funds. Distributor and Transfer Agent ============================== Goldman Sachs, 85 Broad Street, New York, New York 10004, serves as the exclusive distributor of shares of the Funds pursuant to a "best efforts" arrangement as provided by a distribution agreement with the Trust on behalf of each Fund. Shares of the Funds are offered and sold on a continuous basis by Goldman Sachs, acting as agent. Pursuant to the distribution agreement, after the Prospectus and periodic reports have been prepared, set in type and mailed to shareholders, Goldman Sachs will pay for the printing and distribution of copies thereof used in connection with the offering to prospective investors. Goldman Sachs will also pay for other supplementary sales literature and advertising costs. Goldman Sachs may enter into sales agreements with certain investment dealers and other financial service firms (the "Authorized Dealers") to solicit subscriptions for shares of the Funds. Goldman Sachs receives a portion of the B-71 sales charge imposed on the sale, in the case of Class A Shares, or redemption in the case of Class B and Class C Shares (and in certain cases, Class A Shares), of such Fund shares. Goldman Sachs retained approximately the following combined commissions on sales of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares during the following periods:
Fiscal period ended Fiscal year ended Fiscal year ended Fiscal year ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund1 45,772 $ 328,147 $ 387,000 $ 94,000 Growth and Income Fund1 161,907 1,625,895 2,405,000 555,000 CORE Large Cap Value Fund2 47,033 1,035 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund1 247,772 516,723 566,000 380,000 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund3 209,999 360,931 129,000 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund4 25,650 120,911 49,000 N/A CORE International Equity Fund4 20,943 93,771 24,000 N/A Capital Growth Fund1 964,994 1,625,245 743,000 323,000 Strategic Growth Fund5 67,647 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund5 88,874 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund4 24,203 403,632 704,000 N/A Small Cap Value Fund1 58,547 595,864 662,000 219,000 Large Cap Value Fund6 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund1 818,240 1,226,623 1,091,000 1,563,000 European Equity Fund7 217,889 433,970 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund7 13,174 5,020 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund7 301,000 267,136 N/A N/A Emerging Market Equity Fund8 67,356 495,353 107,000 N/A Asia Growth Fund1 106,223 133,988 414,000 1,397,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Prior to May 1, 1996 and August 15, 1997, the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE U.S. Equity, Capital Growth, International Equity, Small Cap Value and Asia Growth Funds had not sold Class B and Class C Shares, repectively. 2 The CORE Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on December 31, 1998. 3 Prior to May 1, 1997 and August 15, 1997, the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund had not sold Class B and Class C Shares, respectively. 4 Prior to August 15, 1997, the CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity and Mid Cap Value Funds had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. 5 The Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on May 24, 1999. 6 During the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. 7 Prior to October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998, the European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. 8. Prior to December 15, 1997, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. B-72 Goldman Sachs, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60606 serves as the Trust's transfer agent. Under its transfer agency agreement with the Trust, Goldman Sachs has undertaken with the Trust to (i) record the issuance, transfer and redemption of shares, (ii) provide confirmations of purchases and redemptions, and quarterly statements, as well as certain other statements, (iii) provide certain information to the Trust's custodian and the relevant sub-custodian in connection with redemptions, (iv) provide dividend crediting and certain disbursing agent services, (v) maintain shareholder accounts, (vi) provide certain state Blue Sky and other information, (vii) provide shareholders and certain regulatory authorities with tax related information, (viii) respond to shareholder inquiries, and (ix) render certain other miscellaneous services. For its transfer agency services, Goldman Sachs is entitled to receive a transfer agency fee equal, on an ongoing basis, to 0.04% of average daily net assets with respect to each Fund's Institutional and Service Shares and 0.19% of average daily net assets with respect to each Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. As compensation for the services rendered to the Trust by Goldman Sachs as transfer agent and the assumption by Goldman Sachs of the expenses related thereto, Goldman Sachs received fees for the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997 from each Fund then in existence as follows under the fee schedules then in effect:
Class A, B and C Class A, B and C Class A and B fiscal period ended fiscal year ended fiscal year ended August 31, January 31, January 31, ========== =========== =========== 1999 1999 1998 1997 ==== ==== ==== ==== Balanced Fund1 265,040 $ 415,314 $ 240,869 $148,576 Growth and Income Fund1 1,472,797 2,847,724 1,545,495 870,527 CORE Large Cap Value Fund2 79,434 478 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund1 937,880 1,026,711 483,534 319,246 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund3 507,346 297,884 107,944 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund4 85,644 169,333 62,625 N/A CORE International Equity Fund4 135,685 107,285 36,474 N/A Capital Growth Fund1 2,686,091 2,429,326 992,678 908,310 Strategic Growth Fund5 2,712 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund5 1,830 N/A N/A N/A MidCap Value Fund4 120,585 227,387 142,558 N/A Small Cap Value Fund1 308,496 686,997 595,479 511,883 Large Cap Value Fund6 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund1 1,081,759 1,276,567 860,719 586,243 European Equity7 74,587 25,506 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund7 25,658 23,737 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund7 44,408 39,575 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund8 68,673 131,048 1,907 N/A Asia Growth Fund1 87,224 260,032 370,233 385,114
- ------------------------------------------------- 1 Prior to May 1, 1996 and August 15, 1997, the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE U.S. Equity, Capital Growth, International Equity, Small Cap Value and Asia Growth Funds had not sold Class B and Class C Shares, respectively. B-73 2 The CORE Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on December 31, 1998. 3 Prior to May 1, 1997, May 1, 1997 and August 15, 1997, the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund had not sold Class A, Class B and Class C Shares, respectively. 4 Prior to August 15, 1997, the CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity and Mid Cap Value Funds had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. 5 The Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on May 24, 1999. 6 The Large Cap Value Fund commenced operation on November 30, 1999. 7 Prior to October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998, the European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. 8 Prior to December 15, 1997, Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. B-74
Institutional Shares Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund1 1,303 $ 10,146 $ N/A $ N/A Growth and Income Fund 9,957 65,822 2,593 15 CORE Large Cap Value Fund2 41,227 716 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund1 77,800 47,585 0 N/A CORE Large Cap Growth Fund3 68,733 95,848 49 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund4 14,387 99,495 0 N/A CORE International Equity Fund4 62,671 181,201 0 N/A Capital Growth Fund1 33,191 7,002 683 N/A Strategic Growth Fund5 613 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund5 571 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund4 45,624 189,538 74,315 51,464 Small Cap Value Fund1 4,353 6,745 2,674 N/A Large Cap Value Fund6 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund1 30,437 15,221 0 N/A European Equity 2,357 1,490 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund 3,738 33,786 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund 10,606 40,115 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund7 23,830 32,313 617 N/A Asia Growth Fund1 1,708 406 0 N/A Service Shares Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year Ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund1 36 $ 246 $ N/A $ N/A Growth and Income Fund 2,595 4,575 5,033 488 CORE Large Cap Value Fund2 1 0 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund1 2,767 1,735 0 N/A CORE Large Cap Growth Fund3 511 490 21 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund4 4 31 0 N/A CORE International Equity Fund4 2 8 0 N/A Capital Growth Fund1 1,335 612 0 N/A Strategic Growth Fund5 1 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund5 1 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund4 53 60 1 N/A Small Cap Value Fund1 38 47 0 N/A Large Cap Value Fund6 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund1 851 596 0 N/A European Equity 1 0 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund 1 5 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund 1 4 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund7 1 44 0 N/A Asia Growth Fund1 N/A N/A N/A N/A
- --------------------------- 1 Prior to August 15, 1997, the Balanced Fund had not sold Institutional Shares or Service Shares; prior to June 3, 1996 and March 6, 1996, Growth and Income Fund had not sold Institutional and Service Shares, respectively; prior to June 7, 1996 CORE U.S. Equity Fund had not sold Service Shares; prior to August 15, 1997 neither Capital Growth Fund nor Small Cap Value Fund had sold Institutional or Service Shares; prior to February 7, 1996 and March 6, 1996, International Equity Fund had not sold Institutional or Service Shares; and prior to February 2, 1996 and November 30, 1999, Asia Growth Fund had not sold Institutional Shares or Service Shares, respectively. 2 The CORE Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on December 31, 1998. 3 Prior to May 1, 1997, the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund had not sold Institutional or Service Shares. B-75 /4/ Prior to August 15, 1997, the CORE Small Cap Equity and the CORE International Equity Funds had not sold Institutional or Service Shares. The Mid Cap Value Fund had not sold Service Shares prior to July 18, 1997. /5/ The Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on May 24, 1999. /6/ The Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on November 30, 1999. /7/ Prior to December 15, 1997, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not sold Institutional or Service Shares. B-76 The Trust's distribution and transfer agency agreements each provide that Goldman Sachs may render similar services to others so long as the services Goldman Sachs provides thereunder are not impaired thereby. Such agreements also provide that the Trust will indemnify Goldman Sachs against certain liabilities. Expenses ======== The Trust, on behalf of each Fund, is responsible for the payment of each Fund's respective expenses. The expenses include, without limitation, the fees payable to the Investment Advisers, service fees paid to Service Organizations, the fees and expenses of the Trust's custodian and subcustodians, transfer agent fees, brokerage fees and commissions, filing fees for the registration or qualification of the Trust's shares under federal or state securities laws, expenses of the organization of the Trust, fees and expenses incurred by the Trust in connection with membership in investment company organizations, taxes, interest, costs of liability insurance, fidelity bonds or indemnification, any costs, expenses or losses arising out of any liability of, or claim for damages or other relief asserted against, the Trust for violation of any law, legal and auditing fees and expenses (including the cost of legal and certain accounting services rendered by employees of GSAM, GSAMI and Goldman Sachs with respect to the Trust), expenses of preparing and setting in type prospectuses, statements of additional information, proxy material, reports and notices and the printing and distributing of the same to the Trust's shareholders and regulatory authorities, any expenses assumed by a Fund pursuant to its distribution and service plans, compensation and expenses of its "non-interested" Trustees and extraordinary expenses, if any, incurred by the Trust. Except for fees under any distribution and service plans applicable to a particular class and transfer agency fees, all Fund expenses are borne on a non-class specific basis. The imposition of the Investment Adviser's fee, as well as other operating expenses, will have the effect of reducing the total return to investors. From time to time, the Investment Adviser may waive receipt of its fees and/or voluntarily assume certain expenses of a Fund, which would have the effect of lowering that Fund's overall expense ratio and increasing total return to investors at the time such amounts are waived or assumed, as the case may be. B-77 The Investment Advisers voluntarily have agreed to reduce or limit certain "Other Expenses" (excluding management, distribution and service fees, transfer agency fees, service share fees, taxes, interest, brokerage, and litigation, indemnification and other extraordinary expenses) for the following Funds to the extent such expenses exceed the following percentage of average daily net assets:
Other Expenses -------- Balanced Fund 0.01% Growth and Income Fund 0.05% CORE Large Cap Value Fund 0.00% CORE U.S. Equity Fund 0.00% CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 0.00% CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 0.04% CORE International Equity Fund 0.12% Capital Growth Fund 0.00% Strategic Growth Fund 0.00% Growth Opportunities Fund 0.00% Mid Cap Value Fund 0.10% Small Cap Value Fund 0.06% Large Cap Value Fund 0.00% International Equity Fund 0.10% European Equity Fund 0.10% Japanese Equity Fund 0.01% International Small Cap Fund 0.16% Emerging Markets Equity Fund 0.15% Asia Growth Fund 0.16%
Such reductions or limits, if any, are calculated monthly on a cumulative basis and may be discontinued or modified by the applicable Investment Adviser in its discretion at any time. Fees and expenses of legal counsel, registering shares of a Fund, holding meetings and communicating with shareholders may include an allocable portion of the cost of maintaining an internal legal and compliance department. Each Fund may also bear an allocable portion of the applicable Investment Adviser's costs of performing certain accounting services not being provided by a Fund's Custodian. B-78 REIMBURSEMENT For the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997, the amounts of certain "Other Expenses" of each Fund then in existence that were reduced or otherwise limited were as follows under the expense limitations that were then in effect:
Fiscal period ended Fiscal year ended Fiscal year ended Fiscal year ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund1 307,789 $481,945 $420,659 $319,552 Growth and Income Fund1 599,598 1,033,046 0 0 CORE Large Cap Value Fund2 239,291 137,173 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 340,568 534,447 63,253 104,833 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund3 323,807 483,322 332,713 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund4 275,311 415,298 202,498 N/A CORE International Equity Fund4 223,253 806,303 206,055 N/A Capital Growth Fund1 457,262 933,189 0 N/A Strategic Growth Fund5 303,839 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund5 303,862 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund4 134,639 459,373 264,378 72,441 Small Cap Value Fund1 191,783 556,422 0 N/A Large Cap Value Fund6 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund1 311,046 1,803,009 0 144,265 European Equity Fund7 227,469 190,277 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund7 208,419 263,545 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund7 183,234 361,922 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund8 355,841 696,214 112,725 N/A Asia Growth Fund1 211,592 519,489 125,828 50,407
- -------------------------------- 1 Prior to May 1, 1996 and August 15, 1997, Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE U.S. Equity, Capital Growth, Small Cap Value, International Equity, Small Cap Value and Asia Growth Funds had not sold Class B and Class C Shares, respectively. Prior to August 15, 1997, Balanced Fund had not sold Institutional Shares or Service Shares; prior to June 3, 1996 and March 6, 1996, Growth and Income Fund had not sold Institutional and Service Shares, respectively; prior to June 7, 1996, CORE U.S. Equity Fund had not sold Service Shares; prior to August 15, 1997 neither Capital Growth Fund nor Small Cap Value Fund had sold Institutional or Service Shares; prior to February 7, 1996 and March 6, 1996, International Equity Fund had not sold Institutional or Service Shares and prior to February 2, 1996, Asia Growth Fund had not sold Institutional Shares. As of November 30, 1999, Asia Growth Fund had not sold Service Shares. 2 The CORE Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on December 31, 1998. 3 Prior to May 1, 1997, May 1, 1997, August 15, 1997, May 1, 1997 and May 1, 1997 the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund had not sold Class A, Class B, Class C or Institutional Service Shares, respectively. 4 Prior to August 15, 1997, the CORE Small Cap Equity and CORE International Equity Funds had not sold Class A, Class B, Class C, Institutional or Service Shares. The Mid Cap Value Fund had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares prior to August 15, 1997 or Service Shares prior to July 18, 1997. 5 The Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Funds commenced operations on May 24, 1999. 6 The Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on November 30, 1999. B-79 7 Prior to October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998, the European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds had not sold Class A, Class B, Class C, Institutional or Service Shares 8 Prior to December 15, 1997, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not sold Class A, Class B, Class C, Institutional or Service Shares. Custodian and Sub-Custodians ============================ State Street, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, Massachusetts 02105, is the custodian of the Trust's portfolio securities and cash. State Street also maintains the Trust's accounting records. State Street may appoint domestic and foreign sub- custodians from time to time to hold certain securities purchased by the Trust and to hold cash for the Trust. Independent Public Accountants ============================== Pricewaterhouse Coopers, independent public accountants, 160 Federal Street, Boston, MA 02110, have been selected as auditors of the Funds of the Trust for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2000. In addition to audit services, Pricewaterhouse Coopers prepares the Funds' federal and state tax returns and provides consultation and assistance on accounting, internal control and related matters. B-80 PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE The Investment Advisers are responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities for the Funds, the selection of brokers and dealers to effect the transactions and the negotiation of brokerage commissions, if any. Purchases and sales of securities on a securities exchange are effected through brokers who charge a commission for their services. Orders may be directed to any broker including, to the extent and in the manner permitted by applicable law, Goldman Sachs. In the over-the-counter market, securities are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of a security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. On occasion, certain money market instruments may be purchased directly from an issuer, in which case no commissions or discounts are paid. In placing orders for portfolio securities of a Fund, the Investment Advisers are generally required to give primary consideration to obtaining the most favorable execution and net price available. This means that an Investment Adviser will seek to execute each transaction at a price and commission, if any, which provides the most favorable total cost or proceeds reasonably attainable in the circumstances. As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Fund may pay a broker who provides brokerage and research services to the Fund an amount of disclosed commission in excess of the commission which another broker would have charged for effecting that transaction. Such practice is subject to a good faith determination that such commission is reasonable in light of the services provided and to such policies as the Trustees may adopt from time to time. While the Investment Advisers generally seek reasonably competitive spreads or commissions, a Fund will not necessarily be paying the lowest spread or commission available. Within the framework of this policy, the Investment Advisers will consider research and investment services provided by brokers or dealers who effect or are parties to portfolio transactions of a Fund, the Investment Advisers and their affiliates, or their other clients. Such research and investment services are those which brokerage houses customarily provide to institutional investors and include research reports on particular industries and companies, economic surveys and analyses, recommendations as to specific securities and other products or services (e.g., quotation equipment and computer related costs and expenses), advice concerning the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, the availability of securities or the purchasers or sellers of securities, furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and performance of accounts, effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance and settlement) and providing lawful and appropriate assistance to the Investment Advisers in the performance of their decision-making responsibilities. Such services are used by the Investment Advisers in connection with all of their investment activities, and some of such services obtained in connection with the execution of transactions for a Fund may be used in managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers furnishing such services may be selected for the execution of transactions of such other accounts, whose aggregate assets are far B-81 larger than those of a Fund, and the services furnished by such brokers may be used by the Investment Advisers in providing management services for the Trust. In circumstances where two or more broker-dealers offer comparable prices and execution capability, preference may be given to a broker-dealer which has sold shares of the Fund as well as shares of other investment companies or accounts managed by the Investment Advisers. This policy does not imply a commitment to execute all portfolio transactions through all broker-dealers that sell shares of the Fund. On occasions when an Investment Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as its other customers (including any other fund or other investment company or advisory account for which such Investment Adviser acts as investment adviser or sub-investment adviser), the Investment Adviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased for the Fund with those to be sold or purchased for such other customers in order to obtain the best net price and most favorable execution under the circumstances. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the applicable Investment Adviser in the manner it considers to be equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to such Fund and such other customers. In some instances, this procedure may adversely affect the price and size of the position obtainable for a Fund. Commission rates in the U.S. are established pursuant to negotiations with the broker based on the quality and quantity of execution services provided by the broker in the light of generally prevailing rates. The allocation of orders among brokers and the commission rates paid are reviewed periodically by the Trustees. Subject to the above considerations, the Investment Advisers may use Goldman Sachs as a broker for a Fund. In order for Goldman Sachs to effect any portfolio transactions for each Fund, the commissions, fees or other remuneration received by Goldman Sachs must be reasonable and fair compared to the commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a comparable period of time. This standard would allow Goldman Sachs to receive no more than the remuneration which would be expected to be received by an unaffiliated broker in a commensurate arm's- length transaction. Furthermore, the Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested" Trustees, have adopted procedures which are reasonably designed to provide that any commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to Goldman Sachs are consistent with the foregoing standard. Brokerage transactions with Goldman Sachs are also subject to such fiduciary standards as may be imposed upon Goldman Sachs by applicable law. B-82 For the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997, each Fund in existence paid brokerage commissions as follows:
Total Total Brokerage Brokerage Amount of Commissions Total Commissions Transaction Paid Brokerage Paid to on which to Brokers Commissions Affiliated Commissions Providing Paid Persons Paid Research ==== ======= ==== ======== Fiscal Period August 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 199,123 $ 18,798(9%)1 $ 137,175,861(4%)2 N/A Growth and Income Fund 2,361,135 139,095(6%)1 1,954,788,960(4%)2 N/A CORE Large Cap Value Fund 240,567 1,839(0%)1 332,291,465(0%)2 N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 481,746 5,296(1%)1 731,549,511(0%)2 N/A CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 225,700 4,909(2%)1 400,102,053(8%)2 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 83,581 693(1%)1 60,482,834(3%)2 N/A CORE International Equity Fund 601,449 (0%)1 474,940,454(0%)2 N/A Capital Growth Fund 1,000,740 31,968(3%)1 1,076,147,992(5%)2 N/A Strategic Growth Fund 23,988 (0%)1 21,715,180(0%)2 N/A Growth Opportunities Fund 26,193 (0%)1 18,065,858(0%)2 N/A Mid Cap Value Fund 691,991 34,185(5%)1 408,033,649(3%)2 N/A Small Cap Value Fund 626,104 33,536(5%)1 311,817,920(3%)2 N/A Large Cap Value Fund3 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 1,415,066 (0%)1 1,466,285,559(0%)2 N/A European Equity Fund 157,143 (0%)1 386,316,045(0%)2 N/A Japanese Equity Fund 83,541 3,043(4%)1 193,418,576(5%)2 N/A International Small Cap Fund 184,208 (0%)1 156,758,635(0%)2 N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund 537,548 29,251(5%)1 208,383,598(4%)2 N/A Asia Growth Fund 489,354 35,497(7%)1 184,149,170(6%)2 N/A - ----------------------------
1 Percentage of total commissions paid. 2 Percentage of total amount of transactions involving the payment of commissions effected through affiliated persons. 3 Not operational. B-83
Total Total Brokerage Brokerage Amount of Commissions Total Commissions Transaction Paid Brokerage Paid to on which To Brokers Commissions Affiliated Commissions Providing Paid Persons Paid Research ---- ------- ---- -------- Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $278,343 $ 24,859(9%)1 $699,638,329(3%)2 N/A Growth and Income Fund 3,210,832 315,934(10%)1 4,646,698,452(7%)2 N/A CORE Large Cap Value Fund 25,776 130(1%)1 60,101,321(0%)2 N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 339,110 250,313(74%)1 1,258,046,574(0%)2 N/A CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 230,692 50,914(22%)1 698,188,311(10%)2 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 167,436 34,173(20%)1 211,969,412(27%)2 N/A CORE International Equity Fund 583,909 0(0%)1 908,196,568(0%)2 N/A Capital Growth Fund 1,022,092 0(0%)1 1,454,154,897(0%)2 N/A Strategic Growth Fund3 N/A N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund3 N/A N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund 577,025 49,450(9%)1 649,019,064(7%)2 N/A Small Cap Value Fund 759,195 14,218(2%)1 716,225,444(2%)2 N/A Large Cap Value Fund3 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 1,148,992 0(0%)1 1,608,739,812(0%)2 N/A European Equity Fund 139,120 0(0%)1 72,621,844(0%)2 N/A Japanese Equity Fund 33,379 437(1%)1 34,360,336(6%)2 N/A International Small Cap Fund 89,276 0(0%)1 86,891,167(0%)2 N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund 590,262 51,073(9%)1 472,328,927(3%)2 N/A Asia Growth Fund 320,855 19,653(6%)1 148,887,187(6%)2 N/A
- ---------------------------- 1 Percentage of total commissions paid. 2 Percentage of total amount of transactions involving the payment of commissions effected through affiliated persons. 3 Not operational. B-84
Total Total Brokerage Brokerage Amount of Commissions Total Commissions Transaction Paid Brokerage Paid to on which to Brokers Commissions Affiliated Commissions Providing Paid Persons Paid Research ==== ======= ==== ======== Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 1998: Balanced Fund $ 111,054 $ 13,185(12%)1 $2,731,475,157(1%)2 N/A Growth and Income Fund 1,550,312 190,001(12%)1 9,046,102,538(3%)2 N/A CORE Large Cap Value Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 944,895 0 (0%)1 1,996,000,522(0%)2 N/A CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 54,360 288 (1%)1 200,813,608(0%)2 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 59,517 0 (0%)1 159,674,227(0%)2 N/A CORE International Equity Fund 43,120 0 (0%)1 142,395,942(0%)2 N/A Capital Growth Fund 514,890 37,947 (7%)1 2,748,868,081(5%)2 N/A Strategic Growth Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund 480,808 76,398(15%)1 2,584,258,044(2%)2 N/A Small Cap Value Fund 646,533 82,143(13%)1 5,686,763,232(1%)2 N/A Large Cap Value Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 506,607 0 (0%)1 3,898,716,988(0%)2 N/A European Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund 59,999 6,230(10%)1 236,915,108(1%)2 N/A Asia Growth Fund 814,656 2,885 (0%)1 2,160,632,195(1%)2 N/A
- ---------------------------- 1 Percentage of total commissions paid. 2 Percentage of total amount of transactions involving the payment of commissions effected through affiliated persons. 3 Not operational. B-85
Total Total Brokerage Brokerage Amount of Commissions Total Commissions Transaction Paid Brokerage Paid to on which to Brokers Commissions Affiliated Commissions Providing Paid Persons Paid Research ==== ======= ==== ======== Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 1997: Balanced Fund $ 62,072 $ 5,112 (8%)1 $ 1,057,742(15%)2 $ 0 Growth and Income Fund 779,396 77,587(10%)1 13,310,208(9%)2 0 CORE Large Cap Value Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 279,620 0(0%)1 6,706,824(0%)2 0 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A CORE International Equity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Capital Growth Fund 1,460,140 304,052(21%)1 29,920,578(1%)2 42,039 Strategic Growth Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund 364,294 22,134(6%)1 6,655,100(7%)2 0 Small Cap Value Fund 758,205 36,087(5%)1 16,439,842(1%)2 0 Large Cap Value Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 1,529,436 0(0%) 48,059,958(0%)2 0 European Equity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund/3/ N/A N/A N/A N/A Asia Growth Fund 1,554,313 50,624(3%)1 102,609,295(4%)2 0
- ------------------ 1 Percentage of total commissions paid. 2 Percentage of total amount of transactions involving the payment of commissions effected through affiliated persons. 3 Not operational. B-86 During the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, the Funds acquired and sold securities of their regular broker-dealers. As of August 31, 1999, the Funds held the following amounts of securities of their regular broker-dealers, as defined in Rule 10b-1 under the Act, or their parents ($ in thousands):
Fund Broker/Dealer Amount - ---- ------------- ------ Balanced Fund Citigroup $2,337 State Street $970 Morgan Stanley $318 Merrill Lynch $1,930 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. $1,786 Deutsch Bank $5,595 Lehman Brothers $1,786 Growth and Income Deutsch Bank $27,416 Fund Bear Stearns 8,169 Lehman Brothers 8,169 Citigroup 5,446 CORE Large Cap Value Citigroup $6,310 Fund Lehman Brothers 77 Deutsch Bank 259 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter 1,639 CORE U.S. Equity Morgan Stanley Dean Witter $6,959 Fund Citigroup 1,757 CORE Large Cap Lehman Brothers $1,312 Growth Fund Deutsch Bank 4,407 Citigroup 875 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 1,312 CORE Small Cap Citigroup 71 Equity Fund Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 106 Deutsch Bank 356 Lehman Brothers 106 CORE International N/A N/A Equity Fund
B-87
Fund Broker/Dealer Amount - ---- ------------- ------ Capital Growth Fund Citigroup $37,001 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 7,223 State Street 39,146 Deutsch Bank 24,240 Lehman Brothers 7,223 Strategic Growth Bear Stearns 174 Fund Deutsch Bank 583 Citigroup 216 State Street 353 Lehman Brothers 174 Growth Opportunities Citigroup $39 Fund State Street 78 Bear Stearns 58 Deutsch Bank 194 Mid Cap Value Fund Deutsch Bank $4,310 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 1,284 Lehman Brothers 1,284 Citigroup 856 Small Cap Value Salomon Brothers $451 Fund Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 676 Deutsch Bank 2,268 Lehman Brothers 676 Large Cap Value N/A N/A Fund International State Street $45,418 Equity Fund European Equity State Street Bank $5,034 Fund Japanese Equity State Street Bank $2,785 Fund International Small State Street Bank $17,603 Cap Fund
B-88
Fund Broker/Dealer Amount - ---- ------------- ------ Emerging Markets State Street Bank $9,664 Equity Fund Asia Growth Fund State Street Bank $2,595
As of January 31, 1999, the Funds held the following amounts of securities of their regular broker/dealers, as defined in Rule 10b-1 under the Act, or their parents ($ in thousands):
Fund Broker/Dealer Amount - ---- ------------- ------ Balanced Fund Chase Manhattan Corp. $3,487 Merrill Lynch 2,060 Morgan Stanley $418 ABN-AMRO 4,993,000 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 1,427,000 Growth and Income Chase Manhattan Corp. $15,734 Fund ABN-AMRO 8,017 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 2,291 CS First Boston 3,330 CORE Large Cap Value Chase Manhattan Corp. $1,769 Fund Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 123 Lehman Brothers 170 Merrill Lynch 198 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter 564 CORE U.S. Equity Chase Manhattan Corp. $4,762 Fund Merrill Lynch 14,372 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter 13,586 AMB-AMRO 10,302 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 13,120 CS First Boston 4,280 Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette 6,776 CORE Large Cap Lehman Brothers $4,736 Growth Fund Merrill Lynch 2,402 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Discover 5,686 AMB-AMRO 7,419
B-89
Fund Broker/Dealer Amount - ---- ------------- ------ CORE Large Cap Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 5,849 Growth Fund CS First Boston $3,082 Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette 1,646 CORE Small Cap AMB-AMRO $1,231 Equity Fund Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 352 CS First Boston 511 CORE International N/A N/A Equity Fund Capital Growth Fund AMB-AMRO $15,155 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 4,330 CS First Boston 6,296 Strategic Growth N/A N/A Fund Growth Opportunities N/A N/A Fund Mid Cap Value Fund AMB-AMRO $10,478 Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 2,994 CS First Boston 4,353 International N/A N/A Equity Fund Small Cap Value ABN-AMRO $ 6,927 Fund Bear Stearns Companies, Inc. 1,979 CS First Boston 2,878 European Equity N/A N/A Fund Japanese Equity N/A N/A Fund International Small N/A N/A Cap Fund
B-90
Fund Broker/Dealer Amount - ---- ------------- ------ Emerging Markets Merrill Lynch $75,474 Equity Fund Asia Growth Fund N/A N/A
NET ASSET VALUE Under the Act, the Trustees are responsible for determining in good faith the fair value of securities of each Fund. In accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees, the net value per share of each class of each Fund is calculated by determining the value of the net assets attributed to each class of that Fund and dividing by the number of outstanding shares of that class. All securities are valued as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally, but not always, 4:00 p.m. New York time) on each Business Day. The term "Business Day" means any day the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading, which is Monday through Friday except for holidays. The New York Stock Exchange is closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day (observed), Good Friday, Memorial Day (observed), Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. In the event that the New York Stock Exchange or the national securities exchange on which stock options are traded adopt different trading hours on either a permanent or temporary basis, the Trustees will reconsider the time at which net asset value is computed. In addition, each Fund may compute its net asset value as of any time permitted pursuant to any exemption, order or statement of the SEC or its staff. Portfolio securities of the Fund for which accurate market quotations are available are valued as follows: (a) securities listed on any U.S. or foreign stock exchange or on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations System ("NASDAQ") will be valued at the last sale price on the exchange or system in which they are principally traded on the valuation date. If there is no sale on the valuation day, securities traded will be valued at the closing bid price, or if a closing bid price is not available, at either the exchange or system-defined close price on the exchange or system in which such securities are principally traded. If the relevant exchange or system has not closed by the above-mentioned time for determining the Funds net asset value, the securities will be valued at the last sale price, or if not available at the bid price at the time the net asset value is determined; (b) over-the-counter securities not quoted on NASDAQ will be valued at the last sale price on the valuation day or, if no sale occurs, at the last bid price at the time net asset value is determined; (c) equity securities for which no prices are obtained under section (a) or (b) including those for which a pricing service supplies no exchange quotation or a quotation that is believed by the portfolio manager/trader to be inaccurate, will be valued at their fair value in accordance with procedures approved by the Board of Trustees; (d) fixed-income securities with a remaining maturity of 60 days or more for which accurate market quotations are readily available will normally be valued according to dealer-supplied bid quotations or bid quotations from a B-91 recognized pricing service (e.g., Merrill Lynch, J.J. Kenny, Muller Data Corp., Bloomberg, EJV, Reuters or Standard & Poor's); (e) fixed-income securities for which accurate market quotations are not readily available are valued by the Investment Advisers based on valuation models that take into account spread and daily yield changes on government securities in the appropriate market (i.e., matrix pricing); (f) debt securities with a remaining maturity of 60 days or less are valued by the Investment Adviser at amortized cost, which the Trustees have determined to approximate fair value; and (g) all other instruments, including those for which a pricing service supplies no exchange quotation or a quotation that is believed by the portfolio manager/trader to be inaccurate, will be valued at fair value in accordance with the valuation procedures approved by the Board of Trustees. The value of all assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies will be converted into U.S. dollar values at current exchange rates of such currencies against U.S. dollars last quoted by any major bank. If such quotations are not available, the rate of exchange will be determined in good faith by or under procedures established by the Board of Trustees. Generally, trading in securities on European and Far Eastern securities exchanges and on over-the-counter markets is substantially completed at various times prior to the close of business on each Business Day in New York (i.e., a day on which the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading). In addition, European or Far Eastern securities trading generally or in a particular country or countries may not take place on all Business Days in New York. Furthermore, trading takes place in various foreign markets on days which are not Business Days in New York and days on which the Funds' net asset values are not calculated. Such calculation does not take place contemporaneously with the determination of the prices of the majority of the portfolio securities used in such calculation. The impact of events that occur after the publication of market quotations used by a Fund to price its securities but before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange will normally not be reflected in a Fund's next determined NAV unless the Trust, in its discretion, makes an adjustment in light of the nature and materiality of the event, its effect on Fund operations and other relevant factors. The proceeds received by each Fund and each other series of the Trust from the issue or sale of its shares, and all net investment income, realized and unrealized gain and proceeds thereof, subject only to the rights of creditors, will be specifically allocated to such Fund and constitute the underlying assets of that Fund or series. The underlying assets of each Fund will be segregated on the books of account, and will be charged with the liabilities in respect of such Fund and with a share of the general liabilities of the Trust. Expenses of the Trust with respect to the Funds and the other series of the Trust are generally allocated in proportion to the net asset values of the respective Funds or series except where allocations of direct expenses can otherwise be fairly made. PERFORMANCE INFORMATION Each Fund may from time to time quote or otherwise use yield and total return information in advertisements, shareholder reports or sales literature. Average annual total return and yield are computed pursuant to formulas specified by the SEC. B-92 Thirty-day yield is derived by dividing net investment income per share earned during the period by the maximum public offering price per share on the last day of such period. The results are compounded on a bond equivalent (semi-annual) basis and then annualized. Net investment income per share is equal to the dividends and interest earned during the period, reduced by accrued expenses for the period. The calculation of net investment income for these purposes may differ from the net investment income determined for accounting purposes. Distribution rate for a specified period is calculated by annualizing distributions of net investment income for such period and dividing this amount by the net asset value per share or maximum public offering price on the last day of the period. Average annual total return for a specified period is derived by calculating the actual dollar amount of the investment return on a $1,000 investment made at the maximum public offering price at the beginning of the period, and then calculating the annual compounded rate of return which would produce that amount, assuming a redemption at the end of the period. This calculation assumes a complete redemption of the investment. It also assumes that all dividends and distributions are reinvested at net asset value on the reinvestment dates during the period. Year-by-year total return and cumulative total return for a specified period are each derived by calculating the percentage rate required to make a $1,000 investment (made at the maximum public offering price with all distributions reinvested) at the beginning of such period equal to the actual total value of such investment at the end of such period. The table set forth below indicates the total return (capital changes plus reinvestment of all distributions) on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 in a Fund for the periods indicated. Total return calculations for Class A Shares reflect the effect of paying the maximum initial sales charge. Investment at a lower sales charge would result in higher performance figures. Total return calculations for Class B and Class C Shares reflect deduction of the applicable CDSC imposed upon redemption of Class B and Class C Shares held for the applicable period. Each Fund may also from time to time advertise total return on a cumulative, average, year-by-year or other basis for various specified periods by means of quotations, charts graphs or schedules. In addition, each Fund may furnish total return calculations based on investments at various sales charge levels or at NAV. Any performance information which is based on a Fund's NAV per Share would be reduced if any applicable sales charge were taken into account. In addition to the above, each Fund may from time to time advertise its performance relative to certain averages, performance rankings, indices, other information prepared by recognized mutual fund statistical services and investments for which reliable performance information is available. The Funds' performance quotations do not reflect any fees charged by an Authorized Dealer, Service Organization or other financial intermediary to its customer accounts in connection with investments in the Funds. Occasionally, statistics may be used to specify Fund volatility or risk. Measures of volatility or risk are generally used to compare a Fund's net asset value or performance relative to a B-93 market index. One measure of volatility is beta. Beta is the volatility of a Fund relative to the total market. A beta of more than 1.00 indicates volatility greater than the market, and a beta of less than 1.00 indicates volatility less than the market. Another measure of volatility or risk is standard deviation. Standard deviation is used to measure variability of net asset value or total return around an average, over a specified period of time. The premise is that greater volatility connotes greater risk undertaken in achieving performance. From time to time the Trust may publish an indication of a Fund's past performance as measured by independent sources such as (but not limited to) Lipper Analytical Services, Inc., Morningstar Mutual Funds, Weisenberger Investment Companies Service, Donoghue's Money Fund Report, Micropal, Barron's, Business Week, Consumer's Digest, Consumer's Report, Investors Business Daily, The New York Times, Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine, Changing Times, Financial World, Forbes, Fortune, Money, Personal Investor, Sylvia Porter's Personal Finance and The Wall Street Journal. The Trust may also advertise information which has been provided to the NASD for publication in regional and local newspapers. In addition, the Trust may from time to time advertise a Fund's performance relative to certain indices and benchmark investments, including: (a) the Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. Mutual Fund Performance Analysis, Fixed-Income Analysis and Mutual Fund Indices (which measure total return and average current yield for the mutual fund industry and rank mutual fund performance); (b) the CDA Mutual Fund Report published by CDA Investment Technologies, Inc. (which analyzes price, risk and various measures of return for the mutual fund industry); (c) the Consumer Price Index published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (which measures changes in the price of goods and services); (d) Stocks, Bonds, Bills and Inflation published by Ibbotson Associates (which provides historical performance figures for stocks, government securities and inflation); (e) the Salomon Brothers' World Bond Index (which measures the total return in U.S. dollar terms of government bonds, Eurobonds and foreign bonds of ten countries, with all such bonds having a minimum maturity of five years); (f) the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index or its component indices; (g) the Standard & Poor's Bond Indices (which measure yield and price of corporate, municipal and U.S. Government bonds); (h) the J.P. Morgan Global Government Bond Index; (i) other taxable investments including certificates of deposit (CDs), money market deposit accounts (MMDAs), checking accounts, savings accounts, money market mutual funds and repurchase agreements; (j) Donoghues' Money Fund Report (which provides industry averages for 7-day annualized and compounded yields of taxable, tax-free and U.S. Government money funds); (k) the Hambrecht & Quist Growth Stock Index; (l) the NASDAQ OTC Composite Prime Return; (m) the Russell Midcap Index; (n) the Russell 2000 Index - - Total Return; (o) the Russell 1000 Value Index; (p) the Russell 1000 Growth Index-Total Return; (q) the Value-Line Composite-Price Return; (r) the Wilshire 4500 Index; (s) the FT-Actuaries Europe and Pacific Index; (t) historical investment data supplied by the research departments of Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers, First Boston Corporation, Morgan Stanley (including the EAFE Indices, the Morgan Stanley Capital International Combined Asia ex Japan Free Index and the Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Markets Free Index), Salomon Brothers, Merrill Lynch, Donaldson Lufkin and Jenrette or other providers of such data; (u) CDA/Wiesenberger Investment Companies Services or Wiesenberger Investment Companies Service; (v) The Goldman Sachs Commodities Index; (w) information produced by Micropal, Inc.; and (x) The Tokyo Price Index. The composition of the B-94 investments in such indices and the characteristics of such benchmark investments are not identical to, and in some cases are very different from, those of a Fund's portfolio. These indices and averages are generally unmanaged and the items included in the calculations of such indices and averages may not be identical to the formulas used by a Fund to calculate its performance figures. Information used in advertisements and materials furnished to present and prospective investors may include statements or illustrations relating to the appropriateness of certain types of securities and/or mutual funds to meet specific financial goals. Such information may address: . cost associated with aging parents; . funding a college education (including its actual and estimated cost); . health care expenses (including actual and projected expenses); . long-term disabilities (including the availability of, and coverage provided by, disability insurance); . retirement (including the availability of social security benefits, the tax treatment of such benefits and statistics and other information relating to maintaining a particular standard of living and outliving existing assets); . asset allocation strategies and the benefits of diversifying among asset classes; . the benefits of international and emerging market investments; . the effects of inflation on investing and saving; . the benefits of establishing and maintaining a regular pattern of investing and the benefits of dollar-cost averaging; and . measures of portfolio risk, including but not limited to, alpha, beta and standard deviation. The Trust may from time to time use comparisons, graphs or charts in advertisements to depict the following types of information: 95 . the performance of various types of securities (common stocks, small company stocks, long-term government bonds, treasury bills and certificates of deposit) over time. However, the characteristics of these securities are not identical to, and may be very different from, those of a Fund's portfolio; . the dollar and non-dollar based returns of various market indices (i.e., Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index, FT-Actuaries Europe & Pacific Index and the Standard & Poor's Index of 500 Common Stocks) over varying periods of time; . total stock market capitalizations of specific countries and regions on a global basis; . performance of securities markets of specific countries and regions; and . value of a dollar amount invested in a particular market or type of security over different periods of time. In addition, the Trust may from time to time include rankings of Goldman, Sachs & Co.'s research department by publications such as the Institutional Investor and the Wall Street Journal in advertisements. The CORE Large Cap Growth Fund commenced operations on May 1, 1997. The performance information shown below for periods before that date is for a predecessor separate account managed by the Investment Adviser which converted into Class A Shares as of the commencement date. The performance record of the separate account quoted by the Fund have been adjusted downward based on the expenses applicable to Class A Shares (the class into which the separate account transferred) to reflect the expenses expected to be incurred by the Fund during its initial year of operation. These expenses include any sales charges and asset-based charges (i.e., fees under Distribution and Service Plans) imposed and other operating expenses. Total return quotations are calculated pursuant to the methodology prescribed by the SEC for standardized performance calculations. Prior to May 1, 1997, the separate account was a separate investment advisory account under discretionary management by the Investment Adviser and had substantially similar investment objectives, policies and strategies as the Fund. Unlike the Fund, the separate account was not registered as an investment company under the Act and therefore was not subject to certain investment restrictions and operational requirements that are imposed on investment companies by the Act. If the separate account had been registered as an investment company under the Act, the separate account's performance may have been adversely affected by such restrictions and requirements. On May 1, 1997, the separate account transferred a portion of its assets to the Fund in exchange for Fund shares. The performance record of each other class has been linked to the performance of the separate account (based on Class A expenses) and the Class A performance for any periods prior to commencement of operations of a class of shares. 96 The Service Shares of the Balanced, Capital Growth, Small Cap Value, Growth and Income, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and International Equity Funds commenced operations on August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, March 6, 1996, June 7, 1996, May 1, 1997 and March 6, 1996, respectively. The Service Shares of these Funds had no operating or performance history prior thereto. However, in accordance with interpretive positions expressed by the staff of the SEC, each of these Funds has adopted the performance records of its respective Class A Shares from that class's inception date (October 12, 1994, April 20, 1990, October 22, 1992, February 5, 1993, May 24, 1991, May 1, 1997 and December 1, 1992 respectively) to the inception dates of Service Shares stated above. Quotations of performance data of these Funds relating to this period include the performance record of the applicable Class A Shares (excluding the impact of any applicable front-end sales charge). The performance records of the applicable Class A Shares reflect the expenses incurred by the Funds. These expenses include asset-based charges (i.e., fees under Distribution and Service Plans) and other operating expenses. Total return quotations are calculated pursuant to SEC-approved methodology. B-97
