CUSTODY AGREEMENT
Agreement made as of this day of , 1998, between DEBT STRATEGIES
FUND II, INC., a Maryland corporation organized and existing under
the laws of the State of Maryland, having its principal office and
place of business at 000 Xxxxxxxx Xxxx Xxxx, Xxxxxxxxxx, Xxx Xxxxxx
00000 (hereinafter called the "Fund"), and THE BANK OF NEW YORK, a
New York corporation authorized to do a banking business, having its
principal office and place of business at 00 Xxxx Xxxxxx, Xxx Xxxx,
Xxx Xxxx 00000 (hereinafter called the "Custodian").
W I T N E S S E T H :
that for and in consideration of the mutual promises hereinafter set
forth, the Fund and the Custodian agree as follows:
ARTICLE I.
DEFINITIONS
Whenever used in this Agreement, the following words and
phrases, unless the context otherwise requires, shall have the
following meanings:
1. "Authorized Persons" shall be deemed to include any person,
whether or not such person is an officer or employee of the Fund,
duly authorized by the Board of Trustees of the Fund to execute any
Certificate, instruction, notice or other instrument on behalf of the
Fund and listed in the Certificate annexed hereto as Appendix A or
such other Certificate as may be received by the Custodian from time
to time.
2. "Book-Entry System" shall mean the Federal Reserve/Treasury
book-entry system for United States and federal agency securities,
its successor or successors and its nominee or nominees.
3. "Call Option" shall mean an exchange traded option with
respect to Securities other than Stock Index Options, Futures
Contracts, and Futures Contract Options entitling the holder, upon
timely exercise and payment of the exercise price, as specified
therein, to purchase from the writer thereof the specified underlying
Securities.
4. "Certificate" shall mean any notice, instruction, or other
instrument in writing, authorized or required by this
Agreement to be given to the Custodian which is actually received by
the Custodian and signed on behalf of the Fund by any two Authorized
Persons, and the term Certificate shall also include Instructions.
5. "Clearing Member" shall mean a registered broker-dealer which
is a clearing member under the rules of O.C.C. and a member of a
national securities exchange qualified to act as a custodian for an
investment company, or any broker-dealer reasonably believed by the
Custodian to be such a clearing member.
6. "Collateral Account" shall mean a segregated account so
denominated which is specifically allocated to a Series and pledged
to the Custodian as security for, and in consideration of, the
Custodian's issuance of (a) any Put Option guarantee letter or
similar document described in paragraph 8 of Article V herein, or (b)
any receipt described in Article V or VIII herein.
7. "Composite Currency Unit" shall mean the European Currency
Unit or any other composite unit consisting of the aggregate of
specified amounts of specified Currencies as such unit may be
constituted from time to time.
8. "Covered Call Option" shall mean an exchange traded option
entitling the holder, upon timely exercise and payment of the
exercise price, as specified therein, to purchase from the writer
thereof the specified underlying Securities (excluding Futures
Contracts) which are owned by the writer thereof and subject to
appropriate restrictions.
9. "Currency" shall mean money denominated in a lawful currency
of any country or the European Currency Unit.
10. "Depository" shall mean The Depository Trust Company
("DTC"), a clearing agency registered with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, its successor or successors and its nominee or
nominees. The term "Depository" shall further mean and include any
other person authorized to act as a depository under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, its successor or successors and its nominee or
nominees, specifically identified in a certified copy of a resolution
of the Fund's Board of Directors specifically approving deposits
therein by the Custodian.
11. "Financial Futures Contract" shall mean the firm commitment
to buy or sell fixed income securities including, without limitation,
U.S. Treasury Bills, U.S. Treasury Notes, U.S. Treasury Bonds,
domestic bank certificates of deposit, and Eurodollar certificates of
deposit, during a specified month at an agreed upon price.
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12. "Futures Contract" shall mean a Financial Futures Contract
and/or Stock Index Futures Contracts.
13. "Futures Contract Option" shall mean an option with respect
to a Futures Contract.
14. "FX Transaction" shall mean any transaction for the purchase
by one party of an agreed amount in one Currency against the sale by
it to the other party of an agreed amount in another Currency.
15. "Instructions" shall mean instructions communications
transmitted by electronic or telecommunications media including
S.W.I.F.T., computer-to-computer interface, dedicated transmission
line, facsimile transmission (which may be signed by an Authorized
Person or unsigned) and tested telex.
16. "Margin Account" shall mean a segregated account in the name
of a broker, dealer, futures commission merchant, or a Clearing
Member, or in the name of the Fund for the benefit of a broker,
dealer, futures commission merchant, or Clearing Member, or
otherwise, in accordance with an agreement between the Fund, the
Custodian and a broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or a
Clearing Member (a "Margin Account Agreement"), separate and distinct
from the custody account, in which certain Securities and/or money of
the Fund shall be deposited and withdrawn from time to time in
connection with such transactions as the Fund may from time to time
determine. Securities held in the Book-Entry System or the Depository
shall be deemed to have been deposited in, or withdrawn from, a
Margin Account upon the Custodian's effecting an appropriate entry in
its books and records.
17. "Money Market Security" shall be deemed to include, without
limitation, certain Reverse Repurchase Agreements, debt obligations
issued or guaranteed as to interest and principal by the government
of the United States or agencies or instrumentalities thereof, any
tax, bond or revenue anticipation note issued by any state or
municipal government or public authority, commercial paper,
certificates of deposit and bankers' acceptances, repurchase
agreements with respect to the same and bank time deposits, where the
purchase and sale of such securities normally requires settlement in
federal funds on the same day as such purchase or sale.
18. "O.C.C." shall mean the Options Clearing Corporation, a
clearing agency registered under Section 17A of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, its successor or successors, and its nominee or
nominees.
19. "Option" shall mean a Call Option, Covered Call Option,
Stock Index Option and/or a Put Option.
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20. "Oral Instructions" shall mean verbal instructions actually
received by the Custodian from an Authorized Person or from a person
reasonably believed by the Custodian to be an Authorized Person.
21. "Put Option" shall mean an exchange traded option with
respect to Securities other than Stock Index Options, Futures
Contracts, and Futures Contract Options entitling the holder, upon
timely exercise and tender of the specified underlying Securities, to
sell such Securities to the writer thereof for the exercise price.
22. "Reverse Repurchase Agreement" shall mean an agreement
pursuant to which the Fund sells Securities and agrees to repurchase
such Securities at a described or specified date and price.
23. "Security" shall be deemed to include, without limitation,
Money Market Securities, Call Options, Put Options, Stock Index
Options, Stock Index Futures Contracts, Stock Index Futures Contract
Options, Financial Futures Contracts, Financial Futures Contract
Options, Reverse Repurchase Agreements, common stocks and other
securities having characteristics similar to common stocks, preferred
stocks, debt obligations issued by state or municipal governments and
by public authorities, (including, without limitation, general
obligation bonds, revenue bonds, industrial bonds and industrial
development bonds), bonds, debentures, notes, mortgages or other
obligations, and any certificates, receipts, warrants or other
instruments representing rights to receive, purchase, sell or
subscribe for the same, or evidencing or representing any other
rights or interest therein, or any property or assets, and agreements
representing corporate loans and interests therein as defined from
time to time in the Fund's prospectus or statement of additional
information.
24. "Senior Security Account" shall mean an account maintained
and specifically allocated to a Series under the terms of this
Agreement as a segregated account, by recorda- tion or otherwise,
within the custody account in which certain Securities and/or other
assets of the Fund specifically allocated to such Series shall be
deposited and withdrawn from time to time in accordance with
Certificates received by the Custodian in connection with such
transactions as the Fund may from time to time determine.
25. "Series" shall mean the various portfolios, if any, of the
Fund listed on Appendix B hereto as amended from time to time.
26. "Shares" shall mean the shares of capital stock of the Fund,
each of which is, in the case of a Fund having Series, allocated to a
particular Series.
27. "Stock Index Futures Contract" shall mean a bilateral
agreement pursuant to which the parties agree to
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take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to a specified
dollar amount times the difference between the value of a particular
stock index at the close of the last business day of the contract and
the price at which the futures contract is originally struck.
28. "Stock Index Option" shall mean an exchange traded option
entitling the holder, upon timely exercise, to receive an amount of
cash determined by reference to the difference between the exercise
price and the value of the index on the date of exercise.
ARTICLE II.
APPOINTMENT OF CUSTODIAN
1. The Fund hereby constitutes and appoints the Custodian as
custodian of the Securities and money at any time owned by the Fund
during the period of this Agreement.
2. The Custodian hereby accepts appointment as such custodian
and agrees to perform the duties thereof as hereinafter set forth.
ARTICLE III.
CUSTODY OF CASH AND SECURITIES
1. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph 7 of this Article
and in Article VIII, the Fund will deliver or cause to be delivered
to the Custodian all Securities and all money owned by it, at any
time during the period of this Agreement, and shall specify with
respect to such Securities and money the Series to which the same are
specifically allocated. The Custodian shall segregate, keep and
maintain the assets of the Series separate and apart. The Custodian
will not be responsible for any Securities and money not actually
received by it. The Custodian will be entitled to reverse any credits
made on the Fund's behalf where such credits have been previously
made and money is not finally collected. The Fund shall deliver to
the Custodian a certified resolution of the Board of Directors of the
Fund, substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto, approving,
authorizing and instructing the Custodian on a continuous and
on-going basis to deposit in the Book-Entry System all Securities
eligible for deposit therein, regardless of the Series to which the
same are specifically allocated and to utilize the Book-Entry System
to the extent possible in connection with its performance hereunder,
including, without limitation, in connection with settlements of
purchases and sales of Securities, loans of Securities and deliveries
and returns of Securities collateral. Prior to a deposit of
Securities specifically allocated to a Series in
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the Depository, the Fund shall deliver to the Custodian a certified
resolution of the Board of Directors of the Fund, substantially in
the form of Exhibit B hereto, approving, authorizing and instructing
the Custodian on a continuous and ongoing basis until instructed to
the contrary by a Certificate actually received by the Custodian to
deposit in the Depository all Securities specifically allocated to
such Series eligible for deposit therein, and to utilize the
Depository to the extent possible with respect to such Securities in
connection with its performance hereunder, including, without
limitation, in connection with settlements of purchases and sales of
Securities, loans of Securities, and deliveries and returns of
Securities collateral. Securities and money deposited in either the
Book-Entry System or the Depository will be represented in accounts
which include only assets held by the Custodian for customers,
including, but not limited to, accounts in which the Custodian acts
in a fiduciary or representative capacity and will be specifically
allocated on the Custodian's books to the separate account for the
applicable Series. Prior to the Custodian's accepting, utilizing and
acting with respect to Clearing Member confirmations for Options and
transactions in Options for a Series as provided in this Agreement,
the Custodian shall have received a certified resolution of the
Fund's Board of Directors, substantially in the form of Exhibit C
hereto, approving, authorizing and instructing the Custodian on a
continuous and on-going basis, until instructed to the contrary by a
Certificate actually received by the Custodian, to accept, utilize
and act in accordance with such confirmations as provided in this
Agreement with respect to such Series.
2. The Custodian shall establish and maintain separate accounts,
in the name of each Series, and shall credit to the separate account
for each Series all money received by it for the account of the Fund
with respect to such Series. Money credited to a separate account for
a Series shall be disbursed by the Custodian only:
(a) As hereinafter provided;
(b) Pursuant to Certificates setting forth the name and
address of the person to whom the payment is to be made, the Series
account from which payment is to be made and the purpose for which
payment is to be made; or
(c) In payment of the fees and in reimbursement of the
expenses and liabilities of the Custodian attributable to such
Series.
