EXHIBIT 4(m)
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18 day of OCTOBER , 2002 between USAA
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under the laws of the
state of Delaware and having a place of business in San Antonio, Texas ("IMCO"),
and USAA MUTUAL FUND, INC., a corporation organized under the laws of the state
of Maryland and having a place of business in San Antonio, Texas (the
"Company").
WHEREAS, the Company is engaged in business as an open-end management
investment company and is so registered under the Investment Company Act of
1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"); and
WHEREAS, IMCO is engaged in the business of rendering investment
management and advisory services and is registered under the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended; and
WHEREAS, the Company is authorized to issue shares of capital stock
interest (the "Shares") in separate series with each such series representing
interests in a separate portfolio of securities and other assets; and
WHEREAS, the Company presently offers Shares in each of the series
identified in Schedule A hereto (the "Existing Funds") (such series, together
with all other series subsequently established by the Company with respect to
which the Company desires to retain IMCO to render management and investment
advisory services hereunder and with respect to which IMCO is willing so to do,
being herein collectively referred to as the "Funds");
NOW, THEREFORE, WITNESSETH: That it is hereby agreed between the
parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF IMCO.
(a) EXISTING FUNDS. The Company hereby appoints IMCO to act as manager
and investment adviser for each of the Existing Funds for the period and on the
terms herein set forth. IMCO accepts such appointment and agrees to render the
services herein set forth, for the compensation herein provided.
(b) ADDITIONAL FUNDS. In the event that the Company establishes one or
more series of Shares other than the Existing Funds with respect to which it
desires to retain IMCO to render management and investment advisory services
hereunder, it shall so notify IMCO in writing. If IMCO is willing to render such
services it shall notify the Company in writing, whereupon the Company shall
appoint IMCO to act as manager and investment adviser for each of such series of
Shares for the period and on the terms herein set forth, IMCO shall accept such
appointment and agree to render the services herein set forth for the
compensation herein provided, and each of such series of Shares shall become a
Fund hereunder.
2. DUTIES OF IMCO.
Subject to the delegation of any such duties to one or more investment
subadvisers ("Subadvisers") as provided in Paragraph 3 hereof, IMCO, at its own
expense, shall furnish the following services and facilities to the Company:
(a) INVESTMENT PROGRAM. IMCO will (i) furnish continuously an
investment program for each Fund, (ii) determine (subject to the overall
supervision and review of the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board"))
what investments shall be purchased, held, sold or exchanged for each Fund and
what portion, if any, of the assets of each Fund shall be held uninvested, and
(iii) make changes on behalf of the Company in the investments of each Fund.
(b) MONITORING. Should the Board determine it is in the best interests
of a Fund's shareholders to invest all of its investable assets in another
mutual fund with substantially the same investment objective (the "Portfolio"),
IMCO will monitor the services provided to the Portfolio, subject always to the
control of the Board. Such monitoring may include among other things, review of
Portfolio reports showing the composition of securities in the Portfolio on a
periodic basis and periodic review of investment practices of the Portfolio.
IMCO will report to the Board, at least annually, on the results of such
monitoring such that the Board may determine whether continued investment
exclusively in the Portfolio is in the best interests of the Fund's
shareholders.
3. SUBADVISERS.
(a) Subject to the general supervision and control of the Board and
under the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, IMCO, at its own
expense, may select and contract with one or more Subadvisers to manage the
investment operations and composition of each Fund and render investment advice
for each Fund, including the purchase, retention and disposition of the
investments, securities and cash contained in each Fund, in accordance with such
Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions as stated in the
Company's Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws and such Fund's Prospectus and
Statement of Additional Information ("SAI"), as is from time to time in effect;
provided that, (i) IMCO will continue to have overall supervisory responsibility
for the general management and investment of each Fund's assets, and (ii) any
contract with a Subadviser (a "Subadvisory Agreement") shall be in compliance
with and approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder or
in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the Securities and
Exchange Commission ("SEC") or its staff.
(b) Subject to the general supervision and control of the Board, IMCO
will have full discretion to (i) select new or additional Subadvisers for each
Fund, (ii) enter into and materially modify existing Subadvisory Agreements, and
(iii) terminate and replace any Subadviser. In connection with IMCO's
responsibilities herein, IMCO will assess each Fund's investment focus and will
seek to implement decisions with respect to the allocation and reallocation of
each Fund's assets among one or more current or additional Subadvisers from time
to time, as IMCO deems appropriate, to enable each Fund to achieve its
investment goals. In addition, IMCO will monitor compliance of each Subadviser
with the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of any Fund or Funds
(or portions of any Fund) under the management of such Subadviser, and
2
review and report to the Board on the performance of each Subadviser. IMCO will
furnish, or cause the appropriate Subadviser(s) to furnish, to the Company such
statistical information, with respect to the investments that a Fund (or
portions of any Fund) may hold or contemplate purchasing, as the Company may
reasonably request. On IMCO's own initiative, IMCO will apprise, or cause the
appropriate Subadviser(s) to apprise, the Company of important developments
materially affecting each Fund (or any portion of a Fund that they advise) and
will furnish the Company, from time to time, with such information as may be
appropriate for this purpose. Further, IMCO agrees to furnish, or cause the
appropriate Subadviser(s) to furnish, to the Board such periodic and special
reports as the Board may reasonably request. In addition, IMCO agrees to cause
the appropriate Subadviser(s) to furnish to third-party data reporting services
all currently available standardized performance information and other customary
data.
4. ALLOCATION OF EXPENSES.
Except for the services and facilities to be provided by IMCO set forth
in Paragraphs 2 and 3 above, the Company assumes and shall pay all expenses for
all other Company operations and activities and shall reimburse IMCO for any
such expenses incurred by IMCO. The expenses to be borne by the Company shall
include, without limitation:
(a) the charges and expenses of any registrar, share transfer or
dividend disbursing agent, custodian, or depository appointed by the Company for
the safekeeping of its cash, portfolio securities and other property;
(b) the charges and expenses of auditors;
(c) brokerage commissions for transactions in the portfolio securities
of the Company;
(d) all taxes, including issuance and transfer taxes, and fees
payable by the Company to federal, state or other governmental agencies;
(e) the cost of share certificates representing Shares of the Company;
(f) fees involved in registering and maintaining registrations of
the Company and of its Shares with the SEC and various states and other
jurisdictions;
(g) all expenses of shareholders' and Board meetings and of preparing,
printing and mailing proxy statements, quarterly reports, semiannual reports,
annual reports and other communications (including Prospectuses) to existing
shareholders;
(h) compensation and travel expenses of Board members who are not
"interested persons" within the meaning of the 1940 Act;
(i) the expense of furnishing or causing to be furnished to each
shareholder a statement of his account, including the expense of mailing;
(j) charges and expenses of legal counsel in connection with matters
relating to the Company, including, without limitation, legal services rendered
in connection with the Company's legal and financial structure and relations
with its shareholders, issuance of
3
Company Shares, and registration and qualification of securities under federal,
state and other laws;
(k) membership or association dues for the Investment Company Institute
or similar organizations;
(l) interest payable on Company borrowings; and
(m) postage.
5. ADVISORY FEE.
(a) For the services and facilities to be provided by IMCO as provided
in Paragraphs 2(a) and 3 hereof, the Company shall pay to IMCO a monthly fee
with respect to each Fund computed as set forth in Schedule B or Schedule C
hereto. For the services and facilities to be provided by IMCO as provided in
Paragraph 2(b) hereof, the Company shall pay no fee.
(b) IMCO may from time to time and for such periods as it deems
appropriate voluntarily waive fees or otherwise reduce its compensation
hereunder. With respect to each Fund identified in Schedule D hereto, in
addition to any amounts otherwise payable to IMCO as an advisory fee for current
services under this Agreement, the Company shall be obligated to pay IMCO
amounts previously waived or expenses paid by IMCO with respect to such Fund,
provided that such additional payments are made not later than the date
identified in Schedule D hereto as the "Ending Date" and provided further that
the amount of such additional payment in any year, together with all other
expenses of the Fund, in the aggregate, would not cause the Fund's expense ratio
in such year to exceed the percentage of the Fund's average net assets
identified in Schedule D.
(c) In the event this Agreement is terminated with respect to any one
or more Funds as of a date other than the last day of any month, the Company
shall pay IMCO a pro rata portion of the amount that the Company would have been
required to pay, if any, had this Agreement remained in effect for the full
month, subject to such other adjustments as may be provided in Schedule B
hereto.
6. COMPANY TRANSACTIONS.
In connection with the management of the investment and reinvestment of
the assets of the Company, IMCO, acting by its own officers, directors or
employees or by a duly authorized subcontractor, is authorized to select the
brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions for the
Company and is directed to use its best efforts to seek on behalf of a Fund the
best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for
any transaction, IMCO shall consider all factors it deems relevant, including
the breadth of the market in and the price of the security, the financial
condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer, and the
reasonableness of the commission, if any, with respect to the specific
transaction and on a continuing basis.
IMCO may, to the extent permitted under Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended ("1934 Act"), cause a Fund to pay a broker or dealer
that provides brokerage or
4
research services to IMCO, a Subadviser, the Company or a Fund an amount of
commission for effecting a Fund transaction in excess of the amount of
commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting that
transaction if IMCO determines, in good faith, that such amount of commission is
reasonable in relation to the value of such brokerage or research services
provided in terms of that particular transaction or IMCO's overall
responsibilities to the Fund, the Company or its other investment advisory
clients. To the extent permitted by said Section 28(e), neither IMCO nor any
Subadviser shall be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any duty
created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of such action. In
addition, subject to seeking "best execution" and in compliance with the Conduct
Rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., IMCO also may
consider sales of shares of the Company as a factor in the selection of brokers
and dealers. In this regard, the Company reserves the right to direct IMCO to
cause Subadvisers to effect transactions in Fund securities through
broker-dealers in a manner that will help generate resources to: (i) pay the
cost of certain expenses which the Company is required to pay or for which the
Company is required to arrange payment pursuant to this Agreement; or (ii)
recognize broker-dealers for the sale of shares of the Company. In addition, the
Company hereby agrees that any entity or person associated with IMCO or any
Subadviser that is a member of a national securities exchange is authorized to
effect any transaction on such exchange for the account of a Fund to the extent
and as permitted by Section 11(a)(1)(H) of the 1934 Act.
7. RELATIONS WITH COMPANY.
Subject to and in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation and
Bylaws of the Company and of IMCO, respectively, it is understood that Board
members, officers, agents and shareholders of the Company are or may be
interested in IMCO (or any successor thereof) as directors, officers, or
otherwise, that directors, officers, agents and shareholders of IMCO are or may
be interested in the Company as Board members, officers, shareholders or
otherwise, that IMCO (or any such successor) is or may be interested in the
Company as a shareholder or otherwise and that the effect of any such interests
shall be governed by said Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.
8. LIABILITY OF IMCO.
Neither IMCO nor its officers, directors, employees, agents or
controlling persons or assigns shall be liable for any error of judgment or
mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Company or its shareholders in
connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates; provided that no
provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to protect IMCO against any
liability to the Company or its shareholders to which it might otherwise be
subject by reason of any willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in
the performance of its duties or the reckless disregard of its obligations and
duties under this Agreement. Nor shall any provision hereof be deemed to protect
any Board member or officer of the Company against any such liability to which
he might otherwise be subject by reason of any willful misfeasance, bad faith or
gross negligence in the performance of his duties or the reckless disregard of
his obligations and duties. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.
5
9. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT.
(a) DURATION. This Agreement shall be executed and become effective
with respect to any Existing Fund on the first date upon which the Agreement
shall have been approved by a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as
that term is defined in the 0000 Xxx) of such Existing Fund, and with respect to
any additional Fund on the date set forth in the notice from IMCO in accordance
with Paragraph 1(b) hereof that IMCO is willing to serve as the manager and
investment adviser with respect to such Fund. Unless terminated as herein
provided, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect with respect to
each Existing Fund through July 31, 2004, and, with respect to each additional
Fund, through the first July 31 occurring more than twelve months after the date
on which such Fund becomes a Fund hereunder, and shall continue in full force
and effect for periods of one year thereafter with respect to each Fund so long
as such continuance with respect to any such Fund is approved at least annually
(a) by either the Board or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting
shares (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of such Fund, and (b) in either event by the
vote of a majority of the Board members who are not parties to this Agreement or
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any such party, cast in
person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
Any approval of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be effective
to continue this Agreement with respect to any such Fund notwithstanding (a)
that this Agreement has not been approved by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of any other Fund affected thereby, and (b) that this
Agreement has not been approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding
shares of the Company, unless such approval shall be required by any other
applicable law or otherwise.
(b) TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated at any time, without
payment of any penalty, by vote of the Board or by vote of a majority of the
outstanding shares (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of a Fund, or by IMCO on sixty
days' written notice to the other party.
(c) AUTOMATIC TERMINATION. This Agreement shall automatically
terminate in the event of its assignment.
10. NAME OF COMPANY.
It is understood that the name "USAA," and any logo associated with
that name is the valuable property of the United Services Automobile
Association, and that the Company has the right to include "USAA" as a part of
its name only so long as this Agreement shall continue and IMCO is a wholly
owned subsidiary of the United Services Automobile Association. Upon termination
of this Agreement, the Company shall forthwith cease to use the "USAA" name and
logo and shall take appropriate action to change the Company's name.
11. PRIOR AGREEMENT SUPERSEDED.
This Agreement supersedes any prior agreement relating to the subject
matter hereof between the parties.
6
12. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE.
The services of IMCO to the Company hereunder are not to be deemed
exclusive, and IMCO shall be free to render similar services to others so long
as its services hereunder are not impaired thereby.
13. MISCELLANEOUS.
(a) AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be
changed, waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in
writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver,
discharge or termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement
shall be effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and
rules thereunder or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the
SEC or its staff.
(b) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(c) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(d) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(e) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(f) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
7
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed as of the date first set forth above.
USAA MUTUAL FUND, INC. USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/XXXXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
------------------- ------------------------
Name: Xxxxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Vice President Title: President
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SCHEDULE A TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT
LISTING OF FUNDS
NAME OF FUND
Aggressive Growth Fund
Capital Growth Fund
First Start Growth Fund
Growth Fund
Growth & Income Fund
Income Stock Fund
Science & Technology Fund
Small Cap Stock Fund
Value Fund
A-1
Dated as of October 18, 2002
SCHEDULE B TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT - FOR
FUNDS WITH PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENTS
This Schedule B shall apply to each of the Funds identified on Schedule B-1
hereto (each, a "Fund").
(a) GENERAL. The Company shall pay to IMCO, as compensation for IMCO's
services and expenses assumed hereunder, a fee determined with respect to each
Fund, which shall be composed of the Basic Fee (defined below) and a Performance
Adjustment (defined below) to the Basic Fee based upon the investment
performance of a class of shares of the Fund in relation to the investment
record of a securities index determined by the Board to be appropriate over the
same period.
(b) INDEX, CLASS AND CHANGES THERETO. The Board has designated for each
Fund the index and class of shares of the Fund identified on Schedule B-1 as the
index and class to be used for purposes of determining the Performance
Adjustment (referred to herein as the "Index" and the "Class," respectively).
From time to time, the Board may, by a vote of the Board voting in person,
including a majority of the Board members who are not parties to this Agreement
or "interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any such parties,
determine (i) that another securities index is a more appropriate benchmark than
the Index for purposes of evaluating the performance of the Company; and/or (ii)
that a different class or classes of shares of the Company representing
interests in a Fund other than the Class is most appropriate for use in
calculating the Performance Adjustment. After ten days' written notice to IMCO,
a different index (the "Successor Index") may be substituted for the Index in
prospectively calculating the Performance Adjustment, and/or a different class
or classes of shares (the "Successor Class") may be substituted in calculating
the Performance Adjustment. However, the calculation of that portion of the
Performance Adjustment attributable to any portion of the performance period
prior to the adoption of the Successor Index will still be based upon the Fund's
performance compared to the Index. The use of a Successor Class of shares for
purposes of calculating the Performance Adjustment shall apply to the entire
performance period so long as such Successor Class was outstanding at the
beginning of such period. In the event that such Successor Class of shares was
not outstanding for all or a portion of the Performance Period, it may only be
used in calculating that portion of the Performance Adjustment attributable to
the period during which such Successor Class was outstanding and any prior
portion of the Performance Period shall be calculated using the Successor Class
of shares previously designated.
(c) BASIC FEE. The basic fee for a Fund (the "Basic Fee") for any
period shall equal: (i) the Fund's average net assets during such period,
multiplied by (ii) the annual rate identified for such Fund on Schedule B-1
hereto, multiplied by (iii) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of
calendar days in the payment period and the denominator of which is 365 (366 in
leap years).
(d) PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT. The amount of the performance adjustment
(the "Performance Adjustment") shall equal: (i) the average net assets of the
Fund over the Performance Period (as defined below), multiplied by (ii) the
Adjustment Rate (as defined below), multiplied by (iii) a fraction, the
numerator of which shall be the number of days in the last month of the
Performance Period and the denominator of which shall be 365 (366 in leap
B-1
Dated as of October 18, 2002
years). The resulting dollar figure will be added to or subtracted from the
Basic Fee depending on whether the Fund experienced better or worse performance
than the Index.
(e) ADJUSTMENT RATE. The adjustment rate (the "Adjustment Rate") shall
be as set forth in Schedule B-2 for each Fund, provided, however, that the
Performance Adjustment may be further adjusted to the extent necessary to ensure
that the total adjustment to the Basic Fee on an annualized basis does not
exceed the maximum Performance Adjustment identified for such Fund in Schedule
B-2.
(f) PERFORMANCE PERIOD. The performance period (the "Performance
Period") for the Funds listed in Schedule B-1 on the effective date of this
Agreement shall be measured from August 1, 2001 (September 1, 2001 with respect
to the USAA Value Fund) (the "Commencement Date"). The Commencement Date for any
Fund added to Schedule B-1 after the effective date of this Agreement shall be
the effective date of the amendment adding such Fund to Schedule B-1. The
Performance Period shall consist of the current month plus the preceding months
through the Commencement Date until a period of 36 months is included in the
Performance Period, provided, however, that no Performance Adjustment shall be
made with respect to any period that is less than 12 months, and provided
further, that any Performance Adjustment for a period prior to the effective
date of this Agreement shall be based on the Fund's performance relative to the
designated index in effect during that period under any prior agreement with
respect to the Fund. In months subsequent to a 36-month Performance Period
having been reached, the Performance Period will be a rolling 36-month period
consisting of the most recently completed month and the previous 35 months.