INTRODUCTION VALUE OF $1,000 INVESTMENT (AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN) Assuming no voluntary waiver of fees and no expense reimbursements ---------------------- Assumes Assumes Maximum maximum Applicable Assumes Applicable Assumes Sales no sales sales no sales Fund Class Time Period Charge** Charge Charge** Charge - ---- ----- ----------- -------- ------ -------- ------ Balanced Fund A 10/12/94-8/31/99 - Since inception 12.53% 13.84% % 12.70% Balanced Fund A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 6.85% 13.08% % 12.78% Balanced Fund B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception 9.79% 10.65% 9.55% 10.41% Balanced Fund B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 7.16% 12.26% 6.94% 12.04% Balanced Fund C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 2.84% 2.84% 2.59% 2.59% Balanced Fund C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 11.22% 12.24% 11.00% 12.02% Balanced Fund Institutional 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 3.94% N/A 3.64% Balanced Fund Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 13.55% N/A 13.29% Balanced Fund Service 10/12/94-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 13.72% N/A 12.64% Balanced Fund Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 12.80% N/A 12.55% Growth and Income A 2/5/93-8/31/99 - Since inception 13.20% 14.18% 12.70% 13.67% Growth and Income A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years 13.02% 14.30% 12.85% 14.13% Growth and Income A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 7.96% 14.23% 7.91% 11.19% Growth and Income B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception 10.53% 11.39% 10.53% 11.39% Growth and Income B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 8.29% 13.31% 8.31% 13.33% Growth and Income C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (2.05)% (2.05)% (2.05)% (2.06)% Growth and Income C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 12.36% 13.36% 12.39% 13.39% Growth and Income Institutional 6/3/96-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 12.33% N/A 12.31% Growth and Income Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 14.73% N/A 14.73% Growth and Income Service 2/5/93-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 14.14% N/A 13.71% Growth and Income Service 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 14.25% N/A 14.18% Growth and Income Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 14.15% N/A 14.14% CORE Large Cap Value A 12/31/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 0.07% 5.87% (0.63)% 5.13% CORE Large Cap Value B 12/31/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 0.22% 5.23% (0.51)% 4.50% CORE Large Cap Value C 12/31/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 4.28% 5.29% 3.54% 4.55% CORE Large Cap Value Institutional 12/31/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* N/A 6.02% N/A 5.28% CORE Large Cap Value Service 12/31/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* N/A 5.78% N/A 5.04% CORE U.S. Equity A 5/24/91-8/31/99 - Since inception 15.89% 16.68% 15.66% 16.45% CORE U.S. Equity A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years 21.07% 22.45% 20.86% 22.23%
B-98
INTRODUCTION VALUE OF $1,000 INVESTMENT (AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN) Assuming no voluntary waiver of fees and no expense reimbursements ---------------------- Assumes Assumes Maximum maximum Applicable Assumes Applicable Assumes Sales no sales sales no sales Fund Class Time Period Charge** Charge Charge** Charge ---- ----- ----------- -------- ------ -------- ------ CORE U.S. Equity A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 31.28% 38.94% 31.12% 38.77% CORE U.S. Equity B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception 20.93% 21.60% 20.85% 21.52% CORE U.S. Equity B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 32.79% 37.90% 32.70% 37.81% CORE U.S. Equity C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 16.48% 16.48% 16.31% 16.31% CORE U.S. Equity C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 36.87% 37.89% 36.76% 37.78% CORE U.S. Equity Institutional 6/15/95-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 24.28% N/A 24.05% CORE U.S. Equity Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 39.54% N/A 39.41% CORE U.S. Equity Service 5/24/91-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 16.72% N/A 16.44% CORE U.S. Equity Service 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 22.50% N/A 22.22% CORE U.S. Equity Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 38.81% N/A 38.58% CORE Large Cap Growth A 11/11/91-8/31/99 - Since inception 20.84% 21.75% 20.58% 21.48% CORE Large Cap Growth A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years 25.87% 27.37% 25.44% 26.93% CORE Large Cap Growth A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 39.75% 47.88% 39.34% 47.66% CORE Large Cap Growth B 5/1/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 25.53% 26.50% 24.76% 25.73% CORE Large Cap Growth B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 41.69% 46.69% 41.32% 46.32% CORE Large Cap Growth C 8/15/97-8/31/99- Since inception 20.64% 20.64% 20.22% 20.22% CORE Large Cap Growth C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 45.81% 46.81% 46.00% 47.00% CORE Large Cap Growth Institutional 11/11/91-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 21.84% N/A 21.52% CORE Large Cap Growth Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 27.52% N/A 26.99% CORE Large Cap Growth Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 48.43% N/A 47.05% CORE Large Cap Growth Service 11/11/91-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 21.68% N/A 21.51% CORE Large Cap Growth Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 27.26% N/A 26.98% CORE Large Cap Growth Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 47.82% N/A 47.84% CORE Small Cap Equity A 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (1.37)% 1.38% (2.41)% 0.32% CORE Small Cap Equity A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 14.02% 20.60% 13.49% 20.05% CORE Small Cap Equity B 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (0.82)% 0.66% (1.77)% (0.29)% CORE Small Cap Equity B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 14.69% 19.69% 14.20% 19.20% CORE Small Cap Equity C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 0.70% 0.70% (0.25)% (0.25)% CORE Small Cap Equity C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 18.67% 19.67% 18.17% 19.17% CORE Small Cap Equity Institutional 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 1.79% N/A 0.83%
B-99
INTRODUCTION VALUE OF $1,000 INVESTMENT (AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN) Assuming no voluntary waiver of fees and no expense reimbursements ---------------------- Assumes Assumes Maximum maximum Applicable Assumes Applicable Assumes Sales no sales sales no sales Fund Class Time Period Charge** Charge Charge** Charge ---- ----- ----------- -------- ------ -------- ------ CORE Small Cap Equity Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 21.18% N/A 20.64% CORE Small Cap Equity Service 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 1.33% N/A 0.33% CORE Small Cap Equity Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 20.48% N/A 19.94% CORE International Equity A 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 1.47% 4.30% 0.47% 3.28% CORE International Equity A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 19.07% 25.96% 18.87% 25.74% CORE International Equity B 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 2.46% 3.88% 1.52% 2.94% CORE International Equity B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 20.41% 25.41% 20.22% 25.22% CORE International Equity C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 3.93% 3.93% 2.99% 2.99% CORE International Equity C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 24.52% 25.52% 24.34% 25.34% CORE International Equity Institutional 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 5.00% N/A 4.06% CORE International Equity Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 26.96% N/A 26.73% CORE International Equity Service 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 4.53% N/A 3.54% CORE International Equity Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 26.28% N/A 26.05% Capital Growth A 4/20/90-8/31/99 - Since inception 18.34% 19.06% 18.06% 18.78% Capital Growth A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years 21.16% 22.54% 20.96% 22.34% Capital Growth A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 33.02% 40.78% 32.94% 40.69% Capital Growth B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception 24.58% 25.31% 24.68% 25.41% Capital Growth B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 34.49% 39.67% 34.47% 39.65% Capital Growth C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 22.05% 22.05% 22.01% 22.01% Capital Growth C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 38.72% 39.76% 38.70% 39.74% Capital Growth Institutional 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 23.36% N/A 23.33% Capital Growth Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 41.34% N/A 41.29% Capital Growth Service 4/20/90-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 19.03% N/A 18.77% Capital Growth Service 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 22.49% N/A 22.33% Capital Growth Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 40.65% N/A 40.60% Strategic Growth A 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* (4.91)% 0.60% (7.57)% (2.19)% Strategic Growth B 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* (4.60)% 0.40% (7.39)% (2.39)% Strategic Growth C 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* (0.50)% 0.50% (3.29)% (2.29)%
B-100 INTRODUCTION VALUE OF $1,000 INVESTMENT (AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN)
Assuming no voluntary waiver of fees and no expense reimbursements ---------------------- Assumes Assumes Maximum maximum Applicable Assumes Applicable Assumes Sales no sales sales no sales Fund Class Time Period Charge** Charge Charge** Charge - ---- ----- ----------- -------- ------ -------- ------ Strategic Growth Institutional 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* N/A 0.70% N/A (2.10)% Strategic Growth Service 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* N/A 0.60% N/A (2.19)% Growth Opportunities A 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* (4.25)% 1.30% (7.55)% (2.18)% Growth Opportunities B 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* (3.20)% 1.80% (6.68)% (1.68)% Growth Opportunities C 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* 0.00% 1.00% (3.47)% (2.47)% Growth Opportunities Institutional 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* N/A 1.30% N/A (2.18)% Growth Opportunities Service 5/24/99-8/31/99 - Since Inception* N/A 1.20% N/A (2.27)% Mid Cap Value A 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (2.28)% 0.46% (2.37)% 0.37% Mid Cap Value A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 14.52% 21.16% 14.41% 21.05% Mid Cap Value B 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (1.68)% (0.21)% (1.76)% (0.29)% Mid Cap Value B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 14.42% 20.13% 14.39% 20.10% Mid Cap Value C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (0.14)% (0.14)% (0.22)% (0.22)% Mid Cap Value C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 19.00% 20.15% 18.96% 20.11% Mid Cap Value Institutional 8/1/95-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 14.31% N/A 14.21% Mid Cap Value Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 21.56% N/A 21.48% Mid Cap Value Service 7/18/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 1.72% N/A 1.63% Mid Cap Value Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 21.00% N/A 20.92% Small Cap Value A 10/22/92-8/31/99 - Since inception 9.12% 10.02% 8.87% 9.77% Small Cap Value A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years 4.26% 5.44% 4.08% 5.27% Small Cap Value A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 8.51% 14.84% 8.33% 14.65% Small Cap Value B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception 3.40% 4.35% 3.38% 4.33% Small Cap Value B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 8.52% 13.89% 8.43% 13.80% Small Cap Value C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (3.89)% (3.89)% (3.94)% (3.94)% Small Cap Value C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 12.88% 13.95% 12.79% 13.86% Small Cap Value Institutional 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A (2.83)% N/A (2.88)% Small Cap Value Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A (15.18)% N/A (15.08)% Small Cap Value Service 10/22/92-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 9.99% N/A 9.80% Small Cap Value Service 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 5.40% N/A 5.31% Small Cap Value Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 14.61% N/A 14.52%
B-101 INTRODUCTION VALUE OF $1,000 INVESTMENT (AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN)
Assuming no voluntary waiver of fees and no expense reimbursements ---------------------- Assumes Assumes Maximum maximum Applicable Assumes Applicable Assumes Sales no sales sales no sales Fund Class Time Period Charge** Charge Charge** Charge - ---- ----- ----------- -------- ------ -------- ------ International Equity A 12/1/92-8/31/99 - Since inception 10.84% 11.77% 10.68% 11.61% International Equity A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years 10.99% 12.25% 10.91% 12.17% International Equity A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 12.81% 19.39% 12.77% 19.34% International Equity B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception 9.37% 10.20% 9.39% 10.22% International Equity B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 13.40% 18.68% 13.35% 18.63% International Equity C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception 6.79% 6.79% 6.70% 6.70% International Equity C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 17.56% 18.61% 17.51% 18.56% International Equity Institutional 2/7/96-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 13.26% N/A 13.17% International Equity Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 20.05% N/A 19.99% International Equity Service 12/1/92-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 11.83% N/A 11.68% International Equity Service 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five years N/A 12.33% N/A 12.26% International Equity Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 19.43% N/A 19.36% European Equity A 10/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 11.06% 17.50% 10.38% 16.78% European Equity B 10/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 12.10% 17.10% 11.38% 16.38% European Equity C 10/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 16.20% 17.20% 15.48% 16.48% European Equity Institutional 10/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* N/A 18.20% N/A 17.47% European Equity Service 10/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* N/A 17.60% N/A 16.78% Japanese Equity Fund A 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception 37.79% 43.72% 35.29% 41.14% Japanese Equity Fund A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 63.06% 72.59% 60.06% 70.00% Japanese Equity Fund B 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception 40.39% 43.05% 37.81% 40.47% Japanese Equity Fund B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 66.70% 71.70% 64.12% 69.12% Japanese Equity Fund C 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception 43.21% 43.21% 40.63% 40.63% Japanese Equity Fund C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 70.95% 71.95% 68.37% 69.37% Japanese Equity Fund Institutional 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 44.58% N/A 42.00% Japanese Equity Fund Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 73.79% N/A 71.15% Japanese Equity Fund Service 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A 43.61% N/A 41.01% Japanese Equity Fund Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 72.41% N/A 69.79%
B-102 INTRODUCTION VALUE OF $1,000 INVESTMENT (AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN)
Assuming no voluntary waiver of fees and no expense reimbursements ---------------------- Assumes Assumes Maximum maximum Applicable Assumes Applicable Assumes Sales no sales sales no sales Fund Class Time Period Charge** Charge Charge** Charge - ---- ----- ----------- -------- ------ -------- ------ International Small Cap Fund A 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 18.26% 23.36% 17.01% 22.05% International Small Cap Fund A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 33.47% 41.30% 32.34% 40.12% International Small Cap Fund B 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 20.21% 23.01% 18.90% 21.70% International Small Cap Fund B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 35.77% 40.77% 34.59% 39.50% International Small Cap Fund C 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* 23.01% 23.01% 21.71% 21.71% International Small Cap Fund C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 39.77% 40.77% 38.60% 39.60% International Small Cap Fund Institutional 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* N/A 24.19% N/A 22.90% International Small Cap Fund Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 42.12% N/A 40.92% International Small Cap Fund Service 5/1/98-8/31/99 - Since inception* N/A 23.36% N/A 22.06% International Small Cap Fund Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 41.30% N/A 40.10% Emerging Markets Equity A 12/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (5.25)% (2.08)% (5.92)% (2.76)% Emerging Markets Equity A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 46.60% 55.08% 45.99% 54.44% Emerging Markets Equity B 12/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (4.75)% (2.45)% (5.43)% (3.13)% Emerging Markets Equity B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 48.88% 54.08% 48.24% 53.44% Emerging Markets Equity C 12/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (2.31)% (2.31)% (2.99)% (2.99)% Emerging Markets Equity C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 53.18% 54.22% 52.55% 53.59% Emerging Markets Equity Institutional 12/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A (1.25)% N/A (1.94)% Emerging Markets Equity Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 56.08% N/A 57.51% Emerging Markets Equity Service 12/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A (3.40)% N/A (3.68)% Emerging Markets Equity Service 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year N/A 55.27% N/A 54.69% Asia Growth A 7/8/94-8/31/99 - Since inception (5.16)% (4.12)% (5.44)% (4.40)% Asia Growth A 9/1/94-8/31/99 - Five Years (7.23)% (6.18)% (7.50)% (6.95)% Asia Growth A 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 73.24% 83.28% 72.38% 82.37% Asia Growth B 5/1/96-8/31/99 - Since inception (13.67)% (12.88)% (13.83)% (13.04)% Asia Growth B 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year 77.25% 82.24% 76.36% 81.35% Asia Growth C 8/15/97-8/31/99 - Since inception (16.50)% (16.50)% (16.84)% (16.84)% Asia Growth C 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One Year 81.35% 82.35% 80.46% 81.46% Asia Growth Institutional 2/2/96-8/31/99 - Since inception N/A (10.03)% N/A (10.29)% Asia Growth Institutional 9/1/98-8/31/99 - One year N/A 84.62% N/A 83.85%