3. Promptly after the close of business on each day, the
Custodian shall furnish the Fund with confirmations and a summary, on
a per Series basis, of all transfers to or from the account of the
Fund for a Series, either hereunder or with any co-custodian or
sub-custodian appointed in accordance with
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this Agreement during said day. Where Securities are transferred to
the account of the Fund for a Series, the Custodian shall also by
book-entry or otherwise identify as belonging to such Series a
quantity of Securities in a fungible bulk of Securities registered in
the name of the Custodian (or its nominee) or shown on the
Custodian's account on the books of the Book-Entry System or the
Depository. At least monthly and from time to time, the Custodian
shall furnish the Fund with a detailed statement, on a per Series
basis, of the Securities and money held by the Custodian for the
Fund.
4. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph 7 of this Article
and in Article VIII, all Securities held by the Custodian hereunder,
which are issued or issuable only in bearer form, except such
Securities as are held in the Book-Entry System, shall be held by the
Custodian in that form; all other Securities held hereunder may be
registered in the name of the Fund, in the name of any duly appointed
registered nominee of the Custodian as the Custodian may from time to
time determine, or in the name of the Book-Entry System or the
Depository or their successor or successors, or their nominee or
nominees. The Fund agrees to furnish to the Custodian appropriate
instruments to enable the Custodian to hold or deliver in proper form
for transfer, or to register in the name of its registered nominee or
in the name of the Book-Entry System or the Depository any Securities
which it may hold hereunder and which may from time to time be
registered in the name of the Fund. The Custodian shall hold all such
Securities specifically allocated to a Series which are not held in
the Book-Entry System or in the Depository in a separate account in
the name of such Series physically segregated at all times from those
of any other person or persons.
5. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement and unless
otherwise instructed to the contrary by a Certificate, the Custodian
by itself, or through the use of the Book-Entry System or the
Depository with respect to Securities held hereunder and therein
deposited, shall with respect to all Securities held for the Fund
hereunder in accordance with preceding paragraph 4:
(a) Collect all income, dividends and distributions
due or payable;
(b) Give notice to the Fund and present payment and collect
the amount payable upon such Securities which are called, but only if
either (i) the Custodian receives a written notice of such call, or
(ii) notice of such call appears in one or more of the publications
listed in Appendix C annexed hereto, which may be amended at any time
by the Custodian without the prior notification or consent of the
Fund;
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(c) Present for payment and collect the amount payable upon
all Securities which mature;
(d) Surrender Securities in temporary form for definitive
Securities;
(e) Execute, as custodian, any necessary declarations or
certificates of ownership under the Federal Income Tax Laws or the
laws or regulations of any other taxing authority now or hereafter in
effect;
(f) Hold directly, or through the Book-Entry System or the
Depository with respect to Securities therein deposited, for the
account of a Series, all rights and similar securities issued with
respect to any Securities held by the Custodian for such Series
hereunder; and
(g) Deliver to the Fund all notices, proxies, proxy
soliciting materials, consents and other written information
(including, without limitation, notices of tender offers and exchange
offers, pendency of calls, maturities of Securities and expiration of
rights) relating to Securities held pursuant to this Agrement which
are actually received by the Custodian, such proxies and other
similar materials to be executed by the registered owner (if
Securities are registered otherwise than in the name of the Fund),
but without indicating the manner in which proxies or consents are to
be voted.
6. Upon receipt of a Certificate and not otherwise, the
Custodian, directly or through the use of the Book-Entry System or
the Depository, shall:
(a) Execute and deliver to such persons as may be
designated in such Certificate proxies, consents, authorizations, and
any other instruments whereby the authority of the Fund as owner of
any Securities held by the Custodian hereunder for the Series
specified in such Certificate may be exercised;
(b) Deliver any Securities held by the Custodian hereunder
for the Series specified in such Certificate in exchange for other
Securities or cash issued or paid in connection with the liquidation,
reorganization, refinancing, merger, consolidation or
recapitalization of any corporation, or the exercise of any
conversion privilege and receive and hold hereunder specifically
allocated to such Series any cash or other Securities received in
exchange;
(c) Deliver any Securities held by the Custodian hereunder
for the Series specified in such Certificate to any protective
committee, reorganization committee or other person in connection
with the reorganization, refinancing, merger, consolidation,
recapitalization or sale of assets of any
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corporation, and receive and hold hereunder specifically allocated to
such Series such certificates of deposit, interim receipts or other
instruments or documents as may be issued to it to evidence such
delivery;
(d) Make such transfers or exchanges of the assets of the
Series specified in such Certificate, and take such other steps as
shall be stated in such Certificate to be for the purpose of
effectuating any duly authorized plan of liquidation, reorganization,
merger, consolidation or recapitalization of the Fund; and
(e) Present for payment and collect the amount payable upon
Securities not described in preceding paragraph 5(b) of this Article
which may be called as specified in the Certificate.
7. Notwithstanding any provision elsewhere contained herein, the
Custodian shall not be required to obtain possession of any
instrument or certificate representing any Futures Contract, any
Option, or any Futures Contract Option until after it shall have
determined, or shall have received a Certificate from the Fund
stating, that any such instruments or certificates are available. The
Fund shall deliver to the Custodian such a Certificate no later than
the business day preceding the availability of any such instrument or
certificate. Prior to such availability, the Custodian shall comply
with Section 17(f) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended,
in connection with the purchase, sale, settlement, closing-out or
writing of Futures Contracts, Options, or Futures Contract Options by
making payments or deliveries specified in Certificates received by
the Custodian in connection with any such purchase, sale, writing,
settlement or closing-out upon its receipt from a broker, dealer, or
futures commission merchant of a statement or confirmation reasonably
believed by the Custodian to be in the form customarily used by
brokers, dealers, or futures commission merchants with respect to
such Futures Contracts, Options, or Futures Contract Options, as the
case may be, confirming that such Security is held by such broker,
dealer or futures commission merchant, in book-entry form or
otherwise, in the name of the Custodian (or any nominee of the
Custodian) as custodian for the Fund, provided, however, that
notwithstanding the foregoing, payments to or deliveries from the
Margin Account, and payments with respect to Securities to which a
Margin Account relates, shall be made in accordance with the terms
and conditions of the Margin Account Agreement. Whenever any such
instruments or certificates are available, the Custodian shall,
notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, make
payment for any Futures Contract, Option, or Futures Contract Option
for which such instruments or such certificates are available only
against the delivery to the Custodian of such instrument or such
certificate, and deliver any Futures Contract, Option or
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Futures Contract Option for which such instruments or such
certificates are available only against receipt by the Custodian of
payment therefor. Any such instrument or certificate delivered to the
Custodian shall be held by the Custodian hereunder in accordance
with, and subject to, the provisions of this Agreement.
ARTICLE IV.
PURCHASE AND SALE OF INVESTMENTS OF THE FUND
OTHER THAN OPTIONS, FUTURES CONTRACTS AND
FUTURES CONTRACT OPTIONS
1. Promptly after each purchase of Securities by the Fund, other
than a purchase of an Option, a Futures Contract, or a Futures
Contract Option, the Fund shall deliver to the Custodian (i) with
respect to each purchase of Securities which are not Money Market
Securities, a Certificate, and (ii) with respect to each purchase of
Money Market Securities, a Certificate or Oral Instructions,
specifying with respect to each such purchase: (a) the Series to
which such Securities are to be specifically allocated; (b) the name
of the issuer and the title of the Securities; (c) the number of
shares or the principal amount purchased and accrued interest, if
any; (d) the date of purchase and settlement; (e) the purchase price
per unit; (f) the total amount payable upon such purchase; (g) the
name of the person from whom or the broker through whom the purchase
was made, and the name of the clearing broker, if any; and (h) the
name of the broker to whom payment is to be made. The Custodian
shall, upon receipt of Securities purchased by or for the Fund, pay
to the broker specified in the Certificate out of the money held for
the account of such Series the total amount payable upon such
purchase, provided that the same conforms to the total amount payable
as set forth in such Certificate or Oral Instructions.
2. Promptly after each sale of Securities by the Fund, other
than a sale of any Option, Futures Contract, Futures Contract Option,
or any Reverse Repurchase Agreement, the Fund shall deliver to the
Custodian (i) with respect to each sale of Securities which are not
Money Market Securities, a Certificate, and (ii) with respect to each
sale of Money Market Securities, a Certificate or Oral Instructions,
specifying with respect to each such sale: (a) the Series to which
such Securities were specifically allocated; (b) the name of the
issuer and the title of the Security; (c) the number of shares or
principal amount sold, and accrued interest, if any; (d) the date of
sale; (e) the sale price per unit; (f) the total amount payable to
the Fund upon such sale; (g) the name of the broker through whom or
the person to whom the sale was made, and the name of the clearing
broker, if any; and (h) the name of the broker to whom the Securities
are to be delivered. The Custodian shall deliver the Securities
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specifically allocated to such Series to the broker specified in the
Certificate against payment of the total amount payable to the Fund
upon such sale, provided that the same conforms to the total amount
payable as set forth in such Certificate or Oral Instructions.
ARTICLE V.
OPTIONS
1. Promptly after the purchase of any Option by the Fund, the
Fund shall deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to each Option purchased: (a) the Series to which such Option
is specifically allocated; (b) the type of Option (put or call); (c)
the name of the issuer and the title and number of shares subject to
such Option or, in the case of a Stock Index Option, the stock index
to which such Option relates and the number of Stock Index Options
purchased; (d) the expiration date; (e) the exercise price; (f) the
dates of purchase and settlement; (g) the total amount payable by the
Fund in connection with such purchase; (h) the name of the Clearing
Member through whom such Option was purchased; and (i) the name of
the broker to whom payment is to be made. The Custodian shall pay,
upon receipt of a Clearing Member's statement confirming the purchase
of such Option held by such Clearing Member for the account of the
Custodian (or any duly appointed and registered nominee of the
Custodian) as custodian for the Fund, out of money held for the
account of the Series to which such Option is to be specifically
allocated, the total amount payable upon such purchase to the
Clearing Member through whom the purchase was made, provided that the
same conforms to the total amount payable as set forth in such
Certificate.
2. Promptly after the sale of any Option purchased by the Fund
pursuant to paragraph 1 hereof, the Fund shall deliver to the
Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect to each such sale:
(a) the Series to which such Option was specifically allocated; (b)
the type of Option (put or call); (c) the name of the issuer and the
title and number of shares subject to such Option or, in the case of
a Stock Index Option, the stock index to which such Option relates
and the number of Stock Index Options sold; (d) the date of sale; (e)
the sale price; (f) the date of settlement; (g) the total amount
payable to the Fund upon such sale; and (h) the name of the Clearing
Member through whom the sale was made. The Custodian shall consent to
the delivery of the Option sold by the Clearing Member which
previously supplied the confirmation described in preceding paragraph
1 of this Article with respect to such Option against payment to the
Custodian of the total amount payable to the Fund, provided that the
same conforms to the total amount payable as set forth in such
Certificate.
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3. Promptly after the exercise by the Fund of any Call Option
purchased by the Fund pursuant to paragraph 1 hereof, the Fund shall
deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect to
such Call Option: (a) the Series to which such Call Option was
specifically allocated; (b) the name of the issuer and the title and
number of shares subject to the Call Option; (c) the expiration date;
(d) the date of exercise and settlement; (e) the exercise price per
share; (f) the total amount to be paid by the Fund upon such
exercise; and (g) the name of the Clearing Member through whom such
Call Option was exercised. The Custodian shall, upon receipt of the
Securities underlying the Call Option which was exercised, pay out of
the money held for the account of the Series to which such Call
Option was specifically allocated the total amount payable to the
Clearing Member through whom the Call Option was exercised, provided
that the same conforms to the total amount payable as set forth in
such Certificate.
