Page ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS 1 1.1 Incorporation of Certain Definitions by Reference 8 ARTICLE II PURCHASE AND TRANSFERS, COSTS AND EXPENSES; ADDITIONAL FEE 8 2.1 Purchase and Transfer of New VMTP Shares 8 2.2 Operating Expenses; Fees 9 2.3 Additional...
Exhibit 99.5
Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Income Fund
and
Xxxxx Fargo Municipal Capital Strategies, LLC
December 10, 2013
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page | ||||||
ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS | 1 | |||||
1.1 | Incorporation of Certain Definitions by Reference | 8 | ||||
ARTICLE II PURCHASE AND TRANSFERS, COSTS AND EXPENSES; ADDITIONAL FEE | 8 | |||||
2.1 | Purchase and Transfer of New VMTP Shares | 8 | ||||
2.2 | Operating Expenses; Fees | 9 | ||||
2.3 | Additional Fee for Failure to Comply with Reporting Requirement or Registration Rights Failure | 9 | ||||
ARTICLE III CONDITIONS TO EFFECTIVE DATE | 10 | |||||
ARTICLE IV REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE FUND | 11 | |||||
4.1 | Existence | 11 | ||||
4.2 | Authorization; Contravention | 11 | ||||
4.3 | Binding Effect | 11 | ||||
4.4 | Financial Information | 12 | ||||
4.5 | Litigation | 12 | ||||
4.6 | Consents | 12 | ||||
4.7 | Incorporation of Additional Representations and Warranties | 12 | ||||
4.8 | Complete and Correct Information | 12 | ||||
4.9 | Offering Memorandum | 13 | ||||
4.10 | 1940 Act Registration | 13 | ||||
4.11 | Effective Leverage Ratio; Asset Coverage | 13 | ||||
4.12 | Investment Policies | 13 | ||||
4.13 | Credit Quality | 13 | ||||
4.14 | Due Diligence | 14 | ||||
4.15 | Certain Fees | 14 | ||||
ARTICLE V REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF XXXXX FARGO | 14 | |||||
5.1 | Existence | 14 | ||||
5.2 | Authorization; Contravention | 14 | ||||
5.3 | Binding Effect | 14 | ||||
5.4 | Own Account | 15 | ||||
5.5 | Litigation | 15 | ||||
5.6 | Consents | 15 | ||||
5.7 | Xxxxx Fargo Status | 15 | ||||
5.8 | Experience of Xxxxx Fargo | 15 | ||||
5.9 | Access to Information | 16 | ||||
5.10 | Certain Transactions | 16 | ||||
5.11 | Due Diligence | 16 | ||||
5.12 | Certain Fees | 16 | ||||
ARTICLE VI COVENANTS OF THE FUND | 16 | |||||
6.1 | Information | 16 | ||||
6.2 | No Amendment or Certain Other Actions Without Consent of Xxxxx Fargo | 19 | ||||
6.3 | Maintenance of Existence | 19 | ||||
6.4 | Tax Status of the Fund | 19 | ||||
6.5 | Payment Obligations | 19 | ||||
6.6 | Compliance With Law | 19 | ||||
6.7 | Maintenance of Approvals: Filings, Etc. | 19 | ||||
6.8 | Inspection Rights | 19 | ||||
6.9 | Litigation, Etc. | 20 | ||||
6.10 | 1940 Act Registration | 20 | ||||
6.11 | Eligible Assets | 20 |
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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6.12 | Credit Quality | 20 | ||||
6.13 | Maintenance of Effective Leverage Ratio | 21 | ||||
6.14 | Redemption and Paying Agent | 21 | ||||
6.15 | Cooperation in the Sale of New VMTP Shares | 21 | ||||
6.16 | Rating Agencies | 21 | ||||
6.17 | Securities Depository | 22 | ||||
6.18 | Future Agreements | 22 | ||||
6.19 | Use of Proceeds | 22 | ||||
ARTICLE VII MISCELLANEOUS | 22 | |||||
7.1 | Notices | 22 | ||||
7.2 | No Waivers | 23 | ||||
7.3 | Expenses and Indemnification | 24 | ||||
7.4 | Amendments and Waivers | 26 | ||||
7.5 | Successors and Assigns | 26 | ||||
7.6 | Term of this Agreement | 26 | ||||
7.7 | Governing Law | 26 | ||||
7.8 | Waiver of Jury Trial | 26 | ||||
7.9 | Counterparts | 27 | ||||
7.10 | Beneficiaries | 27 | ||||
7.11 | Entire Agreement | 27 | ||||
7.12 | Relationship to the Statement | 27 | ||||
7.13 | Confidentiality | 27 | ||||
7.14 | Severability | 28 | ||||
7.15 | Consent Rights of the Majority Participants to Certain Actions | 28 | ||||
7.16 | Disclaimer of Liability of Officers, Trustees and Beneficiaries | 29 |
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SCHEDULE 1 | Schedule-1 | |||||
EXHIBIT A: | FORMS OF OPINIONS OF COUNSEL FOR XXX XXXX | X-0 | ||||
XXXXXXX X-0: | FORM OF CORPORATE AND 1940 ACT OPINION | X-0-0 | ||||
XXXXXXX X-0: | FORM OF TAX OPINION | X-0-0 | ||||
XXXXXXX X-0: | FORM OF LOCAL COUNSEL OPINION | A-3-1 | ||||
EXHIBIT B: | ELIGIBLE ASSETS | B-1 | ||||
EXHIBIT C: | TRANSFEREE CERTIFICATE | C-1 | ||||
EXHIBIT D: | INFORMATION TO BE PROVIDED BY THE FUND | D-1 |
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VMTP PURCHASE AGREEMENT dated as of December 10, 2013 (the “Agreement”) between NUVEEN AMT-FREE MUNICIPAL INCOME FUND, a closed-end fund organized as a Massachusetts business trust (the “Fund”) and XXXXX FARGO MUNICIPAL CAPITAL STRATEGIES, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xxxxx Fargo Bank, National Association, organized and existing under the laws of Delaware, including its successors by merger or operation of law (“Xxxxx Fargo”).