B-103 - ------------------------------------------ All returns are average annual total returns. * Represents an aggregate total return (not annualized) since this class has not completed a full twelve months of operations. ** Total return reflects a maximum initial sales charge of 5.5% for Class A Shares, the assumed deferred sales charge for Class B Shares (5% maximum declining to 0% after six years) and the assumed deferred sales charge for Class C Shares (1% if redeemed within 12 months of purchase). Effective for fiscal year 1999, the fiscal year-end of the Funds changed from January 31 to August 31. Accordingly, the performance information presented above relates to periods ended August 31, 1999. As of August 31, 1999, the Large Cap Value Fund had not commenced investment operations and, accordingly, no performance information is presented. B-104 From time to time, advertisements or information may include a discussion of certain attributes or benefits to be derived by an investment in the Fund. Such advertisements or information may include symbols, headlines or other material which highlight or summarize the information discussed in more detail in the communication. The Trust may from time to time summarize the substance of discussions contained in shareholder reports in advertisements and publish the Investment Adviser's views as to markets, the rationale for a Fund's investments and discussions of a Fund's current asset allocation. In addition, from time to time, advertisements or information may include a discussion of asset allocation models developed by GSAM and/or its affiliates, certain attributes or benefits to be derived from asset allocation strategies and the Goldman Sachs mutual funds that may be offered as investment options for the strategic asset allocations. Such advertisements and information may also include GSAM's current economic outlook and domestic and international market views to suggest periodic tactical modifications to current asset allocation strategies. Such advertisements and information may include other materials which highlight or summarize the services provided in support of an asset allocation program. A Fund's performance data will be based on historical results and will not be intended to indicate future performance. A Fund's total return and yield will vary based on market conditions, portfolio expenses, portfolio investments and other factors. The value of a Fund's shares will fluctuate and an investor's shares may be worth more or less than their original cost upon redemption. The Trust may also, at its discretion, from time to time make a list of a Fund's holdings available to investors upon request. Total return will be calculated separately for each class of shares in existence. Because each class of shares is subject to different expenses, total return with respect to each class of shares of a Fund will differ. SHARES OF THE TRUST The Funds, except the CORE International Equity, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Large Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and Emerging Markets Equity Funds, were reorganized on April 30, 1997 from series of a Maryland corporation to part of Goldman Sachs Trust, a Delaware business trust, established by a Declaration of Trust dated January 28, 1997. The Trustees have authority under the Trust's Declaration of Trust to create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series, without further action by shareholders. The Trustees also have authority to classify and reclassify any series of shares into one or more classes of shares. As of the date of this Additional Statement, the Trustees have classified the shares of each of the Funds into five classes: Institutional Shares, Service Shares, Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares. B-105 Each Institutional Share, Service Share, Class A Share, Class B Share and Class C Share of a Fund represents a proportionate interest in the assets belonging to the applicable class of the Fund. All expenses of a Fund are borne at the same rate by each class of shares, except that fees under Service Plans are borne exclusively by Service Shares, fees under Distribution and Service Plans are borne exclusively by Class A, Class B or Class C Shares and transfer agency fees are borne at different rates by different share classes. The Trustees may determine in the future that it is appropriate to allocate other expenses differently between classes of shares and may do so to the extent consistent with the rules of the SEC and positions of the Internal Revenue Service. Each class of shares may have different minimum investment requirements and be entitled to different shareholder services. With limited exceptions, shares of a class may only be exchanged for shares of the same or an equivalent class of another fund. See "Shareholder Guide" in the Prospectus. Institutional Shares may be purchased at net asset value without a sales charge for accounts in the name of an investor or institution that is not compensated by a Fund under a Plan for services provided to the institution's customers. Service Shares may be purchased at net asset value without a sales charge for accounts held in the name of an institution that, directly or indirectly, provides certain account administration and shareholder liaison services to its customers, including maintenance of account records and processing orders to purchase, redeem and exchange Service Shares. Service Shares bear the cost of account administration fees at the annual rate of up to 0.50% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Service Shares. Class A Shares are sold, with an initial sales charge of up to 5.5%, through brokers and dealers who are members of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. and certain other financial service firms that have sales agreements with Goldman Sachs. Class A Shares bear the cost of distribution and service fees at the aggregate rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of such Class A Shares (0.50% with respect to the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets and Asia Growth Funds). With respect to Class A Shares, the Distributor at its discretion may use compensation for distribution services paid under the Distribution and Services Plan for personal and account maintenance services and expenses so long as such total compensation under the Plan does not exceed the maximum cap on "service fees" imposed by the NASD. Class B Shares of the Funds are sold subject to a contingent deferred sales charge of up to 5.0% through brokers and dealers who are members of the National Association of Securities Dealers Inc. and certain other financial services firms that have sales arrangements with Goldman Sachs. Class B Shares bear the cost of distribution (Rule 12b-1) fees at the aggregate rate of up to 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributable to Class B Shares. Class B Shares also bear the cost of service fees at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets attributable to Class B Shares. Class C Shares of the Funds are sold subject to a contingent deferred sales charge of up to 1.0% through brokers and dealers who are members of the National Association of Securities Dealers Inc. B-106 and certain other financial services firms that have sales arrangements with Goldman Sachs. Class C Shares bear the cost of distribution (Rule 12b-1) fees at the aggregate rate of up to 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares. Class C Shares also bear the cost of service fees at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares. It is possible that an institution or its affiliate may offer different classes of shares (i.e., Institutional, Service, Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares) to its customers and thus receive different compensation with respect to different classes of shares of each Fund. Dividends paid by each Fund, if any, with respect to each class of shares will be calculated in the same manner, at the same time on the same day and will be the same amount, except for differences caused by the differences in expenses discussed above. Similarly, the net asset value per share may differ depending upon the class of shares purchased. Certain aspects of the shares may be altered after advance notice to shareholders if it is deemed necessary in order to satisfy certain tax regulatory requirements. When issued, shares are fully paid and non-assessable. In the event of liquidation, shareholders are entitled to share pro rata in the net assets of the applicable class of the relevant Fund available for distribution to such shareholders. All shares are freely transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. As of October 31, 1999 the following entity owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Balanced Fund - Edward Jones & Co. Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (55%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entity owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Growth and Income Fund - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (42%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the CORE Large Cap Value Fund - State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (20%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - Goldman Sachs Growth Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105- 1713 (20%); State Street Bank & Trust Co - Goldman Sachs Aggressive Growth Omnibus a/c Core Large Cap Value, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (10%); and Resources Trust Company - FBO Various Customers, 8051 E. Maplewood Ave, Englewood, CO 80111-4757 (14%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the CORE U.S. Equity Fund - - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (54%); and State Street Bank and Trust Company - GS Profit Sharing Master Trust, Attention: Louis Pereira, P.O. Box 1992, Boston, MA 02105-1992 (31%). B-107 As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (8%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - - Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (7%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (6%); and Alfa Mutual Insurance Co. - Saving and PS Plan, Invesco Trust Co., P.O. Box 77405, Atlanta, GA 30357-1405 (5%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the CORE Small Cap Equity Fund - State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (11%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - Goldman Sachs Growth Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105- 1713 (10%); Resources Trust Company - FBO Various Customers, 8051 E. Maplewood Ave, Englewood, CO 80111-4757 (7%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - Goldman Sachs Aggressive Growth Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (5%); Goldman Sachs & Co, FBO Acct # 021017538, c/o Mutual Fund Ops, 85 Broad St., New York, NY 1004-2456 (5%); and Huntington Hospital Pension Fund, Attention: J Ronald Gaudreault, 270 Park Avenue, Huntington, NY 11743-2799 (5%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the CORE International Equity Fund - State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (24%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - Goldman Sachs Growth Strategy Omnibus A/C, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (21%); Resources Trust Company - FBO Various Customers, 8051 E. Maplewood Ave, Englewood, CO 80111-4757 (14%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - Goldman Sachs Aggressive Growth Strategy Omnibus A/C, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (10%); and State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Balanced Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (6%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entity owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Capital Growth Fund - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (16%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Mid Cap Value Fund - State Street Bank and Trust Company - GS Profit Sharing Master Trust, Attention: Louis Pereira, P.O. Box 1992, Boston, MA 02105-1992 (64%); and Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (7%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the International Equity Fund - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (19%); and Merrill Lynch B-108 Pierce Fenner & Smith - For the Sole Benefit of It's Customers, Attention: Service Team SEQ #97PSO, 4800 Deer Lake Drive East 3rd Floor, Jackson, FL 32246- 6484 (11%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entity owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Small Cap Value Fund - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (30%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the European Equity Fund - - Goldman Sachs & Co. - FBO Acct #010100683, C/O Mutual Fund Ops, 85 Broad Street, New York, NY 10004-2434 (6%); and Goldman Sachs & Co. FBO Account #010241388, 85 Broad Street, New York, NY 10004 (6%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entity owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Japanese Equity Fund - The Goldman Sachs Seed Account, Attention: Darin Pritchett, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Il 60606 (25%); and c/o Mutual Funds Ops, Goldman Sachs & Co., FBO Acct #038125605, 85 Broad Street, New York, NY 10004. As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the International Small Cap Fund - State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth & Income, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (6%); and Goldman Sachs & Co. - FBO Account #029049525, C/O Mutual Funds Ops, 85 Broad Street, New York, NY 10004- 2456 (6%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund - University of Texas Board of Regents, Attention: Security Operations, P.O. Box 2033, Austin, TX 78768-2033 (13%); Pennsylvania Public School - Employees Retirement System, Attention: Brian Carl, P.O. Box 125, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0125 (15%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth and Income Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (10%); State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105 (9%); and Resources Trust Company - FBO Various Customers, 8051 E. Maplewood Avenue, Englewood, CO 80111-4757 (6%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Asia Growth Fund - Edward Jones & Co., Attention: Mutual Fund Shareholder, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (18%); and State Street Bank and Trust Company - FBO Goldman Sachs Employee Pension Plan, Attention: Jennifer Consigli, 200 Newport Avenue, North Quincy, MA 02170-1742 (7%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Growth Opportunities Fund - c/o Mutual Fund Ops, Goldman Sachs & Co. - FBO Acct #010059178, 85 Broad Street, New York, NY 10004 (9%); and Goldman Sachs Seed Account, Attn: Darin Pritchett, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60606 (31%). B-109 As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Strategic Growth Fund - - Edward Jones, 201 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MD 63043-3009 (6%); and Goldman Sachs Seed Account, Attn: Darin Pritchett, 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, IL 60606 (14%). As of October 31, 1999 the following entities owned of record or beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Global Income Fund - State Street Bank & Trust - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth & Income, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (16%); State Street Bank & Trust - FBO Goldman Sachs Growth Strategy, P.O. Box 1713, Boston, MA 02105-1713 (6%); and State Street Bank & Trust, Goldman Sachs Profit Sharing Master Trust, P.O. Box 1992, Boston, MA 02105 (10%). The Act requires that where more than one class or series of shares exists, each class or series must be preferred over all other classes or series in respect of assets specifically allocated to such class or series. In addition, Rule 18f-2 under the Act provides that any matter required to be submitted by the provisions of the Act or applicable state law, or otherwise, to the holders of the outstanding voting securities of an investment company such as the Trust shall not be deemed to have been effectively acted upon unless approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of each class or series affected by such matter. Rule 18f-2 further provides that a class or series shall be deemed to be affected by a matter unless the interests of each class or series in the matter are substantially identical or the matter does not affect any interest of such class or series. However, Rule 18f-2 exempts the selection of independent public accountants, the approval of principal distribution contracts and the election of trustees from the separate voting requirements of Rule 18f-2. The Trust is not required to hold annual meetings of shareholders and does not intend to hold such meetings. In the event that a meeting of shareholders is held, each share of the Trust will be entitled, as determined by the Trustees, either to one vote for each share or to one vote for each dollar of net asset value represented by such shares on all matters presented to shareholders including the elections of Trustees (this method of voting being referred to as "dollar based voting"). However, to the extent required by the Act or otherwise determined by the Trustees, series and classes of the Trust will vote separately from each other. Shareholders of the Trust do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of Trustees. Meetings of shareholders of the Trust, or any series or class thereof, may be called by the Trustees, certain officers or upon the written request of holders of 10% or more of the shares entitled to vote at such meetings. The Trustees will call a special meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees, if, at any time, less than a majority of Trustees holding office at the time were elected by shareholders. The shareholders of the Trust will have voting rights only with respect to the limited number of matters specified in the Declaration of Trust and such other matters as the Trustees may determine or may be required by law. The Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of Trustees, officers, employees and agents of the Trust unless the recipient is adjudicated (i) to be liable by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such person's office or (ii) not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that such person's actions were in the best interest of the Trust. The Declaration of Trust provides that, if any shareholder or former B-110 shareholder of any series is held personally liable solely by reason of being or having been a shareholder and not because of the shareholder's acts or omissions or for some other reason, the shareholder or former shareholder (or heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives or general successors) shall be held harmless from and indemnified against all loss and expense arising from such liability. The Trust, acting on behalf of any affected series, must, upon request by such shareholder, assume the defense of any claim made against such shareholder for any act or obligation of the series and satisfy any judgment thereon from the assets of the series. The Declaration of Trust permits the termination of the Trust or of any series or class of the Trust (i) by a majority of the affected shareholders at a meeting of shareholders of the Trust, series or class; or (ii) by a majority of the Trustees without shareholder approval if the Trustees determine that such action is in the best interest of the Trust, series or its respective shareholders. The factors and events that the Trustees may take into account in making such determination include (i) the inability of the Trust or any successor series or class to maintain its assets at an appropriate size; (ii) changes in laws or regulations governing the Trust, series or class or affecting assets of the type in which it invests; or (iii) economic developments or trends having a significant adverse impact on their business or operations. The Declaration of Trust authorizes the Trustees without shareholder approval to cause the Trust, or any series thereof, to merge or consolidate with any corporation, association, trust or their organization or sell or exchange all or substantially all of the property belonging to the Trust or any series thereof. In addition, the Trustees, without shareholder approval, may adopt a master-feeder structure by investing all or a portion of the assets of a series of the Trust in the securities of another open-end investment company. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to amend the Declaration of Trust without a shareholder vote. However, shareholders of the Trust have the right to vote on any amendment (i) that would adversely affect the voting rights of shareholder; (ii) that is required by law to be approved by shareholders; (iii) that would amend the provisions of the Declaration of Trust regarding amendments and supplements thereto; or (iv) that the Trustees determine to submit to shareholders. The Trustees may appoint separate Trustees with respect to one or more series or classes of the Trust's shares (the "Series Trustees"). Series Trustees may, but are not required to, serve as Trustees of the Trust or any other series or class of the Trust. The Series Trustees have, to the exclusion of any other Trustees of the Delaware Trust, all the powers and authorities of Trustees under the Declaration of Trust with respect to any other series or class. Shareholder and Trustee Liability - --------------------------------- Under Delaware Law, the shareholders of the Funds are not generally subject to liability for the debts or obligations of the Trust. Similarly, Delaware law provides that a series of the Trust will not be liable for the debts or obligations of any other series of the Trust. However, no similar statutory or other authority limiting business trust shareholder liability exists in other states. As a result, to the extent that B-111 a Delaware business trust or a shareholder is subject to the jurisdiction of courts of such other states, the courts may not apply Delaware law and may thereby subject the Delaware business trust shareholders to liability. To guard against this risk, the Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of a Fund. Notice of such disclaimer will normally be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by a series or the Trustees. The Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification by the relevant Fund for all loss suffered by a shareholder as a result of an obligation of the series. The Declaration of Trust also provides that a series shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the series and satisfy any judgment thereon. In view of the above, the risk of personal liability of shareholders of a Delaware business trust is remote. In addition to the requirements under Delaware law, the Declaration of Trust provides that shareholders of a series may bring a derivative action on behalf of the series only if the following conditions are met: (a) shareholders eligible to bring such derivative action under Delaware law who hold at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the series, or 10% of the outstanding shares of the class to which such action relates, shall join in the request for the Trustees to commence such action; and (b) the Trustees must be afforded a reasonable amount of time to consider such shareholder request and to investigate the basis of and to employ other advisers in considering the merits of the request and shall require an undertaking by the shareholders making such request to reimburse the series for the expense of any such advisers in the event that the Trustees determine not to bring such action. The Declaration of Trust further provides that the Trustees will not be liable for error of judgment or mistakes of fact or law, but nothing in the Declaration of Trust protects a Trustee against liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office. TAXATION The following is a summary of the principal U.S. federal income, and certain state and local, tax considerations regarding the purchase, ownership and disposition of shares in each Fund of the Trust. This summary does not address special tax rules applicable to certain classes of investors, such as tax-exempt entities, insurance companies and financial institutions. Each prospective shareholder is urged to consult his own tax adviser with respect to the specific federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of investing in each Fund. The summary is based on the laws in effect on the date of this Additional Statement, which are subject to change. General ======= Each Fund is a separate taxable entity. The Large Cap Value Fund intends to elect and each other Fund has elected to be treated and intends to qualify for each taxable year as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code. B-112 There are certain tax requirements that all Funds must follow in order to avoid federal taxation. In its efforts to adhere to these requirements, the Funds may have to limit their investment activities in some types of instruments. Qualification as a regulated investment company under the Code requires, among other things, that (a) a Fund derive at least 90% of its gross income for its taxable year from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans and gains from the sale or other disposition of stocks or securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures, and forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies (the "90% gross income test"); and (b) such Fund diversify its holdings so that, at the close of each quarter of its taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the market value of such Fund's total (gross) assets is comprised of cash, cash items, U.S. Government securities, securities of other regulated investment companies and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater in value than 5% of the value of such Fund's total assets and to not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its total (gross) assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies) or two or more issuers controlled by the Fund and engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses. For purposes of the 90% gross income test, income that a Fund earns from equity interests in certain entities that are not treated as corporations (e.g., partnerships or trusts) for U.S. tax purposes will generally have the same character for such Fund as in the hands of such an entity; consequently, a Fund may be required to limit its equity investments in such entities that earn fee income, rental income, or other nonqualifying income. In addition, future Treasury regulations could provide that qualifying income under the 90% gross income test will not include gains from foreign currency transactions that are not directly related to a Fund's principal business of investing in stock or securities or options and futures with respect to stock or securities. Using foreign currency positions or entering into foreign currency options, futures and forward or swap contracts for purposes other than hedging currency risk with respect to securities in a Fund's portfolio or anticipated to be acquired may not qualify as "directly-related" under these tests. If a Fund complies with such provisions, then in any taxable year in which such Fund distributes, in compliance with the Code's timing and other requirements, at least 90% of its "investment company taxable income" (which includes dividends, taxable interest, taxable accrued original issue discount and market discount income, income from securities lending, any net short-term capital gain in excess of net long-term capital loss, certain net realized foreign exchange gains and any other taxable income other than "net capital gain," as defined below, and is reduced by deductible expenses), and at least 90% of the excess of its gross tax-exempt interest income (if any) over certain disallowed deductions, such Fund (but not its shareholders) will be relieved of federal income tax on any income of the Fund, including long-term capital gains, distributed to shareholders. However, if a Fund retains any investment company taxable income or "net capital gain" (the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss), it will be subject to a tax at regular corporate rates on the amount retained. If the Fund retains any net capital gain, the Fund may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gains in a notice to its shareholders who, if subject to U.S. federal income tax on long-term capital gains, (i) will be required to include in income for federal income tax purposes, as long-term capital gain, their shares of such undistributed amount, and (ii) will be entitled to credit their proportionate shares of the tax paid by the Fund against their U.S. federal income tax liabilities, if any, B-113 and to claim refunds to the extent the credit exceeds such liabilities. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the tax basis of shares owned by a shareholder of the Fund will be increased by an amount equal under current law to 65% of the amount of undistributed net capital gain included in the shareholder's gross income. Each Fund intends to distribute for each taxable year to its shareholders all or substantially all of its investment company taxable income, net capital gain and any net tax-exempt interest. Exchange control or other foreign laws, regulations or practices may restrict repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of securities sales by foreign investors such as the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity or Asia Growth Funds and may therefore make it more difficult for such a Fund to satisfy the distribution requirements described above, as well as the excise tax distribution requirements described below. However, each Fund generally expects to be able to obtain sufficient cash to satisfy such requirements from new investors, the sale of securities or other sources. If for any taxable year a Fund does not qualify as a regulated investment company, it will be taxed on all of its investment company taxable income and net capital gain at corporate rates, and its distributions to shareholders will be taxable as ordinary dividends to the extent of its current and accumulated earnings and profits. In order to avoid a 4% federal excise tax, each Fund must distribute (or be deemed to have distributed) by December 31 of each calendar year at least 98% of its taxable ordinary income for such year, at least 98% of the excess of its capital gains over its capital losses (generally computed on the basis of the one-year period ending on October 31 of such year), and all taxable ordinary income and the excess of capital gains over capital losses for the previous year that were not distributed for such year and on which the Fund paid no federal income tax. For federal income tax purposes, dividends declared by a Fund in October, November or December to shareholders of record on a specified date in such a month and paid during January of the following year are taxable to such shareholders as if received on December 31 of the year declared. The Funds anticipate that they will generally make timely distributions of income and capital gains in compliance with these requirements so that they will generally not be required to pay the excise tax. For federal income tax purposes, each Fund is permitted to carry forward a net capital loss in any year to offset its own capital gains, if any, during the eight years following the year of the loss. At August 31, 1999 the following Funds had capital loss carry forwards approximating the amount indicated for federal tax purposes, expiring in the year indicated: CORE Small Cap Equity Fund, $6,229,000 (expires 2006); Strategic Growth Fund, $69,000 (expires 2007); Mid Cap Value Fund, $4,250,000 (expires 2006); Small Cap Value Fund, $43,533,000 (expires 2007); Emerging Markets Equity Fund, $27,002,000 (expires 2006); and Asia Growth Fund, $95,393,000 (expiring 2002 through 2007). These amounts are available to be carried forward to offset future capital gains to the extent permitted by the Code and applicable tax regulations. Gains and losses on the sale, lapse, or other termination of options and futures contracts, options thereon and certain forward contracts (except certain foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts) will generally be treated as capital gains and losses. Certain of the futures contracts, forward contracts and options held by a Fund will be required to be "marked-to-market" for federal income tax purposes, that is, treated as having been sold at their fair market value on the last day of the Fund's taxable year. These provisions may require a Fund to B-114 recognize income or gains without a concurrent receipt of cash. Any gain or loss recognized on actual or deemed sales of these futures contracts, forward contracts, or options will (except for certain foreign currency options, forward contracts, and futures contracts) be treated as 60% long-term capital gain or loss and 40% short-term capital gain or loss. As a result of certain hedging transactions entered into by a Fund, the Fund may be required to defer the recognition of losses on futures contracts, forward contracts, and options or underlying securities or foreign currencies to the extent of any unrecognized gains on related positions held by such Fund and the characterization of gains or losses as long-term or short-term may be changed. The tax provisions described above applicable to options, futures and forward contracts may affect the amount, timing and character of a Fund's distributions to shareholders. Application of certain requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company and/or these tax rules to certain investment practices, such as dollar rolls, or certain derivatives such as interest rate swaps, floors, caps and collars and currency, mortgage or index swaps may be unclear in some respects, and a Fund may therefore be required to limit its participation in such transactions. Certain tax elections may be available to a Fund to mitigate some of the unfavorable consequences described in this paragraph. Section 988 of the Code contains special tax rules applicable to certain foreign currency transactions and instruments that may affect the amount, timing and character of income, gain or loss recognized by a Fund. Under these rules, foreign exchange gain or loss realized with respect to foreign currencies and certain futures and options thereon, foreign currency-denominated debt instruments, foreign currency forward contracts, and foreign currency- denominated payables and receivables will generally be treated as ordinary income or loss, although in some cases elections may be available that would alter this treatment. If a net foreign exchange loss treated as ordinary loss under Section 988 of the Code were to exceed a Fund's investment company taxable income (computed without regard to such loss) for a taxable year, the resulting loss would not be deductible by the Fund or its shareholders in future years. Net loss, if any, from certain foregoing currency transactions or instruments could exceed net investment income otherwise calculated for accounting purposes with the result being either no dividends being paid or a portion of a Fund's dividends being treated as a return of capital for tax purposes, nontaxable to the extent of a shareholder's tax basis in his shares and, once such basis is exhausted, generally giving rise to capital gains. A Fund's investment in zero coupon securities, deferred interest securities, certain structured securities or other securities bearing original issue discount or, if a Fund elects to include market discount in income currently, market discount, as well as any "mark to market" gain from certain options, futures or forward contracts, as described above, will generally cause it to realize income or gain prior to the receipt of cash payments with respect to these securities or contracts. In order to obtain cash to enable it to distribute this income or gain, maintain its qualification as a regulated investment company and avoid federal income or excise taxes, the Fund may be required to liquidate portfolio securities that it might otherwise have continued to hold. Each Fund (other than the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth and CORE Small Cap Equity Funds) anticipates that it will be subject to foreign taxes on its income (possibly including, in some cases, capital gains) from foreign securities. Tax conventions B-115 between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or eliminate such taxes in some cases. If, as may occur for the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds, more than 50% of a Fund's total assets at the close of any taxable year consists of stock or securities of foreign corporations, the Fund may file an election with the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to which shareholders of the Fund would be required to (i) include in ordinary gross income (in addition to taxable dividends actually received) their pro rata shares of foreign income taxes paid by the Fund that are treated as income taxes under U.S. tax regulations (which excludes, for example, stamp taxes, securities transaction taxes, and similar taxes) even though not actually received by such shareholders, and (ii) treat such respective pro rata portions as foreign income taxes paid by them. If the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds make this election, its respective shareholders may then deduct such pro rata portions of qualified foreign taxes in computing their taxable incomes, or, alternatively, use them as foreign tax credits, subject to applicable limitations, against their U.S. federal income taxes. Shareholders who do not itemize deductions for federal income tax purposes will not, however, be able to deduct their pro rata portion of foreign taxes paid by a Fund, although such shareholders will be required to include their shares of such taxes in gross income if the election is made. If a shareholder chooses to take credit for the foreign taxes deemed paid by such shareholder as a result of any such election by the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity or Asia Growth Funds, the amount of the credit that may be claimed in any year may not exceed the same proportion of the U.S. tax against which such credit is taken which the shareholder's taxable income from foreign sources (but not in excess of the shareholder's entire taxable income) bears to his entire taxable income. For this purpose, distributions from long-term and short-term capital gains or foreign currency gains by a Fund will generally not be treated as income from foreign sources. This foreign tax credit limitation may also be applied separately to certain specific categories of foreign-source income and the related foreign taxes. As a result of these rules, which have different effects depending upon each shareholder's particular tax situation, certain shareholders of the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds may not be able to claim a credit for the full amount of their proportionate share of the foreign taxes paid by such Fund even if the election is made by such a Fund. Shareholders who are not liable for U.S. federal income taxes, including tax-exempt shareholders, will ordinarily not benefit from this election. Each year, if any, that the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity or Asia Growth Funds file the election described above, its shareholders will be notified of the amount of (i) each shareholder's pro rata share of qualified foreign taxes paid by a Fund and (ii) the portion of Fund dividends which represents income from each foreign country. The other Funds will not be entitled to elect to pass foreign taxes and associated credits or deductions through to their shareholders because they will not satisfy the 50% requirement described above. If a B-116 Fund cannot or does not make this election, it may deduct such taxes in computing the amount it is required to distribute. If a Fund acquires stock (including, under proposed regulations, an option to acquire stock such as is inherent in a convertible bond) in certain foreign corporations that receive at least 75% of their annual gross income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends, rents, royalties or capital gain) or hold at least 50% of their assets in investments producing such passive income ("passive foreign investment companies"), the Fund could be subject to federal income tax and additional interest charges on "excess distributions" received from such companies or gain from the sale of stock in such companies, even if all income or gain actually received by the Fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. The Fund would not be able to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for such a tax. In some cases, elections may be available that would ameliorate these adverse tax consequences, but such elections would require the Fund to include each year certain amounts as income or gain (subject to the distribution requirements described above) without a concurrent receipt of cash. Each Fund may limit and/or manage its holdings in passive foreign investment companies to minimize its tax liability or maximize its return from these investments. Investments in lower-rated securities may present special tax issues for a Fund to the extent actual or anticipated defaults may be more likely with respect to such securities. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when a Fund may cease to accrue interest, original issue discount, or market discount; when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities; how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income; and whether exchanges of debt obligations in a workout context are taxable. These and other issues will be addressed by a Fund, in the event it invests in such securities, in order to seek to eliminate or minimize any adverse tax consequences. Taxable U.S. Shareholders - Distributions ========================================= For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions by a Fund, whether reinvested in additional shares or paid in cash, generally will be taxable to shareholders who are subject to tax. Shareholders receiving a distribution in the form of newly issued shares will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as receiving a distribution in an amount equal to the amount of cash they would have received had they elected to receive cash and will have a cost basis in each share received equal to such amount divided by the number of shares received. Distributions from investment company taxable income for the year will be taxable as ordinary income unless a shareholder's investment is in an IRA or other tax advantage account. Distributions designated as derived from a Fund's dividend income, if any, that would be eligible for the dividends-received deduction if such Fund were not a regulated investment company may be eligible, for the dividends received deduction for corporate shareholders. The dividends- received deduction, if available, is reduced to the extent the shares with respect to which the dividends are received are treated as debt-financed under federal income tax law and is eliminated if the shares are deemed to have been held for less than a minimum period, generally 46 days. Because eligible dividends are limited to those B-117 a Fund receives from U.S. domestic corporations, it is unlikely that a substantial portion of the distributions made by the CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Asia Growth and Emerging Markets Equity Funds will qualify for the dividends- received deduction. The entire dividend, including the deducted amount, is considered in determining the excess, if any, of a corporate shareholder's adjusted current earnings over its alternative minimum taxable income, which may increase its liability for the federal alternative minimum tax, and the dividend may, if it is treated as an "extraordinary dividend" under the Code, reduce such shareholder's tax basis in its shares of a Fund. Capital gain dividends (i.e., dividends from net capital gain) if designated as such in a written notice to shareholders mailed not later than 60 days after a Fund's taxable year closes, will be taxed to shareholders as long-term capital gain regardless of how long shares have been held by shareholders, but are not eligible for the dividends- received deduction for corporations. Such long-term capital gain will be taxed at a maximum rate of 20%. Distributions, if any, that are in excess of a Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will first reduce a shareholder's tax basis in his shares and, after such basis is reduced to zero, will generally constitute capital gains to a shareholder who holds his shares as capital assets. Different tax treatment, including penalties on certain excess contributions and deferrals, certain pre-retirement and post-retirement distributions, and certain prohibited transactions is accorded to accounts maintained as qualified retirement plans. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers for more information. Taxable U.S. Shareholders - Sale of Shares ========================================== When a shareholder's shares are sold, redeemed or otherwise disposed of in a transaction that is treated as a sale for tax purposes, the shareholder will generally recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the shareholder's adjusted tax basis in the shares and the cash, or fair market value of any property, received (To aid in computing your tax basis, a shareholder should generally retain its account statements for the period that it held shares). If the shareholder holds the shares as a capital asset at the time of sale, the character of the gain or loss should be capital, and treated as long-term if the shareholder's holding period is more than one year, and short-term otherwise. In general, the maximum long-term capital gain rate will be 20% for capital gains on assets held more than one year. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers with reference to their particular circumstances to determine whether a redemption (including an exchange) or other disposition of Fund shares is properly treated as a sale for tax purposes, as is assumed in this discussion. If a shareholder receives a capital gain dividend with respect to shares and such shares have a tax holding period of six months or less at the time of a sale or redemption of such shares, then any loss the shareholder realizes on the sale or redemption will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of such capital gain dividend. All or a portion of any sales load paid upon the purchase of shares of a Fund will not be taken into account in determining gain or loss on the redemption or exchange of such shares within 90 days after their purchase to the extent the redemption proceeds are reinvested, or the exchange is effected, without payment of an additional sales load pursuant to the reinvestment or exchange privilege. The load not taken into account will be added to the tax basis of the newly-acquired shares. Additionally, any loss realized on a sale or redemption of shares of a Fund may be disallowed under "wash sale" rules to the B-118 extent the shares disposed of are replaced with other shares of the same Fund within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the shares are disposed of, such as pursuant to a dividend reinvestment in shares of such Fund. If disallowed, the loss will be reflected in an adjustment to the basis of the shares acquired. Each Fund may be required to withhold, as "backup withholding," federal income tax at a rate of 31% from dividends (including capital gain dividends) and share redemption and exchange proceeds to individuals and other non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish such Fund with a correct taxpayer identification number ("TIN") certified under penalties of perjury, or if the Internal Revenue Service or a broker notifies the Fund that the payee is subject to backup withholding as a result of failing to properly report interest or dividend income to the Internal Revenue Service or that the TIN furnished by the payee to the Fund is incorrect, or if (when required to do so) the payee fails to certify under penalties of perjury that it is not subject to backup withholding. A Fund may refuse to accept an application that does not contain any required TIN or certification that the TIN provided is correct. If the backup withholding provisions are applicable, any such dividends and proceeds, whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld. Any amounts withheld may be credited against a shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability. If a shareholder does not have a TIN, it should apply for one immediately by contacting the local office of the Social Security Administration or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Backup withholding could apply to payments relating to a shareholder's account while it is waiting receipt of a TIN. Special rules apply for certain entities. For example, for an account established under a Uniform Gifts or Transfer to Minors Act, the TIN of the minor should be furnished. Non-U.S. Shareholders ===================== The discussion above relates solely to U.S. federal income tax law as it applies to "U.S. persons" subject to tax under such law. Shareholders who, as to the United States, are not "U.S. persons," (i.e., are nonresident aliens, foreign corporations, fiduciaries of foreign trusts or estates, foreign partnerships or other non-U.S. investors) generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at the rate of 30% on distributions treated as ordinary income unless the tax is reduced or eliminated pursuant to a tax treaty or the dividends are effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of the shareholder. In the latter case the dividends will be subject to tax on a net income basis at the graduated rates applicable to U.S. individuals or domestic corporations. Distributions of net capital gain, including amounts retained by a Fund which are designated as undistributed capital gains, to a non-U.S. shareholder will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax unless the distributions are effectively connected with the shareholder's trade or business in the United States or, in the case of a shareholder who is a nonresident alien individual, the shareholder is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year and certain other conditions are met. Non-U.S. shareholders may also be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax on deemed income resulting from any election by CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity or Asia Growth Funds to treat qualified foreign taxes it pays as passed through to shareholders (as described above), but they may not be able to claim a U.S. tax credit or deduction with respect to such taxes. B-119 Any capital gain realized by a non-U.S. shareholder upon a sale or redemption of shares of a Fund will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax unless the gain is effectively connected with the shareholder's trade or business in the U.S., or in the case of a shareholder who is a nonresident alien individual, the shareholder is present in the U.S. for 183 days or more during the taxable year and certain other conditions are met. Non-U.S. persons who fail to furnish a Fund with an IRS Form W-8 or an acceptable substitute may be subject to backup withholding at the rate of 31% on capital gain dividends and the proceeds of redemptions and exchanges. Each shareholder who is not a U.S. person should consult his or her tax adviser regarding the U.S. and non-U.S. tax consequences of ownership of shares of and receipt of distributions from the Funds. State and Local =============== Each Fund may be subject to state or local taxes in jurisdictions in which such Fund may be deemed to be doing business. In addition, in those states or localities which have income tax laws, the treatment of such Fund and its shareholders under such laws may differ from their treatment under federal income tax laws, and investment in such Fund may have tax consequences for shareholders different from those of a direct investment in such Fund's portfolio securities. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers concerning these matters. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The audited financial statements and related reports of Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants, contained in each Fund's 1999 Annual Report are hereby incorporated by reference. A copy of the annual reports may be obtained without charge by writing Goldman, Sachs & Co., 4900 Sears Tower, Chicago, Illinois 60606 or by calling Goldman, Sachs & Co., at the telephone number on the back cover of each Fund's prospectus. No other part of the Annual Reports are incorporated herein by reference. OTHER INFORMATION Each Fund will redeem shares solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of the Fund during any 90-day period for any one shareholder. Each Fund, however, reserves the right to pay redemptions exceeding $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of the Fund at the time of redemption by a distribution in kind of securities (instead of cash) from such Fund. The securities distributed in kind would be readily marketable and would be valued for this purpose using the same method employed in calculating the Fund's net asset value per share. See "Net Asset Value." If a shareholder receives redemption proceeds in kind, the shareholder should expect to incur transaction costs upon the disposition of the securities received in the redemption. B-120 The right of a shareholder to redeem shares and the date of payment by each Fund may be suspended for more than seven days for any period during which the New York Stock Exchange is closed, other than the customary weekends or holidays, or when trading on such Exchange is restricted as determined by the SEC; or during any emergency, as determined by the SEC, as a result of which it is not reasonably practicable for such Fund to dispose of securities owned by it or fairly to determine the value of its net assets; or for such other period as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of shareholders of such Fund. As stated in the Prospectuses, the Trust may authorize Service Organizations and other institutions that provide recordkeeping, reporting and processing services to their customers to accept on the Trust's behalf purchase, redemption and exchange orders placed by or on behalf of their customers and, if approved by the Trust, to designate other intermediaries to accept such orders. These institutions may receive payments from the Trust or Goldman Sachs for their services. Certain Service Organizations or institutions may enter into sub-transfer agency agreements with the Trust or Goldman Sachs with respect to their services. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may pay, out of their own assets, compensation to Authorized Dealers, Service Organization and other financial intermediaries ("Intermediaries") for the sale and distribution of Shares of the Funds and/or for the servicing of those shares. These payments ("Additional Payments") would be in addition to the payments by the Funds described in the Funds' Prospectus and this Additional Statement for distribution and shareholder servicing and processing, and would also be in addition to the sales commissions payable to Intermediaries as set forth in the Prospectus. These Additional Payments may take the form of "due diligence" payments for an Intermediary's examination of the Funds and payments for providing extra employee training and information relating to the Funds; "listing" fees for the placement of the Funds on an Intermediary's list of mutual funds available for purchase by its customers; "finders" or "referral" fees for directing investors to the Funds; "marketing support" fees for providing assistance in promoting the sale of the Funds' shares; and payments for the sale of shares and/or the maintenance of share balances. In addition, the Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may make Additional Payments for subaccounting, administrative and/or shareholder processing services that are in addition to the shareholder servicing and processing fees paid by the Funds. The Additional Payments made by the Investment Adviser, Distributor and their affiliates may be a fixed dollar amount, may be based on the number of customer accounts maintained by an Intermediary, or may be based on a percentage of the value of shares sold to, or held by, customers of the Intermediary involved, and may be different for different Intermediaries. Furthermore, the Investment Adviser, Distributor and/or their affiliates may, to the extent permitted by applicable regulations, contribute to various non-cash and cash incentive arrangements to promote the sale of shares, as well as sponsor various educational programs, sales contests and/or promotions. The Investment Adviser, Distributor and their affiliates may also pay for the travel expenses, meals, lodging and entertainment of Intermediaries and their salespersons and guests in connection with educational, sales and promotional programs subject to applicable NASD regulations. B-121 In the interest of economy and convenience, the Trust does not issue certificates representing the Funds' shares. Instead, the Transfer Agent maintains a record of each shareholder's ownership. Each shareholder receives confirmation of purchase and redemption orders from the Transfer Agent. Fund shares and any dividends and distributions paid by the Funds are reflected in account statements from the Transfer Agent. The Prospectuses and this Additional Statement do not contain all the information included in the Registration Statement filed with the SEC under the 1933 Act with respect to the securities offered by the Prospectuses. Certain portions of the Registration Statement have been omitted from the Prospectuses and this Additional Statement pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. The Registration Statement including the exhibits filed therewith may be examined at the office of the SEC in Washington, D.C. Statements contained in the Prospectuses or in this Additional Statement as to the contents of any contract or other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and, in each instance, reference is made to the copy of such contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which the Prospectuses and this Additional Statement form a part, each such statement being qualified in all respects by such reference. DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLANS (Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares Only) Distribution and Service Plans. As described in the Prospectus, the Trust has adopted, on behalf of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares of each Fund, distribution and service plans (each a "Plan") pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. See "Shareholder Services" in the Prospectus. The Plans for each Fund were most recently approved on April 27, 1999 by a majority vote of the Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the non- interested Trustees of the Trust who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plans, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of approving the Plans. The compensation for distribution services payable under a Plan may not exceed 0.25%, 0.75% and 0.75%, per annum of a Fund's average daily net assets attributable to Class A, Class B and Class C Shares respectively, of such Fund. Under the Plans for Class A (CORE International Equity, International Equity, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap, Emerging Markets Equity and Asia Growth Funds only), Class B and Class C Shares, Goldman Sachs is also entitled to received a separate fee for personal and account maintenance services equal to an annual basis of 0.25% of each Fund's average daily net assets attributable to Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. With respect to Class A Shares, the Distributor at its discretion may use compensation for distribution services paid under the Plan for personal and account maintenance services and expenses so long as such total compensation under the Plan does not exceed the maximum cap on "service fees" imposed by the NASD. B-122 Each Plan is a compensation plan which provides for the payment of a specified fee without regard to the expenses actually incurred by Goldman Sachs. If such fee exceeds Goldman Sachs' expenses, Goldman Sachs may realize a profit from these arrangements. The distribution fees received by Goldman Sachs under the Plans and contingent deferred sales charge on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares may be sold by Goldman Sachs as distributor to entities which provide financing for payments to Authorized Dealers in respect of sales of Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. To the extent such fees are not paid to such dealers, Goldman Sachs may retain such fee as compensation for its services and expenses of distributing the Funds' Class A, Class B and Class C Shares. Under each Plan, Goldman Sachs, as distributor of each Fund's Class A, Class B and Class C Shares, will provide to the Trustees of the Trust for their review, and the Trustees of the Trust will review at least quarterly, a written report of the services provided and amounts expended by Goldman Sachs under the Plans and the purposes for which such services were performed and expenditures were made. The Plans will remain in effect until May 1, 2000 and from year to year thereafter, provided that such continuance is approved annually by a majority vote of the Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the non-interested Trustees of the Trust who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plans. The Plans may not be amended to increase materially the amount of distribution compensation without approval of a majority of the outstanding Class A, Class B or Class C Shares of the affected Fund and share class. All material amendments of a Plan must also be approved by the Trustees of the Trust in the manner described above. A Plan may be terminated at any time as to any Fund without payment of any penalty by a vote of a majority of the non- interested Trustees of the Trust or by vote of a majority of the Class A, Class B or Class C Shares, respectively, of the applicable Fund and share class. If a Plan was terminated by the Trustees of the Trust and no successor plan was adopted, the Fund would cease to make payments to Goldman Sachs under the Plan and Goldman Sachs would be unable to recover the amount of any of its unreimbursed expenditures. So long as a Plan is in effect, the selection and nomination of non-interested Trustees of the Trust will be committed to the discretion of the non-interested Trustees of the Trust. The Trustees of the Trust have determined that in their judgment there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plans will benefit the Funds and their Class A, Class B and Class C Shareholders. B-123 The following chart shows the: 1) distribution and service fees paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, and 2) distribution fees paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal years ended January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997 by each applicable Fund then in existence pursuant to the Class A Plan:
Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund $ 268,705 $ 466,990 $ 0 $ 0 Growth and Income Fund 1,432,452 4,004,764 723,634 139,025 CORE Large Cap Value Fund1 88,576 579 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 901,485 1,963,368 720,025 363,264 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund1 366,944 270,829 0 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund1 84,036 81,416 1,380 N/A CORE International Equity Fund1 321,043 208,905 2,751 N/A Capital Growth Fund 2,987,611 3,953,381 0 0 Strategic Growth Fund1 2,430 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund1 2,204 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund1 93,442 449,380 67,478 N/A Small Cap Value Fund 339,961 872,585 0 0 Large Cap Value Fund2 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 2,622,519 4,032,788 1,416,253 900,274 European Equity Fund1 192,446 66,759 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund1 55,407 19,466 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund1 115,648 62,146 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund1 176,746 226,631 3,381 N/A Asia Growth Fund 208,976 349,621 431,390 526,448 - --------------------------------
1. The Class A Share class of the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and Emerging Markets Equity Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 1, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, May 24, 1999, May 24, 1999, August 15, 1997, October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and December 15, 1997, respectively. 2. During the periods shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-124 The following chart shows the: 1) distribution and service fees that would have been paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, and 2) distribution fees that would have been paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal years ended January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997 by each applicable Fund then in existence pursuant to the Class A Plan, without the voluntary limitations then in effect:
Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ==== ==== ==== ==== Balanced Fund $268,705 $ 823,738 $301,397 $ 153,392 Growth and Income Fund 1,432,452 5,307,490 2,324,970 1,252,257 CORE Large Cap Value Fund1 88,576 579 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 901,485 1,963,368 771,451 432,457 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund1 366,944 405,481 61,924 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund1 84,036 102,281 6,898 N/A CORE International Equity Fund1 321,043 208,905 2,751 N/A Capital Growth Fund 2,987,611 6,150,756 2,678,370 2,171,462 Strategic Growth Fund1 2,430 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund1 2,204 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund1 93,442 449,380 67,478 N/A Small Cap Value Fund 339,961 1,655,658 727,298 529,684 Large Cap Value Fund2 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 2,622,519 4,090,492 1,632,745 1,071,755 European Equity Fund1 192,446 66,759 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund1 55,407 19,466 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund1 115,648 62,146 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund1 176,746 226,631 3,381 N/A Asia Growth Fund 208,976 368,632 513,560 626,724
- -------------------------------- 1. The Class A Share class of the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and Emerging Markets Equity Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 1, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, May 24, 1999, May 24, 1999, August 15, 1997, October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and December 15, 1997, respectively. 2. During the periods shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-125 The following chart shows the: 1) distribution and service fees paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, and 2) distribution fees paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal years ended January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997 by each applicable Fund then in existence pursuant to the Class B Plan:
Fiscal Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year period ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund $ 247,828 $ 372,044 $ 74,569 $3,861 Growth and Income Fund 1,796,760 3,924,188 1,117,813 28,075 CORE Large Cap Value Fund/1/ 40,251 122 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 1,115,835 995,389 265,025 36,508 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund/1/ 858,809 449,058 34,332 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund/1/ 80,244 140,016 20,064 N/A CORE International Equity Fund/1/ 47,034 54,688 5,700 N/A Capital Growth Fund 1,739,629 1,193,755 127,395 7,632 Strategic Growth Fund/1/ 2,398 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund/1/ 598 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund/1/ 200,960 417,334 47,585 N/A Small Cap Value Fund 220,759 494,223 160,608 8,973 Large Cap Value Fund/2/ N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 388,156 653,844 314,578 44,148 European Equity Fund/1/ 4,365 387 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund/1/ 15,230 5,736 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund/1/ 1,354 1,566 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund/1/ 4,255 3,075 38 N/A Asia Growth Fund 32,196 43,192 28,550 10,229
- ------------------------------- 1. The Class B Share class of the CORE Large Cap Value, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and Emerging Markets Equity Funds commenced operations on December 31, 1998, May 1, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, May 24, 1999, May 24, 1999, August 15, 1997, October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and December 15, 1997, respectively. 2. During the periods shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-126 The following chart shows the: 1) distribution and service fees paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, and 2) distribution fees paid to Goldman Sachs for the fiscal year ended January 31, 1998 by each applicable Fund then in existence pursuant to the Class C Plan:
Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 ==== ==== ==== Balanced $ 72,293 $142,821 $13,290 Growth and Income 225,003 553,531 57,542 CORE Large Cap Value Fund1 23,517 82 N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund 214,434 152,737 14,614 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund1 343,654 156,368 6,880 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund1 34,375 44,551 4,038 CORE International Equity Fund1 25,018 27,157 3,118 Capital Growth Fund 447,252 262,717 9,607 Strategic Growth Fund1 2,161 N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund1 224 N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund1 59,930 113,272 10,495 Small Cap Value Fund 43,062 8,298 12,158 Large Cap Value Fund2 N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund 60,274 74,197 7,485 European Equity Fund1 3,312 337 N/A Japanese Equity Fund1 9,001 1,390 N/A International Small Cap Fund1 1,082 725 N/A Emerging Markets Fund1 3,702 2,250 28 Asia Growth Fund 8,922 9,090 2,854
- --------------------------- 1. The Class C Share class of the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE Large Cap Value, CORE U.S. Equity, CORE Large Cap Growth, CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity, Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, Mid Cap Value, European Equity, Japanese Equity, International Small Cap and Emerging Markets Equity Funds commenced operations on August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, December 31, 1998, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, May 24, 1999, May 24, 1999, August 15, 1997, August 15, 1997, October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998, May 1, 1998, December 15, 1997 and August 15, 1997, respectively. 2. During the periods shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-127 No distribution fees were paid to Goldman Sachs under the Class C Plans during the fiscal year ended January 31, 1997. B-128 During the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs incurred the following expenses in connection with distribution under the Class A Plan of each applicable Fund with Class A Shares then in existence:
Compensation Printing and Preparation and Expenses Allocable Mailing of and of the Overhead, Prospectuses Distribution Distributor Telephone to Other of Sales Compensation & Its Sales and Travel Than Current Literature and to Dealers1 Personnel Expenses Shareholders Advertising ----------- --------- -------- ------------ ----------- Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 529,148 $ 360,366 $ 382,623 $ 30,628 $107,723 Growth and Income Fund 3,455,990 1,371,522 1,254,000 100,381 353,049 CORE Large Cap Value Fund 209 6,092 6,779 543 1,909 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 1,075,702 827,205 740,356 59,264 208,439 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 329,211 412,689 456,309 36,527 128,469 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 95,707 256,871 279,715 22,391 78,751 CORE International Equity Fund 139,410 472,886 565,684 45,282 159,262 Capital Growth Fund 2,922,885 2,726,172 1,895,753 151,752 533,727 Strategic Growth Fund2 -- -- -- -- -- Growth Opportunities Fund2 -- -- -- -- -- Mid Cap Value 688,906 421,030 344,128 27,547 96,885 Small Cap Value Fund 1,105,321 798,257 618,983 49,549 174,268 Large Cap Value Fund2 -- -- -- -- -- International Equity Fund 2,101,670 2,661,147 2,133,158 170,756 600,566 European Equity Fund 77,916 172,015 170,084 13,615 47,885 Japanese Equity Fund 36,322 149,025 170,376 13,638 47,967 International Small Cap 105,008 261,347 281,137 22,505 79,151 Emerging Market Equity Fund 513,317 413,276 387,371 31,008 109,060 Asia Growth Fund 344,149 413,621 396,790 31,762 111,712
- --------------------------- 1 Advance commissions paid to dealers of 1% on Class A Shares are considered deferred assets which are amortized over a period of 1 year; amounts presented above reflect amortization expense recorded during the period presented. 2 During the period shown, no shares of the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities, or Large Cap Value Funds were offered. B-129 During the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs incurred the following expenses in connection with distribution under the Class A Plan of each applicable Fund with Class A Shares then in existence:
Compensation Printing and Preparation and Expenses Allocable Mailing of and of the Overhead, Prospectuses Distribution Distributor Telephone to Other of Sales Compensation & Its Sales and Travel Than Current Literature and to Dealers1 Personnel Expenses Shareholders Advertising ----------- --------- -------- ------------ ----------- Fiscal Period Ended August 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 284,131 $ 98,160 $ 114,599 $ 6,695 $ 31,216 Growth and Income Fund 1,422,613 283,015 253,604 14,816 69,080 CORE Large Cap Value Fund 88,377 156,716 224,556 13,119 61,167 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 767,056 453,822 472,623 27,611 128,739 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 372,962 293,544 383,525 22,406 104,469 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 104,448 126,273 132,745 7,755 36,159 CORE International Equity Fund 167,638 149,640 207,739 12,136 56,586 Capital Growth Fund 2,390,976 1,571,258 1,104,408 64,521 300,832 Strategic Growth Fund 2,726 38,163 55,709 3,255 15,175 Growth Opportunities Fund 746 27,886 40,707 2,378 11,088 Mid Cap Value 147,306 103,157 110,167 6,436 30,009 Small Cap Value Fund 371,033 247,168 218,804 12,783 59,601 Large Cap Value2 -- -- -- -- -- International Equity Fund 1,338,095 1,381,648 1,244,776 72,721 339,067 European Equity Fund 266,561 242,715 222,276 12,986 60,546 Japanese Equity Fund 41,568 125,074 158,986 9,288 43,307 International Small Cap 163,959 161,681 175,260 10,239 47,739 Emerging Market Equity Fund 186,200 171,602 164,463 9,608 44,798 Asia Growth Fund 99,181 206,937 238,244 13,919 64,896
- --------------------------- 1 Advance commissions paid to dealers of 1% on Class A Shares are considered deferred assets which are amortized over a period of 1 year; amounts presented above reflect amortization expense recorded during the period presented. 2 During the period shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-130 During the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs incurred the following expenses in connection with distribution under the Class B Plan of each applicable Fund with Class B Shares then in existence:
Compensation Printing and Preparation and Expenses Allocable Mailing of and of the Overhead, Prospectuses Distribution Distributor Telephone to Other of Sales Compensation & Its Sales and Travel Than Current Literature and to Dealers1 Personnel Expenses Shareholders Advertising ----------- --------- -------- ------------ ----------- Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 337,025 $ 58,444 $ 71,112 $ 5,692 $ 20,021 Growth and Income Fund 3,724,345 279,663 339,383 27,167 95,549 CORE Large Cap Value Fund 35 5,474 6,660 533 1,875 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 824,545 107,505 130,598 10,454 36,768 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 354,359 142,953 173,917 13,922 48,964 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 109,290 119,334 145,193 11,622 40,877 CORE International Equity Fund 47,527 92,413 112,445 9,001 31,657 Capital Growth Fund 910,940 95,082 115,153 9,218 32,420 Strategic Growth Fund2 -- -- -- -- -- Growth Opportunities Fund2 -- -- -- -- -- Mid Cap Value Fund 407,838 91,292 110,596 8,853 31,137 Small Cap Value Fund 481,953 56,634 68,841 5,511 19,381 Large Cap Value Fund2 -- -- -- -- -- International Equity Fund 605,118 121,626 147,961 11,844 41,657 European Equity Fund 222 154 187 15 53 Japanese Equity Fund 4,540 47,432 57,713 4,620 16,248 International Small Cap 1,352 4,574 5,566 446 1,567 Emerging Market Equity Fund 2,843 1,873 2,279 182 642 Asia Growth Fund 69,014 17,962 21,483 1,720 6,048
- --------------------------- 1 Advance commissions paid to dealers of 4% on Class B shares are considered deferred assets which are amortized over a period of 1 year; amounts presented above reflect amortization expense recorded during the period presented. 2 During the periods shown, no shares of the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities or Large Cap Value Funds were offered. B-131 During the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs incurred the following expenses in connection with distribution under the Class B Plan of each applicable Fund with Class B Shares then in existence:
Compensation Printing and Preparation and Expenses Allocable Mailing of and of the Overhead, Prospectuses Distribution Distributor Telephone to Other of Sales Compensation & Its Sales and Travel Than Current Literature and to Dealers/1/ Personnel Expenses Shareholders Advertising ------------- --------- -------- ------------ ----------- Fiscal Period Ended August 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 251,348 $ 17,182 $ 25,082 $ 1,465 $ 6,832 Growth and Income Fund 2,321,874 48,513 70,668 4,129 19,249 CORE Large Cap Value Fund 20,782 15,292 22,323 1,304 6,081 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 809,304 91,629 133,562 7,803 36,381 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 570,671 150,530 219,689 12,835 59,841 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 79,535 20,029 29,237 1,708 7,964 CORE International Equity Fund 44,321 10,199 14,888 870 4,055 Capital Growth Fund 1,180,236 87,668 127,236 7,433 34,658 Strategic Growth Fund 730 6,753 9,858 576 2,685 Growth Opportunities Fund 312 3,392 4,952 289 1,349 Mid Cap Value 269,285 37,309 54,110 3,161 14,739 Small Cap Value Fund 303,668 21,377 31,162 1,821 8,488 Large Cap Value/2/ -- -- -- -- -- International Equity Fund 386,822 56,612 82,641 4,828 22,511 European Equity Fund 3,355 1,551 2,264 132 617 Japanese Equity Fund 11,125 16,139 23,559 1,376 6,417 International Small Cap 1,342 683 997 58 272 Emerging Market Equity Fund 3,625 1,187 1,733 101 472 Asia Growth Fund 47,560 11,933 17,140 1,001 4,669
- --------------------------- 1 Advance commissions paid to dealers of 4% on Class B Shares are considered deferred assets which are amortized over a period of 1 year; amounts presented above reflect amortization expense recorded during the period presented. 2 During the period shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-132 During the fiscal year ended January 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs incurred the following expenses in connection with distribution under the Class C Plan of each applicable Fund with Class C Shares then in existence:
Compensation Printing and Preparation and Expenses Allocable Mailing of and of the Overhead, Prospectuses Distribution Distributor Telephone to Other of Sales Compensation & Its Sales and Travel Than Current Literature and to Dealers/1/ Personnel Expenses Shareholders Advertising ------------- --------- -------- ------------ ----------- Fiscal Year Ended January 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 155,489 $ 22,725 $ 27,651 2,213 $ 7,785 Growth and Income Fund 642,535 38,821 47,236 3,781 13,299 CORE Large Cap Value Fund -- 5,474 6,660 533 1,875 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 153,636 16,039 19,516 1,562 5,495 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 133,109 48,875 59,469 4,760 16,743 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 47,805 36,337 44,213 3,539 12,448 CORE International Equity Fund 28,306 45,144 54,929 4,397 15,465 Capital Growth Fund 223,924 20,452 24,886 1,992 7,006 Strategic Growth Fund/2/ -- -- -- -- -- Growth Opportunities Fund/2/ -- -- -- -- -- Mid Cap Value 124,212 24,313 29,583 2,368 8,329 Small Cap Value Fund 96,526 9,640 11,723 938 3,300 Large Cap Value Fund/2/ -- -- -- -- -- International Equity Fund 74,109 14,632 17,798 1,425 5,011 European Equity Fund 178 84 103 8 29 Japanese Equity Fund 2,314 4,777 5,813 465 1,637 International Small Cap 651 1,554 1,891 151 532 Emerging Market Equity Fund 2,859 1,468 1,787 143 503 Asia Growth Fund 13,673 3,594 4,373 350 1,231