4. Promptly after the exercise by the Fund of any Put Option
purchased by the Fund pursuant to paragraph 1 hereof, the Fund shall
deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect to
such Put Option: (a) the Series to which such Put Option was
specifically allocated; (b) the name of the issuer and the title and
number of shares subject to the Put Option; (c) the expiration date;
(d) the date of exercise and settlement; (e) the exercise price per
share; (f) the total amount to be paid to the Fund upon such
exercise; and (g) the name of the Clearing Member through whom such
Put Option was exercised. The Custodian shall, upon receipt of the
amount payable upon the exercise of the Put Option, deliver or direct
the Depository to deliver the Securities specifically allocated to
such Series, provided the same conforms to the amount payable to the
Fund as set forth in such Certificate.
5. Promptly after the exercise by the Fund of any Stock Index
Option purchased by the Fund pursuant to paragraph 1 hereof, the Fund
shall deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect
to such Stock Index Option: (a) the Series to which such Stock Index
Option was specifically allocated; (b) the type of Stock Index Option
(put or call); (c) the number of Options being exercised; (d) the
stock index to which such Option relates; (e) the expiration date;
(f) the exercise price; (g) the total amount to be received by the
Fund in connection with such exercise; and (h) the Clearing Member
from whom such payment is to be received.
6. Whenever the Fund writes a Covered Call Option, the Fund
shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to such Covered Call Option: (a) the Series for which such
Covered Call Option was written; (b) the name of the issuer and the
title and number of shares for which the Covered Call Option was
written and which underlie the same; (c) the expiration date; (d) the
exercise price; (e) the premium to be received by the Fund; (f) the
date such
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Covered Call Option was written; and (g) the name of the Clearing
Member through whom the premium is to be received. The Custodian
shall deliver or cause to be delivered, in exchange for receipt of
the premium specified in the Certificate with respect to such Covered
Call Option, such receipts as are required in accordance with the
customs prevailing among Clearing Members dealing in Covered Call
Options and shall impose, or direct the Depository to impose, upon
the underlying Securities specified in the Certificate specifically
allocated to such Series such restrictions as may be required by such
receipts. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Custodian has the right,
upon prior written notification to the Fund, at any time to refuse to
issue any receipts for Securities in the possession of the Custodian
and not deposited with the Depository underlying a Covered Call
Option.
7. Whenever a Covered Call Option written by the Fund and
described in the preceding paragraph of this Article is exercised,
the Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate
instructing the Custodian to deliver, or to direct the Depository to
deliver, the Securities subject to such Covered Call Option and
specifying: (a) the Series for which such Covered Call Option was
written; (b) the name of the issuer and the title and number of
shares subject to the Covered Call Option; (c) the Clearing Member to
whom the underlying Securities are to be delivered; and (d) the total
amount payable to the Fund upon such delivery. Upon the return and/or
cancellation of any receipts delivered pursuant to paragraph 6 of
this Article, the Custodian shall deliver, or direct the Depository
to deliver, the underlying Securities as specified in the Certificate
against payment of the amount to be received as set forth in such
Certificate.
8. Whenever the Fund writes a Put Option, the Fund shall
promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to such Put Option: (a) the Series for which such Put Option
was written; (b) the name of the issuer and the title and number of
shares for which the Put Option is written and which underlie the
same; (c) the expiration date; (d) the exercise price; (e) the
premium to be received by the Fund; (f) the date such Put Option is
written; (g) the name of the Clearing Member through whom the premium
is to be received and to whom a Put Option guarantee letter is to be
delivered; (h) the amount of cash, and/or the amount and kind of
Securities, if any, specifically allocated to such Series to be
deposited in the Senior Security Account for such Series; and (i) the
amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities specifically
allocated to such Series to be deposited into the Collateral Account
for such Series. The Custodian shall, after making the deposits into
the Collateral Account specified in the Certificate, issue a Put
Option guarantee letter substantially in the form utilized by the
Custodian on the date hereof, and deliver the same to the Clearing
Member
-13-
specified in the Certificate against receipt of the premium specified
in said Certificate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Custodian
shall be under no obligation to issue any Put Option guarantee letter
or similar document if it is unable to make any of the
representations contained therein.
9. Whenever a Put Option written by the Fund and described in
the preceding paragraph is exercised, the Fund shall promptly deliver
to the Custodian a Certificate specifying: (a) the Series to which
such Put Option was written; (b) the name of the issuer and title and
number of shares subject to the Put Option; (c) the Clearing Member
from whom the underlying Securities are to be received; (d) the total
amount payable by the Fund upon such delivery; (e) the amount of cash
and/or the amount and kind of Securities specifically allocated to
such Series to be withdrawn from the Collateral Account for such
Series and (f) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of
Securities, specifically allocated to such Series, if any, to be
withdrawn from the Senior Security Account. Upon the return and/or
cancellation of any Put Option guarantee letter or similar document
issued by the Custodian in connection with such Put Option, the
Custodian shall pay out of the money held for the account of the
Series to which such Put Option was specifically allocated the total
amount payable to the Clearing Member specified in the Certificate as
set forth in such Certificate against delivery of such Securities,
and shall make the withdrawals specified in such Certificate.
10. Whenever the Fund writes a Stock Index Option, the Fund
shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to such Stock Index Option: (a) the Series for which such
Stock Index Option was written; (b) whether such Stock Index Option
is a put or a call; (c) the number of options written; (d) the stock
index to which such Option relates; (e) the expiration date; (f) the
exercise price; (g) the Clearing Member through whom such Option was
written; (h) the premium to be received by the Fund; (i) the amount
of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities, if any,
specifically allocated to such Series to be deposited in the Senior
Security Account for such Series; (j) the amount of cash and/or the
amount and kind of Securities, if any, specifically allocated to such
Series to be deposited in the Collateral Account for such Series; and
(k) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities, if
any, specifically allocated to such Series to be deposited in a
Margin Account, and the name in which such account is to be or has
been established. The Custodian shall, upon receipt of the premium
specified in the Certificate, make the deposits, if any, into the
Senior Security Account specified in the Certificate, and either (1)
deliver such receipts, if any, which the Custodian has specifically
agreed to issue, which are in accordance with the customs prevailing
among Clearing Members in Stock Index Options and make the deposits
into the Collateral Account
-14-
specified in the Certificate, or (2) make the deposits into the
Margin Account specified in the Certificate.
11. Whenever a Stock Index Option written by the Fund and
described in the preceding paragraph of this Article is exercised,
the Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate
specifying with respect to such Stock Index Option: (a) the Series
for which such Stock Index Option was written; (b) such information
as may be necessary to identify the Stock Index Option being
exercised; (c) the Clearing Member through whom such Stock Index
Option is being exercised; (d) the total amount payable upon such
exercise, and whether such amount is to be paid by or to the Fund;
(e) the amount of cash and/or amount and kind of Securities, if any,
to be withdrawn from the Margin Account; and (f) the amount of cash
and/or amount and kind of Securities, if any, to be withdrawn from
the Senior Security Account for such Series; and the amount of cash
and/or the amount and kind of Securities, if any, to be withdrawn
from the Collateral Account for such Series. Upon the return and/or
cancellation of the receipt, if any, delivered pursuant to the
preceding paragraph of this Article, the Custodian shall pay out of
the money held for the account of the Series to which such Stock
Index Option was specifically allocated to the Clearing Member
specified in the Certificate the total amount payable, if any, as
specified therein.
12. Whenever the Fund purchases any Option identical to a
previously written Option described in paragraphs, 6, 8 or 10 of this
Article in a transaction expressly designated as a "Closing Purchase
Transaction" in order to liquidate its position as a writer of an
Option, the Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a
Certificate specifying with respect to the Option being purchased:
(a) that the transaction is a Closing Purchase Transaction; (b) the
Series for which the Option was written; (c) the name of the issuer
and the title and number of shares subject to the Option, or, in the
case of a Stock Index Option, the stock index to which such Option
relates and the number of Options held; (d) the exercise price; (e)
the premium to be paid by the Fund; (f) the expiration date; (g) the
type of Option (put or call); (h) the date of such purchase; (i) the
name of the Clearing Member to whom the premium is to be paid; and
(j) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities, if
any, to be withdrawn from the Collateral Account, a specified Margin
Account, or the Senior Security Account for such Series. Upon the
Custodian's payment of the premium and the return and/or cancellation
of any receipt issued pursuant to paragraphs 6, 8 or 10 of this
Article with respect to the Option being liquidated through the
Closing Purchase Transaction, the Custodian shall remove, or direct
the Depository to remove, the previously imposed restrictions on the
Securities underlying the Call Option.
-15-
13. Upon the expiration, exercise or consummation of a Closing
Purchase Transaction with respect to any Option purchased or written
by the Fund and described in this Article, the Custodian shall delete
such Option from the statements delivered to the Fund pursuant to
paragraph 3 of Article III herein, and upon the return and/or
cancellation of any receipts issued by the Custodian, shall make such
withdrawals from the Collateral Account, and the Margin Account
and/or the Senior Security Account as may be specified in a
Certificate received in connection with such expiration, exercise, or
consummation.
ARTICLE VI.
FUTURES CONTRACTS
1. Whenever the Fund shall enter into a Futures Contract, the
Fund shall deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to such Futures Contract, (or with respect to any number of
identical Futures Contract(s)): (a) the Series for which the Futures
Contract is being entered; (b) the category of Futures Contract (the
name of the underlying stock index or financial instrument); (c) the
number of identical Futures Contracts entered into; (d) the delivery
or settlement date of the Futures Contract(s); (e) the date the
Futures Contract(s) was (were) entered into and the maturity date;
(f) whether the Fund is buying (going long) or selling (going short)
on such Futures Contract(s); (g) the amount of cash and/or the amount
and kind of Securities, if any, to be deposited in the Senior
Security Account for such Series; (h) the name of the broker, dealer,
or futures commission merchant through whom the Futures Contract was
entered into; and (i) the amount of fee or commission, if any, to be
paid and the name of the broker, dealer, or futures commission
merchant to whom such amount is to be paid. The Custodian shall make
the deposits, if any, to the Margin Account in accordance with the
terms and conditions of the Margin Account Agreement. The Custodian
shall make payment out of the money specifically allocated to such
Series of the fee or commission, if any, specified in the Certificate
and deposit in the Senior Security Account for such Series the amount
of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities specified in said
Certificate.
2. (a) Any variation margin payment or similar payment required
to be made by the Fund to a broker, dealer, or futures commission
merchant with respect to an outstanding Futures Contract, shall be
made by the Custodian in accordance with the terms and conditions of
the Margin Account Agreement.
(b) Any variation margin payment or similar payment from a
broker, dealer, or futures commission merchant to the
-16-
Fund with respect to an outstanding Futures Contract, shall be
received and dealt with by the Custodian in accordance with the terms
and conditions of the Margin Account Agreement.