WHEREAS, the Fund has authorized the issuance pursuant to the Statement (as defined below) to Xxxxx Fargo of its Variable Rate MuniFund Term Preferred Shares, Series 2016, as set forth on Schedule 1 hereto, which are subject to this Agreement (the “New VMTP Shares”);
WHEREAS, the Purchase Price (as defined below) shall be applied to redeem all of the Fund’s outstanding (i) MuniFund Term Preferred Shares, Series 2015 2.85% (the “MTP Shares”), and (ii) Variable Rate MuniFund Term Preferred Shares, Series 2014, with a liquidation preference of $100,000 per share (the “Old VMTP Shares”);
WHEREAS, as an inducement to Xxxxx Fargo to purchase the New VMTP Shares, the Fund now desires to enter into this Agreement to set forth certain representations, warranties, covenants and agreements regarding the Issuer and the New VMTP Shares; and
WHEREAS, as an inducement to the Fund to issue and sell the New VMTP Shares, Xxxxx Fargo desires to enter into this Agreement to set forth certain representations, warranties, covenants and agreements regarding Xxxxx Fargo and the New VMTP Shares.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the respective agreements contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
The following terms, as used herein, have the following meanings:
“Additional Amount Payment” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Agent Member” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Agreement” means this VMTP Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2013, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms hereof.
“Applicable Spread” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Asset Coverage” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
1
“Below Investment Grade” means any obligation, the highest rating for which from any of Xxxxx’x, S&P, Fitch and, in their absence, any other NRSRO is:
(a) lower than Baa3 or its equivalent (or unrated or with rating withdrawn), in the case of Moody’s;
(b) lower than BBB- or its equivalent (or unrated or with rating withdrawn), in the case of S&P;
(c) lower than BBB- or its equivalent (or unrated or with rating withdrawn), in the case of Fitch; and
(d) in the event that none of Moody’s, S&P or Fitch is then rating such obligation, lower than an equivalent long-term credit rating to those set forth in clauses (a) – (c), in the case of any other NRSRO; provided that any obligation that is unrated or has had its rating withdrawn by all of Xxxxx’x, S&P, Fitch and any other NRSRO shall also be “Below Investment Grade.”
“Board of Trustees” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Business Day” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“By-Laws” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Closed-End Funds” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Code” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Common Shares” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Custodian” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Date of Original Issue”, with respect to the New VMTP Shares, means the date on which the Fund initially issued such New VMTP Shares.
“Defeased Securities” means a security for which cash, cash equivalents or other eligible property has been pledged in an amount sufficient to make all required payments on such security to and including maturity (including any accelerated maturity pursuant to a permitted redemption), in accordance with the instrument governing the issuance of such security.
“Declaration” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Deposit Securities” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Derivative Contract” means (a) any and all rate swap transactions, basis swaps, credit derivative transactions, forward rate transactions, commodity swaps, commodity options, forward commodity contracts, equity or equity index swaps or options, bond or bond price or bond index swaps or options or forward bond or forward bond price or forward bond index transactions, repurchase transactions, interest rate options, forward foreign exchange transactions, cap transactions, floor transactions, collar transactions, currency swap transactions, cross-currency rate swap transactions, currency options, spot contracts, or any other similar transactions or any combination of any of the foregoing (including any options to enter into any of the foregoing), whether or not any such transaction is governed by or subject to any master agreement, and (b) any and all transactions of any kind, and the related confirmations, which are subject to the terms and conditions of, or governed by, any form of master agreement published by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc., any International Foreign Exchange Master Agreement, or any other master agreement, including any such obligations or liabilities under any such master agreement.
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“Designated Owner” means a Person in whose name New VMTP Shares of any Series are recorded as beneficial owner of such New VMTP Shares by the Securities Depository, an Agent Member or other securities intermediary on the records of such Securities Depository, Agent Member or securities intermediary, as the case may be.
“Dividend Payment Date” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Dividend Rate” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Due Diligence Request” means the due diligence request letter from Ashurst LLP dated November 13, 2013.
“Effective Date” means the Date of Original Issue of the New VMTP Shares subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions specified in Article III.
“Effective Leverage Ratio” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Electronic Means” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Eligible Assets” means the instruments listed in Exhibit B to this Agreement, which may be amended from time to time with the prior consent of Xxxxx Fargo, in which the Fund may invest.