(g) MEASUREMENT CALCULATION. The Fund's investment performance will be
measured by comparing the (i) opening net asset value of one share of the Class
of the Fund on the first business day of the Performance Period with (ii) the
closing net asset value of one share of the Class of the Fund as of the last
business day of such period. In computing the investment performance of the Fund
and the investment record of the Index, distributions of realized capital gains,
the value of capital gains taxes per share paid or payable undistributed
realized long-term capital gains accumulated to the end of such period and
dividends paid out of investment income on the part of the Fund, and all cash
distributions of the companies whose securities comprise the Index, will be
treated as reinvested in accordance with Rule 205-1 or any other applicable rule
under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as the same from time to time may be
amended.
(h) PAYMENT OF FEES. The Management Fee payable hereunder shall be
computed daily and paid monthly in arrears.
(i) AVERAGE NET ASSETS. The term "average net assets" of a Fund as used
herein for any period shall mean the quotient produced by dividing (i) the sum
of the net assets of the Fund, as determined in accordance with procedures
established from time to time under the direction of the Board, for each
calendar day of such period, by (ii) the number of such days.
(j) TERMINATION. In the event this Agreement with respect to any Fund
is terminated as of a date other than the last day of any month, the Basic Fee
shall be computed on the basis of the period ending on the last day on which
this Agreement is in effect for such Fund, subject to a pro rata adjustment
based on the number of days elapsed in the current month as a percentage of the
B-2
Dated as of October 18, 2002
total number of days in such month. The amount of any Performance Adjustment to
the Basic Fee will be computed on the basis of and applied to the average net
assets over the Performance Period ending on the last day on which this
Agreement is in effect for such Fund.
B-3
Dated as of October 18, 2002
SCHEDULE B-1 TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT - LISTING OF FUNDS
WITH PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT
Annual Basic
NAME OF FUND1 PERFORMANCE INDEX FEE RATE
Aggressive Growth Fund Lipper Large-Cap Growth Funds Index *
Capital Growth Fund Lipper Small-Cap Growth Funds Index .85%
First Start Growth Fund Lipper Large-Cap Growth Funds Index .75%
Growth Fund Lipper Large-Cap Growth Funds Index .75%
Growth & Income Fund Lipper Multi-Cap Core Funds Index .60%
Income Stock Fund Lipper Equity Income Funds Index .50%
Science & Technology Fund Lipper Science & Technology .75%
Funds Index
Small Cap Stock Fund Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Index .75%
Value Fund Lipper Multi-Cap Value Funds Index .75%
--------
1 The Performance Adjustment initially will be determined by reference to the
sole outstanding class of shares of each Fund. If, in the future, a Fund offers
more than one class of shares, the Performance Adjustment for that Fund will
continue to be determined by reference to the initial class of shares, unless
the Board determines otherwise.
* The fee is computed at one-half of one percent (.50%) of the first $200
million of average net assets, two-fifths of one percent (.40%) for that portion
of average net assets in excess of $200 million but not over $300 million, and
one-third of one percent (.33%) for that portion of average net assets in excess
of $300 million.
B-4
Dated as of October 18, 2002
SCHEDULE B-2 TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT - PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT RATE
Aggressive Growth Fund
Capital Growth Fund
First Start Growth Fund
Growth Fund
Growth & Income Fund
Income Stock Fund
Science & Technology Fund
Small Cap Stock Fund
Value Fund
Over/Under Performance Relative Performance Adjustment Rate
to Index (in basis points) (in basis points as a percentage
of average net assets)
+/- 100 to 400 +/- 4
+/- 401 to 700 x/- 0
x/- 000 xxx xxxxxxx x/- 0
X-0
Dated as of October 18, 2002
SCHEDULE C TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT - FOR FUNDS
WITH NO PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT
This Schedule C shall apply to each of the Funds identified on Schedule C-1
hereto (each, a "Fund").
(a) The Company shall pay to IMCO a fee for each Fund calculated daily
and payable monthly in arrears, computed as a percentage of the average net
assets of the Fund for such month at the rate set forth in Schedule C-1 thereto.
(b) The "average net assets" of the Fund for any month shall be equal
to the quotient produced by dividing (i) the sum of the net assets of such Fund,
determined in accordance with procedures established from time to time by or
under the direction of the Board, for each calendar day of such month, by (ii)
the number of such days.
C-1
Dated as of October 18, 2002
SCHEDULE C-1 TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT - LISTING OF FUNDS
AND FEE RATES
NAME OF FUND FEE RATE
C-2
Dated as of October 18, 2002
SCHEDULE D TO ADVISORY AGREEMENT- FOR FUNDS WITH FEE
WAIVER AND EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT RECOVERY PLANS
PERCENTAGE OF
NAME OF FUND ENDING DATE AVERAGE NET ASSETS
Value Fund August 3, 2004 1.15%
D-1
Dated as of October 18, 2002
EXHIBIT 4(n)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and BATTERYMARCH FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT, INC., a
corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and having its
principal place of business in Boston, MA (Batterymarch).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc. a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Batterymarch to render investment
advisory services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company as now or
hereafter may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such Schedule A
may be amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof referred
to herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Batterymarch is willing to provide such services to the Fund
Accounts and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the compensation set
forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF BATTERYMARCH. IMCO hereby appoints Batterymarch to act as
subadviser for each Fund Account in accordance with the terms and conditions of
this Agreement. Batterymarch will be an independent contractor and will have no
authority to act for or represent the Company or IMCO in any way or otherwise be
deemed an agent of the Company or IMCO except as expressly authorized in this
Agreement or another writing by the Company, IMCO and Batterymarch. Batterymarch
accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services herein set forth for
the compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF BATTERYMARCH.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Batterymarch, at its own
expense, shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the
investment and reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time
to time. It is understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of,
or none of the assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and
reallocate such assets to a Fund Account at any time. Batterymarch shall perform
its duties described herein in a manner consistent with the investment
objective, policies and restrictions
933004
set forth in the then current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information
(SAI) for each Fund. Should Batterymarch anticipate materially modifying its
investment process, it must provide written notice in advance to IMCO, and any
affected Prospectus and SAI should be amended accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Batterymarch shall determine what investments shall be purchased,
held, sold or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if any, of the
assets of each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash equivalents, and
purchase or sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account; except that, to the
extent Batterymarch wishes to hold cash or cash equivalents in excess of 10% of
a Fund Account's assets, Batterymarch must request in writing and receive
advance permission from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Batterymarch shall
arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities
and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise full discretion
and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same force and effect as
the Company might or could do with respect to such purchases, sales, or other
transactions, as well as with respect to all other things necessary or
incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales, or other
transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Batterymarch will act in the best
interests of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii) the terms of
this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and restrictions
of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Registration Statement of each Fund,
(iv) the Company's compliance procedures and other policies, procedures or
guidelines as the Board or IMCO reasonably may establish from time to time, (v)
the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code),
applicable to "regulated investment companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the
Code), as from time to time in effect, and (vi) the written instructions of
IMCO. Batterymarch shall establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated
to ensure compliance with the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing
Batterymarch with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and
supplemented, the Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of
the materials specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO
shall provide Batterymarch with prior written notice of any material change to
the Company's Registration Statement that would affect Batterymarch's management
of a Fund Account.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Batterymarch will
select the brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions
for the Fund Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the selection of
broker-dealers and the placement of orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio investments for the Fund Accounts, Batterymarch shall use its best
efforts to obtain for the Fund Accounts the most favorable price and execution
available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage
commissions for brokerage and research services as described below. In using its
best efforts to obtain the most favorable price and execution available,
Batterymarch, bearing in mind each Fund's best interests at all times, shall
consider all factors it deems relevant, including by way of illustration, price,
the size of the transaction, the nature of the
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market for the security, the amount of the commission and dealer's spread or
xxxx-up, the timing of the transaction taking into account market prices and
trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the broker-dealer
involved, the general execution and operational facilities of the broker-dealer
and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other transactions.
Batterymarch shall not be responsible for any acts or
omissions by any such broker or brokers, or any third party not owned by
Batterymarch, provided that Batterymarch is not negligent in the selection of
such broker or brokers, or third parties.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Batterymarch shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have
breached any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its
having caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides brokerage and
research services to Batterymarch an amount of commission for effecting a
portfolio investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another
broker-dealer offering equally good execution capability in the portfolio
investment would have charged for effecting that transaction if Batterymarch
determines in good faith that such amount of commission was reasonable in
relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or
Batterymarch's overall responsibilities with respect to the Fund and to other
clients of Batterymarch as to which Batterymarch exercises investment
discretion. The Board or IMCO may direct Batterymarch to effect transactions in
portfolio securities through broker-dealers in a manner that will help generate
resources to pay the cost of certain expenses that the Company is required to
pay or for which the Company is required to arrange payment.
On occasions when Batterymarch deems the purchase or sale of a security
to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of Batterymarch,
Batterymarch, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may
aggregate the securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more
favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such
event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the
expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by Batterymarch in the manner
it considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary
obligations to the Fund and to its other clients over time.
Batterymarch may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same time it
is selling such securities for another client account and may sell securities
for a Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for another client
account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements,
and in compliance with such procedures of the Company as may be in effect from
time to time, Batterymarch may effectuate cross transactions between a Fund
Account and such other account if it deems this to be advantageous.
Batterymarch will advise the Funds' custodian or such depository or
agents as may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of each purchase
and sale of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the issuer, the
description and amount or number of shares of the security purchased, the market
price, the commission and gross or net price, the trade date and settlement
date, the identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any other pertinent
data that the Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale.
Batterymarch shall not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments. The
Company shall be responsible for all
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custodial agreements and the payment of all custodial charges and fees and, upon
Batterymarch giving proper instructions to the custodian, Batterymarch shall
have no responsibility or liability for the acts, omissions or other conduct of
the custodian.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Batterymarch agrees that IMCO shall have
the right by written notice to identify securities that may not be purchased on
behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which portfolio
transaction on behalf of the Fund may not be effected, including, without
limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with IMCO. Batterymarch shall refrain
from purchasing such securities for a Fund Account or directing any portfolio
transaction to any such broker or dealer on behalf of a Fund Account, unless and
until the written approval of IMCO to do so is obtained.
In addition, Batterymarch agrees that it shall not direct portfolio
transactions for the Fund Accounts through any broker or dealer that is an
"affiliated person" (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted
under applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) of Batterymarch,
except as permitted under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees that it will provide
Batterymarch with a list of brokers and dealers that are affiliated persons of
the Funds, or affiliated persons of such persons, and shall timely update that
list as the need arises. The Funds agree that any entity or person associated
with IMCO or Batterymarch that is a member of a national securities exchange is
authorized to effect any transaction on such exchange for the account of the
Funds that is permitted by Section 11(a) of the Exchange Act, and the Funds
consent to the retention of compensation for such transactions.
(C) EXPENSES. Batterymarch, at its expense, will furnish all necessary
facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any personnel
required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this Agreement and
administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all equipment and services
necessary for the efficient conduct of Batterymarch's duties under this
Agreement. However, Batterymarch shall not be obligated to pay any expenses of
IMCO, the Company or the Funds, including without limitation, interest and
taxes, brokerage commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or
sale of securities or other investment instruments for the Funds and custodian
fees and expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
for which market quotes are not readily available, Batterymarch, at its expense
and in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board, which
may be amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in determining
the fair value of such securities, including providing market price information
relating to these assets of the Fund. Batterymarch also shall monitor for
"significant events" that occur after the closing of a market but before the
Funds calculate their net asset values and that may affect the valuation of any
Fund Account's portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO immediately of the
occurrence of any such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Batterymarch, at its
expense, shall render to the Board and IMCO such periodic and special reports as
the Board and IMCO may
4
reasonably request with respect to matters relating to the duties of
Batterymarch set forth herein. Batterymarch, at its expense, will make available
to the Board and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other
appropriate personnel in order to review investment policies of the Funds and to
consult with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment affairs of the Funds,
including economic, statistical and investment matters relevant to
Batterymarch's duties hereunder.
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Batterymarch, at its expense, will provide IMCO
with such compliance reports relating to its duties under this Agreement as may
be agreed upon by such parties from time to time. Batterymarch also shall
cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to IMCO, the Company's
administrator, the Company's custodian and foreign custodians, the Company's
transfer agent and pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of
the Company and IMCO, keep all such persons fully informed as to such matters as
they may reasonably deem necessary to the performance of their obligations to
the Company and IMCO, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by
such persons and maintain any appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote
the efficient exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Batterymarch will maintain for the Funds all
books and records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to the 1940
Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as such records
relate to the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to Rule 31a-3
under the 1940 Act, Batterymarch agrees that: (i) all records it maintains for a
Fund Account are the property of the Fund; (ii) it will surrender promptly to a
Fund or IMCO any such records (or copies of such records) upon the Fund's or
IMCO's request; and (iii) it will preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule
31a-2 under the 1940 Act the records it maintains for any Fund Account.
Notwithstanding subsection (ii) above, Batterymarch may maintain copies of such
records to comply with its recordkeeping obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Batterymarch will, unless and until otherwise directed by
IMCO or the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's securities and
exercise rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance with
Batterymarch's proxy voting guidelines, as amended from time to time, which
shall be provided to IMCO.
IMCO agrees to instruct the Custodian to forward to
Batterymarch copies of all proxies and shareholder communications relating to
securities held in the Fund Account. IMCO agrees that Batterymarch will not be
liable for failing to vote any proxies where it has not received such proxies or
related shareholder communications on a timely basis. Batterymarch will not be
responsible for taking any action or rendering any advice with respect to any
legal proceedings or bankruptcies involving the issuers of securities held in
the Fund Account. To the extent, however, Batterymarch receives materials
requiring action relating to any legal proceedings or bankruptcies involving the
issuers of securities held in the Fund Account, Batterymarch shall promptly
forward such materials to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Batterymarch as compensation for
Batterymarch's services rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee based on the
average daily net assets of each Fund Account at the annual rates set forth in
Schedule B, which schedule can be modified from time to time, subject to any
appropriate approvals required by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall be calculated
daily and payable monthly in arrears within 15 business days after the end of
such month. IMCO (and not the Funds) shall pay such fees. If Batterymarch shall
serve for less than
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the whole of a month, the compensation as specified shall be prorated based upon
the number of calendar days during which this Agreement is in effect during such
month, and the fee shall be computed based upon the average daily net assets of
a Fund Account for such days.
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) BATTERYMARCH. Batterymarch represents and warrants to IMCO that (i)
the retention of Batterymarch by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is
authorized by Batterymarch's governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery
and performance of this Agreement does not violate any obligation by which
Batterymarch or its property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of
law or otherwise; (iii) this Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate
action of Batterymarch and when executed and delivered by Batterymarch will be a
legal, valid and binding obligation of Batterymarch, enforceable against
Batterymarch in accordance with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting creditors' rights
generally and to general equitable principles (regardless of whether enforcement
is sought in a proceeding in equity or law); (iv) Batterymarch is registered as
an investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v) Batterymarch has adopted a
written code of ethics complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the
1940 Act and that Batterymarch and certain of its employees, officers, partners
and directors are subject to reporting requirements thereunder and, accordingly,
agrees that it shall, on a timely basis, furnish a copy of such code of ethics
to IMCO, and with respect to such persons, Batterymarch shall furnish to IMCO
all reports and information provided under Rule 17j-1(c)(2); (vi) Batterymarch
is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law, regulation or
order from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement; (vii)
Batterymarch will promptly notify IMCO of the occurrence of any event that would
disqualify Batterymarch from serving as investment manager of an investment
company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise; (viii)
Batterymarch has provided IMCO with a copy of its Form ADV, which as of the date
of this Agreement is its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC, and
promptly will furnish a copy of all amendments to IMCO at least annually; (ix)
Batterymarch will notify IMCO of any "assignment" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx)
of this Agreement or change of control of Batterymarch, as applicable, and any
changes in the key personnel who are either the portfolio manager(s) of any Fund
Account or senior management of Batterymarch, in each case prior to or promptly
after, such change; and (x) Batterymarch has adequate disaster recovery and
interruption prevention measures to ensure business resumption in accordance
with applicable law and within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Batterymarch that (i) the
retention of Batterymarch by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is
authorized by the respective governing documents of the Company and IMCO; (ii)
the execution, delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and the
Investment Advisory Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the
Company or IMCO or their respective property is bound, whether arising by
contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the
Investment Advisory Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of
the Company and IMCO and when executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal,
valid and binding obligation of the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the
Company and IMCO in accordance with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting creditors' rights
generally and to general equitable principles (regardless of
6
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whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law); (iv) IMCO is
registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted
a written code of ethics complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the
1940 Act and that IMCO and certain of its employees, officers and directors are
subject to reporting requirements thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the
1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law, regulation or order from performing the
services contemplated by this Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify
Batterymarch of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify IMCO from
serving as investment manager of an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a)
of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) BATTERYMARCH. Batterymarch shall be liable for any and all losses,
claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other
expenses) to which the Company, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons thereof
(within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as
described in Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933
Act)) (collectively, IMCO Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard of Batterymarch in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to Batterymarch which was required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such
statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or
the Company by Batterymarch Indemnities (as defined below) for use therein.
Batterymarch shall indemnify and hold harmless the IMCO Indemnities for any and
all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses). IMCO must obtain Batterymarch's prior
written consent to any settlement or compromise relating to a claim that would
otherwise fall under this provision.
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall be liable for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which Batterymarch, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the
0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the
1933 Act) (collectively, Batterymarch Indemnities) may become subject under the
1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common
law or otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad
faith or reckless disregard by IMCO in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to IMCO which was required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such statement
or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the
Company. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless Batterymarch Indemnities for any
and all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses). Batterymarch must obtain IMCO's prior
written consent to any settlement or compromise relating to a claim that would
otherwise fall under this provision.
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6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall become
effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however, that
this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it has
first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder
or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff.
This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously thereafter,
except as follows:
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Funds, IMCO, or
Batterymarch (Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting shares
of a Fund, such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without the
payment of any penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' written notice
delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO and
Batterymarch.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board or the shareholders of the Fund by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, and (ii) a
majority of the Independent Board Members, by vote cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval. If the continuance of this
Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and
such shareholders fail to approve such continuance as provided herein,
Batterymarch may continue to serve hereunder in a manner consistent with the
1940 Act and the rules thereunder.
(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Batterymarch.