3. Whenever a Futures Contract held by the Custodian hereunder
is retained by the Fund until delivery or settlement is made on such
Futures Contract, the Fund shall deliver to the Custodian a
Certificate specifying: (a) the Futures Contract and the Series to
which the same relates; (b) with respect to a Stock Index Futures
Contract, the total cash settlement amount to be paid or received,
and with respect to a Financial Futures Contract, the Securities
and/or amount of cash to be delivered or received; (c) the broker,
dealer, or futures commission merchant to or from whom payment or
delivery is to be made or received; and (d) the amount of cash and/or
Securities to be withdrawn from the Senior Security Account for such
Series. The Custodian shall make the payment or delivery specified in
the Certificate, and delete such Futures Contract from the statements
delivered to the Fund pursuant to paragraph 3 of Article III herein.
4. Whenever the Fund shall enter into a Futures Contract to
offset a Futures Contract held by the Custodian hereunder, the Fund
shall deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying: (a) the
items of information required in a Certificate described in paragraph
1 of this Article, and (b) the Futures Contract being offset. The
Custodian shall make payment out of the money specifically allocated
to such Series of the fee or commission, if any, specified in the
Certificate and delete the Futures Contract being offset from the
statements delivered to the Fund pursuant to paragraph 3 of Article
III herein, and make such withdrawals from the Senior Security
Account for such Series as may be specified in such Certificate. The
withdrawals, if any, to be made from the Margin Account shall be made
by the Custodian in accordance with the terms and conditions of the
Margin Account Agreement.
5. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement to the
contrary, the Custodian shall deliver cash and Securities to a
futures commission merchant upon receipt of a Certificate from the
Fund specifying: (a) the name of the futures commission merchant; (b)
the specific cash and Securities to be delivered; (c) the date of
such delivery; and (d) the date of the agreement between the Fund and
such futures commission merchant entered pursuant to Rule 17f-6 under
the Investment Company Xxx 0000, as amended. Each delivery of such a
Certificate by the Fund shall constitute (x) a representation and
warranty by the Fund that the Rule 17f-6 agreement has been duly
authorized, executed and delivered by the Fund and the futures
commission merchant and complies with Rule 17f-6, and (y) an
agreement by the Fund that the Custodian shall not be liable for the
acts or omissions of any such futures commission merchant.
-17-
ARTICLE VII.
FUTURES CONTRACT OPTIONS
1. Promptly after the purchase of any Futures Contract Option by
the Fund, the Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a
Certificate specifying with respect to such Futures Contract Option:
(a) the Series to which such Option is specifically allocated; (b)
the type of Futures Contract Option (put or call); (c) the type of
Futures Contract and such other information as may be necessary to
identify the Futures Contract underlying the Futures Contract Option
purchased; (d) the expiration date; (e) the exercise price; (f) the
dates of purchase and settlement; (g) the amount of premium to be
paid by the Fund upon such purchase; (h) the name of the broker or
futures commission merchant through whom such option was purchased;
and (i) the name of the broker, or futures commission merchant, to
whom payment is to be made. The Custodian shall pay out of the money
specifically allocated to such Series, the total amount to be paid
upon such purchase to the broker or futures commissions merchant
through whom the purchase was made, provided that the same conforms
to the amount set forth in such Certificate.
2. Promptly after the sale of any Futures Contract Option
purchased by the Fund pursuant to paragraph 1 hereof, the Fund shall
promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to each such sale: (a) the Series to which such Futures
Contract Option was specifically allocated; (b) the type of Futures
Contract Option (put or call); (c) the type of Futures Contract and
such other information as may be necessary to identify the Futures
Contract underlying the Futures Contract Option; (d) the date of
sale; (e) the sale price; (f) the date of settlement; (g) the total
amount payable to the Fund upon such sale; and (h) the name of the
broker or futures commission merchant through whom the sale was made.
The Custodian shall consent to the cancellation of the Futures
Contract Option being closed against payment to the Custodian of the
total amount payable to the Fund, provided the same conforms to the
total amount payable as set forth in such Certificate.
3. Whenever a Futures Contract Option purchased by the Fund
pursuant to paragraph 1 is exercised by the Fund, the Fund shall
promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying: (a) the
Series to which such Futures Contract Option was specifically
allocated; (b) the particular Futures Contract Option (put or call)
being exercised; (c) the type of Futures Contract underlying the
Futures Contract Option; (d) the date of exercise; (e)the name of the
broker or futures commission merchant through whom the Futures
Contract Option is exercised; (f) the net total amount, if any,
payable by the Fund; (g) the amount, if any, to be received by the
Fund; and
-18-
(h) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities to be
deposited in the Senior Security Account for such Series. The
Custodian shall make, out of the money and Securities specifically
allocated to such Series, the payments, if any, and the deposits, if
any, into the Senior Security Account as specified in the
Certificate. The deposits, if any, to be made to the Margin Account
shall be made by the Custodian in accordance with the terms and
conditions of the Margin Account Agreement.
4. Whenever the Fund writes a Futures Contract Option, the Fund
shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with
respect to such Futures Contract Option: (a) the Series for which
such Futures Contract Option was written; (b) the type of Futures
Contract Option (put or call); (c) the type of Futures Contract and
such other information as may be necessary to identify the Futures
Contract underlying the Futures Contract Option; (d) the expiration
date; (e) the exercise price; (f) the premium to be received by the
Fund; (g) the name of the broker or futures commission merchant
through whom the premium is to be received; and (h) the amount of
cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities, if any, to be
deposited in the Senior Security Account for such Series. The
Custodian shall, upon receipt of the premium specified in the
Certificate, make out of the money and Securities specifically
allocated to such Series the deposits into the Senior Security
Account, if any, as specified in the Certificate. The deposits, if
any, to be made to the Margin Account shall be made by the Custodian
in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Margin Account
Agreement.
5. Whenever a Futures Contract Option written by the Fund which
is a call is exercised, the Fund shall promptly deliver to the
Custodian a Certificate specifying: (a) the Series to which such
Futures Contract Option was specifically allocated; (b) the
particular Futures Contract Option exercised; (c) the type of Futures
Contract underlying the Futures Contract Option; (d) the name of the
broker or futures commission merchant through whom such Futures
Contract Option was exercised; (e) the net total amount, if any,
payable to the Fund upon such exercise; (f) the net total amount, if
any, payable by the Fund upon such exercise; and (g) the amount of
cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities to be deposited in the
Senior Security Account for such Series. The Custodian shall, upon
its receipt of the net total amount payable to the Fund, if any,
specified in such Certificate make the payments, if any, and the
deposits, if any, into the Senior Security Account as specified in
the Certificate. The deposits, if any, to be made to the Margin
Account shall be made by the Custodian in accordance with the terms
and conditions of the Margin Account Agreement.
6. Whenever a Futures Contract Option which is written by the
Fund and which is a put is exercised, the Fund shall
-19-
promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying: (a) the
Series to which such Option was specifically allocated; (b) the
particular Futures Contract Option exercised; (c) the type of Futures
Contract underlying such Futures Contract Option; (d) the name of the
broker or futures commission merchant through whom such Futures
Contract Option is exercised; (e) the net total amount, if any,
payable to the Fund upon such exercise; (f) the net total amount, if
any, payable by the Fund upon such exercise; and (g) the amount and
kind of Securities and/or cash to be withdrawn from or deposited in,
the Senior Security Account for such Series, if any. The Custodian
shall, upon its receipt of the net total amount payable to the Fund,
if any, specified in the Certificate, make out of the money and
Securities specifically allocated to such Series, the payments, if
any, and the deposits, if any, into the Senior Security Account as
specified in the Certificate. The deposits to and/or withdrawals from
the Margin Account, if any, shall be made by the Custodian in
accordance with the terms and conditions of the Margin Account
Agreement.
7. Whenever the Fund purchases any Futures Contract Option
identical to a previously written Futures Contract Option described
in this Article in order to liquidate its position as a writer of
such Futures Contract Option, the Fund shall promptly deliver to the
Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect to the Futures
Contract Option being purchased: (a) the Series to which such Option
is specifically allocated; (b) that the transaction is a closing
transaction; (c) the type of Futures Contract and such other
information as may be necessary to identify the Futures Contract
underlying the Futures Option Contract; (d) the exercise price; (e)
the premium to be paid by the Fund; (f) the expiration date; (g) the
name of the broker or futures commission merchant to whom the premium
is to be paid; and (h) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind
of Securities, if any, to be withdrawn from the Senior Security
Account for such Series. The Custodian shall effect the withdrawals
from the Senior Security Account specified in the Certificate. The
withdrawals, if any, to be made from the Margin Account shall be made
by the Custodian in accordance with the terms and conditions of the
Margin Account Agreement.
8. Upon the expiration, exercise, or consummation of a closing
transaction with respect to, any Futures Contract Option written or
purchased by the Fund and described in this Article, the Custodian
shall (a) delete such Futures Contract Option from the statements
delivered to the Fund pursuant to paragraph 3 of Article III herein
and, (b) make such withdrawals from and/or in the case of an exercise
such deposits into the Senior Security Account as may be specified in
a Certificate. The deposits to and/or withdrawals from the
-20-
Margin Account, if any, shall be made by the Custodian in accordance
with the terms and conditions of the Margin Account Agreement.
9. Futures Contracts acquired by the Fund through the exercise
of a Futures Contract Option described in this Article shall be
subject to Article VI hereof.
10. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement to the
contrary, the Custodian shall deliver cash and Securities to a
futures commission merchant upon receipt of a Certificate from the
Fund specifying: (a) the name of the futures commission merchant; (b)
the specific cash and Securities to be delivered; (c) the date of
such delivery; and (d) the date of the agreement between the Fund and
such futures commission merchant entered pursuant to Rule 17f-6 under
the Investment Company Xxx 0000, as amended. Each delivery of such a
Certificate by the Fund shall constitute (x) a representation and
warranty by the Fund that the Rule 17f-6 agreement has been duly
authorized, executed and delivered by the Fund and the futures
commission merchant and complies with Rule 17f-6, and (y) an
agreement by the Fund that the Custodian shall not be liable for the
acts or omissions of any such futures commission merchant.
ARTICLE VIII.
SHORT SALES
1. Promptly after any short sales by any Series of the Fund, the
Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate
specifying: (a) the Series for which such short sale was made; (b)
the name of the issuer and the title of the Security; (c) the number
of shares or principal amount sold, and accrued interest or
dividends, if any; (d) the dates of the sale and settlement; (e) the
sale price per unit; (f) the total amount credited to the Fund upon
such sale, if any, (g) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind
of Securities, if any, which are to be deposited in a Margin Account
and the name in which such Margin Account has been or is to be
established; (h) the amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of
Securities, if any, to be deposited in a Senior Security Account, and
(i) the name of the broker through whom such short sale was made. The
Custodian shall upon its receipt of a statement from such broker
confirming such sale and that the total amount credited to the Fund
upon such sale, if any, as specified in the Certificate is held by
such broker for the account of the Custodian (or any nominee of the
Custodian) as custodian of the Fund, issue a receipt or make the
deposits into the Margin Account and the Senior Security Account
specified in the Certificate.
-21-
2. In connection with the closing-out of any short sale, the
Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying
with respect to each such closing-out: (a) the Series for which such
transaction is being made; (b) the name of the issuer and the title
of the Security; (c) the number of shares or the principal amount,
and accrued interest or dividends, if any, required to effect such
closing-out to be delivered to the broker; (d) the dates of
closing-out and settlement; (e) the purchase price per unit; (f) the
net total amount payable to the Fund upon such closing-out; (g) the
net total amount payable to the broker upon such closing-out; (h) the
amount of cash and the amount and kind of Securities to be withdrawn,
if any, from the Margin Account; (i) the amount of cash and/or the
amount and kind of Securities, if any, to be withdrawn from the
Senior Security Account; and (j) the name of the broker through whom
the Fund is effecting such closing-out. The Custodian shall, upon
receipt of the net total amount payable to the Fund upon such
closing-out, and the return and/or cancellation of the receipts, if
any, issued by the Custodian with respect to the short sale being
closed-out, pay out of the money held for the account of the Fund to
the broker the net total amount payable to the broker, and make the
withdrawals from the Margin Account and the Senior Security Account,
as the same are specified in the Certificate.