“Failure” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.3.
“Fee Rate” means initially 0.25% per annum, which shall be subject to increase by 0.25% per annum for each Week in respect of which any Failure has occurred and is continuing.
“Fitch” means Fitch Ratings, a part of the Fitch Group, or any successor or successors thereto.
“Fitch Guidelines” means the guidelines, as may be amended from time to time, in connection with Fitch ratings of the New VMTP Shares.
“Force Majeure Exception” means any failure or delay in the performance of the Fund’s reporting obligation pursuant to Section 2.3 arising out of or caused, directly or indirectly, by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, acts of God; earthquakes; flood; terrorism; wars and other military disturbances; sabotage; epidemics; riots; loss or malfunctions of utilities, computer (hardware or software) or communication services; accidents; acts of civil or military authority and governmental action. The Fund shall use commercially reasonable efforts to commence performance of its obligations during any of the foregoing circumstances.
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“Fund” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“Holder” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
The word “including” means “including without limitation.”
“Indemnified Persons” means, Xxxxx Fargo and its affiliates and directors, officers, partners, employees, agents, representatives and control persons, entitled to indemnification by the Fund under Section 7.3.
“Investment Adviser” means Nuveen Fund Advisors, LLC, or any successor company or entity.
“Investment Grade” means:
(A) any obligation (other than the New VMTP Shares), the highest rating for which from any of Xxxxx’x, S&P, Fitch and, in their absence, any other NRSRO is:
(a) higher than Ba1 or its equivalent, in the case of Moody’s;
(b) higher than BB+ or its equivalent, in the case of S&P;
(c) higher than BB+ or its equivalent, in the case of Fitch; and
(d) in the event that none of Moody’s, S&P or Fitch is then rating such obligation, higher than an equivalent long-term credit rating to those set forth in clauses (a) – (c), in the case of any other NRSRO; and
(B) in respect of the New VMTP Shares, the rating from Fitch or Moody’s, as applicable, which is:
(a) higher than BB+ or its equivalent, in the case of Fitch, and
(b) higher than Ba1 or its equivalent, in the case of Xxxxx’x.
“Liquidation Preference”, with respect to a given number of New VMTP Shares, means $100,000 times that number.
“Low Investment Grade” means any obligation, the highest rating for which from any of Xxxxx’x, S&P and Fitch and, in their absence, any other NRSRO is:
(a) lower than A2 but higher than Ba1 or its equivalent, in the case of Moody’s;
(b) lower than A but higher than BB+ or its equivalent, in the case of S&P;
(c) lower than A but higher than BB+ or its equivalent, in the case of Fitch; and
(d) in the event that none of Moody’s, S&P or Fitch is then rating such obligation, lower than an equivalent long-term credit rating to those set forth in clauses (a) – (c), in the case of any other NRSRO.
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“Majority Participants” means the Holder(s) of more than 50% of the Outstanding New VMTP Shares.
“Managed Assets” means the Fund’s net assets, including assets attributable to any principal amount of any borrowings (including the issuance of commercial paper or notes) or preferred stock outstanding. For the avoidance of doubt, assets attributable to borrowings includes the portion of the Fund’s assets in a tender option bond trust of which the Fund owns the residual interest (without regard to the value of the residual interest to avoid double counting).
“Market Value” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Moody’s” means Xxxxx’x Investors Service, Inc., and any successor thereto.
“Moody’s Guidelines” means the guidelines, as may be amended from time to time, in connection with Moody’s ratings of the New VMTP Shares.
“MTP Shares” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“New VMTP Shares” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“1940 Act” means the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
“NRSRO” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Nuveen Persons” means the Investment Adviser or any affiliated person of the Investment Adviser (as defined in Section 2(a)(3) of the 0000 Xxx) (other than the Fund, in the case of a redemption or purchase of the New VMTP Shares which are to be cancelled within ten (10) days of purchase by the Fund).
“Offering Memorandum” means the Offering Memorandum of the Fund relating to the offering and sale of the New VMTP Shares, dated December 10, 2013, as the same may be amended, revised or supplemented from time to time.
“Old VMTP Shares” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“Optional Redemption Premium” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
The word “or” is used in its inclusive sense.
“Other Rating Agency” means each NRSRO, if any, other than Fitch or Moody’s then providing a rating for the New VMTP Shares pursuant to the request of the Fund.
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“Other Rating Agency Guidelines” means the guidelines provided by each Other Rating Agency, as may be amended from time to time, in connection with the Other Rating Agency’s rating of the New VMTP Shares.
“Outstanding” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Overconcentration Amount” means as of any date of calculation of the Effective Leverage Ratio for the Fund, an amount equal to the sum of: (i) the Market Value of the Fund’s assets constituting obligations of issuers within any single state or territory in excess of 25% of the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets; (ii) the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets rated Low Investment Grade in excess of 50% of the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets; (iii) the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets rated Below Investment Grade in excess of 20% of the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets; (iv) the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets that are unrated in excess of 10% of the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets; (v) the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets that are obligations of a single issuer and that are rated Investment Grade in excess of 12% of the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets; (vi) the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets that are obligations of a single issuer and that are rated Below Investment Grade in excess of 4% of the Market Value of the Fund’s total assets; and (vii) the Market Value of the Fund’s assets that constitute exempt interest obligations backed primarily by payments from tobacco companies (excluding such tobacco securities that are Defeased Securities) in excess of 10% of the Fund’s total assets.