Batterymarch may at any time, without the payment of any penalty, terminate this
Agreement with respect to a Fund by not less than 90 days' written notice
delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Batterymarch by IMCO shall be
without prejudice to the obligation of Batterymarch to complete transactions
already initiated or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Batterymarch under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO.
Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund,
Sections 5, 10(a), 10(e), 11(a), and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in
effect after any such termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed,
waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing
signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or
termination is sought. No material
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amendment of this Agreement shall be effective until approved in the manner
required by the 1940 Act, any rules thereunder or any exemptive or other relief
granted by the SEC or its staff (Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any approval,
amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be
effective to continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with respect to any
such Fund notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been approved by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Fund
affected thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been approved by the vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company, unless such
action shall be required by any applicable law or otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Batterymarch to IMCO in connection
with the Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and Batterymarch shall
be free to render investment advisory services to others so long as its services
hereunder are not impaired thereby. It is understood that the persons employed
by Batterymarch to assist in the performance of its duties hereunder will not
devote their full time to such services and nothing contained herein shall be
deemed to limit or restrict in any manner whatsoever the right of Batterymarch
to engage in or devote time and attention to other businesses or to render
services of whatever kind or nature. It is understood that IMCO may appoint at
any time in accordance with Applicable Law one or more subadvisers, in addition
to Batterymarch, or IMCO itself, to perform investment advisory services to any
portion of the Funds.
10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Batterymarch shall, upon reasonable notice,
afford IMCO at all reasonable times access to Batterymarch's officers,
employees, agents and offices and to all its relevant books and records and
shall furnish IMCO with all relevant financial and other data and information as
requested; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate
Batterymarch to provide IMCO with access to the books and records of
Batterymarch relating to any other accounts other than the Funds.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Batterymarch, and its officers, employees and
authorized representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary
information of the Company all records and information relative to the Company
and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and
information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and
duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by
the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld where Batterymarch may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt
proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by
duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Batterymarch acknowledges that nonpublic customer
information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments thereto) of
customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the limitations on
redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such Regulation, and
agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any
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third party for any purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted
by exceptions set forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii)
shall be safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required.
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law; provided further, however, that the party making such disclosure shall
provide the other parties hereto with as much prior written notice of such
disclosure as is practical under the circumstances.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Batterymarch agrees that it will promptly notify
IMCO in the event that Batterymarch or any of its affiliates is or expects to
become the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the
Commission or other regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
Notwithstanding the above, Batterymarch is not obligated to notify the Company
or IMCO of any routine regulatory inspection of Batterymarch except to the
extent a Fund Account is involved.
(F) INSURANCE. Batterymarch agrees to maintain errors and omissions or
professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is reasonable in
light of the nature and scope of Batterymarch's business activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions involving
Batterymarch, including, without limitation, a change of control of
Batterymarch, Batterymarch shall bear all reasonable expenses associated with
such shareholder meeting.
11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
Batterymarch: Batterymarch Financial Management, Inc.
000 Xxxxxxxxx Xxxxxx, 00xx Xxxxx
Xxxxxx, XX 00000
Attn: Chief Financial Officer
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected
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thereby. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of
the parties hereto and their respective successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Batterymarch have caused this Agreement to
be executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
-------------------------- -----------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
-----------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: BATTERYMARCH FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT,
INC.
By: /S/XXXXXX X. XXXXXXX By: /S/XXXXXXX X. XXXXX
-------------------------- -----------------------------
Name: Xxxxxx X. Xxxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Assistant Secretary Title: President
11
933004
SCHEDULE A
USAA CAPITAL GROWTH FUND
12
933004
SCHEDULE B
FEES
FUND ACCOUNT RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY
NET ASSETS
of the Fund Account
USAA Capital Growth Fund 0.50%
13
933004
EXHIBIT 4(o)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and THE BOSTON COMPANY ASSET MANAGEMENT, LLC, a
limited liability company organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts and having its principal place of business in Boston,
Massachusetts (Boston Company).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Boston Company to render investment
advisory services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company as now or
hereafter may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such Schedule A
may be amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof referred
to herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Boston Company is willing to provide such services to the Fund
Accounts and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the compensation set
forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF BOSTON COMPANY. IMCO hereby appoints Boston Company to act as
an investment adviser for each Fund Account in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement. Boston Company will be an independent contractor
and will have no authority to act for or represent the Company or IMCO in any
way or otherwise be deemed an agent of the Company or IMCO except as expressly
authorized in this Agreement or another writing by the Company, IMCO and Boston
Company. Boston Company accepts such appointment and agrees to render the
services herein set forth for the compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF BOSTON COMPANY.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Boston Company, at its own
expense, shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the
investment and reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time
to time. It is understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of,
or none of the assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and
reallocate such assets to a Fund Account at any time. Boston Company shall
perform its duties described herein in a manner consistent with the investment
objective, policies and restrictions
932988 v1
set forth in the then current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information
(SAI) for each Fund. Should Boston Company anticipate materially modifying its
investment process, it must provide written notice in advance to IMCO, and any
affected Prospectus and SAI should be amended accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Boston Company shall determine what investments shall be purchased,
held, sold or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if any, of the
assets of each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash equivalents, and
purchase or sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account; except that, to the
extent Boston Company wishes to hold cash or cash equivalents in excess of 10%
of a Fund Account's assets, Boston Company must request in writing and receive
advance permission from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Boston Company
shall arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and sale of
securities and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise full
discretion and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same force
and effect as the Company might or could do with respect to such purchases,
sales, or other transactions, as well as with respect to all other things
necessary or incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales,
or other transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Boston Company will act in the best
interests of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii) the terms of
this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and restrictions
of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Registration Statement of each Fund,
(iv) the Company's compliance procedures and other policies, procedures or
guidelines as the Board or IMCO reasonably may establish from time to time, (v)
the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code),
applicable to "regulated investment companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the
Code), as from time to time in effect, and (vi) the written instructions of
IMCO. Boston Company shall establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated
to ensure compliance with the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing
Boston Company with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and
supplemented, the Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of
the materials specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO
shall provide Boston Company with prior written notice of any change to the
Company's Registration Statement that would affect Boston Company's management
of a Fund Account.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Boston Company will
select the brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions
for the Fund Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the selection of
broker-dealers and the placement of orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio investments for the Fund Accounts, Boston Company shall use its best
efforts to obtain for the Fund Accounts the most favorable price and execution
available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage
commissions for brokerage and research services as described below. In using its
best efforts to obtain the most favorable price and execution available, Boston
Company, bearing in mind each Fund's best interests at all times, shall consider
all factors it deems relevant, including by way of illustration, price, the size
of the transaction, the
2
nature of the market for the security, the amount of the commission and dealer's
spread or xxxx-up, the timing of the transaction taking into account market
prices and trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the
broker-dealer involved, the general execution and operational facilities of the
broker-dealer and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other
transactions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Boston Company shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have
breached any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its
having caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides brokerage and
research services to Boston Company an amount of commission for effecting a
portfolio investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another
broker-dealer offering equally good execution capability in the portfolio
investment would have charged for effecting that transaction if Boston Company
determines in good faith that such amount of commission was reasonable in
relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or Boston
Company's overall responsibilities with respect to the Fund and to other clients
of Boston Company as to which Boston Company exercises investment discretion.
The Board or IMCO may direct Boston Company to effect transactions in portfolio
securities through broker-dealers in a manner that will help generate resources
to pay the cost of certain expenses that the Company is required to pay or for
which the Company is required to arrange payment.
On occasions when Boston Company deems the purchase or sale of a
security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of Boston
Company, Boston Company, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and
regulations, may aggregate the securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to
obtain a more favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient
execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as
well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by Boston Company
in the manner it considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its
fiduciary obligations to the Fund and to its other clients over time.
Boston Company may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same time
it is selling such securities for another client account and may sell securities
for a Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for another client
account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements,
and in compliance with such procedures of the Company as may be in effect from
time to time, Boston Company may effectuate cross transactions between a Fund
Account and such other account if it deems this to be advantageous.
Boston Company will advise the Funds' custodian or such depository or
agents as may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of each purchase
and sale of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the issuer, the
description and amount or number of shares of the security purchased, the market
price, the commission and gross or net price, the trade date and settlement
date, the identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any other pertinent
data that the Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale.
Boston Company shall not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments.
The Company shall be responsible for all custodial agreements and the payment of
all custodial charges and fees and, upon Boston Company giving proper
instructions to the custodian, Boston Company shall have no responsibility or
liability for the acts, omissions or other conduct of the custodian.
3
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Boston Company agrees that IMCO shall
have the right by written notice to identify securities that may not be
purchased on behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which
portfolio transaction on behalf of the Fund may not be effected, including,
without limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with IMCO. Boston Company
shall refrain from purchasing such securities for a Fund Account or directing
any portfolio transaction to any such broker or dealer on behalf of a Fund
Account, unless and until the written approval of IMCO to do so is obtained. In
addition, Boston Company agrees that it shall not direct portfolio transactions
for the Fund Accounts through any broker or dealer that is an "affiliated
person" (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under applicable
rules and regulations of the Commission) of Boston Company, except as permitted
under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees that it will provide Boston Company with a list
of brokers and dealers that are affiliated persons of the Funds, or affiliated
persons of such persons, and shall timely update that list as the need arises.
The Funds agree that any entity or person associated with IMCO or Boston Company
that is a member of a national securities exchange is authorized to effect any
transaction on such exchange for the account of the Funds that is permitted by
Section 11(a) of the Exchange Act, and the Funds consent to the retention of
compensation for such transactions.
(C) EXPENSES. Boston Company, at its expense, will furnish all
necessary facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any
personnel required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this
Agreement and administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all
equipment and services necessary for the efficient conduct of Boston Company's
duties under this Agreement. However, Boston Company shall not be obligated to
pay any expenses of IMCO, the Company or the Funds, including without
limitation, interest and taxes, brokerage commissions and other costs in
connection with the purchase or sale of securities or other investment
instruments for the Funds and custodian fees and expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
for which market quotes are not readily available, Boston Company, at its
expense and in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board,
which may be amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in
determining the fair value of such securities, including providing market price
information relating to these assets of the Fund. Boston Company also shall
monitor for "significant events" that occur after the closing of a market but
before the Funds calculate their net asset values and that may affect the
valuation of any Fund Account's portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO
immediately of the occurrence of any such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Boston Company, at its
expense, shall render to the Board and IMCO such periodic and special reports as
the Board and IMCO may reasonably request with respect to matters relating to
the duties of Boston Company set forth herein. Boston Company, at its expense,
will make available to the Board and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio
managers and other appropriate personnel in order to review investment policies
of the Funds and to consult with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment
affairs of the Funds, including economic, statistical and investment matters
relevant to Boston Company's duties hereunder.
4
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Boston Company, at its expense, will provide
IMCO with such compliance reports relating to its duties under this Agreement as
may be agreed upon by such parties from time to time. Boston Company also shall
cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to IMCO, the Company's
administrator, the Company's custodian and foreign custodians, the Company's
transfer agent and pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of
the Company and IMCO, keep all such persons fully informed as to such matters as
they may reasonably deem necessary to the performance of their obligations to
the Company and IMCO, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by
such persons and maintain any appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote
the efficient exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Boston Company will maintain for the Funds all
books and records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to the 1940
Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as such records
relate to the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to Rule 31a-3
under the 1940 Act, Boston Company agrees that: (i) all records it maintains for
a Fund Account are the property of the Fund; (ii) it will surrender promptly to
a Fund or IMCO any such records (or copies of such records) upon the Fund's or
IMCO's request; and (iii) it will preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule
31a-2 under the 1940 Act the records it maintains for any Fund Account.
Notwithstanding subsection (ii) above, Boston Company may maintain copies of
such records to comply with its recordkeeping obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Boston Company will, unless and until otherwise directed
by IMCO or the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's securities
and exercise rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance with Boston
Company's proxy voting guidelines, as amended from time to time, which shall be
provided to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Boston Company as compensation for Boston
Company's services rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee based on the
average daily net assets of each Fund Account at the annual rates set forth in
Schedule B, which schedule can be modified from time to time, subject to any
appropriate approvals required by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall be calculated
daily and payable monthly in arrears within 15 business days after the end of
such month. IMCO (and not the Funds) shall pay such fees. If Boston Company
shall serve for less than the whole of a month, the compensation as specified
shall be prorated based upon the number of calendar days during which this
Agreement is in effect during such month, and the fee shall be computed based
upon the average daily net assets of a Fund Account for such days.
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) BOSTON COMPANY. Boston Company represents and warrants to IMCO that
(i) the retention of Boston Company by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is
authorized by Boston Company's governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery
and performance of this Agreement does not violate any obligation by which
Boston Company or its property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation
of law or otherwise; (iii) this Agreement has been duly authorized by
appropriate action of Boston Company and when executed and delivered by Boston
Company will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of Boston Company,
enforceable against Boston Company in accordance with its terms, subject, as to
enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting
creditors' rights generally and to general
5
equitable principles (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a
proceeding in equity or law); (iv) Boston Company is registered as an investment
adviser under the Advisers Act; (v) Boston Company has adopted a written code of
ethics complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that
Boston Company and certain of its employees, officers, partners and directors
are subject to reporting requirements thereunder and, accordingly, agrees that
it shall, on a timely basis, furnish a copy of such code of ethics to IMCO, and,
with respect to such persons, Boston Company shall furnish to IMCO all reports
and information provided under Rule 17j-1(c)(2); (vi) Boston Company is not
prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law, regulation or order
from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement; (vii) Boston
Company will promptly notify IMCO of the occurrence of any event that would
disqualify Boston Company from serving as investment manager of an investment
company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise; (viii) Boston
Company has provided IMCO with a copy of its Form ADV, which as of the date of
this Agreement is its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC, and promptly
will furnish a copy of all amendments to IMCO at least annually; (ix) Boston
Company will notify IMCO of any "assignment" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of
this Agreement or change of control of Boston Company, as applicable, and any
changes in the key personnel who are either the portfolio manager(s) of any Fund
Account or senior management of Boston Company, in each case prior to or
promptly after, such change; and (x) Boston Company has adequate disaster
recovery and interruption prevention measures to ensure business resumption in
accordance with applicable law and within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Boston Company that (i) the
retention of Boston Company by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is
authorized by the respective governing documents of the Company and IMCO; (ii)
the execution, delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and the
Investment Advisory Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the
Company or IMCO or their respective property is bound, whether arising by
contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the
Investment Advisory Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of
the Company and IMCO and when executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal,
valid and binding obligation of the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the
Company and IMCO in accordance with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting creditors' rights
generally and to general equitable principles (regardless of whether enforcement
is sought in a proceeding in equity or law); (iv) IMCO is registered as an
investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted a written code
of ethics complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and
that IMCO and certain of its employees, officers and directors are subject to
reporting requirements thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the 1940 Act,
the Advisers Act or other law, regulation or order from performing the services
contemplated by this Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify Boston
Company of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify IMCO from serving
as investment manager of an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the
1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) BOSTON COMPANY. Boston Company shall be liable for any and all
losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal
and other expenses) to which the Company, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons
thereof (within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx)
6
and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act)) (collectively, IMCO
Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the Advisers
Act, or under any other statute, at common law or otherwise arising out of (i)
any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or reckless disregard of Boston
Company in the performance of any of its duties or obligations hereunder or (ii)
any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Prospectus and SAI,
proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials
pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state therein a material fact known
to Boston Company which was required to be stated therein or necessary to make
the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in
reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the Company by Boston Company
Indemnities (as defined below) for use therein. Boston Company shall indemnify
and hold harmless the IMCO Indemnities for any and all such losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other
expenses).
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall be liable for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which Boston Company, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the
0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the
1933 Act) (collectively, Boston Company Indemnities) may become subject under
the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at
common law or otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct,
bad faith or reckless disregard by IMCO in the performance of any of its duties
or obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact
contained in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements,
sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to
state therein a material fact known to IMCO which was required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such
statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or
the Company by Boston Company. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless Boston
Company Indemnities for any and all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or
litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses).
6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall become
effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however, that
this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it has
first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder
or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff.
This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously thereafter,
except as follows:
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Company, IMCO, or
Boston Company (Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting shares
of a Fund, such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without the
payment of any penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' written notice
delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO and Boston
Company.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board
7
or the shareholders of the Fund by the affirmative vote of a majority of the
outstanding shares of the Fund, and (ii) a majority of the Independent Board
Members, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on
such approval. If the continuance of this Agreement is submitted to the
shareholders of the Fund for their approval and such shareholders fail to
approve such continuance as provided herein, Boston Company may continue to
serve hereunder in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the rules
thereunder.
(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Boston
Company. Boston Company may at any time, without the payment of any penalty,
terminate this Agreement with respect to a Fund by not less than 90 days'
written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Boston Company by IMCO shall be
without prejudice to the obligation of Boston Company to complete transactions
already initiated or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Boston Company under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO.
Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund,
Sections 5, 10(a), 10(e), 11(a) and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in
effect after any such termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed,
waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing
signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or
termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement shall be
effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act, any rules
thereunder or any exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff
(Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any approval,
amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be
effective to continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with respect to any
such Fund notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been approved by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Fund
affected thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been approved by the vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company, unless such
action shall be required by any applicable law or otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Boston Company to IMCO in connection
with the Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and Boston Company
shall be free to render investment advisory services to others so long as its
services hereunder are not impaired thereby. It is understood that the persons
employed by Boston Company to assist in the performance of its
8
duties hereunder will not devote their full time to such services and nothing
contained herein shall be deemed to limit or restrict in any manner whatsoever
the right of Boston Company to engage in or devote time and attention to other
businesses or to render services of whatever kind or nature. It is understood
that IMCO may appoint at any time in accordance with Applicable Law one or more
subadvisers, in addition to Boston Company, or IMCO itself, to perform
investment advisory services to any portion of the Funds.
10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Boston Company shall, upon reasonable
notice, afford IMCO at all reasonable times access to Boston Company's officers,
employees, agents and offices and to all its relevant books and records and
shall furnish IMCO with all relevant financial and other data and information as
requested; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate
Boston Company to provide IMCO with access to the books and records of Boston
Company relating to any other accounts other than the Funds.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Boston Company, and its officers, employees and
authorized representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary
information of the Company all records and information relative to the Company
and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and
information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and
duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by
the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld where Boston Company may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt
proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by
duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Boston Company acknowledges that nonpublic customer
information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments thereto) of
customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the limitations on
redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such Regulation, and
agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any third party for any
purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted by exceptions set
forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii) shall be
safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required.