ARTICLE IX.
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
1. Promptly after the Fund enters into a Reverse Repurchase
Agreement with respect to Securities and money held by the Custodian
hereunder, the Fund shall deliver to the Custodian a Certificate, or
in the event such Reverse Repurchase Agreement is a Money Market
Security, a Certificate or Oral Instructions specifying: (a) the
Series for which the Reverse Repurchase Agreement is entered; (b) the
total amount payable to the Fund in connection with such Reverse
Repurchase Agreement and specifically allocated to such Series; (c)
the broker or dealer through or with whom the Reverse Repurchase
Agreement is entered; (d) the amount and kind of Securities to be
delivered by the Fund to such broker or dealer; (e) the date of such
Reverse Repurchase Agreement; and (f) the amount of cash and/or the
amount and kind of Securities, if any, specifically allocated to such
Series to be deposited in a Senior Security Account for such Series
in connection with such Reverse Repurchase Agreement. The Custodian
shall, upon receipt of the total amount payable to the Fund specified
in the Certificate or Oral Instructions make the delivery to the
broker or dealer, and the deposits, if any, to the Senior Security
Account, specified in such Certificate or Oral Instructions.
-22-
2. Upon the termination of a Reverse Repurchase Agreement
described in preceding paragraph 1 of this Article, the Fund shall
promptly deliver a Certificate or, in the event such Reverse
Repurchase Agreement is a Money Market Security, a Certificate or
Oral Instructions to the Custodian specifying: (a) the Reverse
Repurchase Agreement being terminated and the Series for which same
was entered; (b) the total amount payable by the Fund in connection
with such termination; (c) the amount and kind of Securities to be
received by the Fund and specifically allocated to such Series in
connection with such termination; (d) the date of termination; (e)
the name of the broker or dealer with or through whom the Reverse
Repurchase Agreement is to be terminated; and (f) the amount of cash
and/or the amount and kind of Securities to be withdrawn from the
Senior Securities Account for such Series. The Custodian shall, upon
receipt of the amount and kind of Securities to be received by the
Fund specified in the Certificate or Oral Instructions, make the
payment to the broker or dealer, and the withdrawals, if any, from
the Senior Security Account, specified in such Certificate or Oral
Instructions.
ARTICLE X.
LOAN OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES OF THE FUND
1. Promptly after each loan of portfolio Securities specifically
allocated to a Series held by the Custodian hereunder, the Fund shall
deliver or cause to be delivered to the Custodian a Certificate
specifying with respect to each such loan: (a) the Series to which
the loaned Securities are specifically allocated; (b) the name of the
issuer and the title of the Securities, (c) the number of shares or
the principal amount loaned, (d) the date of loan and delivery, (e)
the total amount to be delivered to the Custodian against the loan of
the Securities, including the amount of cash collateral and the
premium, if any, separately identified, and (f) the name of the
broker, dealer, or financial institution to which the loan was made.
The Custodian shall deliver the Securities thus designated to the
broker, dealer or financial institution to which the loan was made
upon receipt of the total amount designated as to be delivered
against the loan of Securities. The Custodian may accept payment in
connection with a delivery otherwise than through the Book-Entry
System or Depository only in the form of a certified or bank
cashier's check payable to the order of the Fund or the Custodian
drawn on New York Clearing House funds and may deliver Securities in
accordance with the customs prevailing among dealers in securities.
2. Promptly after each termination of the loan of Securities by
the Fund, the Fund shall deliver or cause to be delivered to the
Custodian a Certificate specifying with
-23-
respect to each such loan termination and return of Securities: (a)
the Series to which the loaned Securities are specifically allocated;
(b) the name of the issuer and the title of the Securities to be
returned, (c) the number of shares or the principal amount to be
returned, (d) the date of termination, (e) the total amount to be
delivered by the Custodian (including the cash collateral for such
Securities minus any offsetting credits as described in said
Certificate), and (f) the name of the broker, dealer, or financial
institution from which the Securities will be returned. The Custodian
shall receive all Securities returned from the broker, dealer, or
financial institution to which such Securities were loaned and upon
receipt thereof shall pay, out of the money held for the account of
the Fund, the total amount payable upon such return of Securities as
set forth in the Certificate.
ARTICLE XI.
CONCERNING MARGIN ACCOUNTS, SENIOR SECURITY
ACCOUNTS, AND COLLATERAL ACCOUNTS
1. The Custodian shall, from time to time, make such deposits
to, or withdrawals from, a Senior Security Account as specified in a
Certificate received by the Custodian. Such Certificate shall specify
the Series for which such deposit or withdrawal is to be made and the
amount of cash and/or the amount and kind of Securities specifically
allocated to such Series to be deposited in, or withdrawn from, such
Senior Security Account for such Series. In the event that the Fund
fails to specify in a Certificate the Series, the name of the issuer,
the title and the number of shares or the principal amount of any
particular Securities to be deposited by the Custodian into, or
withdrawn from, a Senior Securities Account, the Custodian shall be
under no obligation to make any such deposit or withdrawal and shall
so notify the Fund.
2. The Custodian shall make deliveries or payments from a Margin
Account to the broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or
Clearing Member in whose name, or for whose benefit, the account was
established as specified in the Margin Account Agreement.
3. Amounts received by the Custodian as payments or
distributions with respect to Securities deposited in any Margin
Account shall be dealt with in accordance with the terms and
conditions of the Margin Account Agreement.
4. The Custodian shall have a continuing lien and security
interest in and to any property at any time held by the Custodian in
any Collateral Account described herein. In accordance with
applicable law the Custodian may enforce its lien and realize on any
such property whenever the Custodian
-24-
has made payment or delivery pursuant to any Put Option guarantee
letter or similar document or any receipt issued hereunder by the
Custodian. In the event the Custodian should realize on any such
property net proceeds which are less than the Custodian's obligations
under any Put Option guarantee letter or similar document or any
receipt, such deficiency shall be a debt owed the Custodian by the
Fund within the scope of Article XIV herein.
5. On each business day the Custodian shall furnish the Fund
with a statement with respect to each Margin Account in which money
or Securities are held specifying as of the close of business on the
previous business day: (a) the name of the Margin Account; (b) the
amount and kind of Securities held therein; and (c) the amount of
money held therein. The Custodian shall make available upon request
to any broker, dealer, or futures commission merchant specified in
the name of a Margin Account a copy of the statement furnished the
Fund with respect to such Margin Account.
6. Promptly after the close of business on each business day in
which cash and/or Securities are maintained in a Collateral Account
for any Series, the Custodian shall furnish the Fund with a statement
with respect to such Collateral Account specifying the amount of cash
and/or the amount and kind of Securities held therein. No later than
the close of business next succeeding the delivery to the Fund of
such statement, the Fund shall furnish to the Custodian a Certificate
specifying the then market value of the Securities described in such
statement. In the event such then market value is indicated to be
less than the Custodian's obligation with respect to any outstanding
Put Option guarantee letter or similar document, the Fund shall
promptly specify in a Certificate the additional cash and/or
Securities to be deposited in such Collateral Account to eliminate
such deficiency.
ARTICLE XII.
PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS OR DISTRIBUTIONS
1. The Fund shall furnish to the Custodian a copy of the
resolution of the Board of Directors of the Fund, certified by the
Secretary or any Assistant Secretary, either (i) setting forth with
respect to the Series specified therein the date of the declaration
of a dividend or distribution, the date of payment thereof, the
record date as of which shareholders entitled to payment shall be
determined, the amount payable per Share of such Series to the
shareholders of record as of that date and the total amount payable
to the Dividend Agent and any sub-dividend agent or co-dividend agent
of the Fund on the payment date, or (ii) authorizing with respect to
the Series specified therein the declaration of
-25-
dividends and distributions on a daily basis and authorizing the
Custodian to rely on Oral Instructions or a Certificate setting forth
the date of the declaration of such dividend or distribution, the
date of payment thereof, the record date as of which shareholders
entitled to payment shall be determined, the amount payable per Share
of such Series to the shareholders of record as of that date and the
total amount payable to the Dividend Agent on the payment date.
2. Upon the payment date specified in such resolution, Oral
Instructions or Certificate, as the case may be, the Custodian shall
pay out of the money held for the account of each Series the total
amount payable to the Dividend Agent and any sub-dividend agent or
co-dividend agent of the Fund with respect to such Series.
ARTICLE XIII.
SALE AND REDEMPTION OF SHARES
1. Whenever the Fund shall sell any Shares, it shall deliver to
the Custodian a Certificate duly specifying:
(a) the Series, the number of Shares sold, trade
date, and price; and
(b) the amount of money to be received by the Custodian for
the sale of such Shares and specifically allocated to the separate
account in the name of such Series.
2. Upon receipt of such money from the Transfer Agent, the
Custodian shall credit such money to the separate account in the name
of the Series for which such money was received.
3. Upon issuance of any Shares of any Series described in the
foregoing provisions of this Article, the Custodian shall pay, out of
the money held for the account of such Series, all original issue or
other taxes required to be paid by the Fund in connection with such
issuance upon the receipt of a Certificate specifying the amount to
be paid.
4. Whenever the Fund desires the Custodian to make payment out
of the money held by the Custodian hereunder in connection with a
redemption of any Shares, it shall furnish to the Custodian:
(a) a resolution by the Board of Directors of the
Fund directing the Transfer Agent to redeem the
Shares; and
(b) a Certificate specifying the number and Series of
Shares redeemed; and
-26-
(c) the amount to be paid for such Shares.
5. Upon receipt from the Transfer Agent of an advice setting
forth the Series and number of Shares received by the Transfer Agent
for redemption and that such Shares are in good form for redemption,
the Custodian shall make payment to the Transfer Agent out of the
money held in the separate account in the name of the Series the
total amount specified in the Certificate issued pursuant to the
foregoing paragraph 4 of this Article.
ARTICLE XIV.
OVERDRAFTS OR INDEBTEDNESS
1. If the Custodian, should in its sole discretion advance funds
on behalf of any Series which results in an overdraft because the
money held by the Custodian in the separate account for such Series
shall be insufficient to pay the total amount payable upon a purchase
of Securities specifically allocated to such Series, as set forth in
a Certificate or Oral Instructions, or which results in an overdraft
in the separate account of such Series for some other reason, or if
the Fund is for any other reason indebted to the Custodian with
respect to a Series, including any indebtedness to The Bank of New
York under the Fund's Cash Management and Related Services Agreement,
(except a borrowing for investment or for temporary or emergency
purposes using Securities as collateral pursuant to a separate
agreement and subject to the provisions of paragraph 2 of this
Article), such overdraft or indebtedness shall be deemed to be a loan
made by the Custodian to the Fund for such Series payable on demand
and shall bear interest from the date incurred at a rate per annum
(based on a 360-day year for the actual number of days involved)
equal to 1/2% over Custodian's prime commercial lending rate in
effect from time to time, such rate to be adjusted on the effective
date of any change in such prime commercial lending rate but in no
event to be less than 6% per annum. In addition, the Fund hereby
agrees that the Custodian shall have a continuing lien, security
interest, and security entitlement in and to any property including
any investment property or any financial asset specifically allocated
to such Series at any time held by it for the benefit of such Series
or in which the Fund may have an interest which is then in the
Custodian's possession or control or in possession or control of any
third party acting in the Custodian's behalf. The Fund authorizes the
Custodian, in its sole discretion, at any time to charge any such
overdraft or indebtedness together with interest due thereon against
any balance of account standing to such Series' credit on the
Custodian's books. In addition, the Fund hereby covenants that on
each Business Day on which either it intends to enter a Reverse
Repurchase Agreement and/or otherwise
-27-
borrow from a third party, or which next succeeds a Business Day on
which at the close of business the Fund had outstanding a Reverse
Repurchase Agreement or such a borrowing, it shall prior to 9 a.m.,
New York City time, advise the Custodian, in writing, of each such
borrowing, shall specify the Series to which the same relates, and
shall not incur any indebtedness not so specified other than from the
Custodian.