“Person” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Placement Agent” means Nuveen Securities, LLC, with respect to the services to be provided pursuant to the Placement Agreement (as defined herein).
“Placement Agreement” means the placement agreement, dated as of December 10, 2013, among the Fund, the Investment Adviser and the Placement Agent, with respect to the offering and sale of the New VMTP Shares.
“Preferred Shares” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Purchase Price” means, in respect of the 1,510 New VMTP Shares sold to Xxxxx Fargo, U.S. $151,000,000.
“QIB” means a “qualified institutional buyer” as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act.
“Rate Period” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Rating Agency” means each of Fitch (if Fitch is then rating the New VMTP Shares), Moody’s (if Xxxxx’x is then rating the New VMTP Shares), and any Other Rating Agency.
“Rating Agency Guidelines” means the Fitch Guidelines, Moody’s Guidelines and any Other Rating Agency Guidelines as they exist from time to time.
6
“Redemption and Paying Agent” means State Street Bank and Trust Company, or with the prior written consent of Xxxxx Fargo (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), any successor Person, which has entered into an agreement with the Fund to act in such capacity as the Fund’s tender agent, transfer agent, registrar, dividend disbursing agent, paying agent and redemption price disbursing agent and calculation agent in connection with the payment of regularly scheduled dividends with respect to New VMTP Shares.
“Registration Rights Agreement” means the registration rights agreement entered into between the Fund and Xxxxx Fargo with respect to the New VMTP Shares.
“Registration Rights Failure” means any (i) failure by the Fund to file a Registration Statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to such of the Registrable Securities (as defined in the Registration Rights Agreement, but excluding any that are properly excluded pursuant to Section 3.3(c) or (d) of the Registration Rights Agreement) which the Fund has been properly requested to register under Section 3.1 of the Registration Rights Agreement within thirty (30) calendar days (or, if the thirtieth calendar day shall not be a Business Day, the next succeeding Business Day) of the later of (a) the date on which the holders of such Registrable Securities are required to give written notice to the Fund of their intent to register such Registrable Securities pursuant to Section 3.1 of the Registration Rights Agreement or (b) if properly exercised by the Fund, the end of any deferral period specified in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.2 of the Registration Rights Agreement, or (ii) failure by the Fund to reply to any written comments on such Registration Statement received by the Fund from the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (it being understood that the reply referenced herein shall not require the Fund to accept or agree with any comment, in whole or in part) within thirty (30) calendar days (or, if the thirtieth (30th) calendar day shall not be a Business Day, the next succeeding Business Day) of receipt thereof by the Fund.
“Related Documents” means this Agreement, the Declaration, the Statement, Registration Rights Agreement, the Placement Agreement, the New VMTP Shares and the By-Laws.
“Reporting Date” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.1(o).
“Reporting Failure” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.3.
“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, a Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC business, and any successor or successors thereto.
“Securities Act” means the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
“Securities Depository” means The Depository Trust Company, New York, New York, and any substitute for or successor to such securities depository that shall maintain a book-entry system with respect to the New VMTP Shares.
“Series” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
7
“Statement” means the Statement Establishing and Fixing the Rights and Preferences of Variable Rate MuniFund Term Preferred Shares, dated as of December 9, 2013, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof.
“Sub-Adviser” means Nuveen Asset Management, LLC, the Fund’s sub-adviser, which is a subsidiary of the Investment Adviser.
“Term Redemption Date” has the meaning set forth in the Statement.
“Voting Trust” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2(b).
“Week” means a period of seven (7) consecutive calendar days.
“Xxxxx Fargo” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.
“Withdrawing Rating Agency” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.16 of this Agreement.
“written” or “in writing” means any form of written communication, including communication by means of telex, telecopier or electronic mail.
1.1 Incorporation of Certain Definitions by Reference
Each capitalized term used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meaning provided therefor (including by incorporation by reference) in the Related Documents.
ARTICLE II
PURCHASE AND TRANSFERS, COSTS AND EXPENSES; ADDITIONAL FEE
2.1 Purchase and Transfer of New VMTP Shares
(a) On the Effective Date Xxxxx Fargo will acquire 1,510 of the New VMTP Shares sold on initial issuance in a transaction, by payment of the Purchase Price in immediately available funds to the Issuer through the account of its agent at the Securities Depository.