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law; provided further, however, that the party making such disclosure shall
provide the other parties hereto with as much prior written notice of such
disclosure as is practical under the circumstances.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Boston Company agrees that it will promptly notify
IMCO in the event that Boston Company expects to become the subject of an
administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the Commission or other
regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
9
(F) INSURANCE. Boston Company agrees to maintain errors and omissions
or professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is reasonable in
light of the nature and scope of Boston Company's business activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions involving
Boston Company, including, without limitation, a change of control of Boston
Company, Boston Company shall bear all reasonable expenses associated with such
shareholder meeting.
11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
Boston Company: The Boston Company Asset Management, LLC
Xxx Xxxxxx Xxxxx, 000-0000
Xxxxxx, XX 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Risk Management and Compliance Department
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may
10
not be added to or changed orally, and may not be modified or rescinded except
by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in accordance with the 1940 Act.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Boston Company have caused this Agreement
to be executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
---------------------- ----------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
-----------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: THE BOSTON COMPANY ASSET MANAGEMENT,
LLC
By: /S/ XXXXXXXX XXXXXXX By: /S/XXXXX X. XXXXXXX
----------------------- ---------------------------
Name: Xxxxxxxx Xxxxxxx Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxx
Title: V.P. Title: Chief Executive Officer
11
SCHEDULE A
USAA INCOME STOCK FUND
12
SCHEDULE B
FEES
RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET
ASSETS OF THE FUND ACCOUNT
FUND ACCOUNT
USAA Income Stock Fund 0.17%
13
EXHIBIT 4(p)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and DRESDNER RCM GLOBAL INVESTORS LLC, a limited
liability company organized under the laws of the State of Delaware and having
its principal place of business in San Francisco, California (Dresdner).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Dresdner to render investment advisory
services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company as now or hereafter
may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such Schedule A may be
amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof referred to
herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Dresdner is willing to provide such services to the Fund
Accounts and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the compensation set
forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF DRESDNER. IMCO hereby appoints Dresdner to act as an
investment adviser for each Fund Account in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement. Dresdner will be an independent contractor and
will have no authority to act for or represent the Company or IMCO in any way or
otherwise be deemed an agent of the Company or IMCO except as expressly
authorized in this Agreement or another writing by the Company, IMCO and
Dresdner. Dresdner accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services
herein set forth for the compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF DRESDNER.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Dresdner, at its own expense,
shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the investment and
reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time to time. It is
understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of, or none of the
assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and reallocate such
assets to a Fund Account at any time. Dresdner shall perform its duties
described herein in a manner consistent with the investment objective, policies,
and restrictions set xxxxx xx
000000
the then current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information (SAI) for
each Fund. Should Dresdner anticipate materially modifying its investment
process, it must provide written notice in advance to IMCO, and any affected
Prospectus and SAI should be amended accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Dresdner shall determine what investments shall be purchased, held,
sold or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if any, of the assets
of each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash equivalents, and purchase or
sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account; except that, to the extent
Dresdner wishes to hold cash or cash equivalents in excess of 10% of a Fund
Account's assets, Dresdner must request in writing and receive advance
permission from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Dresdner shall
arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities
and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise full discretion
and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same force and effect as
the Company might or could do with respect to such purchases, sales, or other
transactions, as well as with respect to all other things necessary or
incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales, or other
transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Dresdner will act in the best
interests of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii) the terms of
this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and restrictions
of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Registration Statement of each Fund,
(iv) the Company's compliance procedures and other policies, procedures or
guidelines as the Board or IMCO reasonably may establish from time to time, (v)
the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code),
applicable to "regulated investment companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the
Code), as from time to time in effect, and (vi) the written instructions of
IMCO. Dresdner shall establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated to
ensure compliance with the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing
Dresdner with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and
supplemented, the Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of
the materials specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO
shall provide Dresdner with prior written notice of any material change to the
Company's Registration Statement that would affect Dresdner's management of a
Fund Account.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Dresdner will select
the brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions for the
Fund Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the selection of
broker-dealers and the placement of orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio investments for the Fund Accounts, Dresdner shall use its best efforts
to obtain for the Fund Accounts the most favorable price and execution
available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage
commissions for brokerage and research services as described below. In using its
best efforts to obtain the most favorable price and execution available,
Dresdner, bearing in mind each Fund's best interests at all times, shall
consider all factors it deems relevant, including by way of illustration, price,
the size of the transaction, the nature of the market for the security, the
amount of the commission and dealer's spread or xxxx-up, the timing of the
transaction taking into account market prices and trends, the reputation,
experience and financial stability of the
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broker-dealer involved, the general execution and operational facilities of the
broker-dealer and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other
transactions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Dresdner shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached
any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its having
caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides brokerage and
research services to Dresdner an amount of commission for effecting a portfolio
investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another
broker-dealer offering equally good execution capability in the portfolio
investment would have charged for effecting that transaction if Dresdner
determines in good faith that such amount of commission was reasonable in
relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or
Dresdner's overall responsibilities with respect to the Fund and to other
clients of Dresdner as to which Dresdner exercises investment discretion. The
Board or IMCO may direct Dresdner to effect up to 25% of transactions in
portfolio securities through broker-dealers in a manner that will help generate
resources to pay the cost of certain expenses that the Company is required to
pay or for which the Company is required to arrange payment.
On occasions when Dresdner deems the purchase or sale of a security to
be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of Dresdner,
Dresdner, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may
aggregate the securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more
favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such
event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the
expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by Dresdner in the manner it
considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations
to the Fund and to its other clients over time.
Dresdner may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same time it is
selling such securities for another client account and may sell securities for a
Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for another client
account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements,
and in compliance with such procedures of the Company as may be in effect from
time to time, Dresdner may effectuate cross transactions between a Fund Account
and such other account if it deems this to be advantageous.
Dresdner will advise the Funds' custodian or such depository or agents
as may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of each purchase and
sale of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the issuer, the description
and amount or number of shares of the security purchased, the market price, the
commission and gross or net price, the trade date and settlement date, the
identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any other pertinent data that the
Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale. Dresdner
shall not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments. The Company
shall be responsible for all custodial agreements and the payment of all
custodial charges and fees and, upon Dresdner giving proper instructions to the
custodian, Dresdner shall have no responsibility or liability for the acts,
omissions or other conduct of the custodian.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Dresdner agrees that IMCO shall have the
right by written notice to identify securities that may not be purchased on
behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which portfolio
transaction on behalf of the Fund may not be
3
933044
effected, including, without limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with
IMCO. Dresdner shall refrain from purchasing such securities for a Fund Account
or directing any portfolio transaction to any such broker or dealer on behalf of
a Fund Account, unless and until the written approval of IMCO to do so is
obtained. In addition, Dresdner agrees that it shall not direct portfolio
transactions for the Fund Accounts through any broker or dealer that is an
"affiliated person" (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted
under applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) of Dresdner, except as
permitted under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees that it will provide Dresdner with a
list of brokers and dealers that are affiliated persons of the Funds, or
affiliated persons of such persons, and shall timely update that list as the
need arises. The Funds agree that any entity or person associated with IMCO or
Dresdner that is a member of a national securities exchange is authorized to
effect any transaction on such exchange for the account of the Funds that is
permitted by Section 11(a) of the Exchange Act, and the Funds consent to the
retention of compensation for such transactions.
(C) EXPENSES. Dresdner, at its expense, will furnish all necessary
facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any personnel
required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this Agreement and
administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all equipment and services
necessary for the efficient conduct of Dresdner's duties under this Agreement.
However, Dresdner shall not be obligated to pay any expenses of IMCO, the
Company or the Funds, including without limitation, interest and taxes,
brokerage commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of
securities or other investment instruments for the Funds and custodian fees and
expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
for which market quotes are not readily available, Dresdner, at its expense and
in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board, which may be
amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in determining the
fair value of such securities, including providing market price information
relating to these assets of the Fund. Dresdner also shall monitor for
"significant events" that occur after the closing of a market but before the
Funds calculate their net asset values and that may affect the valuation of any
Fund Account's portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO immediately of the
occurrence of any such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Dresdner, at its expense,
shall render to the Board and IMCO such periodic and special reports as the
Board and IMCO may reasonably request with respect to matters relating to the
duties of Dresdner set forth herein. Dresdner, at its expense, will make
available to the Board and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio managers and
other appropriate personnel in order to review investment policies of the Funds
and to consult with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment affairs of the
Funds, including economic, statistical and investment matters relevant to
Dresdner's duties hereunder.
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Dresdner, at its expense, will provide IMCO
with such compliance reports relating to its duties under this Agreement as may
be agreed upon by such parties from time to time. Dresdner also shall cooperate
with and provide reasonable assistance to IMCO, the Company's administrator, the
Company's custodian and foreign custodians, the Company's transfer agent and
pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of the
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Company and IMCO, keep all such persons fully informed as to such matters as
they may reasonably deem necessary to the performance of their obligations to
the Company and IMCO, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by
such persons and maintain any appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote
the efficient exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Dresdner will maintain for the Funds all books
and records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to the 1940 Act and
the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as such records relate
to the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to Rule 31a-3 under the
1940 Act, Dresdner agrees that: (i) all records it maintains for a Fund Account
are the property of the Fund; (ii) it will surrender promptly to a Fund or IMCO
any such records (or copies of such records) upon the Fund's or IMCO's request;
and (iii) it will preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the
1940 Act the records it maintains for any Fund Account. Notwithstanding
subsection (ii) above, Dresdner may maintain copies of such records to comply
with its recordkeeping obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Dresdner will, unless and until otherwise directed by IMCO
or the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's securities and
exercise rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance with Dresdner's
proxy voting guidelines, as amended from time to time, which shall be provided
to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Dresdner as compensation for Dresdner's
services rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee based on the average daily
net assets of each Fund Account at the annual rates set forth in Schedule B,
which schedule can be modified from time to time, subject to any appropriate
approvals required by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall be calculated daily and
payable monthly in arrears within 15 business days after the end of such month.
IMCO (and not the Funds) shall pay such fees. If Dresdner shall serve for less
than the whole of a month, the compensation as specified shall be prorated based
upon the number of calendar days during which this Agreement is in effect during
such month, and the fee shall be computed based upon the average daily net
assets of a Fund Account for such days.
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) DRESDNER. Dresdner represents and warrants to IMCO that (i) the
retention of Dresdner by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by
Dresdner's governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of
this Agreement does not violate any obligation by which Dresdner or its property
is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) this
Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of Dresdner and when
executed and delivered by Dresdner will be a legal, valid and binding obligation
of Dresdner, enforceable against Dresdner in accordance with its terms, subject,
as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws
affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable principles
(regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law);
(iv) Dresdner is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v)
Dresdner has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the requirements of
Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that Dresdner and certain of its employees,
officers, partners and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder and, accordingly, agrees that it shall, on a timely basis, furnish a
copy of such code of ethics to IMCO, and shall cause its employees, officers,
partners and directors to furnish to IMCO all reports and information
5
933044
required to be provided under such code of ethics with respect to such persons;
(vi) Dresdner is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law,
regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement;
(vii) Dresdner will promptly notify IMCO of the occurrence of any event that
would disqualify Dresdner from serving as investment manager of an investment
company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise; (viii) Dresdner
has provided IMCO with a copy of its current Form ADV-Part II, and promptly will
furnish a copy of all amendments to IMCO at least annually; (ix) Dresdner will
notify IMCO of any "assignment" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of this Agreement
or change of control of Dresdner, as applicable, and any changes in the key
personnel who are either the portfolio manager(s) of any Fund Account or senior
management of Dresdner, in each case prior to or promptly after, such change;
and (x) Dresdner has adequate disaster recovery and interruption prevention
measures to ensure business resumption in accordance with applicable law and
within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Dresdner that (i) the
retention of Dresdner by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by
the respective governing documents of the Company and IMCO; (ii) the execution,
delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory
Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the Company or IMCO or their
respective property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or
otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement
has been duly authorized by appropriate action of the Company and IMCO and when
executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of
the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the Company and IMCO in accordance
with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency
and similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable
principles (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in
equity or law); (iv) IMCO is registered as an investment adviser under the
Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the
requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that IMCO and certain of its
employees, officers and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or
other law, regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by this
Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify Dresdner of the occurrence of any
event that would disqualify IMCO from serving as investment manager of an
investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) DRESDNER. Dresdner shall be liable for any and all losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other
expenses) to which the Company, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons thereof
(within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as
described in Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933
Act)) (collectively, IMCO Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard of Dresdner in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to Dresdner which was required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the
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933044
statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in
reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the Company by Dresdner
Indemnities (as defined below) for use therein. Dresdner shall indemnify and
hold harmless the IMCO Indemnities for any and all such losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses).
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall be liable for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which Dresdner, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the 0000
Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the 1933
Act) (collectively, Dresdner Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard by IMCO in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to IMCO which was required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such statement
or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the
Company. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless Dresdner Indemnities for any and
all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses).
6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall become
effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however, that
this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it has
first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder
or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff.
This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously thereafter,
except as follows:
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Funds, IMCO, or
Dresdner (Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting shares of a
Fund, such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without the payment of
any penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' written notice delivered or
mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO and Dresdner.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board or the shareholders of the Fund by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, and (ii) a
majority of the Independent Board Members, by vote cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval. If the continuance of this
Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and
such shareholders fail to approve such continuance as provided herein, Dresdner
may continue to serve hereunder in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the
rules thereunder.
(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Dresdner.
Dresdner may at any time, without the payment of
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any penalty, terminate this Agreement with respect to a Fund by not less than 90
days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to
IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Dresdner by IMCO shall be
without prejudice to the obligation of Dresdner to complete transactions already
initiated or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Dresdner under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO.
Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund,
Sections 5, 10(a), 10(e), 11(a), and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in
effect after any such termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed,
waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing
signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or
termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement shall be
effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act, any rules
thereunder or any exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff
(Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any approval,
amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be
effective to continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with respect to any
such Fund notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been approved by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Fund
affected thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been approved by the vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company, unless such
action shall be required by any applicable law or otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Dresdner to IMCO in connection with
the Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and Dresdner shall be free
to render investment advisory services to others so long as its services
hereunder are not impaired thereby. It is understood that the persons employed
by Dresdner to assist in the performance of its duties hereunder will not devote
their full time to such services and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to
limit or restrict in any manner whatsoever the right of Dresdner to engage in or
devote time and attention to other businesses or to render services of whatever
kind or nature. It is understood that IMCO may appoint at any time in accordance
with Applicable Law one or more subadvisers, in addition to Dresdner, or IMCO
itself, to perform investment advisory services to any portion of the Funds.
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10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Dresdner shall, upon reasonable notice,
afford IMCO at all reasonable times access to Dresdner's officers, employees,
agents and offices and to all its relevant books and records and shall furnish
IMCO with all relevant financial and other data and information as requested;
provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate Dresdner to
provide IMCO with access to the books and records of Dresdner relating to any
other accounts other than the Funds.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Dresdner, and its officers, employees and
authorized representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary
information of the Company all records and information relative to the Company
and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and
information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and
duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by
the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld where Dresdner may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings
for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly
constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company. IMCO agrees to
maintain in strict confidence and for use only with respect to the Fund all
investment advice given by Dresdner.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Dresdner acknowledges that nonpublic customer
information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments thereto) of
customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the limitations on
redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such Regulation, and
agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any third party for any
purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted by exceptions set
forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii) shall be
safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required.
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law; provided further, however, that the party making such disclosure shall
provide the other parties hereto with as much prior written notice of such
disclosure as is practical under the circumstances.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Dresdner agrees that it will promptly notify IMCO in
the event that Dresdner or any of its affiliates is or expects to become the
subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the Commission
or other regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
(F) INSURANCE. Dresdner agrees to maintain errors and omissions or
professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is reasonable in
light of the nature and scope of Dresdner's business activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions involving
Dresdner, including, without
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limitation, a change of control of Dresdner, Dresdner shall bear all reasonable
expenses associated with such shareholder meeting.