2. The Fund will cause to be delivered to the Custodian by any
bank (including, if the borrowing is pursuant to a separate
agreement, the Custodian) from which it borrows money for investment
or for temporary or emergency purposes using Securities held by the
Custodian hereunder as collateral for such borrowings, a notice or
undertaking in the form currently employed by any such bank setting
forth the amount which such bank will loan to the Fund against
delivery of a stated amount of collateral. The Fund shall promptly
deliver to the Custodian a Certificate specifying with respect to
each such borrowing: (a) the Series to which such borrowing relates;
(b) the name of the bank, (c) the amount and terms of the borrowing,
which may be set forth by incorporating by reference an attached
promissory note, duly endorsed by the Fund, or other loan
agreement,(d) the time and date, if known, on which the loan is to be
entered into, (e) the date on which the loan becomes due and payable,
(f) the total amount payable to the Fund on the borrowing date, (g)
the market value of Securities to be delivered as collateral for such
loan, including the name of the issuer, the title and the number of
shares or the principal amount of any particular Securities, and (h)
a statement specifying whether such loan is for investment purposes
or for temporary or emergency purposes and that such loan is in
conformance with the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Fund's
prospectus. The Custodian shall deliver on the borrowing date
specified in a Certificate the specified collateral and the executed
promissory note, if any, against delivery by the lending bank of the
total amount of the loan payable, provided that the same conforms to
the total amount payable as set forth in the Certificate. The
Custodian may, at the option of the lending bank, keep such
collateral in its possession, but such collateral shall be subject to
all rights therein given the lending bank by virtue of any promissory
note or loan agreement. The Custodian shall deliver such Securities
as additional collateral as may be specified in a Certificate to
collateralize further any transaction described in this paragraph.
The Fund shall cause all Securities released from collateral status
to be returned directly to the Custodian, and the Custodian shall
receive from time to time such return of collateral as may be
tendered to it. In the event that the Fund fails to specify in a
Certificate the Series, the name of the issuer, the title and number
of shares or the principal amount of any particular Securities to be
delivered as collateral by the Custodian, the Custodian shall not be
under any obligation to deliver any Securities.
-28-
ARTICLE XV.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. With respect to any software provided by the Custodian to a
Fund in order for the Fund to transmit Instructions to the Custodian
(the "Software"), the Custodian grants to such Fund a personal,
nontransferable and nonexclusive license to use the Software solely
for the purpose of transmitting Instructions to, and receiving
communications from, the Custodian in connection with its account(s).
The Fund agrees not to sell, reproduce, lease or otherwise provide,
directly or indirectly, the Software or any portion thereof to any
third party without the prior written consent of the Custodian.
2. The Fund shall obtain and maintain at its own cost and
expense all equipment and services, including but not limited to
communications services, necessary for it to utilize the Software and
transmit Instructions to the Custodian. The Custodian shall not be
responsible for the reliability, compatibility with the Software or
availability of any such equipment or services or the performance or
nonperformance by any nonparty to this Custody Agreement.
3. The Fund acknowledges that the Software, all data bases made
available to the Fund by utilizing the Software (other than data
bases relating solely to the assets of the Fund and transactions with
respect thereto), and any proprietary data, processes, information
and documentation (other than which are or become part of the public
domain or are legally required to be made available to the public)
(collectively, the "Information"), are the exclusive and confidential
property of the Custodian. The Fund shall keep the Information
confidential by using the same care and discretion that the Fund uses
with respect to its own confidential property and trade secrets and
shall neither make nor permit any disclosure without the prior
written consent of the Custodian. Upon termination of this Agreement
or the Software license granted hereunder for any reason, the Fund
shall return to the Custodian all copies of the Information which are
in its possession or under its control or which the Fund distributed
to third parties.
4. The Custodian reserves the right to modify the Software from
time to time upon reasonable prior notice and the Fund shall install
new releases of the Software as the Custodian may direct. The Fund
agrees not to modify or attempt to modify the Software without the
Custodian's prior written consent. The Fund acknowledges that any
modifications to the Software, whether by the Fund or the Custodian
and whether with or without the Custodian's consent, shall become the
property of the Custodian.
-29-
5. The Custodian makes no warranties or representations of any
kind with regard to the Software or the method(s) by which the Fund
may transmit Instructions to the Custodian, express or implied,
including but not limited to any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
6. Where the method for transmitting Instructions by the Fund
involves an automatic systems acknowledgment by the Custodian of its
receipt of such Instructions, then in the absence of such
acknowledgment the Custodian shall not be liable for any failure to
act pursuant to such Instructions, the Fund may not claim that such
Instructions were received by the Custodian, and the Fund shall
deliver a Certificate by some other means.
7. (a) The Fund agrees that where it delivers to the Custodian
Instructions hereunder, it shall be the Fund's sole responsibility to
ensure that only persons duly authorized by the Fund transmit such
Instructions to the Custodian. The Fund will cause all persons
transmitting Instructions to the Custodian to treat applicable user
and authorization codes, passwords and authentication keys with
extreme care, and irrevocably authorizes the Custodian to act in
accordance with and rely upon Instructions received by it pursuant
hereto.
(b) The Fund hereby represents, acknowledges and agrees
that it is fully informed of the protections and risks associated
with the various methods of transmitting Instructions to the
Custodian and that there may be more secure methods of transmitting
instructions to the Custodian than the method(s) selected by the
Fund. The Fund hereby agrees that the security procedures (if any) to
be followed in connection with the Fund's transmission of
Instructions provide to it a commercially reasonable degree of
protection in light of its particular needs and circumstances.
8. The Fund hereby represents, warrants and covenants to the
Custodian that this Agreement has been duly approved by a resolution
of its Board of Directors, and that its transmission of Instructions
pursuant hereto shall at all times comply with the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended.
9. The Fund shall notify the Custodian of any errors, omissions
or interruptions in, or delay or unavailability of, its ability to
send Instructions as promptly as practicable, and in any event within
24 hours after the earliest of (i) discovery thereof, (ii) the
Business Day on which discovery should have occurred through the
exercise of reasonable care and (iii) in the case of any error, the
date of actual receipt of the earliest notice which reflects such
error, it being agreed that discovery and receipt of notice may only
occur on a business day. The Custodian shall promptly advise the Fund
-30-
whenever the Custodian learns of any errors, omissions or
interruption in, or delay or unavailability of, the Fund's ability to
send Instructions.
ARTICLE XVI.
DUTIES OF THE CUSTODIAN WITH RESPECT TO PROPERTY
OF ANY SERIES HELD OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES
1. The Custodian is authorized and instructed to employ, as
sub-custodian for each Series' Securities for which the primary
market is outside the United States ("Foreign Securities")and other
assets, the foreign banking institutions and foreign securities
depositories and clearing agencies designated on Schedule I hereto
("Foreign Sub-Custodians") to carry out their respective
responsibilities in accordance with the terms of the sub-custodian
agreement between each such Foreign Sub-Custodian and the Custodian,
copies of which have been previously delivered to the Fund and
receipt of which is hereby acknowledged (each such agreement, a
"Foreign Sub- Custodian Agreement"). Upon receipt of a Certificate,
together with a certified resolution acceptable to the Custodian of
the Fund's Board of Directors, the Fund may designate any additional
foreign sub-custodian with which the Custodian has an agreement for
such entity to act as the Custodian's agent, as its sub-custodian and
any such additional foreign sub-custodian shall be deemed added to
Schedule I. Upon receipt of a Certificate from the Fund, the
Custodian shall cease the employment of any one or more Foreign
Sub-Custodians for maintaining custody of the Fund's assets and such
Foreign Sub-Custodian shall be deemed deleted from Schedule I.
2. Each Foreign Sub-Custodian Agreement shall be substantially
in the form previously delivered to the Fund and will not be amended
in a way that materially adversely affects the Fund without the
Fund's prior written consent.
3. The Custodian shall identify on its books as belonging to
each Series of the Fund the Foreign Securities of such Series held by
each Foreign Sub-Custodian. At the election of the Fund, it shall be
entitled to be subrogated to the rights of the Custodian with respect
to any claims by the Fund or any Series against a Foreign
Sub-Custodian as a consequence of any loss, damage, cost, expense,
liability or claim sustained or incurred by the Fund or any Series if
and to the extent that the Fund or such Series has not been made
whole for any such loss, damage, cost, expense, liability or claim.
4. Upon request of the Fund, the Custodian will, consistent with
the terms of the applicable Foreign Sub- Custodian Agreement, use
reasonable efforts to arrange for the
-31-
independent accountants of the Fund to be afforded access to the
books and records of any Foreign Sub-Custodian insofar as such books
and records relate to the performance of such Foreign Sub-Custodian
under its agreement with the Custodian on behalf of the Fund.
5. The Custodian will supply to the Fund from time to time, as
mutually agreed upon, statements in respect of the securities and
other assets of each Series held by Foreign Sub-Custodians, including
but not limited to, an identification of entities having possession
of each Series' Foreign Securities and other assets, and advices or
notifications of any transfers of Foreign Securities to or from each
custodial account maintained by a Foreign Sub- Custodian for the
Custodian on behalf of the Series.
6. The Custodian shall transmit promptly to the Fund all
notices, reports or other written information received pertaining to
the Fund's Foreign Securities, including without limitation, notices
of corporate action, proxies and proxy solicitation materials.
7. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the
contrary, settlement and payment for securities received for the
account of any Series and delivery of securities maintained for the
account of such Series may be effected in accordance with the
customary or established securities trading or securities processing
practices and procedures in the jurisdiction or market in which the
transaction occurs, including, without limitation, delivery of
securities to the purchaser thereof or to a dealer therefor (or an
agent for such purchaser or dealer) against a receipt with the
expectation of receiving later payment for such securities from such
purchaser or dealer.
8. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement to the
contrary, with respect to any losses or damages arising out of or
relating to any actions or omissions of any Foreign Sub-Custodian the
sole responsibility and liability of the Custodian shall be to take
appropriate action at the Fund's expense to recover such loss or
damage from the Foreign Sub-Custodian. It is expressly understood and
agreed that the Custodian's sole responsibility and liability shall
be limited to amounts so recovered from the Foreign Sub- Custodian.
ARTICLE XVII.