(b) Xxxxx Fargo agrees that it may make offers and sales of the New VMTP Shares in compliance with the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws only to (1)(i) Persons that it reasonably believes are QIBs that are registered closed-end management investment companies, the shares of which are traded on a national securities exchange (“Closed-End Funds”), banks (or affiliates of banks), insurance companies or registered open-end management investment companies, in each case, pursuant to Rule 144A or another available exemption from registration under the Securities Act, in a manner not involving any public offering within the meaning of Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act, (ii) tender option bond trusts in which all investors are Persons that Xxxxx Fargo reasonably believes are QIBs that are Closed-End Funds, banks (or affiliates of banks), insurance companies or registered open-end management investment companies or (iii) other investors with the prior written consent of the Fund and (2) unless the prior written consent of the Fund and the Majority Participants has been obtained, not Nuveen Persons if such Nuveen Persons would, after such sale and transfer, own more than 20% of the Outstanding New VMTP Shares. Any transfer in violation of the foregoing restrictions shall be void ab initio. In connection with any transfer of the New VMTP Shares, each transferee (including, in the case of a tender option bond trust, the depositor or trustee or other fiduciary thereunder acting on behalf of such transferee) will be required to deliver to the Fund a transferee certificate set forth as Exhibit C. The foregoing restrictions on transfer shall not apply to any New VMTP Shares registered under the Securities Act pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement or any subsequent transfer of such New VMTP Shares thereafter.
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2.2 Operating Expenses; Fees
(a) The Fund shall pay amounts due to be paid by it hereunder (including any incidental expenses but not including redemption or dividend payments on the New VMTP Shares) as operating expenses.
(b) On the Effective Date, the Fund shall pay up to $40,000 of the fees and expenses of Xxxxx Fargo’s outside counsel in connection with (i) the negotiation and documentation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and (ii) the initial organization and set up of a voting trust to be formed with respect to the New VMTP Shares (the “Voting Trust”).
(c) The Fund shall pay up to $16,250 annually, beginning with the calendar year ending December 31, 2013, of the fees and expenses incurred by Xxxxx Fargo in connection with ongoing maintenance and operation of the Voting Trust, until the earliest to occur of (1) the termination of the Voting Trust; (2) Xxxxx Fargo’s transfer or sale of all of the New VMTP Shares; (3) the Term Redemption Date; and (4) the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.6 hereof.
(d) With respect to the fees and expenses described in subsection (c) of this Section 2.2, the Fund will pay such fees and expenses within thirty (30) days of receipt of the associated invoice. For avoidance of doubt, the Fund’s responsibilities with respect to the fees and expenses described in subsections (b) (ii) and (c) are exclusive of each other.
2.3 Additional Fee for Failure to Comply with Reporting Requirement or Registration Rights Failure
For so long as Xxxxx Fargo is a Holder or Designated Owner of any Outstanding New VMTP Shares, if the Fund fails to comply with the reporting requirements set forth in Sections 6.1(o) and 6.1(p) (except as a result of a Force Majeure Exception) and such failure is not cured within three (3) Business Days after written notification to the Fund by Xxxxx Fargo of such failure (a “Reporting Failure”) or a Registration Rights Failure occurs, the Fund shall pay to Xxxxx Fargo on the Dividend Payment Date occurring in the month immediately following a month in which either such Reporting Failure or Registration Failure (either, a “Failure”) continues a fee calculated in respect of each Week (or portion thereof) during such month in respect of a Failure and beginning on the date of such Failure, equal to the product of (a) the Fee Rate, times (b) the aggregate average daily Liquidation Preference of the New VMTP Shares held by Xxxxx Fargo during such Week or portion thereof, times (c) the quotient of the number of days in such Week or portion thereof divided by the number of calendar days in the year in which such Week or portion thereof occurs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall (i) the fee payable pursuant to this Section 2.3 hereunder for any Week plus the Applicable Spread on the New VMTP Shares for such Week exceed an amount (exclusive of any Additional Amount Payment) equal to the product of (x) 5.95%, times (y) the aggregate average daily Liquidation Preference of the New VMTP Shares held by Xxxxx Fargo during such Week or portion thereof, times (z) the quotient of the number of days in such Week or portion thereof divided by the number of calendar days in the year in which such Week or portion thereof occurs; (ii) the fee payable pursuant to this Section 2.3 for any Week plus the amount of dividends payable at the Dividend Rate for the New VMTP Shares for such Week exceed an amount equal to the product of (aa) 15%, times (bb) the aggregate average daily Liquidation Preference of the New VMTP Shares held by Xxxxx Fargo during such Week or portion thereof, times (cc) the quotient of the number of days in such Week or portion thereof divided by the number of calendar days in the year in which such Week or portion thereof occurs; or (iii) the Fund be required to calculate or pay a fee in respect of more than one Failure in any Week.
9
ARTICLE III
CONDITIONS TO EFFECTIVE DATE
It shall be a condition to the Effective Date that each of the following conditions shall have been satisfied or waived as of such date, and upon such satisfaction or waiver, this Agreement shall be effective:
(a) this Agreement shall have been duly executed and delivered by the parties hereto;
(b) the New VMTP Shares shall have a long-term issue credit rating of AAA (or its equivalent) from Fitch and Aa1 (or its equivalent) from Moody’s on the Effective Date;
(c) receipt by Xxxxx Fargo of executed originals, or copies certified by a duly authorized officer of the Fund to be in full force and effect and not otherwise amended, of all Related Documents, as in effect on the Effective Date, and an incumbency certificate with respect to the authorized signatories thereto;
(d) receipt by Xxxxx Fargo of opinions of counsel for the Fund, substantially to the effect of Exhibit A;
(e) except as disclosed in the Offering Memorandum, there shall not be any pending or threatened material litigation (unless such pending or threatened litigation has been determined by Xxxxx Fargo to be acceptable);
(f) the fees and expenses and all other amounts payable on the Effective Date pursuant to Section 2.2(b) hereof shall have been paid;
(g) Xxxxx Fargo, in its reasonable discretion, shall be satisfied that no change in law, rule or regulation (or their interpretation or administration), in each case, shall have occurred which will adversely affect the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
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(h) there shall have been delivered to Xxxxx Fargo any additional documentation and financial information, including satisfactory responses to its due diligence inquiries, as it deems relevant; and
(i) there shall have been delivered to Xxxxx Fargo such information and copies of documents, approvals (if any) and records certified, where appropriate, of corporate proceedings as Xxxxx Fargo may have requested relating to the Fund’s entering into and performing this Agreement and the other Related Documents to which it is a party, and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.