- --------------------------- 1 Advance commissions paid to dealers of 1% on Class C shares are considered deferred assets which are amortized over a period of 1 year; amounts presented above reflect amortization expense recorded during the period presented. 2 During the periods shown, no shares of the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities or Large Cap Value Funds were offered. B-133 During the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs incurred the following expenses in connection with distribution under the Class C Plan of each applicable Fund with Class C Shares then in existence:
Compensation Printing and Preparation and Expenses Allocable Mailing of and of the Overhead, Prospectuses Distribution Distributor Telephone to Other of Sales Compensation & Its Sales and Travel Than Current Literature and to Dealers1 Personnel Expenses Shareholders Advertising ----------- --------- -------- ------------ ----------- Fiscal Period Ended August 31, 1999: Balanced Fund $ 62,953 $ 5,054 $ 7,378 $ 431 $ 2,010 Growth and Income Fund 268,022 6,134 8,954 523 2,439 CORE Large Cap Value Fund 11,957 9,206 13,439 785 3,661 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 170,360 17,503 25,551 1,493 6,960 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 281,528 59,434 86,760 5,069 23,633 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 36,485 8,498 12,405 725 3,379 CORE International Equity Fund 23,309 5,420 7,911 462 2,155 Capital Growth Fund 354,037 22,281 32,525 1,900 8,860 Strategic Growth Fund 834 8,205 11,978 700 3,263 Growth Opportunities Fund 4 999 1,459 85 397 Mid Cap Value 65,136 10,973 16,018 936 4,363 Small Cap Value Fund 27,521 11,249 16,421 959 4,473 Large Cap Value2 -- -- -- -- -- International Equity Fund 54,406 8,553 12,485 729 3,401 European Equity Fund 4,355 1,264 1,845 108 503 Japanese Equity Fund 5,823 6,984 10,194 596 2,777 International Small Cap 952 491 717 42 195 Emerging Market Equity Fund 4,489 959 1,400 82 381 Asia Growth Fund 12,834 3,308 4,829 282 1,315
- --------------------------- 1 Advance commissions paid to dealers of 1% on Class C Shares are considered deferred assets which are amortized over a period of 1 year; amounts presented above reflect amortization expense recorded during the period presented. 2 During the period shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. B-134 The foregoing tables and the information contained in the preceding paragraph reflect amounts expended by Goldman Sachs, which amounts are in excess of the compensation received by Goldman Sachs under the Plans. The payments under the plans were used by Goldman Sachs to compensate it for the expenses shown above on a pro-rata basis. For the fiscal years and periods indicated below, Goldman Sachs received service fees from the Funds pursuant to the Plans then in existence at the rate of 0.25% of each Fund's average daily net assets attributable to Class A, Class B, or Class C Shares, which totaled:
Class A Class B Class C ------- ------- ------- 1998 1997 1998 19971 1998 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund2 $ 268,705 $ 153,392 $ 61,957 $ 1,294 $ 18,073 Growth and Income Fund2 1,432,452 1,252,257 449,190 9,358 56,251 CORE Large Cap Value Fund3 88,576 N/A 10,063 N/A 5,879 CORE U.S. Equity Fund2 901,485 432,457 278,959 12,169 53,608 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund4 366,944 N/A 214,702 N/A 85,913 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund5 84,036 N/A 20,061 N/A 8,594 CORE International Equity Fund5 160,522 N/A 11,759 N/A 6,254 Capital Growth Fund2 2,987,610 2,171,462 434,907 2,854 111,813 Strategic Growth Fund6 2,430 N/A 599 N/A 540 Growth Opportunities Fund6 2,204 N/A 148 N/A 56 Mid Cap Value Fund5 93,442 N/A 50,240 N/A 14,982 Small Cap Value Fund2 339,961 569,684 55,190 2,992 10,766 Large Cap Value Fund6 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund2 1,311,260 1,071,755 97,039 14,733 15,069 European Equity Fund7 96,223 N/A 1,091 N/A 828 Japanese Equity Fund7 27,703 N/A 3,808 N/A 2,250 International Small Cap Fund7 57,824 N/A 338 N/A 273 Emerging Market Equity Fund8 88,373 N/A 1,064 N/A 926 Asia Growth Fund2 104,488 626,724 8,049 3,410 2,230
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 For the period commencing May 1, 1996. 2 Prior to May 1, 1996 and August 15, 1997, the Balanced, Growth and Income, CORE U.S. Equity, Capital Growth, International Equity, Small Cap Value, and Asia Growth Funds had not sold Class B and Class C Shares, respectively. 3 The CORE Large Cap Value Fund commenced operations on December 31, 1998. 4 Prior to May 1, 1997, May 1, 1997 and August 15, 1997, the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund had not sold Class A, Class B and Class C Shares, respectively. 5 Prior to August 15, 1997, the CORE Small Cap Equity, CORE International Equity and Mid Cap Value Funds had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. 6 During the periods shown, no shares of the Strategic Growth, Growth Opportunities or Large Cap Value Funds were offered. 7 Prior to October 1, 1998, May 1, 1998 and May 1, 1998, European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds had not sold Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. 8 Prior to December 15, 1997, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not sold Class A, Class B, or Class C Shares. B-135 OTHER INFORMATION REGARDING MAXIMUM SALES CHARGE, PURCHASES, REDEMPTIONS, EXCHANGES AND DIVIDENDS (Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares Only) Maximum Sales Charges - --------------------- Class A Shares of each Fund are sold at a maximum sales charge of 5.5%. Using the initial offering price per share as of August 31, 1999 and assuming a $10.00 initial offering price per share of the Large Cap Value Fund, the maximum offering price of each Fund's Class A shares would be as follows:
Maximum Offering Net Asset Sales Price to Value Charge Public ----------- ------- -------- Balanced Fund $20.38 5.5% $21.57 Growth and Income Fund 24.68 5.5% 26.13 CORE U.S. Equity Fund 34.21 5.5% 36.20 CORE Large Cap Value Fund 10.55 5.5% 11.16 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund 17.02 5.5% 18.01 CORE Small Cap Equity Fund 10.23 5.5% 10.83 CORE International Equity Fund 10.87 5.5% 11.50 Capital Growth Fund 24.96 5.5% 26.41 Strategic Growth Fund 10.06 5.5% 10.65 Growth Opportunities Fund 10.13 5.5% 10.72 Mid Cap Value Fund 18.42 5.5% 19.49 International Equity Fund 23.12 5.5% 24.47 Small Cap Value Fund 19.80 5.5% 20.95 Large Cap Value Fund 10.00 5.5% 10.55 European Equity Fund 11.75 5.5% 12.43 Japanese Equity Fund 16.24 5.5% 17.19 International Small Cap Fund 13.24 5.5% 14.01 Emerging Market Equity Fund 9.26 5.5% 9.80 Asia Growth Fund 11.07 5.5% 11.71
The following information supplements the information in the Prospectus under the captions "Shareholder Guide" and "Dividends". Please see the Prospectus for more complete information. B-136 Other Purchase Information - -------------------------- If shares of a Fund are held in a "street name" account with an Authorized Dealer, all recordkeeping, transaction processing and payments of distributions relating to the beneficial owner's account will be performed by the Authorized Dealer, and not by the Fund and its Transfer Agent. Since the Funds will have no record of the beneficial owner's transactions, a beneficial owner should contact the Authorized Dealer to purchase, redeem or exchange shares, to make changes in or give instructions concerning the account or to obtain information about the account. The transfer of shares in a "street name" account to an account with another dealer or to an account directly with the Fund involves special procedures and will require the beneficial owner to obtain historical purchase information about the shares in the account from the Authorized Dealer. Right of Accumulation (Class A) - ------------------------------- A Class A shareholder qualifies for cumulative quantity discounts if the current purchase price of the new investment plus the shareholder's current holdings of existing Class A Shares (acquired by purchase or exchange) of the Funds and Class A Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund (as defined in the Prospectus) total the requisite amount for receiving a discount. For example, if a shareholder owns shares with a current market value of $35,000 and purchases additional Class A Shares of any Fund with a purchase price of $25,000, the sales charge for the $25,000 purchase would be 4.75% (the rate applicable to a single purchase of more than $50,000). Class A Shares purchased without the imposition of a sales charge may not be aggregated with Class A Shares purchased subject to a sales charge. Class A Shares of the Funds and any other Goldman Sachs Fund purchased (i) by an individual, his spouse and his children, and (ii) by a trustee, guardian or other fiduciary of a single trust estate or a single fiduciary account, will be combined for the purpose of determining whether a purchase will qualify for such right of accumulation and, if qualifying, the applicable sales charge level. For purposes of applying the right of accumulation, shares of the Funds and any other Goldman Sachs Fund purchased by an existing client of the Private Client Services Division of Goldman Sachs will be combined with Class A Shares held by any other Private Client Services account. In addition, Class A Shares of the Funds and Class A Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund purchased by partners, directors, officers or employees of the same business organization, groups of individuals represented by and investing on the recommendation of the same accounting firm, certain affinity groups or other similar organizations (collectively, "eligible persons") may be combined for the purpose of determining whether a purchase will qualify for the right of accumulation and, if qualifying, the applicable sales charge level. This right of accumulation is subject to the following conditions: (i) the business organization's, group's or firm's agreement to cooperate in the offering of the Funds' shares to eligible persons; and (ii) notification to the Funds at the time of purchase that the investor is eligible for this right of accumulation. In addition, in connection with SIMPLE IRA accounts, cumulative quantity discounts are available on a per plan basis if (1) your employee has been assigned a cumulative discount number by Goldman Sachs, and (2) your account, alone or in combination with the accounts of other plan participants also invested in Class A Shares of the Goldman Sachs Funds, totals the requisite aggregate amount as described in the Prospectus. B-137 Statement of Intention (Class A) - -------------------------------- If a shareholder anticipates purchasing at least $50,000 of Class A Shares of a Fund alone or in combination with Class A Shares of any other Goldman Sachs Fund within a 13-month period, the shareholder may purchase shares of the Fund at a reduced sales charge by submitting a Statement of Intention (the "Statement"). Shares purchased pursuant to a Statement will be eligible for the same sales charge discount that would have been available if all of the purchases had been made at the same time. The shareholder or his Authorized Dealer must inform Goldman Sachs that the Statement is in effect each time shares are purchased. There is no obligation to purchase the full amount of shares indicated in the Statement. A shareholder may include the value of all Class A Shares on which a sales charge has previously been paid as an "accumulation credit" toward the completion of the Statement, but a price readjustment will be made only on Class A Shares purchased within ninety (90) days before submitting the Statement. The Statement authorizes the Transfer Agent to hold in escrow a sufficient number of shares which can be redeemed to make up any difference in the sales charge on the amount actually invested. For purposes of satisfying the amount specified on the Statement, the gross amount of each investment, exclusive of any appreciation on shares previously purchased, will be taken into account. The provisions applicable to the Statement, and the terms of the related escrow agreement, are set forth in Appendix C to this Additional Statement. Cross-Reinvestment of Dividends and Distributions - ------------------------------------------------- Shareholders may receive dividends and distributions in additional Shares of the same class of the Fund in which they have invested or they may elect to receive them in cash or Shares of the same class of other mutual funds sponsored by Goldman Sachs (the "Goldman Sachs Funds") or ILA Service Units of the Prime Obligations Portfolio or the Tax-Exempt Diversified Portfolio, if they hold Class A Shares of a Fund, or ILA, Class B or Class C Units of the Prime Obligations Portfolio, if they hold Class B or Class C Shares of a Fund (the "ILA Portfolios"). A Fund shareholder should obtain and read the prospectus relating to any other Fund, Goldman Sachs Fund or ILA Portfolio and its shares or units and consider its investment objective, policies and applicable fees before electing cross- reinvestment into that Fund or Portfolio. The election to cross-reinvest dividends and capital gain distributions will not affect the tax treatment of such dividends and distributions, which will be treated as received by the shareholder and then used to purchase shares of the acquired fund. Such reinvestment of dividends and distributions in shares of other Goldman Sachs Funds or in units of ILA Portfolios is available only in states where such reinvestment may legally be made. Automatic Exchange Program - -------------------------- A Fund shareholder may elect to exchange automatically a specified dollar amount of shares of a Fund into an identical account of another Fund or an account registered in a different name or with a different address, social security or other taxpayer identification number, provided that the account in the acquired fund has been established, appropriate signatures have been obtained and the minimum initial investment requirement has been satisfied. A Fund shareholder should obtain and read the prospectus relating to any other Goldman B-138 Sachs Fund and its shares and consider its investment objective, policies and applicable fees and expenses before electing an automatic exchange into that Goldman Sachs Fund. Systematic Withdrawal Plan - -------------------------- A systematic withdrawal plan (the "Systematic Withdrawal Plan") is available to shareholders of a Fund whose shares are worth at least $5,000. The Systematic Withdrawal Plan provides for monthly payments to the participating shareholder of any amount not less than $50. Dividends and capital gain distributions on shares held under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan are reinvested in additional full and fractional shares of the applicable Fund at net asset value. The Transfer Agent acts as agent for the shareholder in redeeming sufficient full and fractional shares to provide the amount of the systematic withdrawal payment. The Systematic Withdrawal Plan may be terminated at any time. Goldman Sachs reserves the right to initiate a fee of up to $5 per withdrawal, upon thirty (30) days written notice to the shareholder. Withdrawal payments should not be considered to be dividends, yield or income. If periodic withdrawals continuously exceed new purchases and reinvested dividends and capital gains distributions, the shareholder's original investment will be correspondingly reduced and ultimately exhausted. The maintenance of a withdrawal plan concurrently with purchases of additional Class A, Class B or Class C Shares would be disadvantageous because of the sales charge imposed on purchases of Class A Shares or the imposition of a CDSC on redemptions of Class A, Class B or Class C Shares. The CDSC applicable to Class A, Class B or Class C Shares redeemed under a systematic withdrawal plan may be waived. See "Shareholder Guide" in the Prospectus. In addition, each withdrawal constitutes a redemption of shares, and any gain or loss realized must be reported for federal and state income tax purposes. A shareholder should consult his or her own tax adviser with regard to the tax consequences of participating in the Systematic Withdrawal Plan. For further information or to request a Systematic Withdrawal Plan, please write or call the Transfer Agent. B-139 SERVICE PLAN (Service Shares Only) The Funds have adopted a service plan (the "Plan") with respect to its Service Shares which authorizes it to compensate Service Organizations for providing certain administration services and personal and account maintenance services to their customers who are or may become beneficial owners of such Shares. Pursuant to the Plan, each Fund enters into agreements with Service Organizations which purchase Service Shares of the Fund on behalf of their customers ("Service Agreements"). Under such Service Agreements the Service Organizations may perform some or all of the following services: (a) act, directly or through an agent, as the sole shareholder of record and nominee for all customers, (b) maintain account records for each customer who beneficially owns Service Shares of a Fund, (c) answer questions and handle correspondence from customers regarding their accounts, (d) process customer orders to purchase, redeem and exchange Service Shares of a Fund, and handle the transmission of funds representing the customers' purchase price or redemption proceeds, (e) issue confirmations for transactions in shares by customers, (f) provide facilities to answer questions from prospective and existing investors about Service Shares of a Fund, (g) receive and answer investor correspondence, including requests for prospectuses and statements of additional information, (h) display and make prospectuses available on the Service Organization's premises, (i) assist customers in completing application forms, selecting dividend and other account options and opening custody accounts with the Service Organization and (j) act as liaison between customers and a Fund, including obtaining information from the Fund, working with the Fund to correct errors and resolve problems and providing statistical and other information to a Fund. As compensation for such services, each Fund will pay each Service Organization a service fee in an amount up to 0.50% (on an annualized basis) of the average daily net assets of the Service Shares of such Fund attributable to or held in the name of such Service Organization. The amount of the service fees paid by each Fund then in existence to Service Organizations pursuant to the Plan was as follows for the fiscal period ended August 31, 1999 and the fiscal years ended January 31, 1999, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1997 indicated:
Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Balanced Fund1 $ 445 $ 1,402 $ 31 $ N/A Growth and Income Fund2 32,442 57,187 32,418 6,126 CORE Large Cap Value Fund3 13 1 N/A N/A CORE U.S. Equity Fund4 34,586 49,461 27,222 4,581 CORE Large Cap Growth Fund5 6,385 2,992 257 N/A CORE Small Cap Equity Fund1 176 74 4 N/A CORE International Equity Fund1 20 53 3 N/A Capital Growth Fund1 16,691 7,655 4 N/A Strategic Growth Fund6 2 N/A N/A N/A Growth Opportunities Fund6 2 N/A N/A N/A Mid Cap Value Fund7 656 685 12 N/A
B-140
Fiscal period Fiscal year Fiscal year Fiscal year ended ended ended ended August 31, January 31, January 31, January 31, 1999 1999 1998 1997 ---- ---- ---- ---- Small Cap Value Fund1 471 588 4 N/A Large Cap Value Fund8 N/A N/A N/A N/A International Equity Fund2 10,635 17,786 9,236 1,032 European Equity Fund9 6 3 N/A N/A Japanese Equity Fund9 6 6 N/A N/A International Small Cap Fund9 5 6 N/A N/A Emerging Markets Equity Fund10 4 7 1 N/A Asia Growth Fund11 N/A N/A N/A N/A
1 Prior to August 15, 1997, the Balanced, CORE Small Cap Equity, International Equity, Capital Growth and Small Cap Value Funds had not sold Service Shares. 2 Prior to March 6, 1996, the Growth and Income and International Equity Funds had not sold Service Shares. 3 Prior to December 31, 1998, the CORE Large Cap Value Fund had not sold Service Shares. 4 Prior to June 7, 1996, the Core U.S. Equity Fund had not sold Service Shares. 5 Prior to May 1, 1997, the CORE Large Cap Growth Fund had not sold Service Shares. 6 Prior to May 24, 1999, the Strategic Growth and Growth Opportunities Fund had not sold Service Shares. 7 Prior to July 18, 1997, the Mid Cap Value Fund had not sold Service Shares. 8 During the periods shown, no shares of the Large Cap Value Fund were offered. 9 Prior to October 1, 1998, May 1, 1999 and May 1, 1998, the European Equity, Japanese Equity and International Small Cap Funds, respectively, had not sold Service Shares. 10 Prior to December 15, 1997, the Emerging Markets Fund had not sold Service Shares. 11 During the periods shown, Service Shares of the Asia Growth Fund were not offered. The Funds have adopted the Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act in order to avoid any possibility that payments to the Service Organizations pursuant to the Service Agreements might violate the Act. Rule 12b-1, which was adopted by the SEC under the Act, regulates the circumstances under which an investment company or series thereof may bear expenses associated with the distribution of its shares. In particular, such an investment company or series thereof cannot engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity which is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares issued by the company unless it has adopted a plan pursuant to, and complies with the other requirements of, such Rule. The Trust believes that fees paid for the services provided in the Plan and described above are not expenses incurred primarily for effecting the distribution of Service Shares. However, should such payments be deemed by a court or the SEC to be distribution expenses, such payments would be duly authorized by the Plan. Conflict of interest restrictions (including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974) may apply to a Service Organization's receipt of compensation paid by a Fund in connection with the investment of fiduciary assets in Service Shares of a Fund. Service Organizations, including banks regulated by the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and investment advisers and other money managers subject to the jurisdiction of the SEC, the Department of Labor or state securities commissions, are urged to consult their legal advisers before investing fiduciary assets in Service Shares of a Fund. In addition, under some state securities laws, banks and other financial institutions purchasing Service Shares on behalf of their customers may be required to register as dealers. The Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plan or the related Service Agreements, most recently voted to approve the Plan and related Service Agreements at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such Plan and Service Agreements on April 27, 1999. The Plan and related Service Agreements will remain in effect until May 1, 2000 and will continue in effect thereafter only if such continuance is specifically approved annually by a vote of the Trustees in the manner described above. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount to be spent for the services described therein without approval of the Service Shareholders of the affected Fund and all material amendments of the Plan must also be approved by the Trustees in the manner described above. The Plan may be terminated at any time by a majority of the Trustees as described above or by a vote of a B-141 majority of the outstanding Service Shares of the affected Fund. The Service Agreements may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Trustees as described above or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding Service Shares of the affected Fund on not more than sixty (60) days' written notice to any other party to the Service Agreements. The Service Agreements will terminate automatically if assigned. So long as the Plan is in effect, the selection and nomination of those Trustees who are not interested persons will be committed to the discretion of the non-interested Trustees. The Trustees have determined that, in their judgment, there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the Funds and the holders of Service Shares of the Funds. B-142 Appendix A Commercial Paper Ratings - ------------------------ A Standard & Poor's ("S&P") commercial paper rating is a current opinion of the credit worthiness of an obligor with respect to financial obligations having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Standard and Poor's for commercial paper: "A-1" - Obligations are rated in the highest category indicating that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong. "A-2" - Obligations are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory. "A-3" - Obligations exhibit adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. "B" - Obligations are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. "C" - Obligations are currently vulnerable to nonpayment and are dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. "D" - Obligations are in payment default. The "D" rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The "D" rating will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized. Moody's commercial paper ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to repay punctually senior debt obligations not having an original maturity in excess of one year, unless explicitly noted. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Moody's for commercial paper: 1-A "Prime-1" - Issuers (or supporting institutions) have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: leading market positions in well-established industries; high rates of return on funds employed; conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt and ample asset protection; broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation; and well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity. "Prime-2" - Issuers (or supporting institutions) have a strong ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. This will normally be evidenced by many of the characteristics cited above but to a lesser degree. Earnings trends and coverage ratios, while sound, may be more subject to variation. Capitalization characteristics, while still appropriate, may be more affected by external conditions. Ample alternate liquidity is maintained. "Prime-3" - Issuers (or supporting institutions) have an acceptable ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. The effect of industry characteristics and market compositions may be more pronounced. Variability in earnings and profitability may result in changes in the level of debt protection measurements and may require relatively high financial leverage. Adequate alternate liquidity is maintained. "Not Prime" - Issuers do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories. The three rating categories of Duff & Phelps for investment grade commercial paper and short-term debt are "D-1," "D-2" and "D-3." Duff & Phelps employs three designations, "D-1+," "D-1" and "D-1-," within the highest rating category. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Duff & Phelps for commercial paper: "D-1+" - Debt possesses the highest certainty of timely payment. Short-term liquidity, including internal operating factors and/or access to alternative sources of funds, is outstanding, and safety is just below risk-free U.S. Treasury short-term obligations. "D-1" - Debt possesses very high certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are excellent and supported by good fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are minor. "D-1-" - Debt possesses high certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are strong and supported by good fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are very small. "D-2" - Debt possesses good certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors and company fundamentals are sound. Although ongoing funding needs may enlarge total financing requirements, access to capital markets is good. Risk factors are small. 2-A "D-3" - Debt possesses satisfactory liquidity and other protection factors qualify issues as to investment grade. Risk factors are larger and subject to more variation. Nevertheless, timely payment is expected. "D-4" - Debt possesses speculative investment characteristics. Liquidity is not sufficient to insure against disruption in debt service. Operating factors and market access may be subject to a high degree of variation. "D-5" - Issuer has failed to meet scheduled principal and/or interest payments. Fitch IBCA short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that have time horizons of less than 12 months for most obligations, or up to three years for U.S. public finance securities. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Fitch IBCA for short-term obligations: "F1" - Securities possess the highest credit quality. This designation indicates the best capacity for timely payment of financial commitments and may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature. "F2" - Securities possess good credit quality. This designation indicates a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings. "F3" - Securities possess fair credit quality. This designation indicates that the capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate; however, near-term adverse changes could result in a reduction to non-investment grade. "B" - Securities possess speculative credit quality. This designation indicates minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus vulnerability to near-term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions. "C" - Securities possess high default risk. This designation indicates that default is a real possibility and that the capacity for meeting financial commitments is solely reliant upon a sustained, favorable business and economic environment. "D" - Securities are in actual or imminent payment default. Thomson Financial BankWatch short-term ratings assess the likelihood of an untimely payment of principal and interest of debt instruments with original maturities of one year or less. The following summarizes the ratings used by Thomson Financial BankWatch: 3-A "TBW-1" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's highest category and indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will be paid on a timely basis. "TBW-2" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's second- highest category and indicates that while the degree of safety regarding timely repayment of principal and interest is strong, the relative degree of safety is not as high as for issues rated "TBW-1." "TBW-3" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's lowest investment-grade category and indicates that while the obligation is more susceptible to adverse developments (both internal and external) than those with higher ratings, the capacity to service principal and interest in a timely fashion is considered adequate. "TBW-4" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's lowest rating category and indicates that the obligation is regarded as non-investment grade and therefore speculative. Corporate and Municipal Long-Term Debt Ratings - ---------------------------------------------- The following summarizes the ratings used by Standard & Poor's for corporate and municipal debt: "AAA" - An obligation rated "AAA" has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong. "AA" - An obligation rated "AA" differs from the highest rated obligations only in small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong. "A" - An obligation rated "A" is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still strong. "BBB" - An obligation rated "BBB" exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Obligations rated "BB," "B," "CCC," "CC" and "C" are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. "BB" indicates the least degree of speculation and "C" the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions. 4-A "BB" - An obligation rated "BB" is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial or economic conditions which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. "B" - An obligation rated "B" is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated "BB", but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. "CCC" - An obligation rated "CCC" is currently vulnerable to nonpayment, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. "CC" - An obligation rated "CC" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. "C" - The "C" rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed or similar action has been taken, but payments on this obligation are being continued. "D" - An obligation rated "D" is in payment default. The "D" rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The "D" rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized. PLUS (+) OR MINUS (-) - The ratings from "AA" through "CCC" may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories. "r" - This symbol is attached to the ratings of instruments with significant noncredit risks. It highlights risks to principal or volatility of expected returns which are not addressed in the credit rating. Examples include: obligations linked or indexed to equities, currencies, or commodities; obligations exposed to severe prepayment risk - such as interest-only or principal-only mortgage securities; and obligations with unusually risky interest terms, such as inverse floaters. The following summarizes the ratings used by Moody's for corporate and municipal long-term debt: 5-A "Aaa" - Bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues. "Aa" - Bonds are judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the "Aaa" group they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in "Aaa" securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present which make the long- term risk appear somewhat larger than the "Aaa" securities. "A" - Bonds possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future. "Baa" - Bonds are considered as medium-grade obligations, (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well. "Ba," "B," "Caa," "Ca," and "C" - Bonds that possess one of these ratings provide questionable protection of interest and principal ("Ba" indicates speculative elements; "B" indicates a general lack of characteristics of desirable investment; "Caa" are of poor standing; "Ca" represents obligations which are speculative in a high degree; and "C" represents the lowest rated class of bonds). "Caa," "Ca" and "C" bonds may be in default. Con. (---) - Bonds for which the security depends upon the completion of some act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally. These are bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b) earnings of projects unseasoned in operating experience, (c) rentals which begin when facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other limiting condition attaches. Parenthetical rating denotes probable credit stature upon completion of construction or elimination of basis of condition. Note: Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 in each generic rating classification from "Aa" through "Caa". The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of its generic rating category. 6-A The following summarizes the long-term debt ratings used by Duff & Phelps for corporate and municipal long-term debt: "AAA" - Debt is considered to be of the highest credit quality. The risk factors are negligible, being only slightly more than for risk-free U.S. Treasury debt. "AA" - Debt is considered to be of high credit quality. Protection factors are strong. Risk is modest but may vary slightly from time to time because of economic conditions. "A" - Debt possesses protection factors which are average but adequate. However, risk factors are more variable in periods of greater economic stress. "BBB" - Debt possesses below-average protection factors but such protection factors are still considered sufficient for prudent investment. Considerable variability in risk is present during economic cycles. "BB," "B," "CCC," "DD," and "DP" - Debt that possesses one of these ratings is considered to be below investment grade. Although below investment grade, debt rated "BB" is deemed likely to meet obligations when due. Debt rated "B" possesses the risk that obligations will not be met when due. Debt rated "CCC" is well below investment grade and has considerable uncertainty as to timely payment of principal, interest or preferred dividends. Debt rated "DD" is a defaulted debt obligation, and the rating "DP" represents preferred stock with dividend arrearages. To provide more detailed indications of credit quality, the "AA," "A," "BBB," "BB" and "B" ratings may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within these major categories. The following summarizes the ratings used by Fitch IBCA for corporate and municipal bonds: "AAA" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of the highest credit quality. These ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk and are assigned only in case of exceptionally strong capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events. "AA" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of very high credit quality. These ratings denote a very low expectation of credit risk and indicate very strong capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events. "A" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. These ratings denote a low expectation of credit risk and indicate strong capacity for timely payment of 7-A financial commitments. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to changes in circumstances or in economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings. "BBB" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of good credit quality. These ratings denote that there is currently a low expectation of credit risk. The capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse changes in circumstances and in economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity. "BB" - Bonds considered to be speculative. These ratings indicate that there is a possibility of credit risk developing, particularly as the result of adverse economic changes over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met. Securities rated in this category are not investment grade. "B" - Bonds are considered highly speculative. These ratings indicate that significant credit risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is contingent upon a sustained, favorable business and economic environment. "CCC", "CC", "C" - Bonds have high default risk. Default is a real possibility, and capacity for meeting financial commitments is solely reliant upon sustained, favorable business or economic developments. "CC" ratings indicate that default of some kind appears probable, and "C" ratings signal imminent default. "DDD," "DD" and "D" - Bonds are in default. The ratings of obligations in this category are based on their prospects for achieving partial of full recovery in a reorganization of the obligor. While expected recovery values are highly speculative and cannot be estimated with any precision, the following serve as general guidelines. "DDD" obligations have the highest potential for recovery, around 90%-100% of outstanding amounts and accrued interest. "DD" indicates potential recovering in the range of 50%-90%, and the lowest recovery potential, i.e., below 50%. Entities rated in this category have defaulted on some or all of their obligations. Entities rated "DDD" have the highest prospect for resumption of performance or continued operation with or without a formal reorganization process. Entities rated "DD" and "D" are generally undergoing a formal reorganization or liquidation process; those rated "DD" are likely to satisfy a higher portion of their outstanding obligations, while entities rated "D" have a poor prospect for repaying all obligations. To provide more detailed indications of credit quality, the Fitch IBCA ratings from and including "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to denote relative standing within these major rating categories. 8-A Thomson Financial BankWatch assesses the likelihood of an untimely repayment of principal or interest over the term to maturity of long term debt and preferred stock which are issued by United States commercial banks, thrifts and non-bank banks; non-United States banks; and broker-dealers. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Thomson Financial BankWatch for long- term debt ratings: "AAA" - This designation indicates that the ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis is extremely high. "AA" - This designation indicates a very strong ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues rated in the highest category. "A" - This designation indicates that the ability to repay principal and interest is strong. Issues rated "A" could be more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings. "BBB" - This designation represents the lowest investment-grade category and indicates an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues rated "BBB" are more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings. "BB," "B," "CCC," and "CC," - These designations are assigned by Thomson Financial BankWatch to non-investment grade long-term debt. Such issues are regarded as having speculative characteristics regarding the likelihood of timely payment of principal and interest. "BB" indicates the lowest degree of speculation and "CC" the highest degree of speculation. "D" - This designation indicates that the long-term debt is in default. PLUS (+) OR MINUS (-) - The ratings from "AAA" through "CC" may include a plus or minus sign designation which indicates where within the respective category the issue is placed. Municipal Note Ratings - ---------------------- A Standard and Poor's rating reflects the liquidity concerns and market access risks unique to notes due in three years or less. The following summarizes the ratings used by Standard & Poor's for municipal notes: 9-A "SP-1" - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit a strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service are given a plus (+) designation. "SP-2" - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes. "SP-3" - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit speculative capacity to pay principal and interest. Moody's ratings for state and municipal notes and other short-term loans are designated Moody's Investment Grade ("MIG") and variable rate demand obligations are designated Variable Moody's Investment Grade ("VMIG"). Such ratings recognize the differences between short-term credit risk and long-term risk. The following summarizes the ratings by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. for short-term notes: "MIG-1"/"VMIG-1" - This designation denotes best quality. There is present strong protection by established cash flows, superior liquidity support or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing. "MIG-2"/"VMIG-2" - This designation denotes high quality. Margins of protection are ample although not so large as in the preceding group. "MIG-3"/"VMIG-3" - This designation denotes favorable quality, with all security elements accounted for but lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding grades. Liquidity and cash flow protection may be narrow and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well established. "MIG-4"/"VMIG-4" - This designation denotes adequate quality. Protection commonly regarded as required of an investment security is present and although not distinctly or predominantly speculative, there is specific risk. "SG" - This designation denotes speculative quality. Debt instruments in this category lack of margins of protection. Fitch IBCA and Duff & Phelps use the short-term ratings described under Commercial Paper Ratings for municipal notes. 10-A APPENDIX B BUSINESS PRINCIPLES OF GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO. Goldman Sachs is noted for its Business Principles, which guide all of the firm's activities and serve as the basis for its distinguished reputation among investors worldwide. Our client's interests always come first. Our experience shows that if we serve our clients well, our own success will follow. Our assets are our people, capital and reputation. If any of these is ever diminished, the last is the most difficult to restore. We are dedicated to complying fully with the letter and spirit of the laws, rules and ethical principles that govern us. Our continued success depends upon unswerving adherence to this standard. We take great pride in the professional quality of our work. We have an uncompromising determination to achieve excellence in everything we undertake. Though we may be involved in a wide variety and heavy volume of activity, we would, if it came to a choice, rather be best than biggest. We stress creativity and imagination in everything we do. While recognizing that the old way may still be the best way, we constantly strive to find a better solution to a client's problems. We pride ourselves on having pioneered many of the practices and techniques that have become standard in the industry. We make an unusual effort to identify and recruit the very best person for every job. Although our activities are measured in billions of dollars, we select our people one by one. In a service business, we know that without the best people, we cannot be the best firm. We offer our people the opportunity to move ahead more rapidly than is possible at most other places. We have yet to find limits to the responsibility that our best people are able to assume. Advancement depends solely on ability, performance and contribution to the Firm's success, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or any other impermissible criterion or circumstance. We stress teamwork in everything we do. While individual creativity is always encouraged, we have found that team effort often produces the best results. We have no room for those who put their personal interests ahead of the interests of the Firm and its clients. The dedication of our people to the Firm and the intense effort they give their jobs are greater than one finds in most other organizations. We think that this is an important part of our success. 1-B Our profits are a key to our success. They replenish our capital and attract and keep our best people. It is our practice to share our profits generously with all who help create them. Profitability is crucial to our future. We consider our size an asset that we try hard to preserve. We want to be big enough to undertake the largest project that any of our clients could contemplate, yet small enough to maintain the loyalty, the intimacy and the esprit de corps that we all treasure and that contribute greatly to our success. We constantly strive to anticipate the rapidly changing needs of our clients and to develop new services to meet those needs. We know that the world of finance will not stand still and that complacency can lead to extinction. We regularly receive confidential information as part of our normal client relationships. To breach a confidence or to use confidential information improperly or carelessly would be unthinkable. Our business is highly competitive, and we aggressively seek to expand our client relationships. However, we must always be fair competitors and must never denigrate other firms. Integrity and honesty are the heart of our business. We expect our people to maintain high ethical standards in everything they do, both in their work for the firm and in their personal lives. 2-B GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.'S INVESTMENT BANKING AND SECURITIES ACTIVITIES Goldman Sachs is a leading financial services firm traditionally known on Wall Street and around the world for its institutional and private client service. With thirty-seven offices around the world Goldman Sachs employs over 11,000 professionals focused on opportunities in major markets. The number one underwriter of all international equity issues from 1989- 1997. The number one lead manager of U.S. common stock offerings for the past nine years (1989-1997).* The number one lead manager for initial public offerings (IPOs) worldwide (1989-1997). - --------------------- * Source: Securities Data Corporation. Common stock ranking excludes REITs, ==================================== Investment Trusts and Rights. 3-B GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.'S HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE 1869 Marcus Goldman opens Goldman Sachs for business 1890 Dow Jones Industrial Average first published 1896 Goldman, Sachs & Co. joins New York Stock Exchange 1906 Goldman, Sachs & Co. takes Sears Roebuck & Co. public (at 93 years, the firm's longest-standing client relationship) Dow Jones Industrial Average tops 100 1925 Goldman, Sachs & Co. finances Warner Brothers, producer of the first talking film 1956 Goldman, Sachs & Co. co-manages Ford's public offering, the largest to date 1970 Goldman, Sachs & Co. opens London office 1972 Dow Jones Industrial Average breaks 1000 1986 Goldman, Sachs & Co. takes Microsoft public 1988 Goldman Sachs Asset Management is formally established 1991 Goldman, Sachs & Co. provides advisory services for the largest privatization in the region of the sale of Telefonos de Mexico 1995 Goldman Sachs Asset Management introduces Global Tactical Asset Allocation Program Dow Jones Industrial Average breaks 5000 1996 Goldman, Sachs & Co. takes Deutsche Telekom public Dow Jones Industrial Average breaks 6000 1997 Goldman Sachs Asset Management increases assets under management by 100% over 1996 Dow Jones Industrial Average breaks 7000 4-B 1998 Goldman Sachs Asset Management reaches $195.5 billion in assets under management Dow Jones Industrial Average breaks 9000 1999 Goldman Sachs becomes a public company APPENDIX C Statement of Intention (applicable only to Class A shares) If a shareholder anticipates purchasing $50,000 or more of Class A Shares of a Fund alone or in combination with Class A Shares of another Goldman Sachs Fund within a 13-month period, the shareholder may obtain shares of the Fund at the same reduced sales charge as though the total quantity were invested in one lump sum by checking and filing the Statement of Intention in the Account Application. Income dividends and capital gain distributions taken in additional shares will not apply toward the completion of the Statement of Intention. To ensure that the reduced price will be received on future purchases, the investor must inform Goldman Sachs that the Statement of Intention is in effect each time shares are purchased. Subject to the conditions mentioned below, each purchase will be made at the public offering price applicable to a single transaction of the dollar amount specified on the Account Application. The investor makes no commitment to purchase additional shares, but if the investor's purchases within 13 months plus the value of shares credited toward completion do not total the sum specified, the investor will pay the increased amount of the sales charge prescribed in the Escrow Agreement. Escrow Agreement Out of the initial purchase (or subsequent purchases if necessary), 5% of the dollar amount specified on the Account Application will be held in escrow by the Transfer Agent in the form of shares registered in the investor's name. All income dividends and capital gains distributions on escrowed shares will be paid to the investor or to his or her order. When the minimum investment so specified is completed (either prior to or by the end of the 13th month), the investor will be notified and the escrowed shares will be released. If the intended investment is not completed, the investor will be asked to remit to Goldman Sachs any difference between the sales charge on the amount specified and on the amount actually attained. If the investor does not within 20 days after written request by Goldman Sachs pay such difference in the sales charge, the Transfer Agent will redeem, pursuant to the authority given by the investor in the Account Application, an appropriate number of the escrowed shares in order to realize such difference. Shares remaining after any such redemption will be released by the Transfer Agent. 1-C -----END PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----