11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
Dresdner: Dresdner RCM Global Investors LLC
Xxxx Xxxxxxxxxxx Xxxxxx, Xxxxx 0000
Xxx Xxxxxxxxx, Xxxxxxxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Legal Services Department
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Dresdner have caused this Agreement to be
executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
--------------------- -------------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/ XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
-------------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: DRESDNER RCM GLOBAL INVESTORS LLC
By: /S/ XXXXXX X. XXXX By: /S/ XXX X. XXXXXXXXXX
------------------------ ------------------------------
Name: Xxxxxx X. Xxxx Name: Xxx X. Xxxxxxxxxx
Title: Assistant Director, Title: Co-Deputy Director,
Legal Services Client Relations
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SCHEDULE A
USAA GROWTH FUND
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SCHEDULE B
FEES
RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET
ASSETS OF THE FUND ACCOUNT
FUND ACCOUNT
USAA Growth Fund 0.20%
13
9330044
EXHIBIT 4(q)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and EAGLE ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC., a corporation
organized under the laws of the State of Florida and having its principal place
of business in St. Petersburg, Florida (Eagle).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Eagle to render investment advisory
services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company as now or hereafter
may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such Schedule A may be
amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof referred to
herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Eagle is willing to provide such services to the Fund Accounts
and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the compensation set forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF EAGLE. IMCO hereby appoints Eagle to act as an investment
adviser for each Fund Account in accordance with the terms and conditions of
this Agreement. Eagle will be an independent contractor and will have no
authority to act for or represent the Company or IMCO in any way or otherwise be
deemed an agent of the Company or IMCO except as expressly authorized in this
Agreement or another writing by the Company, IMCO and Eagle. Eagle accepts such
appointment and agrees to render the services herein set forth for the
compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF EAGLE.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Eagle, at its own expense,
shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the investment and
reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time to time. It is
understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of, or none of the
assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and reallocate such
assets to a Fund Account at any time. Eagle shall perform its duties described
herein in a manner consistent with the investment objective, policies,
restrictions set forth in the then current Prospectus and Statement of
Additional Information (SAI) for each Fund. Should Eagle
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anticipate materially modifying its investment process, it must provide written
notice in advance to IMCO, and any affected Prospectus and SAI should be amended
accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Eagle shall determine what investments shall be purchased, held, sold
or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if any, of the assets of
each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash equivalents, and purchase or
sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account; except that, to the extent
Eagle wishes to hold cash or cash equivalents in excess of 10% of a Fund
Account's assets for longer than two consecutive business days, Eagle must
request in writing and receive advance permission from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Eagle shall
arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities
and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise full discretion
and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same force and effect as
the Company might or could do with respect to such purchases, sales, or other
transactions, as well as with respect to all other things necessary or
incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales, or other
transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Eagle will act in the best interests
of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii) the terms of
this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and restrictions
of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Registration Statement of each Fund,
(iv) the Company's compliance procedures and other policies, procedures or
guidelines as the Board or IMCO reasonably may establish from time to time, (v)
the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code),
applicable to "regulated investment companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the
Code), as from time to time in effect, and (vi) the written instructions of
IMCO. Eagle shall establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated to
ensure compliance with the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing
Eagle with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and supplemented,
the Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of the materials
specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO shall provide
Eagle with prior written notice of any material change to the Company's
Registration Statement that would affect Eagle's management of a Fund Account.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Eagle will select the
brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions for the Fund
Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the selection of broker-dealers
and the placement of orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio investments
for the Fund Accounts, Eagle shall use its best efforts to obtain for the Fund
Accounts the most favorable price and execution available, except to the extent
it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage commissions for brokerage and
research services as described below. In using its best efforts to obtain the
most favorable price and execution available, Eagle, bearing in mind each Fund's
best interests at all times, shall consider all factors it deems relevant,
including by way of illustration, price, the size of the transaction, the nature
of the market for the security, the amount of the commission and dealer's spread
or xxxx-up, the timing of the transaction taking into account market prices and
trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the broker-dealer
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involved, the general execution and operational facilities of the broker-dealer
and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other transactions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Eagle shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any
duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its having
caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides brokerage and
research services to Eagle an amount of commission for effecting a portfolio
investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another
broker-dealer offering equally good execution capability in the portfolio
investment would have charged for effecting that transaction if Eagle determines
in good faith that such amount of commission was reasonable in relation to the
value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer,
viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or Eagle's overall
responsibilities with respect to the Fund and to other clients of Eagle as to
which Eagle exercises investment discretion. The Board or IMCO may direct Eagle
to effect transactions in portfolio securities through broker-dealers in a
manner that will help generate resources to pay the cost of certain expenses
that the Company is required to pay or for which the Company is required to
arrange payment.
On occasions when Eagle deems the purchase or sale of a security to be
in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of Eagle, Eagle, to the
extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the
securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more favorable price
or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event,
allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses
incurred in the transaction, will be made by Eagle in the manner it considers to
be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Fund
and to its other clients over time.
Eagle may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same time it is
selling such securities for another client account and may sell securities for a
Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for another client
account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements,
and in compliance with such procedures of the Company as may be in effect from
time to time, Eagle may effectuate cross transactions between a Fund Account and
such other account if it deems this to be advantageous.
Eagle will advise the Funds' custodian or such depository or agents as
may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of each purchase and sale
of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the issuer, the description and
amount or number of shares of the security purchased, the market price, the
commission and gross or net price, the trade date and settlement date, the
identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any other pertinent data that the
Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale. Eagle shall
not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments. The Company shall be
responsible for all custodial agreements and the payment of all custodial
charges and fees and, upon Eagle giving proper instructions to the custodian,
Eagle shall have no responsibility or liability for the acts, omissions or other
conduct of the custodian.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Eagle agrees that IMCO shall have the
right by written notice to identify securities that may not be purchased on
behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which portfolio
transaction on behalf of the Fund may not be effected, including,
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without limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with IMCO. Eagle shall refrain
from purchasing such securities for a Fund Account or directing any portfolio
transaction to any such broker or dealer on behalf of a Fund Account, unless and
until the written approval of IMCO to do so is obtained. In addition, Eagle
agrees that it shall not direct portfolio transactions for the Fund Accounts
through any broker or dealer that is an "affiliated person" (as that term is
defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under applicable rules and regulations of
the Commission) of Eagle, except as permitted under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees
that it will provide Eagle with a list of brokers and dealers that are
affiliated persons of the Funds, or affiliated persons of such persons, and
shall timely update that list as the need arises. The Funds agree that any
entity or person associated with IMCO or Eagle that is a member of a national
securities exchange is authorized to effect any transaction on such exchange for
the account of the Funds that is permitted by Section 11(a) of the Exchange Act,
and the Funds consent to the retention of compensation for such transactions.
(C) EXPENSES. Eagle, at its expense, will furnish all necessary
facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any personnel
required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this Agreement and
administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all equipment and services
necessary for the efficient conduct of Eagle's duties under this Agreement.
However, Eagle shall not be obligated to pay any expenses of IMCO, the Company
or the Funds, including without limitation, interest and taxes, brokerage
commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of
securities or other investment instruments for the Funds and custodian fees and
expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
for which market quotes are not readily available, Eagle, at its expense and in
accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board, which may be
amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in determining the
fair value of such securities, including providing market price information
relating to these assets of the Fund. Eagle also shall monitor for "significant
events" that occur after the closing of a market but before the Funds calculate
their net asset values and that may affect the valuation of any Fund Account's
portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO immediately of the occurrence of any
such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Eagle, at its expense, shall
render to the Board and IMCO such periodic and special reports as the Board and
IMCO may reasonably request with respect to matters relating to the duties of
Eagle set forth herein. Eagle, at its expense, will make available to the Board
and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate
personnel in order to review investment policies of the Funds and to consult
with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment affairs of the Funds, including
economic, statistical and investment matters relevant to Eagle's duties
hereunder.
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Eagle, at its expense, will provide IMCO with
such compliance reports relating to its duties under this Agreement as may be
agreed upon by such parties from time to time. Eagle also shall cooperate with
and provide reasonable assistance to IMCO, the Company's administrator, the
Company's custodian and foreign custodians, the Company's transfer agent and
pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of the
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Company and IMCO, keep all such persons fully informed as to such matters as
they may reasonably deem necessary to the performance of their obligations to
the Company and IMCO, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by
such persons and maintain any appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote
the efficient exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Eagle will maintain for the Funds all books and
records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to the 1940 Act and the
rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as such records relate to
the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to Rule 31a-3 under the
1940 Act, Eagle agrees that: (i) all records it maintains for a Fund Account are
the property of the Fund; (ii) it will surrender promptly to a Fund or IMCO any
such records (or copies of such records) upon the Fund's or IMCO's request; and
(iii) it will preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940
Act the records it maintains for any Fund Account. Notwithstanding subsection
(ii) above, Eagle may maintain copies of such records to comply with its
recordkeeping obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Eagle will, unless and until otherwise directed by IMCO or
the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's securities and exercise
rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance with Eagle's proxy voting
guidelines, as amended from time to time, which shall be provided to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Eagle as compensation for Eagle's services
rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee based on the average daily net assets
of each Fund Account at the annual rates set forth in Schedule B, which schedule
can be modified from time to time, subject to any appropriate approvals required
by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall be calculated daily and payable monthly in
arrears within 15 business days after the end of such month. IMCO (and not the
Funds) shall pay such fees. If Eagle shall serve for less than the whole of a
month, the compensation as specified shall be prorated based upon the number of
calendar days during which this Agreement is in effect during such month, and
the fee shall be computed based upon the average daily net assets of a Fund
Account for such days.
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) EAGLE. Eagle represents and warrants to IMCO that (i) the retention
of Eagle by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by Eagle's
governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement does not violate any obligation by which Eagle or its property is
bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) this
Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of Eagle and when
executed and delivered by Eagle will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of
Eagle, enforceable against Eagle in accordance with its terms, subject, as to
enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting
creditors' rights generally and to general equitable principles (regardless of
whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law); (iv) Eagle is
registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v) Eagle has
adopted a written code of ethics complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1
under the 1940 Act and that Eagle and certain of its employees, officers,
partners and directors are subject to reporting requirements thereunder and,
accordingly, agrees that it shall, on a timely basis, furnish a copy of such
code of ethics to IMCO, and, and with respect to such persons, Eagle shall
furnish to IMCO all reports and information provided under Rule 17j-1(c)(2);
(vi) Eagle is not prohibited by the
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1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law, regulation or order from performing the
services contemplated by this Agreement; (vii) Eagle will promptly notify IMCO
of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify Eagle from serving as
investment manager of an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940
Act or otherwise; (viii) Eagle has provided IMCO with a copy of its Form ADV,
which as of the date of this Agreement is its Form ADV as most recently filed
with the SEC, and promptly will furnish a copy of all amendments to IMCO at
least annually; (ix) Eagle will notify IMCO of any "assignment" (as defined in
the 0000 Xxx) of this Agreement or change of control of Eagle, as applicable,
and any changes in the key personnel who are either the portfolio manager(s) of
any Fund Account or senior management of Eagle, in each case prior to or
promptly after, such change; and (x) Eagle has adequate disaster recovery and
interruption prevention measures to ensure business resumption in accordance
with applicable law and within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Eagle that (i) the retention
of Eagle by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by the
respective governing documents of the Company and IMCO; (ii) the execution,
delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory
Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the Company or IMCO or their
respective property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or
otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement
has been duly authorized by appropriate action of the Company and IMCO and when
executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of
the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the Company and IMCO in accordance
with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency
and similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable
principles (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in
equity or law); (iv) IMCO is registered as an investment adviser under the
Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the
requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that IMCO and certain of its
employees, officers and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or
other law, regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by this
Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify Eagle of the occurrence of any
event that would disqualify IMCO from serving as investment manager of an
investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) EAGLE. Eagle shall be liable for any and all losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other
expenses) to which the Company, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons thereof
(within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as
described in Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933
Act)) (collectively, IMCO Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard of Eagle in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to Eagle which was required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or
omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to
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IMCO or the Company by Eagle Indemnities (as defined below) for use therein.
Eagle shall indemnify and hold harmless the IMCO Indemnities for any and all
such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable
legal and other expenses). However, Eagle shall have no liability to a Fund or
its shareholders for damages or losses connected with or arising out of services
rendered under this Agreement, unless such damages or losses result from Eagle's
negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or reckless disregard of its duties
and obligations.
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall be liable for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which Eagle, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx)
and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the 1933 Act)
(collectively, Eagle Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act, the
1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard by IMCO in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to IMCO which was required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such statement
or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the
Company. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless Eagle Indemnities for any and
all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses).
6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall become
effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however, that
this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it has
first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder
or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff.
This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously thereafter,
except as follows:
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Company, IMCO, or Eagle
(Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting shares of a Fund,
such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without the payment of any
penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' written notice delivered or mailed
by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO and Eagle.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board or the shareholders of the Fund by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, and (ii) a
majority of the Independent Board Members, by vote cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval. If the continuance of this
Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and
such shareholders fail to approve such continuance as provided herein, Eagle may
continue to serve hereunder in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the
rules thereunder.
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(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Eagle. Eagle
may at any time, without the payment of any penalty, terminate this Agreement
with respect to a Fund by not less than 90 days' written notice delivered or
mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Eagle by IMCO shall be without
prejudice to the obligation of Eagle to complete transactions already initiated
or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Eagle under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO. Notwithstanding
any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund, Sections 5, 10(a),
10(e), 11(a) and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in effect after any such
termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed,
waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing
signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or
termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement shall be
effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act, any rules
thereunder or any exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff
(Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any approval,
amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be
effective to continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with respect to any
such Fund notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been approved by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Fund
affected thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been approved by the vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company, unless such
action shall be required by any applicable law or otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Eagle to IMCO in connection with the
Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and Eagle shall be free to
render investment advisory services to others so long as its services hereunder
are not impaired thereby. It is understood that the persons employed by Eagle to
assist in the performance of its duties hereunder will not devote their full
time to such services and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit or
restrict in any manner whatsoever the right of Eagle to engage in or devote time
and attention to other businesses or to render services of whatever kind or
nature. It is understood that IMCO may appoint at any time in accordance with
Applicable Law one or more subadvisers, in addition to Eagle, or IMCO itself, to
perform investment advisory services to any portion of the Funds.
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10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Eagle shall, upon reasonable notice, afford
IMCO at all reasonable times access to Eagle's officers, employees, agents and
offices and to all its relevant books and records and shall furnish IMCO with
all relevant financial and other data and information as requested; provided,
however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate Eagle to provide IMCO with
access to the books and records of Eagle relating to any other accounts other
than the Funds.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Eagle, and its officers, employees and authorized
representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary information of
the Company all records and information relative to the Company and prior,
present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and information
for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and duties
hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by the
Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld where Eagle may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings
for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly
constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Eagle acknowledges that nonpublic customer
information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments thereto) of
customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the limitations on
redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such Regulation, and
agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any third party for any
purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted by exceptions set
forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii) shall be
safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required.
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law; provided further, however, that the party making such disclosure shall
provide the other parties hereto with as much prior written notice of such
disclosure as is practical under the circumstances.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Eagle agrees that it will promptly notify IMCO in
the event that Eagle or any of its affiliates is or expects to become the
subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the Commission
or other regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
(F) INSURANCE. Eagle agrees to maintain errors and omissions or
professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is reasonable in
light of the nature and scope of Eagle's business activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions involving
Eagle, including, without limitation, a change of control of Eagle, Eagle shall
bear all reasonable expenses associated with such shareholder meeting.
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11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
Eagle: Eagle Asset Management, Inc.
000 Xxxxxxxx Xxxxxxx
Xx. Xxxxxxxxxx, XX 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Executive Vice President, Sales and
Marketing
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Eagle have caused this Agreement to be
executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
--------------------------- -------------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/ XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
-----------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: EAGLE ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
By: /S/ XXXXXXX X. XXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXX X. XXXX
------------------------- -------------------------------
Name: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxxx Name: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
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SCHEDULE A
USAA SMALL CAP STOCK FUND
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SCHEDULE B
FEES
RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET
FUND ACCOUNT ASSETS OF THE FUND ACCOUNT
USAA Small Cap Stock Fund 0.56% -- First $100 million
0.45% -- Amounts above $100 million
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EXHIBIT 4(r)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and XXXXXXX CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, LLC, a limited
liability company organized under the laws of the State of Delaware and having
its principal place of business in Denver, Colorado (Marsico).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Marsico to render investment advisory
services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company as now or hereafter
may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such Schedule A may be
amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof referred to
herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Marsico is willing to provide such services to the Fund
Accounts and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the compensation set
forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF MARSICO. IMCO hereby appoints Marsico to act as an
investment adviser for each Fund Account in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement. Marsico will be an independent contractor and will
have no authority to act for or represent the Company or IMCO in any way or
otherwise be deemed an agent of the Company or IMCO except as expressly
authorized in this Agreement or another writing by the Company, IMCO and
Marsico. Marsico accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services
herein set forth for the compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF MARSICO.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Marsico, at its own expense,
shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the investment and
reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time to time. It is
understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of, or none of the
assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and reallocate such
assets to a Fund Account at any time. Marsico shall perform its duties described
herein in a manner consistent with the investment objectives, policies, and
restrictions set forth in
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the then-current prospectus and statement of additional information (SAI) for
each Fund. Should Marsico anticipate materially modifying its investment
process, it must provide written notice in advance to IMCO, and any affected
Prospectus and SAI should be amended accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Marsico shall determine what investments shall be purchased, held,
sold or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if any, of the assets
of each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash equivalents, and purchase or
sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account; except that, to the extent
Marsico wishes to hold cash or cash equivalents in excess of 10% of a Fund
Account's assets, Marsico must request in writing and receive advance permission
from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Marsico shall
arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities
and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise full discretion
and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same force and effect as
the Company might or could do with respect to such purchases, sales, or other
transactions, as well as with respect to all other things necessary or
incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales, or other
transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Marsico will act in the best
interests of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii) the terms of
this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and restrictions
of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Registration Statement of each Fund,
(iv) the Company's compliance procedures and other policies, procedures or
guidelines as the Board or IMCO reasonably may establish from time to time, (v)
the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code),
applicable to "regulated investment companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the
Code), as from time to time in effect, and (vi) the written instructions of
IMCO. Marsico shall establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated to
ensure compliance with the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing
Marsico with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and
supplemented, the Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of
the materials specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO
shall provide Marsico with prior written notice of any material change to the
Company's Registration Statement that would affect Xxxxxxx'x management of a
Fund Account.
No statement in this Agreement or any other document constitutes a
representation by Marsico regarding the rate of growth or return of a Fund
Account. Neither Marsico nor any of its officers, directors, or employees make
any representations or warranties, express or implied, that any level of
performance or investment results will be achieved by any Fund Account, or that
any Fund Account will perform comparably with any standard or index, including
the performance achieved for other clients of Marsico.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Marsico will select
the brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions for the
Fund Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the selection of
broker-dealers and the placement of orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio investments for the Fund Accounts, Marsico shall use its best efforts
to obtain for the Fund Accounts the most favorable price and execution
available, except to the extent it may be permitted
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to pay higher brokerage commissions for brokerage or research services as
described below. In using its best efforts to obtain the most favorable price
and execution available, Marsico, bearing in mind each Fund's best interests at
all times, shall consider all factors it deems relevant, including by way of
illustration, price, the size of the transaction, the nature of the market for
the security, the amount of the commission and dealer's spread or xxxx-up, the
timing of the transaction taking into account market prices and trends, the
reputation, experience and financial stability of the broker-dealer involved,
the general execution and operational facilities of the broker-dealer and the
quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other transactions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Marsico shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached
any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its having
caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides brokerage or research
services to Marsico an amount of commission for effecting a portfolio investment
transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker-dealer offering
equally good execution capability in the portfolio investment would have charged
for effecting that transaction if Marsico determines in good faith that such
amount of commission was reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage or
research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that
particular transaction or Xxxxxxx'x overall responsibilities with respect to the
Fund and to other clients of Marsico as to which Marsico exercises investment
discretion. The Board or IMCO may direct Marsico to effect up to 25% of all
transactions in portfolio securities for a Fund Account through broker-dealers
in a manner that will help generate resources to pay the cost of certain
expenses that the Company is required to pay or for which the Company is
required to arrange payment. Marsico will treat such a direction as a decision
by the Board or IMCO to retain, to the extent of the direction, the discretion
that Marsico otherwise would exercise to select broker-dealers and negotiate
commissions for the Fund Account.