The Fund and Xxxxx Fargo agree that consummation of the purchase and sale of the New VMTP Shares pursuant to this Agreement shall constitute acknowledgment that the foregoing conditions have been satisfied or waived.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE FUND
The representations and warranties set out in this Article IV are given hereunder by the Fund to Xxxxx Fargo as of the Effective Date.
4.1 Existence
The Fund is validly existing and in good standing as a business trust under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with full right and power to issue the New VMTP Shares, and to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and each Related Document.
4.2 Authorization; Contravention
The execution, delivery and performance by the Fund of this Agreement and each Related Document are within the Fund’s powers, have been duly authorized by all necessary action, require no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official except such as have been taken or made and do not violate or contravene, or constitute a default under, any provision of applicable law, charter, ordinance or regulation or of any material agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Fund or result in the creation or imposition of any lien or encumbrance on any asset of the Fund.
4.3 Binding Effect
Each of this Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement constitutes a valid and binding agreement of the Fund, enforceable in accordance with its terms except as (i) the enforceability thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and (ii) the availability of equitable remedies may be limited by equitable or public policy principles of general applicability, it being understood that the enforceability of indemnification provisions may be subject to limitations imposed under applicable securities laws. The New VMTP Shares have been duly authorized and, when issued upon payment therefor by Xxxxx Fargo as contemplated by this Agreement, will be validly issued by the Fund and are fully paid and, except as described in the Offering Memorandum, nonassessable, and are free of any pre-emptive or similar rights.
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4.4 Financial Information
The financial statements of the Fund as of its most recent fiscal year-end, and the auditors’ report with respect thereto, copies of which have heretofore been furnished to Xxxxx Fargo, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition of the Fund, at such date and for such period, and were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, consistently applied (except as required or permitted and disclosed). Since the most recent fiscal year-end of the Fund, there has been no material adverse change in the condition (financial or otherwise) or operations of the Fund, except as disclosed in the Offering Memorandum, other than changes in the general economy or changes affecting the market for municipal securities or investment companies generally. Any financial, budget and other projections furnished to Xxxxx Fargo were prepared in good faith on the basis of the assumptions stated therein, which assumptions were fair and reasonable in light of conditions existing at the time of delivery of such financial, budget or other projections, and represented, and as of the date of this representation, represent, the Fund’s reasonable best estimate of the Fund’s future financial performance.
4.5 Litigation
Except as disclosed in the Offering Memorandum or in a schedule delivered to Xxxxx Fargo prior to the Effective Date, no action, suit, proceeding or investigation is pending or (to the best knowledge of the Fund) overtly threatened in writing against the Fund in any court or before any governmental authority (i) in any way contesting or, if decided adversely, that would affect the validity of any Related Document or this Agreement; or (ii) in which a final adverse decision would materially adversely affect provisions for or materially adversely affect the sources for payment of Liquidation Preference of or dividends on the New VMTP Shares.
4.6 Consents
All consents, licenses, approvals, validations and authorizations of, and registrations, validations or declarations by or with, any shareholder, court or any governmental agency, bureau or agency required to be obtained in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, validity or enforceability of this Agreement and the other Related Documents (including the New VMTP Shares) by or against the Fund have been obtained and are in full force and effect.
4.7 Incorporation of Additional Representations and Warranties
On subjects not expressly covered by this Agreement, the Fund hereby makes to Xxxxx Fargo those same representations and warranties on additional subjects as were made by it in the Placement Agreement as of the date or dates indicated therein, which representations and warranties, together with the related definitions of terms therein, are hereby incorporated by reference with the same effect as if each and every such representation and warranty and definition were set forth herein in its entirety.
