March 14, 2004
-In general, excellent in intent. I fear, however, the average investor wont spend the time to read and understand it -- but it still needs to be done.
ONE SUBSTANTIVE COMMENT: The forms should include something like:
IS THE IDENTICAL INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO UNDER THE IDENTICAL INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AVAILABLE IN ANOTHER FORM WITH DIFFERENT COSTS TO ME? If the answer is yes:
WHAT IS THE RANGE OF COSTS? WHY IS THIS SPECIFIC VERSION BEING RECOMMENDED TO ME? Could have a few standard check boxes and one fill-in-the-box.
This is obviously aimed at multi-class funds and by forcing disclosure there is a chance for discussion also the documentation of a reason for selection of this class would be beneficial to all in the event of a later dispute.
Also, the AVAILABLE would eliminate need to, for example, disclose a class that had a very high minimum out of the range of this investor.