On occasions when Marsico deems the purchase or sale of a security to
be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of Marsico, Marsico,
to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the
securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more favorable price
or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event,
allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses
incurred in the transaction, will be made by Marsico in the manner it considers
to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the
Fund and to its other clients over time.
Marsico may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same time it is
selling such securities for another client account and may sell securities for a
Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for another client
account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements,
and in compliance with such procedures of the Company as may be in effect from
time to time, Marsico may effectuate cross transactions between a Fund Account
and such other account if it deems this to be advantageous.
Marsico will advise the Funds' custodian or such depository or agents
as may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of each purchase and
sale of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the issuer, the description
and amount or number of shares of the security purchased, the market price, the
commission and gross or net price, the trade date and settlement date, the
identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any other pertinent data that the
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Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale. Marsico shall
not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments. The Company shall be
responsible for all custodial agreements and the payment of all custodial
charges and fees and, upon Marsico giving proper instructions to the custodian,
Marsico shall have no responsibility or liability for the acts, omissions or
other conduct of the custodian.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Marsico agrees that IMCO shall have the
right by written notice to identify securities that may not be purchased on
behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which portfolio
transaction on behalf of the Fund may not be effected, including, without
limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with IMCO. Upon receipt of a list of
such securities or broker-dealers, Marsico shall refrain from purchasing such
securities for a Fund Account or directing any portfolio transaction to any such
broker or dealer on behalf of a Fund Account, unless and until the written
approval of IMCO to do so is obtained. In addition, Marsico agrees that it shall
not direct portfolio transactions for the Fund Accounts through any broker or
dealer that is an "affiliated person" (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act
or interpreted under applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) of
Marsico, except as permitted under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees that it will
provide Marsico with a list of brokers and dealers that are affiliated persons
of the Funds, or affiliated persons of such persons, and shall timely update
that list as the need arises. The Funds agree that any entity or person
associated with IMCO or Marsico that is a member of a national securities
exchange is authorized to effect any transaction on such exchange for the
account of the Funds that is permitted by Section 11(a) of the Exchange Act, and
the Funds consent to the retention of compensation for such transactions.
IMCO and the Trust hereby approve Xxxxxxx'x placement of orders for the
purchase or sale of securities for a Fund Account with Banc of America
Securities LLC ("BAS") (a broker-dealer that is an affiliated person of Marsico
through their common ownership by Bank of America Corporation), or any other
affiliated broker-dealer, to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act and other law.
BAS or another affiliated broker-dealer will not deal as principal for its own
account in such transactions, but will act as agent for other persons including
the Fund Account. IMCO and the Trust are aware that the affiliation between
Marsico and an affiliated broker-dealer (such as BAS) could give Marsico or its
parent, Bank of America Corporation, an indirect interest in brokerage
commissions received by the affiliated broker-dealer, which could create a
potential conflict of interest when Marsico considers whether to use an
affiliated broker-dealer. Marsico generally will use an affiliated broker-dealer
for a Fund Account only when it believes that this is in the Fund Account's best
interests because the affiliated broker-dealer is expected to provide best
execution.
IMCO and the Trust hereby authorize Marsico and any affiliated
broker-dealer (including BAS) to effect agency cross transactions, in which the
affiliated broker-dealer acts as broker for parties on both sides of the
transaction, for any Fund Account, to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act and
other law. IMCO and the Trust acknowledge that Xxxxxxx'x affiliated
broker-dealer will generally receive compensation from the other party to such
transactions (the amount of which may vary), and that agency cross trades could
create potentially conflicting divisions of loyalties and responsibilities,
because the affiliated broker-dealer acts for and receives commissions from both
parties, while Marsico advise the Fund Account to enter into the trade.
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IMCO and the Trust may at any time revoke their consent to the execution of
future agency cross trades for a Fund account by giving written notice to
Marsico or the affiliated broker-dealer.
(C) EXPENSES. Marsico, at its expense, will furnish all necessary
facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any personnel
required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this Agreement and
administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all equipment and services
necessary for the efficient conduct of Xxxxxxx'x duties under this Agreement.
However, Marsico shall not be obligated to pay any expenses of IMCO, the Company
or the Funds, including without limitation, interest and taxes, brokerage
commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of
securities or other investment instruments for the Funds and custodian fees and
expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
for which market quotes are not readily available, Marsico, at its expense and
in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board, which may be
amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in determining the
fair value of such securities. Marsico also shall make reasonable efforts to
monitor for "significant events" that occur after the closing of a market but
before the Funds calculate their net asset values and that may affect the
valuation of any Fund Account's portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO
immediately of the occurrence of any such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Marsico, at its expense,
shall render to the Board and IMCO such periodic and special reports as the
Board and IMCO may reasonably request with respect to matters relating to the
duties of Marsico set forth herein. Marsico, at its expense, will make available
to the Board and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other
appropriate personnel in order to review investment policies of the Funds and to
consult with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment affairs of the Funds,
including economic, statistical and investment matters relevant to Xxxxxxx'x
duties hereunder.
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Marsico, at its expense, will provide IMCO with
such compliance reports relating to its duties under this Agreement as may be
agreed upon by such parties from time to time. Marsico also shall cooperate with
and provide reasonable assistance to IMCO, the Company's administrator, the
Company's custodian and foreign custodians, the Company's transfer agent and
pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of the Company and IMCO,
keep all such persons fully informed as to such matters as they may reasonably
deem necessary to the performance of their obligations to the Company and IMCO,
provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by such persons and
maintain any appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote the efficient
exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Marsico will maintain for the Funds all books
and records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to the 1940 Act and
the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as such records relate
to the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to Rule 31a-3 under the
1940 Act, Marsico agrees that: (i) all records it maintains for a Fund Account
are the property of the Fund; (ii) it will surrender promptly to a Fund or IMCO
any such records (or copies of such records) upon the Fund's or IMCO's request;
and (iii) it will preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the
1940 Act the records it maintains
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for any Fund Account. Notwithstanding subsection (ii) above, Marsico may
maintain copies of such records to comply with its recordkeeping obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Marsico will, unless and until otherwise directed by IMCO
or the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's securities and
exercise rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance with Xxxxxxx'x
proxy voting guidelines, as amended from time to time, which shall be provided
to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Marsico as compensation for Xxxxxxx'x
services rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee based on the average daily
net assets of each Fund Account at the annual rates set forth in Schedule B,
which schedule can be modified from time to time, subject to any appropriate
approvals required by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall be calculated daily and
payable monthly in arrears within 15 business days after the end of such month.
IMCO (and not the Funds) shall pay such fees. If Marsico shall serve for less
than the whole of a month, the compensation as specified shall be prorated based
upon the number of calendar days during which this Agreement is in effect during
such month, and the fee shall be computed based upon the average daily net
assets of a Fund Account for such days.
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) MARSICO. Marsico represents and warrants to IMCO that (i) the
retention of Marsico by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by
Xxxxxxx'x governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of
this Agreement does not violate any obligation by which Marsico or its property
is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) this
Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of Marsico and when
executed and delivered by Marsico will be a legal, valid and binding obligation
of Marsico, enforceable against Marsico in accordance with its terms, subject,
as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws
affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable principles
(regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law);
(iv) Marsico is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v)
Marsico has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the requirements of
Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that Marsico and certain of its employees,
officers, partners and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder and, accordingly, agrees that it shall, on a timely basis, furnish a
copy of such code of ethics to IMCO, and shall cause its employees, officers,
partners and directors to furnish to IMCO information that IMCO reasonably
requests concerning such code of ethics; (vi) Marsico is not prohibited by the
1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law, regulation or order from performing the
services contemplated by this Agreement; (vii) Marsico will promptly notify IMCO
of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify Marsico from serving as
investment manager of an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940
Act or otherwise; (viii) Marsico has provided IMCO with a copy of its Form ADV,
which as of the date of this Agreement is its Form ADV as most recently filed
with the SEC, and promptly will furnish a copy of all amendments to IMCO at
least annually; (ix) Marsico will notify IMCO of any "assignment" (as defined in
the 0000 Xxx) of this Agreement or change of control of Marsico, as applicable,
and any changes in the key personnel who are either the portfolio manager(s) of
any Fund Account or senior management of Marsico, in each case prior to or
promptly after, such change; and (x) Marsico has adequate disaster recovery and
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interruption prevention measures to ensure business resumption in accordance
with applicable law and within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Marsico that (i) the
retention of Marsico by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by
the respective governing documents of the Company and IMCO; (ii) the execution,
delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory
Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the Company or IMCO or their
respective property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or
otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement
has been duly authorized by appropriate action of the Company and IMCO and when
executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of
the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the Company and IMCO in accordance
with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency
and similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable
principles (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in
equity or law); (iv) IMCO is registered as an investment adviser under the
Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the
requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that IMCO and certain of its
employees, officers and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or
other law, regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by this
Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify Marsico of the occurrence of any
event that would disqualify IMCO from serving as investment manager of an
investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) MARSICO. Marsico shall be liable for any and all losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other
expenses) to which the Company, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons thereof
(within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as
described in Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933
Act)) (collectively, IMCO Indemnitees) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard of Marsico in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to Marsico which was required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or
omission was made primarily in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or
the Company by Marsico Indemnitees (as defined below) for use therein. Marsico
shall indemnify and hold harmless the IMCO Indemnitees for any and all such
losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal
and other expenses).
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall be liable for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which Marsico, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the 0000
Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the 1933
Act) (collectively, Marsico Indemnitees) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at
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common law or otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct,
bad faith or reckless disregard by IMCO in the performance of any of its duties
or obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact
contained in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements,
sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to
state therein a material fact known to IMCO which was required to be stated
therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such
statement or omission was made primarily in reliance upon information furnished
to IMCO or the Company. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless Marsico
Indemnitees for any and all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or
litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses).
6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall
become effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however,
that this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it
has first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules
thereunder or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or
its staff. This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously
thereafter, except as follows:
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Company, IMCO, or
Marsico (Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting shares of a
Fund, such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without the payment of
any penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' written notice delivered or
mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO and Marsico.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board, or the shareholders of the Fund by
the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, and
(ii) a majority of the Independent Board Members, by vote cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. If the continuance of
this Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval
and such shareholders fail to approve such continuance as provided herein,
Marsico may continue to serve hereunder in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act
and the rules thereunder.
(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Marsico.
Marsico may at any time, without the payment of any penalty, terminate this
Agreement with respect to a Fund by not less than 90 days' written notice
delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Marsico by IMCO shall be
without prejudice to the obligation of Marsico to complete transactions already
initiated or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
8
933154
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Marsico under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO. Notwithstanding
any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund, Sections 5, 10(a),
10(e), 11(a) and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in effect after any such
termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be
changed, waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in
writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver,
discharge or termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement
shall be effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act, any
rules thereunder or any exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its
staff (Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any
approval, amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of
any Fund shall be effective to continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with
respect to any such Fund notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been
approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of
any other Fund affected thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been
approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the
Company, unless such action shall be required by any applicable law or
otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Marsico to IMCO in connection
with the Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and Marsico shall be
free to render investment advisory services to others so long as its services
hereunder are not impaired thereby. It is understood that the persons employed
by Marsico to assist in the performance of its duties hereunder will not devote
their full time to such services and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to
limit or restrict in any manner whatsoever the right of Marsico to engage in or
devote time and attention to other businesses or to render services of whatever
kind or nature. It is understood that IMCO may appoint at any time in accordance
with Applicable Law one or more subadvisers, in addition to Marsico, or IMCO
itself, to perform investment advisory services to any portion of the Funds.
10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Marsico shall, upon reasonable notice,
afford IMCO at all reasonable times access to Xxxxxxx'x officers, employees,
agents and offices and to all its relevant books and records and shall furnish
IMCO with all relevant financial and other data and information as requested;
provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate Marsico to
provide IMCO with access to the books and records of Marsico relating to any
other accounts other than the Funds.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Marsico, and its officers, employees and
authorized representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary
information of the Company all records and information relative to the Company
and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and
information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and
duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by
the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld
9
933154
where Marsico may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings for
failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly
constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Marsico acknowledges that nonpublic customer
information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments thereto) of
customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the limitations on
redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such Regulation, and
agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any third party for any
purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted by exceptions set
forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii) shall be
safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required. Marsico may disclose nonpublic customer information
to broker-dealers, custodians, and other third parties to the extent necessary
or appropriate to perform its duties under this Agreement.
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law (as in the case of registration statements and other documents that are
required to be publicly filed); provided further, however, that the party making
such disclosure shall provide the other parties hereto with as much prior
written notice of such disclosure as is practical under the circumstances.
Marsico also may disclose non-confidential information about its service as
sub-adviser to the Trust to other clients or potential clients after the
information has been disclosed in publicly filed documents.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Marsico agrees that it will promptly notify IMCO in
the event that Marsico or any of its affiliates is or expects to become the
subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the Commission
or other regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
(F) INSURANCE. Marsico agrees to maintain errors and omissions or
professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is reasonable in
light of the nature and scope of Xxxxxxx'x business activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions initiated
solely by Marsico, including, without limitation, a change of control of
Marsico, Marsico shall bear all reasonable expenses associated with such
shareholder meeting.
11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
10
933154
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
Marsico: 0000 Xxxxxxxxxxx Xxxxxx
Xxxxx 0000
Xxxxxx, Xxxxxxxx 00000
Fax: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Legal/Compliance Dept. and Client Services Dept.
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
11
933154
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Marsico have caused this Agreement to be
executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
-------------------------- ----------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/ XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
----------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: XXXXXXX CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, LLC
By: /S/ XXXXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXXXX
------------------------- ---------------------------
Name: Xxxxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxxxx
Title: Vice President Title: President and Chief Operating
and General Counsel Officer
12
933154
SCHEDULE A
USAA AGGRESSIVE GROWTH FUND
USAA FIRST START GROWTH FUND
USAA GROWTH FUND
13
933154
SCHEDULE B
FEES
RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET
ASSETS OF THE FUND ACCOUNT
FUND ACCOUNT
USAA Aggressive Growth Fund 0.20%
USAA First Start Growth Fund 0.20%
USAA Growth Fund 0.20%
14
933154
EXHIBIT 4(s)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP, a limited
liability partnership organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts and having its principal place of business in Boston,
Massachusetts (Wellington Management).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc., a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Wellington Management to render
investment advisory services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company
as now or hereafter may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such
Schedule A may be amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof
referred to herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Wellington Management is willing to provide such services to
the Fund Accounts and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the
compensation set forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT. IMCO hereby appoints Wellington
Management to act as an investment subadviser for each Fund Account in
accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Wellington
Management will be an independent contractor and will have no authority to act
for or represent the Company or IMCO in any way or otherwise be deemed an agent
of the Company or IMCO except as expressly authorized in this Agreement or
another writing by the Company, IMCO and Wellington Management. Wellington
Management accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services herein set
forth for the compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Wellington Management, at its
own expense, shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the
investment and reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time
to time. It is understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of,
or none of the assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and
reallocate such assets to a Fund Account at any time. Wellington Management
shall
939020
perform its duties described herein in a manner consistent with the investment
objective, policies and restrictions set forth in the then current Prospectus
and Statement of Additional Information (SAI) for each Fund. Should Wellington
Management anticipate materially modifying its investment process, it must
provide written notice in advance to IMCO, and any affected Prospectus and SAI
should be amended accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Wellington Management shall determine what investments shall be
purchased, held, sold or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if
any, of the assets of each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash
equivalents, and purchase or sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account;
except that, to the extent Wellington Management wishes to hold cash or cash
equivalents in excess of 10% of a Fund Account's assets for longer than two
consecutive business days, Wellington Management must request in writing and
receive advance permission from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Wellington
Management shall arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and
sale of securities and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise
full discretion and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same
force and effect as the Company might or could do with respect to such
purchases, sales, or other transactions, as well as with respect to all other
things necessary or incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases,
sales, or other transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Wellington Management will act in the
best interests of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and
regulations, including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii)
the terms of this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and
restrictions of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Prospectus and
Statement of Additional Information of each Fund, (iv) the Company's compliance
procedures and other policies, procedures or guidelines as the Board or IMCO
reasonably may establish from time to time, (v) the provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code), applicable to "regulated investment
companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the Code), as from time to time in
effect, and (vi) the written instructions of IMCO. Wellington Management shall
establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated to ensure compliance with
the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing Wellington Management
with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and supplemented, the
Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of the materials
specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO shall provide
Wellington Management with prior written notice of any material change to the
Company's Registration Statement that would affect Wellington Management's
management of a Fund Account.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Wellington Management
will select the brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale
transactions for the Fund Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the
selection of broker-dealers and the placement of orders for the purchase and
sale of portfolio investments for the Fund Accounts, Wellington Management shall
use its best efforts to obtain for the Fund Accounts the most favorable price
and execution available, except to
2
the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage commissions for brokerage
and research services as described below. In using its best efforts to obtain
the most favorable price and execution available, Wellington Management, bearing
in mind each Fund's best interests at all times, shall consider all factors it
deems relevant, including by way of illustration, price, the size of the
transaction, the nature of the market for the security, the amount of the
commission and dealer's spread or xxxx-up, the timing of the transaction taking
into account market prices and trends, the reputation, experience and financial
stability of the broker-dealer involved, the general execution and operational
facilities of the broker-dealer and the quality of service rendered by the
broker-dealer in other transactions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Wellington Management shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to
have breached any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason
of its having caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides
brokerage and research services to Wellington Management an amount of commission
for effecting a portfolio investment transaction in excess of the amount of
commission another broker-dealer offering equally good execution capability in
the portfolio investment would have charged for effecting that transaction if
Wellington Management determines in good faith that such amount of commission
was reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services
provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular
transaction or Wellington Management's overall responsibilities with respect to
the Fund and to other clients of Wellington Management as to which Wellington
Management exercises investment discretion. The Board or IMCO may direct
Wellington Management to effect transactions in portfolio securities through
broker-dealers in a manner that will help generate resources to pay the cost of
certain expenses that the Company is required to pay or for which the Company is
required to arrange payment.
On occasions when Wellington Management deems the purchase or sale of a
security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of
Wellington Management, Wellington Management, to the extent permitted by
applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the securities to be purchased or
sold to attempt to obtain a more favorable price or lower brokerage commissions
and efficient execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so
purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be
made by Wellington Management in the manner it considers to be the most
equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Fund and to its
other clients over time.