4.8 Complete and Correct Information
All information, reports and other papers and data with respect to the Fund furnished to Xxxxx Fargo (other than financial information and financial statements, which are covered solely by Section 4.4 of this Agreement) were, at the time the same were so furnished, complete and correct in all material respects. No fact is known to the Fund that materially and adversely affects or in the future may (so far as it can reasonably foresee) materially and adversely affect the New VMTP Shares, or the Fund’s ability to repay when due its obligations under this Agreement, any of the New VMTP Shares and the Related Documents that has not been set forth in the Offering Memorandum or in the financial information and other documents referred to in Section 4.4 or this Section 4.8 or in such information, reports, papers and data or otherwise made available or disclosed in writing to Xxxxx Fargo. Taken as a whole, the documents furnished and statements made by the Fund in connection with the negotiation, preparation or execution of this Agreement and the Related Documents do not contain untrue statements of material facts or omit to state material facts necessary to make the statements contained therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
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4.9 Offering Memorandum
The Offering Memorandum, true copies of which have heretofore been delivered to Xxxxx Fargo, when considered together with this Agreement and any information made available pursuant to the Due Diligence Request or disclosed in writing to Xxxxx Fargo prior to the Effective Date in connection with this Agreement, does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact and such Offering Memorandum does not omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
4.10 1940 Act Registration
The Fund is duly registered as a closed-end management investment company under the 1940 Act and such registration is in full force and effect.
4.11 Effective Leverage Ratio; Asset Coverage
As of the Effective Date, the Fund is in compliance with the Effective Leverage Ratio and the Asset Coverage as required by Section 2.4 of the Statement.
In connection with calculating the Effective Leverage Ratio, the Fund’s total assets and accrued liabilities reflect the positive or negative net obligations of the Fund under each Derivative Contract determined in accordance with the Fund’s valuation policies.
For purposes of calculating the Effective Leverage Ratio for purposes of the representation contained in the second preceding paragraph, any Overconcentration Amount has been subtracted from the sum determined pursuant to sub-section (ii) of the definition of Effective Leverage Ratio, set out in Section 2.4(d) of the Statement.
4.12 Investment Policies
As of the Effective Date, the Fund owns only Eligible Assets, as described in Exhibit B to this Agreement.
4.13 Credit Quality
As of the Effective Date, the Fund (1) has invested at least 80% of its Managed Assets in investment grade securities that, at the time of investment, were rated within the four highest grades (Baa or BBB or better) by at least one NRSRO or were unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Sub-Adviser; (2) has invested up to 20% of its Managed Assets in municipal securities that at the time of investment were rated below investment grade or were unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Sub-Adviser, provided that the Fund has invested no more than 10% of the Fund’s Managed Assets in municipal securities that, at the time of investment, were rated below both B3 and B- or that were unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Sub-Adviser; and (3) has no investments in non-municipal securities that, at the time of investment, were rated below Baa3 or BBB-.
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4.14 Due Diligence
The Fund understands that nothing in this Agreement, the Offering Memorandum, or any other materials presented to the Fund in connection with the purchase and sale of the New VMTP Shares constitutes legal, tax or investment advice from Xxxxx Fargo. The Fund has consulted such legal, tax and investment advisors as it, in its sole discretion, has deemed necessary or appropriate in connection with its sale of the New VMTP Shares.
4.15 Certain Fees
The Fund acknowledges that, other than the fees and expenses payable pursuant to this Agreement, and any fees or amounts payable to the Placement Agent by the Fund, no brokerage or finder’s fees or commissions are or will be payable by the Fund or, to the Fund’s knowledge, by Xxxxx Fargo to any broker, financial advisor or consultant, finder, placement agent, investment banker, bank or other Person with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
OF XXXXX FARGO
The representations and warranties set out in this Article V are given hereunder by Xxxxx Fargo to the Fund as of the Effective Date.
5.1 Existence
Xxxxx Fargo is validly existing and in good standing as a national banking association under the laws of the United States, and has full right and power to purchase the New VMTP Shares and to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and each Related Document to which it is a party.
5.2 Authorization; Contravention
The execution, delivery and performance by Xxxxx Fargo of this Agreement and each Related Document to which it is a party are within Xxxxx Fargo’s powers, have been duly authorized by all necessary action, require no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official except such as have been taken or made and do not violate or contravene, or constitute a default under, any provision of applicable law, charter, ordinance or regulation or of any material agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon Xxxxx Fargo.
5.3 Binding Effect
Each of this Agreement and, with respect to Xxxxx Fargo, the Registration Rights Agreement, constitutes a valid and binding agreement of Xxxxx Fargo, enforceable in accordance with its terms except as (i) the enforceability thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and (ii) the availability of equitable remedies may be limited by equitable or public policy principles of general applicability, it being understood that the enforceability of indemnification provisions may be subject to limitations imposed under applicable securities laws.
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5.4 Own Account
Xxxxx Fargo understands that the New VMTP Shares are “restricted securities” and have not been registered under the Securities Act or any applicable state securities laws and Xxxxx Fargo is acquiring the New VMTP Shares as principal for its own account and not with a view to or for the purpose of distributing or reselling such securities or any part thereof in violation of the Securities Act or any applicable state securities law, has no present intention of distributing any of such New VMTP Shares in violation of the Securities Act or any applicable state securities law and has no direct or indirect arrangement or understandings with any other persons to distribute or regarding the distribution of such New VMTP Shares in violation of the Securities Act or any applicable state securities law (this representation and warranty not limiting Xxxxx Fargo’s right to register the New VMTP Shares under the Securities Act pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement or otherwise transfer the New VMTP Shares in compliance with the transfer limitations of this Agreement in compliance with applicable federal and state securities laws).