FX TRANSACTIONS
1. Whenever the Fund shall enter into an FX Transaction, the
Fund shall promptly deliver to the Custodian a Certificate or Oral
Instructions specifying with respect to
-32-
such FX Transaction: (a) the Series to which such FX Transaction is
specifically allocated; (b) the type and amount of Currency to be
purchased by the Fund; (c) the type and amount of Currency to be sold
by the Fund; (d) the date on which the Currency to be purchased is to
be delivered; (e) the date on which the Currency to be sold is to be
delivered; and (f) the name of the person from whom or through whom
such currencies are to be purchased and sold. Unless otherwise
instructed by a Certificate or Oral Instructions, the Custodian shall
deliver, or shall instruct a Foreign Sub- Custodian to deliver, the
Currency to be sold on the date on which such delivery is to be made,
as set forth in the Certificate, and shall receive, or instruct a
Foreign Sub- Custodian to receive, the Currency to be purchased on
the date as set forth in the Certificate.
2. Where the Currency to be sold is to be delivered on the same
day as the Currency to be purchased, as specified in the Certificate
or Oral Instructions, the Custodian or a Foreign Sub-Custodian may
arrange for such deliveries and receipts to be made in accordance
with the customs prevailing from time to time among brokers or
dealers in Currencies, and such receipt and delivery may not be
completed simultaneously. The Fund assumes all responsibility and
liability for all credit risks involved in connection with such
receipts and deliveries, which responsibility and liability shall
continue until the Currency to be received by the Fund has been
received in full.
3. Any FX Transaction effected by the Custodian in connection
with this Agreement may be entered with the Custodian, any office,
branch or subsidiary of The Bank of New York Company, Inc., or any
Foreign Sub-Custodian acting as principal or otherwise through
customary banking channels. The Fund may issue a standing Certificate
with respect to FX Transaction but the Custodian may establish rules
or limitations concerning any foreign exchange facility made
available to the Fund. The Fund shall bear all risks of investing in
Securities or holding Currency. Without limiting the foregoing, the
Fund shall bear the risks that rules or procedures imposed by a
Foreign Sub-Custodian or foreign depositories, exchange controls,
asset freezes or other laws, rules, regulations or orders shall
prohibit or impose burdens or costs on the transfer to, by or for the
account of the Fund of Securities or any cash held outside the Fund's
jurisdiction or denominated in Currency other than its home
jurisdiction or the conversion of cash from one Currency into another
currency. The Custodian shall not be obligated to substitute another
Currency for a Currency (including a Currency that is a component of
a Composite Currency Unit) whose transferability, convertibility or
availability has been affected by such law, regulation, rule or
procedure. Neither the Custodian nor any Foreign Sub-Custodian shall
be liable to
-33-
the Fund for any loss resulting from any of the foregoing events.
ARTICLE XVIII.
CONCERNING THE CUSTODIAN
1. Except as hereinafter provided, or as provided in Article
XVI, neither the Custodian nor its nominee shall be liable for any
loss or damage, including counsel fees, resulting from its action or
omission to act or otherwise, either hereunder or under any Margin
Account Agreement, except for any such loss or damage arising out of
its own negligence or willful misconduct. In no event shall the
Custodian be liable to the Fund or any third party for special,
indirect or consequential damages or lost profits or loss of
business, arising under or in connection with this Agreement, even if
previously informed of the possibility of such damages and regardless
of the form of action. The Custodian may, with respect to questions
of law arising hereunder or under any Margin Account Agreement, apply
for and obtain the advice and opinion of counsel to the Fund, or of
its own counsel, at the expense of the Fund, and shall be fully
protected with respect to anything done or omitted by it in good
faith in conformity with such advice or opinion. The Custodian shall
be liable to the Fund for any loss or damage resulting from the use
of the Book-Entry System or any Depository arising by reason of any
negligence or willful misconduct on the part of the Custodian or any
of its employees or agents.
2. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the
Custodian shall be under no obligation to inquire into, and shall not
be liable for:
(a) The validity of the issue of any Securities purchased,
sold, or written by or for the Fund, the legality of the purchase,
sale or writing thereof, or the propriety of the amount paid or
received therefor;
(b) The legality of the sale or redemption of any Shares,
or the propriety of the amount to be received or paid therefor;
(c) The legality of the declaration or payment of any
dividend by the Fund;
(d) The legality of any borrowing by the Fund using
Securities as collateral;
(e) The legality of any loan of portfolio Securities, nor
shall the Custodian be under any duty or obligation to see to it that
any cash collateral delivered to it by a broker, dealer, or financial
institution or held by it at any
-34-
time as a result of such loan of portfolio Securities of the Fund is
adequate collateral for the Fund against any loss it might sustain as
a result of such loan. The Custodian specifically, but not by way of
limitation, shall not be under any duty or obligation periodically to
check or notify the Fund that the amount of such cash collateral held
by it for the Fund is sufficient collateral for the Fund, but such
duty or obligation shall be the sole responsibility of the Fund. In
addition, the Custodian shall be under no duty or obligation to see
that any broker, dealer or financial institution to which portfolio
Securities of the Fund are lent pursuant to Article X of this
Agreement makes payment to it of any dividends or interest which are
payable to or for the account of the Fund during the period of such
loan or at the termination of such loan, provided, however, that the
Custodian shall promptly notify the Fund in the event that such
dividends or interest are not paid and received when due; or
(f) The sufficiency or value of any amounts of money and/or
Securities held in any Margin Account, Senior Security Account or
Collateral Account in connection with transactions by the Fund. In
addition, the Custodian shall be under no duty or obligation to see
that any broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or Clearing
Member makes payment to the Fund of any variation margin payment or
similar payment which the Fund may be entitled to receive from such
broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or Clearing Member, to
see that any payment received by the Custodian from any broker,
dealer, futures commission merchant or Clearing Member is the amount
the Fund is entitled to receive, or to notify the Fund of the
Custodian's receipt or non-receipt of any such payment.
3. The Custodian shall not be liable for, or considered to be
the Custodian of, any money, whether or not represented by any check,
draft, or other instrument for the payment of money, received by it
on behalf of the Fund until the Custodian actually receives and
collects such money directly or by the final crediting of the account
representing the Fund's interest at the Book-Entry System or the
Depository.
4. The Custodian shall have no responsibility and shall not be
liable for ascertaining or acting upon any calls, conversions,
exchange offers, tenders, interest rate changes or similar matters
relating to Securities held in the Depository, unless the Custodian
shall have actually received timely notice from the Depository. In no
event shall the Custodian have any responsibility or liability for
the failure of the Depository to collect, or for the late collection
or late crediting by the Depository of any amount payable upon
Securities deposited in the Depository which may mature or be
redeemed, retired, called or otherwise become payable. However, upon
receipt of a Certificate from the Fund of an overdue amount on
Securities held in the Depository the
-35-
Custodian shall make a claim against the Depository on behalf of the
Fund, except that the Custodian shall not be under any obligation to
appear in, prosecute or defend any action, suit or proceeding in
respect to any Securities held by the Depository which in its opinion
may involve it in expense or liability, unless indemnity satisfactory
to it against all expense and liability be furnished as often as may
be required.
5. The Custodian shall not be under any duty or obligation to
take action to effect collection of any amount due to the Fund from
the Transfer Agent of the Fund nor to take any action to effect
payment or distribution by the Transfer Agent of the Fund of any
amount paid by the Custodian to the Transfer Agent of the Fund in
accordance with this Agreement.
6. The Custodian shall not be under any duty or obligation to
take action to effect collection of any amount if the Securities upon
which such amount is payable are in default, or if payment is refused
after due demand or presentation, unless and until (i) it shall be
directed to take such action by a Certificate and (ii) it shall be
assured to its satisfaction of reimbursement of its costs and
expenses in connection with any such action.
7. The Custodian may in addition to the employment of Foreign
Sub-Custodians pursuant to Article XVI appoint one or more banking
institutions as Depository or Depositories, as Sub-Custodian or
Sub-Custodians, or as Co-Custodian or Co-Custodians including, but
not limited to, banking institutions located in foreign countries, of
Securities and money at any time owned by the Fund, upon such terms
and conditions as may be approved in a Certificate or contained in an
agreement executed by the Custodian, the Fund and the appointed
institution.
8. The Custodian shall not be under any duty or obligation (a)
to ascertain whether any Securities at any time delivered to, or held
by it or by any Foreign Sub-Custodian, for the account of the Fund
and specifically allocated to a Series are such as properly may be
held by the Fund or such Series under the provisions of its then
current prospectus, or (b) to ascertain whether any transactions by
the Fund, whether or not involving the Custodian, are such
transactions as may properly be engaged in by the Fund.
9. The Custodian shall be entitled to receive and the Fund
agrees to pay to the Custodian all out-of-pocket expenses and such
compensation as may be agreed upon from time to time between the
Custodian and the Fund. The Custodian may charge such compensation
and any expenses with respect to a Series incurred by the Custodian
in the performance of its duties pursuant to such agreement against
any money specifically allocated to such Series. Unless and until the
Fund instructs
-36-
the Custodian by a Certificate to apportion any loss, damage,
liability or expense among the Series in a specified manner, the
Custodian shall also be entitled to charge against any money held by
it for the account of a Series such Series' pro rata share (based on
such Series, net asset value at the time of the charge to the
aggregate net asset value of all Series at that time) of the amount
of any loss, damage, liability or expense, including counsel fees,
for which it shall be entitled to reimbursement under the provisions
of this Agreement. The expenses for which the Custodian shall be
entitled to reimbursement hereunder shall include, but are not
limited to, the expenses of sub-custodians and foreign branches of
the Custodian incurred in settling outside of New York City
transactions involving the purchase and sale of Securities of the
Fund.
10. The Custodian shall be entitled to rely upon any
Certificate, notice or other instrument in writing received by the
Custodian and reasonably believed by the Custodian to be a
Certificate. The Custodian shall be entitled to rely upon any Oral
Instructions actually received by the Custodian hereinabove provided
for. The Fund agrees to forward to the Custodian a Certificate or
facsimile thereof confirming such Oral Instructions in such manner so
that such Certificate or facsimile thereof is received by the
Custodian, whether by hand delivery, telecopier or other similar
device, or otherwise, by the close of business of the same day that
such Oral Instructions are given to the Custodian. The Fund agrees
that the fact that such confirming instructions are not received, or
that contrary instructions are received, by the Custodian shall in no
way affect the validity of the transactions or enforceability of the
transactions hereby authorized by the Fund. The Fund agrees that the
Custodian shall incur no liability to the Fund in acting upon Oral
Instructions given to the Custodian hereunder concerning such
transactions provided such instructions reasonably appear to have
been received from an Authorized Person.
11. The Custodian shall be entitled to rely upon any instrument,
instruction or notice received by the Custodian and reasonably
believed by the Custodian to be given in accordance with the terms
and conditions of any Margin Account Agreement. Without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, the Custodian shall be under no duty to
inquire into, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy of any
statements or representations contained in any such instrument or
other notice including, without limitation, any specification of any
amount to be paid to a broker, dealer, futures commission merchant or
Clearing Member.
12. The books and records pertaining to the Fund which are in
the possession of the Custodian shall be the property of the Fund.
Such books and records shall be prepared and maintained as required
by the Investment Company Act of 1940,
-37-
as amended, and other applicable securities laws and rules and
regulations. The Fund, or the Fund's authorized representatives,
shall have access to such books and records during the Custodian's
normal business hours. Upon the reasonable request of the Fund,
copies of any such books and records shall be provided by the
Custodian to the Fund or the Fund's authorized representative, and
the Fund shall reimburse the Custodian its expenses of providing such
copies. Upon reasonable request of the Fund, the Custodian shall
provide in hard copy or on micro-film, whichever the Custodian
elects, any records included in any such delivery which are
maintained by the Custodian on a computer disc, or are similarly
maintained, and the Fund shall reimburse the Custodian for its
expenses of providing such hard copy or micro-film.