Wellington Management may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same
time it is selling such securities for another client account and may sell
securities for a Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for
another client account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and
regulatory requirements, and in compliance with such procedures of the Company
as may be in effect from time to time, Wellington Management may effectuate
cross transactions between a Fund Account and such other account if it deems
this to be advantageous.
Wellington Management will advise the Funds' custodian or such
depository or agents as may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of
each purchase and sale of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the
issuer, the description and amount or number of shares of the security
purchased, the market price, the commission and gross or net price, the trade
date and settlement date, the identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any
other pertinent data that the
3
Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale. Wellington
Management shall not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments. The
Company shall be responsible for all custodial agreements and the payment of all
custodial charges and fees and, upon Wellington Management giving proper
instructions to the custodian, Wellington Management shall have no
responsibility or liability for the acts, omissions or other conduct of the
custodian.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Wellington Management agrees that IMCO
shall have the right by written notice to identify securities that may not be
purchased on behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which
portfolio transactions on behalf of the Fund may not be effected, including,
without limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with IMCO. Wellington
Management shall refrain from purchasing such securities for a Fund Account or
directing any portfolio transaction to any such broker or dealer on behalf of a
Fund Account, unless and until the written approval of IMCO to do so is
obtained. In addition, Wellington Management agrees that it shall not direct
portfolio transactions for the Fund Accounts through any broker or dealer that
is an "affiliated person" (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or
interpreted under applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) of
Wellington Management, except as permitted under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees that
it will provide Wellington Management with a list of brokers and dealers that
are affiliated persons of the Funds, or affiliated persons of such persons, and
shall timely update that list as the need arises. The Funds agree that any
entity or person associated with IMCO or Wellington Management that is a member
of a national securities exchange is authorized to effect any transaction on
such exchange for the account of the Funds that is permitted by Section 11(a) of
the Exchange Act, and the Funds consent to the retention of compensation for
such transactions.
(C) EXPENSES. Wellington Management, at its expense, will furnish all
necessary facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any
personnel required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this
Agreement and administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all
equipment and services necessary for the efficient conduct of Wellington
Management's duties under this Agreement. However, Wellington Management shall
not be obligated to pay any expenses of IMCO, the Company or the Funds,
including without limitation, interest and taxes, brokerage commissions and
other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or other
investment instruments for the Funds and custodian fees and expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
held in Fund Accounts subadvised by Wellington Management for which market
quotes are not readily available, Wellington Management, at its expense and in
accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board, which may be
amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in determining the
fair value of such securities, including providing market price information
relating to these assets of the Fund. Wellington Management also shall monitor
for "significant events" that occur after the closing of a market but before the
Funds calculate their net asset values and that may affect the valuation of any
Fund Account's portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO immediately of the
occurrence of any such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Wellington Management, at
its expense, shall render to the Board and IMCO
4
such periodic and special reports as the Board and IMCO may reasonably request
with respect to matters relating to the duties of Wellington Management set
forth herein. Wellington Management, at its expense, will make available to the
Board and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate
personnel in order to review investment policies of the Funds and to consult
with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment affairs of the Funds, including
economic, statistical and investment matters relevant to Wellington Management's
duties hereunder.
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Wellington Management, at its expense, will
provide IMCO with such compliance reports relating to its duties under this
Agreement as may be agreed upon by such parties from time to time. Wellington
Management also shall cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to IMCO,
the Company's administrator, the Company's custodian and foreign custodians, the
Company's transfer agent and pricing agents and all other agents and
representatives of the Company and IMCO, keep all such persons fully informed as
to such matters as they may reasonably deem necessary to the performance of
their obligations to the Company and IMCO, provide prompt responses to
reasonable requests made by such persons and maintain any appropriate interfaces
with each so as to promote the efficient exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Wellington Management will maintain for the
Funds all books and records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to
the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as
such records relate to the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to
Rule 31a-3 under the 1940 Act, Wellington Management agrees that: (i) all
records it maintains for a Fund Account are the property of the Fund; (ii) it
will surrender promptly to a Fund or IMCO any such records (or copies of such
records) upon the Fund's or IMCO's request; and (iii) it will preserve for the
periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act the records it maintains for
any Fund Account. Notwithstanding subsection (ii) above, Wellington Management
may maintain copies of such records to comply with its recordkeeping
obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Wellington Management will, unless and until otherwise
directed by IMCO or the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's
securities and exercise rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance
with Wellington Management's proxy voting guidelines, as amended from time to
time, which shall be provided to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Wellington Management as compensation
for Wellington Management's services rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee
based on the average daily net assets of each Fund Account at the annual rates
set forth in Schedule B, which schedule can be modified from time to time,
subject to any appropriate approvals required by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall
be calculated daily and payable monthly in arrears within 15 business days after
the end of such month. IMCO (and not the Funds) shall pay such fees. If
Wellington Management shall serve for less than the whole of a month, the
compensation as specified shall be prorated based upon the number of calendar
days during which this Agreement is in effect during such month, and the fee
shall be computed based upon the average daily net assets of a Fund Account for
such days.
5
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT. Wellington Management represents and
warrants to IMCO that (i) the retention of Wellington Management by IMCO as
contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by Wellington Management's
governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement does not violate any obligation by which Wellington Management or its
property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or otherwise;
(iii) this Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of
Wellington Management and when executed and delivered by Wellington Management
will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of Wellington Management,
enforceable against Wellington Management in accordance with its terms, subject,
as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws
affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable principles
(regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law);
(iv) Wellington Management is registered as an investment adviser under the
Advisers Act; (v) Wellington Management has adopted a written code of ethics
complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that
Wellington Management and certain of its employees, officers and partners are
subject to reporting requirements thereunder and, accordingly, agrees that it
shall, on a timely basis, furnish a copy of such code of ethics to IMCO, and,
with respect to such persons, Wellington Management shall furnish to IMCO all
reports and information provided under Rule 17j(c)(2); (vi) Wellington
Management is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or other law,
regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement;
(vii) Wellington Management will promptly notify IMCO of the occurrence of any
event that would disqualify Wellington Management from serving as investment
manager of an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or
otherwise; (viii) Wellington Management has provided IMCO with a copy of its
Form ADV, which as of the date of this Agreement is its Form ADV as most
recently filed with the SEC, and promptly will furnish a copy of all amendments
to IMCO at least annually; (ix) Wellington Management will notify IMCO of any
"assignment" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of this Agreement or change of control
of Wellington Management, as applicable, and any changes in the key personnel
who are either the portfolio manager(s) of any Fund Account or senior management
of Wellington Management, in each case prior to or promptly after, such change;
and (x) Wellington Management has adequate disaster recovery and interruption
prevention measures reasonably designed to ensure business resumption in
accordance with applicable law and within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Wellington Management that
(i) the retention of Wellington Management by IMCO as contemplated by this
Agreement is authorized by the respective governing documents of the Company and
IMCO; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and
the Investment Advisory Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the
Company or IMCO or their respective property is bound, whether arising by
contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the
Investment Advisory Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of
the Company and IMCO and when executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal,
valid and binding obligation of the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the
Company and IMCO in accordance with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting creditors' rights
generally and to general equitable principles (regardless of whether enforcement
is sought in a proceeding in equity or law); (iv) IMCO is registered as an
investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted a written code
of ethics
6
complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that IMCO
and certain of its employees, officers and directors are subject to reporting
requirements thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the
Advisers Act or other law, regulation or order from performing the services
contemplated by this Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify Wellington
Management of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify IMCO from
serving as investment manager of an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a)
of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT. Wellington Management shall indemnify and
hold harmless the Trust, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons thereof (within
the meaning of the 0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as described
in Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act))
(collectively, IMCO Indemnities) for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which the IMCO Indemnities may become subject under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act,
the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or otherwise arising
out of (i) any gross negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or reckless
disregard of Wellington Management in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to Wellington Management which was required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if
such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished in
writing to IMCO or the Company by Wellington Management Indemnities (as defined
below) for use therein.
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless the Wellington
Management, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx)
and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the
Securities Act of 1933) (collectively, Wellington Management Indemnities) for
any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses) to which the Wellington Indemnities may
become subject under the 1933 Act, the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any
other statute, at common law or otherwise arising out of (i) any gross
negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or reckless disregard by IMCO in the
performance of any of its duties or obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue
statement of a material fact contained in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy
materials, reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials
pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state therein a material fact known
to IMCO which was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein not misleading, unless such statement or omission was made in
reliance upon information furnished in writing by Wellington Indemnities to IMCO
or the Trust.
6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall become
effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however, that
this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it has
first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder
or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff.
This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously thereafter,
except as follows:
7
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Company, IMCO, or
Wellington Management (Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting
shares of a Fund, such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without
the payment of any penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' nor less than 10
days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to
IMCO and Wellington Management.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board or the shareholders of the Fund by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, and (ii) a
majority of the Independent Board Members, by vote cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval. If the continuance of this
Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and
such shareholders fail to approve such continuance as provided herein,
Wellington Management may continue to serve hereunder in a manner consistent
with the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder.
(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Wellington
Management. Wellington Management may at any time, without the payment of any
penalty, terminate this Agreement with respect to a Fund by not less than 90
days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to
IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Wellington Management by IMCO
shall be without prejudice to the obligation of Wellington Management to
complete transactions already initiated or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Wellington Management under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO.
Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund,
Sections 5, 10(a), 10(e), 11(a) and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in
effect after any such termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed,
waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing
signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or
termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement shall be
effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act, any rules
thereunder or any exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff
(Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any approval,
amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding
8
voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be effective to
continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with respect to any such Fund
notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been approved by the holders of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Fund affected
thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been approved by the vote of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company, unless such action
shall be required by any applicable law or otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Wellington Management to IMCO in
connection with the Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and
Wellington Management shall be free to render investment advisory services to
others so long as its services hereunder are not impaired thereby. It is
understood that the persons employed by Wellington Management to assist in the
performance of its duties hereunder will not devote their full time to such
services and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit or restrict in
any manner whatsoever the right of Wellington Management to engage in or devote
time and attention to other businesses or to render services of whatever kind or
nature. It is understood that IMCO may appoint at any time in accordance with
Applicable Law one or more subadvisers, in addition to Wellington Management, or
IMCO itself, to perform investment advisory services to any portion of the
Funds.
10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Wellington Management shall, upon reasonable
notice, afford IMCO at all reasonable times access to Wellington Management's
officers, employees, agents and offices and to all its relevant books and
records and shall furnish IMCO with all relevant financial and other data and
information as requested; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall
obligate Wellington Management to provide IMCO with access to the books and
records of Wellington Management relating to any other accounts other than the
Funds or where such access is prohibited by law.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Wellington Management, and its officers, employees
and authorized representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary
information of the Company all records and information relative to the Company
and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and
information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and
duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by
the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld where Wellington Management may be exposed to civil or criminal
contempt proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such
information by duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the
Company.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Wellington Management acknowledges that nonpublic
customer information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments
thereto) of customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the
limitations on redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such
Regulation, and agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any third
party for any purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted by
exceptions set forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii)
shall be safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required.
9
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law; provided further, however, that the party making such disclosure shall
provide the other parties hereto with as much prior written notice of such
disclosure as is practical under the circumstances. During the term of this
Agreement, IMCO agrees to furnish to Wellington Management at its principal
office all Prospectuses, Statements of Additional Information, proxy statements,
reports to shareholders, sales literature, or other material prepared for
distribution to sales personnel, shareholders of the Trust or the public, which
refer to Wellington Management or its clients in any way, prior to use thereof
and not to use such material if Wellington Management reasonably objects in
writing two business days (or such other time as may be mutually agreed upon)
after receipt thereof. Advance review shall not be required from Wellington
Management with respect to 1) sales literature in which Wellington Management is
only referenced in a listing of subadvisers to USAA funds; and 2) other
materials as agreed upon mutually by IMCO and Wellington Management. Sales
literature may be furnished to Wellington Management hereunder by first-class or
overnight mail, electronic or facsimile transmission, or hand delivery.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Wellington Management agrees that it will promptly
notify IMCO in the event that Wellington Management or any of its affiliates is
or expects to become the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement
action by the Commission or other regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
(F) INSURANCE. Wellington Management agrees to maintain errors and
omissions or professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is
reasonable in light of the nature and scope of Wellington Management's business
activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions involving
Wellington Management, including, without limitation, a change of control of
Wellington Management, Wellington Management shall bear all reasonable expenses
associated with such shareholder meeting.
11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
10
Wellington Management: Wellington Management Company, LLP
00 Xxxxx Xxxxxx
Xxxxxx, Xxxxxxxxxxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Legal Department
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
11
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Wellington Management have caused this
Agreement to be executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
------------------------- -----------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
-----------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXX By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXX
------------------------- ------------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxx Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Vice President and Counsel Title: Senior Vice President
12
SCHEDULE A
USAA GROWTH & INCOME FUND
USAA SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY FUND
13
SCHEDULE B
FEES
RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY NET
FUND ACCOUNT ASSETS OF THE FUND ACCOUNT
USAA Growth & Income Fund 0.20%
USAA Science & Technology Fund 0.45% - First $100 million
0.35% - Amounts above $100 million
14
EXHIBIT 4(t)
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 18th day of October, 2002 (the Effective
Date), between USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal place of business in
San Antonio, Texas (IMCO) and WESTWOOD MANAGEMENT CORPORATION, a corporation
organized under the laws of the State of New York and having its principal place
of business in Dallas, Texas (Westwood).
WHEREAS, IMCO serves as the investment adviser to USAA Mutual Fund,
Inc. a corporation organized under the laws of the state of Maryland (the
Company) and registered as an open-end management investment company under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, under its Investment Advisory Agreement with the Company
(Investment Advisory Agreement), IMCO is authorized to appoint subadvisers for
series of the Company (each a Fund, or collectively Funds); and
WHEREAS, IMCO wishes to retain Westwood to render investment advisory
services to such series (or portions thereof) of the Company as now or hereafter
may be identified in Schedule A to this Agreement, as such Schedule A may be
amended from time to time (each such series or portion thereof referred to
herein as a Fund Account and collectively as Fund Accounts); and
WHEREAS, Westwood is willing to provide such services to the Fund
Accounts and IMCO upon the terms and conditions and for the compensation set
forth below;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants
herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between
the parties hereto as follows:
1. APPOINTMENT OF WESTWOOD. IMCO hereby appoints Westwood to act as an
investment adviser for each Fund Account in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement. Westwood will be an independent contractor and
will have no authority to act for or represent the Company or IMCO in any way or
otherwise be deemed an agent of the Company or IMCO except as expressly
authorized in this Agreement or another writing by the Company, IMCO and
Westwood. Westwood accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services
herein set forth for the compensation herein provided.
2. DUTIES OF WESTWOOD.
(A) AUTHORITY TO INVEST. Subject to the control and supervision of IMCO
and the Company's Board of Directors (the Board), Westwood, at its own expense,
shall have full discretion to manage, supervise and direct the investment and
reinvestment of Fund Accounts allocated to it by IMCO from time to time. It is
understood that a Fund Account may consist of all, a portion of, or none of the
assets of the Fund, and that IMCO has the right to allocate and reallocate such
assets to a Fund Account at any time. Westwood shall perform its duties
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described herein in a manner consistent with the investment objective, policies
and restrictions set forth in the then current Prospectus and Statement of
Additional Information (SAI) for each Fund. Should Westwood anticipate
materially modifying its investment process, it must provide written notice in
advance to IMCO, and any affected Prospectus and SAI should be amended
accordingly.
With respect to the management of each Fund Account pursuant to this
Agreement, Westwood shall determine what investments shall be purchased, held,
sold or exchanged by each Fund Account and what portion, if any, of the assets
of each Fund Account shall be held in cash or cash equivalents, and purchase or
sell portfolio securities for each Fund Account; except that, to the extent
Westwood wishes to hold cash or cash equivalents in excess of 10% of a Fund
Account's assets, Westwood must request in writing and receive advance
permission from IMCO.
In accordance with Subsection (b) of this Section 2, Westwood shall
arrange for the execution of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities
and other investments for each Fund Account and will exercise full discretion
and act for the Company in the same manner and with the same force and effect as
the Company might or could do with respect to such purchases, sales, or other
transactions, as well as with respect to all other things necessary or
incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales, or other
transactions.
In the performance of its duties, Westwood will act in the best
interests of each Fund and will comply with (i) applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (Advisers Act), and the rules under each, (ii) the terms of
this Agreement, (iii) the stated investment objective, policies and restrictions
of each Fund, as stated in the then-current Registration Statement of each Fund,
(iv) the Company's compliance procedures and other policies, procedures or
guidelines as the Board or IMCO reasonably may establish from time to time, (v)
the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code),
applicable to "regulated investment companies" (as defined in Section 851 of the
Code), as from time to time in effect, and (vi) the written instructions of
IMCO. Westwood shall establish compliance procedures reasonably calculated to
ensure compliance with the foregoing. IMCO shall be responsible for providing
Westwood with the Company's Articles of Incorporation, as amended and
supplemented, the Company's By-Laws and amendments thereto and current copies of
the materials specified in Subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) of this Section 2. IMCO
shall provide Westwood with prior written notice of any material change to the
Company's Registration Statement that would affect Westwood's management of a
Fund Account.
(B) PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. In connection with the management of the
investment and reinvestment of the Fund Accounts' assets, Westwood will select
the brokers or dealers that will execute purchase and sale transactions for the
Fund Accounts, subject to the conditions herein. In the selection of
broker-dealers and the placement of orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio investments for the Fund Accounts, Westwood shall use its best efforts
to obtain for the Fund Accounts the most favorable price and execution
available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage
commissions for brokerage and research services as described below. In using its
best efforts to obtain the most favorable price and execution available,
Westwood, bearing in mind each Fund's best interests at all times, shall
consider all factors it deems
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relevant, including by way of illustration, price, the size of the transaction,
the nature of the market for the security, the amount of the commission and
dealer's spread or xxxx-up, the timing of the transaction taking into account
market prices and trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of
the broker-dealer involved, the general execution and operational facilities of
the broker-dealer and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in
other transactions.