13. The Custodian shall provide the Fund with any report
obtained by the Custodian on the system of internal accounting
control of the Book-Entry System, the Depository or O.C.C., and with
such reports on its own systems of internal accounting control as the
Fund may reasonably request from time to time.
14. The Fund agrees to indemnify the Custodian against and save
the Custodian harmless from all liability, claims, losses and demands
whatsoever, including attorney's fees, howsoever arising or incurred
because of or in connection with this Agreement, except for any such
liability, claim, loss and demand arising out of the Custodian's own
negligence or willful misconduct.
15. Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Agreement,
including, without limitation, those contained in Article XVI and
XVII the Custodian may deliver and receive Securities, and receipts
with respect to such Securities, and arrange for payments to be made
and received by the Custodian in accordance with the customs
prevailing from time to time among brokers or dealers in such
Securities. When the Custodian is instructed to deliver Securities
against payment, delivery of such Securities and receipt of payment
therefor may not be completed simultaneously. The Fund assumes all
responsibility and liability for all credit risks involved in
connection with the Custodian's delivery of Securities pursuant to
instructions of the Fund, which responsibility and liability shall
continue until final payment in full has been received by the
Custodian.
16. The Custodian shall have no duties or responsibilities
whatsoever except such duties and responsibilities as are
specifically set forth in this Agreement, and no covenant or
obligation shall be implied in this Agreement against the Custodian.
ARTICLE XIX.
-38-
TERMINATION
1. Either of the parties hereto may terminate this Agreement by
giving to the other party a notice in writing specifying the date of
such termination, which shall be not less than ninety (90) days after
the date of giving of such notice. In the event such notice is given
by the Fund, it shall be accompanied by a copy of a resolution of the
Board of Directors of the Fund, certified by the Secretary or any
Assistant Secretary, electing to terminate this Agreement and
designating a successor custodian or custodians, each of which shall
be a bank or trust company having not less than $2,000,000 aggregate
capital, surplus and undivided profits. In the event such notice is
given by the Custodian, the Fund shall, on or before the termination
date, deliver to the Custodian a copy of a resolution of the Board of
Directors of the Fund, certified by the Secretary or any Assistant
Secretary, designating a successor custodian or custodians. In the
absence of such designation by the Fund, the Custodian may designate
a successor custodian which shall be a bank or trust company having
not less than $2,000,000 aggregate capital, surplus and undivided
profits. Upon the date set forth in such notice this Agreement shall
terminate, and the Custodian shall upon receipt of a notice of
acceptance by the successor custodian on that date deliver directly
to the successor custodian all Securities and money then owned by the
Fund and held by it as Custodian, after deducting all fees, expenses
and other amounts for the payment or reimbursement of which it shall
then be entitled.
2. If a successor custodian is not designated by the Fund or the
Custodian in accordance with the preceding paragraph, the Fund shall
upon the date specified in the notice of termination of this
Agreement and upon the delivery by the Custodian of all Securities
(other than Securities held in the Book-Entry System which cannot be
delivered to the Fund) and money then owned by the Fund be deemed to
be its own custodian and the Custodian shall thereby be relieved of
all duties and responsibilities pursuant to this Agreement, other
than the duty with respect to Securities held in the Book Entry
System which cannot be delivered to the Fund to hold such Securities
hereunder in accordance with this Agreement.
ARTICLE XX.
MISCELLANEOUS
1. Annexed hereto as Appendix A is a Certificate signed by two
of the present Authorized Persons of the Fund under its seal, setting
forth the names and the signatures of the present Authorized Persons
of the Fund. The Fund agrees to furnish to the Custodian a new
Certificate in similar form in the event that any such present
Authorized Person ceases to be
-39-
an Authorized Person of the Fund, or in the event that other or
additional Authorized Persons are elected or appointed. Until such
new Certificate shall be received, the Custodian shall be fully
protected in acting under the provisions of this Agreement or Oral
Instructions upon the signatures of the Authorized Persons as set
forth in the last delivered Certificate.
2. Any notice or other instrument in writing, authorized or
required by this Agreement to be given to the Custodian, shall be
sufficiently given if addressed to the Custodian and mailed or
delivered to it at its offices at 00 Xxxxxxxxxx Xxxxxx, Xxx Xxxx, Xxx
Xxxx 00000, or at such other place as the Custodian may from time to
time designate in writing.
3. Any notice or other instrument in writing, authorized or
required by this Agreement to be given to the Fund shall be
sufficiently given if addressed to the Fund and mailed or delivered
to it at its office at the address for the Fund first above written,
or at such other place as the Fund may from time to time designate in
writing.
4. This Agreement may not be amended or modified in any manner
except by a written agreement executed by both parties with the same
formality as this Agreement and approved by a resolution of the Board
of Directors of the Fund.
5. This Agreement shall extend to and shall be binding upon the
parties hereto, and their respective successors and assigns;
provided, however, that this Agreement shall not be assignable by the
Fund without the written consent of the Custodian, or by the
Custodian without the written consent of the Fund, authorized or
approved by a resolution of the Fund's Board of Directors.
6. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws
of the State of New York without giving effect to conflict of laws
principles thereof. Each party hereby consents to the jurisdiction of
a state or federal court situated in New York City, New York in
connection with any dispute arising hereunder and hereby waives its
right to trial by jury.
7. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but such
counterparts shall, together, constitute only one instrument.
-40-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this
Agreement to be executed by their respective officers, thereunto duly
authorized and their respective seals to be hereunto affixed, as of
the day and year first above written.
DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II,
INC.
[SEAL] By:_______________________
Attest:
-----------------------
THE BANK OF NEW YORK
[SEAL] By:_______________________
Name:
Title:
Attest:
-----------------------
APPENDIX A
I, , and I,
, of DEBT
STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., a Maryland corporation (the "Fund"), do
hereby certify that:
The following persons have been duly authorized in conformity
with the Fund's Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws to execute any
Certificate, instruction, notice or other instrument on behalf of the
Fund and the signatures set forth opposite their respective names are
their true and correct signatures:
Name Position Signature
-------------------- ------------------- -----------------
APPENDIX B
SERIES
APPENDIX C
I, Xxxxx Xxxxx, a Vice President with THE BANK OF NEW YORK do
hereby designate the following publications:
The Bond Buyer Depository Trust Company Notices Financial Daily Card
Service XX Xxxxxx Municipal Bond Service London Financial Times New
York Times Standard & Poor's Called Bond Record Wall Street Journal
EXHIBIT A
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned, , hereby certifies
that he or she is the duly elected and acting
of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., a Maryland
corporation (the "Fund"), and further certifies that the following
resolution was adopted by the Board of Directors of the Fund at a
meeting duly held on , 1998, at which a quorum was at all times
present and that such resolution has not been modified or rescinded
and is in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
RESOLVED, that The Bank of New York, as Custodian pursuant
to a Custody Agreement between The Bank of New York and the Fund
dated as of , 1998, (the "Custody Agreement") is authorized and
instructed on a continuous and ongoing basis to deposit in the
Book- Entry System, as defined in the Custody Agreement, all
securities eligible for deposit therein, regardless of the
Series to which the same are specifically allocated, and to
utilize the Book-Entry System to the extent possible in
connection with its performance thereunder, including, without
limitation, in connection with settlements of purchases and
sales of securities, loans of securities, and deliveries and
returns of securities collateral.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the
seal of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., as of the day of
, 1998.
[SEAL]
EXHIBIT B
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned, , hereby certifies
that he or she is the duly elected and acting
of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., a Maryland
corporation (the "Fund"), and further certifies that the following
resolution was adopted by the Board of Directors of the Fund at a
meeting duly held on , 1998, at which a quorum was at all times
present and that such resolution has not been modified or rescinded
and is in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
RESOLVED, that The Bank of New York, as Custodian pursuant
to a Custody Agreement between The Bank of New York and the Fund
dated as of , 1998, (the "Custody Agreement") is authorized and
instructed on a continuous and ongoing basis until such time as
it receives a Certificate, as defined in the Custody Agreement,
to the contrary to deposit in the Depository, as defined in the
Custody Agreement, all securities eligible for deposit therein,
regardless of the Series to which the same are specifically
allocated, and to utilize the Depository to the extent possible
in connection with its performance thereunder, including,
without limitation, in connection with settlements of purchases
and sales of securities, loans of securities, and deliveries and
returns of securities collateral.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the
seal of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., as of the day of
, 1998.
[SEAL]
EXHIBIT B-1
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned, , hereby certifies
that he or she is the duly elected and acting
of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., a
Maryland corporation (the "Fund"), and further certifies that the
following resolution was adopted by the Board of Directors of the
Fund at a meeting duly held on , 1998, at which a quorum was at all
times present and that such resolution has not been modified or
rescinded and is in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
RESOLVED, that The Bank of New York, as Custodian pursuant
to a Custody Agreement between The Bank of New York and the Fund
dated as of , 1998, (the "Custody Agreement") is authorized and
instructed on a continuous and ongoing basis until such time as
it receives a Certificate, as defined in the Custody Agreement,
to the contrary to deposit in the Participants Trust Company as
Depository, as defined in the Custody Agreement, all securities
eligible for deposit therein, regardless of the Series to which
the same are specifically allocated, and to utilize the
Participants Trust Company to the extent possible in connection
with its performance thereunder, including, without limitation,
in connection with settlements of purchases and sales of
securities, loans of securities, and deliveries and returns of
securities collateral.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the
seal of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., as of the day of
, 1998.
[SEAL]
EXHIBIT C
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned, , hereby
certifies that he or she is the duly elected and acting
of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., a Maryland
corporation (the "Fund"), and further certifies that the following
resolution was adopted by the Board of Directors of the Fund at a
meeting duly held on , 1998, at which a quorum was at all times
present and that such resolution has not been modified or rescinded
and is in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
RESOLVED, that The Bank of New York, as Custodian pursuant
to a Custody Agreement between The Bank of New York and the Fund
dated as of , 1998, (the "Custody Agreement") is authorized and
instructed on a continuous and ongoing basis until such time as
it receives a Certificate, as defined in the Custody Agreement,
to the contrary, to accept, utilize and act with respect to
Clearing Member confirmations for Options and transaction in
Options, regardless of the Series to which the same are
specifically allocated, as such terms are defined in the Custody
Agreement, as provided in the Custody Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the
seal of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., as of the day of
, 1998.
[SEAL]
EXHIBIT D
The undersigned, , hereby
certifies that he or she is the duly elected and acting
of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., a
Maryland corporation (the "Fund"), further certifies that the
following resolutions were adopted by the Board of Directors of the
Fund at a meeting duly held on , 1998, at which a quorum was at all
times present and that such resolutions have not been modified or
rescinded and are in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
RESOLVED, that The Bank of New York, as Custodian pursuant
to the Custody Agreement between The Bank of New York and the
Fund dated as of , 1998 (the "Custody Agreement") is authorized
and instructed on a continuous and ongoing basis to act in
accordance with, and to rely on Instructions (as defined in the
Custody Agreement).
RESOLVED, that the Fund shall establish access codes and
grant use of such access codes only to Authorized Persons of the
Fund as defined in the Custody Agreement, shall establish
internal safekeeping procedures to safeguard and protect the
confidentiality and availability of user and access codes,
passwords and authentication keys, and shall use Instructions
only in a manner that does not contravene the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended, or the rules and regulations
thereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the
seal of DEBT STRATEGIES FUND II, INC., as of the day of
, 1998.
[SEAL]