Subject to such policies as the Board may determine and to the extent
authorized by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange
Act), Westwood shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached
any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its having
caused a Fund Account to pay a broker-dealer that provides brokerage and
research services to Westwood an amount of commission for effecting a portfolio
investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another
broker-dealer offering equally good execution capability in the portfolio
investment would have charged for effecting that transaction if Westwood
determines in good faith that such amount of commission was reasonable in
relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or
Westwood's overall responsibilities with respect to the Fund and to other
clients of Westwood as to which Westwood exercises investment discretion. The
Board or IMCO may direct Westwood to effect transactions in portfolio securities
through broker-dealers in a manner that will help generate resources to pay the
cost of certain expenses that the Company is required to pay or for which the
Company is required to arrange payment.
On occasions when Westwood deems the purchase or sale of a security to
be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of Westwood,
Westwood, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may
aggregate the securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more
favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such
event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the
expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by Westwood in the manner it
considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations
to the Fund and to its other clients over time.
Westwood may buy securities for a Fund Account at the same time it is
selling such securities for another client account and may sell securities for a
Fund Account at the time it is buying such securities for another client
account. In such cases, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements,
and in compliance with such procedures of the Company as may be in effect from
time to time, Westwood may effectuate cross transactions between a Fund Account
and such other account if it deems this to be advantageous.
Westwood will advise the Funds' custodian or such depository or agents
as may be designated by the custodian and IMCO promptly of each purchase and
sale of a portfolio security, specifying the name of the issuer, the description
and amount or number of shares of the security purchased, the market price, the
commission and gross or net price, the trade date and settlement date, the
identity of the effecting broker or dealer and any other pertinent data that the
Funds' custodian may need to settle a security's purchase or sale. Westwood
shall not have possession or custody of any Fund's investments. The Company
shall be responsible for all custodial agreements and the payment of all
custodial charges and fees and, upon Westwood giving proper instructions to the
custodian, Westwood shall have no responsibility or liability for the acts,
omissions or other conduct of the custodian.
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, Westwood agrees that IMCO shall have the
right by written notice to identify securities that may not be purchased on
behalf of any Fund and/or brokers and dealers through which portfolio
transaction on behalf of the Fund may not be effected, including, without
limitation, brokers or dealers affiliated with IMCO. Westwood shall refrain from
purchasing such securities for a Fund Account or directing any portfolio
transaction to any such broker or dealer on behalf of a Fund Account, unless and
until the written approval of IMCO to do so is obtained. In addition, Westwood
agrees that it shall not direct portfolio transactions for the Fund Accounts
through any broker or dealer that is an "affiliated person" (as that term is
defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under applicable rules and regulations of
the Commission) of Westwood, except as permitted under the 1940 Act. IMCO agrees
that it will provide Westwood with a list of brokers and dealers that are
affiliated persons of the Funds, or affiliated persons of such persons, and
shall timely update that list as the need arises. The Funds agree that any
entity or person associated with IMCO or Westwood that is a member of a national
securities exchange is authorized to effect any transaction on such exchange for
the account of the Funds that is permitted by Section 11(a) of the Exchange Act,
and the Funds consent to the retention of compensation for such transactions.
(C) EXPENSES. Westwood, at its expense, will furnish all necessary
facilities and personnel, including salaries, expenses and fees of any personnel
required for them to faithfully perform their duties under this Agreement and
administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, and all equipment and services
necessary for the efficient conduct of Westwood's duties under this Agreement.
However, Westwood shall not be obligated to pay any expenses of IMCO, the
Company or the Funds, including without limitation, interest and taxes,
brokerage commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of
securities or other investment instruments for the Funds and custodian fees and
expenses.
(D) VALUATION. Securities traded on a national securities exchange or
the NASDAQ market for which market quotes are readily available are valued on
each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. For those securities
for which market quotes are not readily available, Westwood, at its expense and
in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board, which may be
amended from time to time, will provide assistance to IMCO in determining the
fair value of such securities, including providing market price information
relating to these assets of the Fund. Westwood also shall monitor for
"significant events" that occur after the closing of a market but before the
Funds calculate their net asset values and that may affect the valuation of any
Fund Account's portfolio securities and shall notify IMCO immediately of the
occurrence of any such events.
(E) REPORTS AND AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL. Westwood, at its expense,
shall render to the Board and IMCO such periodic and special reports as the
Board and IMCO may reasonably request with respect to matters relating to the
duties of Westwood set forth herein. Westwood, at its expense, will make
available to the Board and IMCO at reasonable times its portfolio managers and
other appropriate personnel in order to review investment policies of the Funds
and to consult with the Board and IMCO regarding the investment affairs of the
Funds, including economic, statistical and investment matters relevant to
Westwood's duties hereunder.
(F) COMPLIANCE MATTERS. Westwood, at its expense, will provide IMCO
with such compliance reports relating to its duties under this Agreement as may
be agreed upon by such
4
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parties from time to time. Westwood also shall cooperate with and provide
reasonable assistance to IMCO, the Company's administrator, the Company's
custodian and foreign custodians, the Company's transfer agent and pricing
agents and all other agents and representatives of the Company and IMCO, keep
all such persons fully informed as to such matters as they may reasonably deem
necessary to the performance of their obligations to the Company and IMCO,
provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by such persons and
maintain any appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote the efficient
exchange of information.
(G) BOOKS AND RECORDS. Westwood will maintain for the Funds all books
and records required to be maintained by the Funds pursuant to the 1940 Act and
the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder insofar as such records relate
to the investment affairs of the Fund Accounts. Pursuant to Rule 31a-3 under the
1940 Act, Westwood agrees that: (i) all records it maintains for a Fund Account
are the property of the Fund; (ii) it will surrender promptly to a Fund or IMCO
any such records (or copies of such records) upon the Fund's or IMCO's request;
and (iii) it will preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the
1940 Act the records it maintains for any Fund Account. Notwithstanding
subsection (ii) above, Westwood may maintain copies of such records to comply
with its recordkeeping obligations.
(H) PROXIES. Westwood will, unless and until otherwise directed by IMCO
or the Board, vote proxies with respect to a Fund Account's securities and
exercise rights in corporate actions or otherwise in accordance with Westwood's
proxy voting guidelines, as amended from time to time, which shall be provided
to IMCO.
3. ADVISORY FEE. IMCO shall pay to Westwood as compensation for Westwood's
services rendered pursuant to this Agreement a fee based on the average daily
net assets of each Fund Account at the annual rates set forth in Schedule B,
which schedule can be modified from time to time, subject to any appropriate
approvals required by the 1940 Act. Such fees shall be calculated daily and
payable monthly in arrears within 15 business days after the end of such month.
IMCO (and not the Funds) shall pay such fees. If Westwood shall serve for less
than the whole of a month, the compensation as specified shall be prorated based
upon the number of calendar days during which this Agreement is in effect during
such month, and the fee shall be computed based upon the average daily net
assets of a Fund Account for such days.
4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
(A) WESTWOOD. Westwood represents and warrants to IMCO that (i) the
retention of Westwood by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by
Westwood's governing documents; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of
this Agreement does not violate any obligation by which Westwood or its property
is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or otherwise; (iii) this
Agreement has been duly authorized by appropriate action of Westwood and when
executed and delivered by Westwood will be a legal, valid and binding obligation
of Westwood, enforceable against Westwood in accordance with its terms, subject,
as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws
affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable principles
(regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law);
(iv) Westwood is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act; (v)
Westwood has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the requirements of
Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that Westwood and certain of its employees,
5
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officers, partners and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder and, accordingly, agrees that it shall, on a timely basis, furnish a
copy of such code of ethics to IMCO, and, with respect to such persons, Westwood
shall furnish to IMCO all reports and information provided under Rule
17j-1(c)(2); (vi) Westwood is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act
or other law, regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by
this Agreement; (vii) Westwood will promptly notify IMCO of the occurrence of
any event that would disqualify Westwood from serving as investment manager of
an investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise;
(viii) Westwood has provided IMCO with a copy of its Form ADV, which as of the
date of this Agreement is its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC, and
promptly will furnish a copy of all amendments to IMCO at least annually; (ix)
Westwood will notify IMCO of any "assignment" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of
this Agreement or change of control of Westwood, as applicable, and any changes
in the key personnel who are either the portfolio manager(s) of any Fund Account
or senior management of Westwood, in each case prior to or promptly after, such
change; and (x) Westwood has adequate disaster recovery and interruption
prevention measures to ensure business resumption in accordance with applicable
law and within industry standards.
(B) IMCO. IMCO represents and warrants to Westwood that (i) the
retention of Westwood by IMCO as contemplated by this Agreement is authorized by
the respective governing documents of the Company and IMCO; (ii) the execution,
delivery and performance of each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory
Agreement does not violate any obligation by which the Company or IMCO or their
respective property is bound, whether arising by contract, operation of law or
otherwise; (iii) each of this Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement
has been duly authorized by appropriate action of the Company and IMCO and when
executed and delivered by IMCO will be a legal, valid and binding obligation of
the Company and IMCO, enforceable against the Company and IMCO in accordance
with its terms, subject, as to enforcement, to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency
and similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally and to general equitable
principles (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in
equity or law); (iv) IMCO is registered as an investment adviser under the
Advisers Act; (v) IMCO has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the
requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and that IMCO and certain of its
employees, officers and directors are subject to reporting requirements
thereunder; (vi) IMCO is not prohibited by the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act or
other law, regulation or order from performing the services contemplated by this
Agreement; and (vii) IMCO will promptly notify Westwood of the occurrence of any
event that would disqualify IMCO from serving as investment manager of an
investment company pursuant to Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
5. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION.
(A) WESTWOOD. Westwood shall be liable for any and all losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other
expenses) to which the Company, a Fund, IMCO, any affiliated persons thereof
(within the meaning of the 0000 Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as
described in Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933
Act)) (collectively, IMCO Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard of Westwood in the
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performance of any of its duties or obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue
statement of a material fact contained in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy
materials, reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials
pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state therein a material fact known
to Westwood which was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in
reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the Company by Westwood
Indemnities (as defined below) for use therein. Westwood shall indemnify and
hold harmless the IMCO Indemnities for any and all such losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses).
(B) IMCO. IMCO shall be liable for any and all losses, claims, damages,
liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) to
which Westwood, any affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of the 0000
Xxx) and any controlling persons thereof (as described in Section 15 of the 1933
Act) (collectively, Westwood Indemnities) may become subject under the 1933 Act,
the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, or under any other statute, at common law or
otherwise arising out of (i) any negligence, willful misconduct, bad faith or
reckless disregard by IMCO in the performance of any of its duties or
obligations hereunder or (ii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained
in the Prospectus and SAI, proxy materials, reports, advertisements, sales
literature, or other materials pertaining to the Funds or the omission to state
therein a material fact known to IMCO which was required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such statement
or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to IMCO or the
Company. IMCO shall indemnify and hold harmless Westwood Indemnities for any and
all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses).
6. DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall become
effective with respect to a Fund upon its execution; provided, however, that
this Agreement shall not become effective with respect to a Fund unless it has
first been approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act and rules thereunder
or in accordance with exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff.
This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect continuously thereafter,
except as follows:
(a) By vote of a majority of (i) the Board members who are not
"interested persons" (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of the Funds, IMCO, or
Westwood (Independent Board Members) or (ii) the outstanding voting shares of a
Fund, such Fund may at any time terminate this Agreement, without the payment of
any penalty, by providing not more than 60 days' written notice delivered or
mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO and Westwood.
(b) This Agreement will terminate automatically with respect to a Fund,
without the payment of any penalty, unless within two years after its initial
effectiveness and at least annually thereafter, the continuance of the Agreement
is specifically approved by (i) the Board or the shareholders of the Fund by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, and (ii) a
majority of the Independent Board Members, by vote cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval. If the continuance of this
Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and
such shareholders fail to approve such continuance as provided herein, Westwood
may continue to serve hereunder in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the
rules thereunder.
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(c) IMCO may at any time terminate this Agreement with respect to a
Fund, without the payment of any penalty, by written notice delivered in person
or by facsimile, or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to Westwood.
Westwood may at any time, without the payment of any penalty, terminate this
Agreement with respect to a Fund by not less than 90 days' written notice
delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to IMCO.
(d) This Agreement automatically and immediately shall terminate with
respect to the Funds, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its
assignment (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act or interpreted under
applicable rules and regulations of the Commission) or if the Investment
Advisory Agreement shall terminate for any reason.
(e) Any notice of termination served on Westwood by IMCO shall be
without prejudice to the obligation of Westwood to complete transactions already
initiated or acted upon with respect to a Fund.
Upon termination of this Agreement, the duties of IMCO delegated to
Westwood under this Agreement automatically shall revert to IMCO.
Notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement with respect to a Fund,
Sections 5, 10(a), 10(e), 11(a), and 11(c) of this Agreement shall remain in
effect after any such termination.
7. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed,
waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing
signed by the party against whom enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or
termination is sought. No material amendment of this Agreement shall be
effective until approved in the manner required by the 1940 Act, any rules
thereunder or any exemptive or other relief granted by the SEC or its staff
(Applicable Law).
8. APPROVAL, AMENDMENT, OR TERMINATION BY INDIVIDUAL FUND. Any approval,
amendment, or termination of this Agreement by the holders of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 0000 Xxx) of any Fund shall be
effective to continue, amend or terminate this Agreement with respect to any
such Fund notwithstanding (i) that such action has not been approved by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Fund
affected thereby, and/or (ii) that such action has not been approved by the vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company, unless such
action shall be required by any applicable law or otherwise.
9. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The services of Westwood to IMCO in connection
with the Funds hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and Westwood shall be
free to render investment advisory services to others so long as its services
hereunder are not impaired thereby. It is understood that the persons employed
by Westwood to assist in the performance of its duties hereunder will not devote
their full time to such services and nothing contained herein shall be deemed to
limit or restrict in any manner whatsoever the right of Westwood to engage in or
devote time and attention to other businesses or to render services of whatever
kind or nature. It is understood that IMCO may appoint at any time in accordance
with Applicable Law one or more subadvisers, in addition to Westwood, or IMCO
itself, to perform investment advisory services to any portion of the Funds.
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10. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(A) ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Westwood shall, upon reasonable notice,
afford IMCO at all reasonable times access to Westwood's officers, employees,
agents and offices and to all its relevant books and records and shall furnish
IMCO with all relevant financial and other data and information as requested;
provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate Westwood to
provide IMCO with access to the books and records of Westwood relating to any
other accounts other than the Funds.
(B) CONFIDENTIALITY. Westwood, and its officers, employees and
authorized representatives, shall treat confidentially and as proprietary
information of the Company all records and information relative to the Company
and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and
information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and
duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by
the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be
withheld where Westwood may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings
for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly
constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company.
(C) PRIVACY POLICY. Westwood acknowledges that nonpublic customer
information (as defined in Regulation S-P, including any amendments thereto) of
customers of the Funds received from IMCO is subject to the limitations on
redisclosure and reuse set forth in Section 248.11 of such Regulation, and
agrees such information (i) shall not be disclosed to any third party for any
purpose without the written consent of IMCO unless permitted by exceptions set
forth in Sections 248.14 or 248.15 of such Regulation and (ii) shall be
safeguarded pursuant to procedures adopted under Section 248.30 of such
Regulation if so required.
(D) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party shall issue any press release or
otherwise make any public statements with respect to the matters covered by this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, that consent
shall not be required if, in the opinion of counsel, such disclosure is required
by law; provided further, however, that the party making such disclosure shall
provide the other parties hereto with as much prior written notice of such
disclosure as is practical under the circumstances.
(E) NOTIFICATIONS. Westwood agrees that it will promptly notify IMCO in
the event that Westwood or any of its affiliates is or expects to become the
subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the Commission
or other regulatory body with applicable jurisdiction.
(F) INSURANCE. Westwood agrees to maintain errors and omissions or
professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is reasonable in
light of the nature and scope of Westwood's business activities.
(G) SHAREHOLDER MEETING EXPENSES. In the event that the Company shall
be required to call a meeting of shareholders solely due to actions involving
Westwood, including, without
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limitation, a change of control of Westwood, Westwood shall bear all reasonable
expenses associated with such shareholder meeting.
11. MISCELLANEOUS.
(A) NOTICES. All notices or other communications given under this
Agreement shall be made by guaranteed overnight delivery, telecopy or certified
mail; notice is effective when received. Notice shall be given to the parties at
the following addresses:
IMCO: USAA Investment Management Company
0000 Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Xxxx, X-X0-X
Xxx Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Securities Counsel & Compliance Dept.
Westwood: Westwood Management Corp.
000 Xxxxxxxx Xxxxx, Xxxxx 0000
Xxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile No.: (000) 000-0000
Attention: Xxxxx Xxxxx, Executive Vice President
(B) SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or
made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of
this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding
upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors.
(C) GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws
principles thereof, and in accordance with the 1940 Act. To the extent that the
applicable laws of the State of Texas conflict with the applicable provisions of
the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
(D) COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two
or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
(E) HEADINGS. The captions in this Agreement are included for
convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the
provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
(F) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement states the entire agreement of the
parties hereto, and is intended to be the complete and exclusive statement of
the terms hereof. It may not be added to or changed orally, and may not be
modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in
accordance with the 1940 Act.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, IMCO and Westwood have caused this Agreement to be
executed as of the date first set forth above.
Attest: USAA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
By: /S/ XXXX X. XXXXXX By: /S/ XXXXXXXXXXX X. XXXXX
------------------------- ----------------------------
Name: Xxxx X. Xxxxxx Name: Xxxxxxxxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Secretary Title: President
By: /S/ XXXXX X. XXXXXXXX
-----------------------------
Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
Title: Authorized Signatory
Attest: WESTWOOD MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
By: /S/ XXXXXX X. XXX By: /S/ XXXXX X. XXXXX
-------------------------- ----------------------------
Name: Xxxxxx X. Xxx Name: Xxxxx X. Xxxxx
Title: Vice President - Operations Title: President and COO
& Compliance
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SCHEDULE A
USAA INCOME STOCK FUND
USAA VALUE FUND
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SCHEDULE B1
FEES
FUND ACCOUNT RATE PER ANNUM OF THE AVERAGE DAILY
NET ASSETS OF THE FUND ACCOUNT
USAA Income Stock Fund 0.18%
USAA Value Fund 0.20% - for the first $250 million of
the Fund Account
0.18% - for the portion of the Fund
Account in excess of $250 million
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1 USAA and Westwood agree that each of them will treat as confidential all
facts, circumstances, and information relating to the fee schedule herein
("Confidential Information") and that they will not disclose this Information to
any third parties except (i) to their legal advisors, (ii) with the prior
written consent of the other party, (iii) as required by law, (iv) as necessary
to gain or retain regulatory approvals, or (v) if such information is in the
public domain.
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