5.5 Litigation
Except as disclosed in a schedule delivered to the Fund prior to the Effective Date, no action, suit, proceeding or investigation is pending or (to the best knowledge of Xxxxx Fargo) overtly threatened in writing against Xxxxx Fargo in any court or before any governmental authority in any way contesting or, if decided adversely, would affect the validity of this Agreement.
5.6 Consents
All consents, licenses, approvals, validations and authorizations of, and registrations, validations or declarations by or with, any court or any governmental agency, bureau or agency required to be obtained by Xxxxx Fargo in connection with the execution, delivery, performance, validity or enforceability of this Agreement and the purchase of the New VMTP Shares have been obtained and are in full force and effect.
5.7 Xxxxx Fargo Status
At the time Xxxxx Fargo was offered the New VMTP Shares, it was, and as of the Effective Date it is: (i) an “accredited investor” as defined in Rule 501(a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(7) or (a)(8) under the Securities Act or (ii) a “qualified institutional buyer” as defined in Rule 144A(a) under the Securities Act.
5.8 Experience of Xxxxx Fargo
Xxxxx Fargo has such knowledge, sophistication and experience in business and financial matters so as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks of the prospective investment in the New VMTP Shares, and has so evaluated the merits and risks of such investment. Xxxxx Fargo is able to bear the economic risk of an investment in the New VMTP Shares and, at the present time, is able to afford a complete loss of such investment.
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5.9 Access to Information
Xxxxx Fargo acknowledges that it has had access to and has reviewed all information, documents and records that Xxxxx Fargo has deemed necessary in order to make an informed investment decision with respect to an investment in the New VMTP Shares. Xxxxx Fargo has had the opportunity to ask representatives of the Fund certain questions and request certain additional information regarding the terms and conditions of such investment and the finances, operations, business and prospects of the Fund and has had any and all such questions and requests answered to Xxxxx Fargo’s satisfaction; and Xxxxx Fargo understands the risk and other considerations relating to such investment.
5.10 Certain Transactions
Other than consummating the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, Xxxxx Fargo has not directly or indirectly executed, nor has any Person acting on its behalf or pursuant to any understanding with Xxxxx Fargo executed, any other purchases of securities of the Fund which may be integrated with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
5.11 Due Diligence
Xxxxx Fargo acknowledges that it has sole responsibility for its own due diligence investigation and its own investment decision relating to the New VMTP Shares. Xxxxx Fargo understands that nothing in this Agreement, the Offering Memorandum, or any other materials presented to Xxxxx Fargo in connection with the purchase of the New VMTP Shares constitutes legal, tax or investment advice from the Fund. Xxxxx Fargo has consulted such legal, tax and investment advisors as it, in its sole discretion, has deemed necessary or appropriate in connection with the purchase of the New VMTP Shares.
5.12 Certain Fees
Xxxxx Fargo acknowledges that, other than the fees and expenses payable pursuant to this Agreement, and any fees or amounts payable to the Placement Agent by the Fund, no brokerage or finder’s fees or commissions are or will be payable by Xxxxx Fargo to any broker, financial advisor or consultant, finder, placement agent, investment banker, bank or other Person with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS OF THE FUND
The Fund agrees that, so long as there is any amount payable hereunder or Xxxxx Fargo owns any Outstanding New VMTP Shares:
6.1 Information
Without limitation of the other provisions of this Agreement, the Fund will deliver, or direct the Redemption and Paying Agent to deliver, to Xxxxx Fargo:
(a) as promptly as practicable after the preparation and filing thereof with the Securities and Exchange Commission, each annual and semi-annual report prepared with respect to the Fund, which delivery may be made by notice of the electronic availability of any such document on a public website;
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(b) notice of any change in (including being put on Credit Watch or Watchlist), or suspension or termination of, the ratings on the New VMTP Shares by any Rating Agency (and any corresponding change in the Rating Agency Guidelines applicable to the New VMTP Shares associated with any such change in the rating from any Rating Agency) or any change of a Rating Agency rating the New VMTP Shares as promptly as practicable upon the occurrence thereof;
(c) notice of any redemption or other repurchase of any or all of the New VMTP Shares as provided in the Statement;
(d) notice of any proposed amendments to any of the Related Documents at such time as the amendments are sent to other parties whose approval is required for such amendment and in any event not less than ten (10) Business Days prior to any proposed amendment and copies of all actual amendments thereto within five (5) Business Days of being signed or, in each case, as provided in the relevant document;
(e) notice of any missed, reduced or deferred dividend payment on the New VMTP Shares that remains uncured for more than three (3) Business Days as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than one (1) Business Day after expiration of the foregoing grace period;
(f) notice of the failure to make any deposit provided for under Section 2.5(d) of the Statement in respect of a properly noticed redemption as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than two (2) Business Days after discovery of such failure to make any such deposit;
(g) notice of non-compliance with the Rating Agency Guidelines (if applicable) for more than five (5) Business Days as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than one (1) Business Day after expiration of the foregoing grace period;
(h) notice of the distribution of net capital gains or ordinary income one (1) Business Day in advance of the Rate Period that such net capital gains or ordinary income will or may be distributed, simultaneously with the Redemption and Paying Agent providing such notice to Designated Owners or their Agent Members;
(i) notice of any change to any investment adviser or sub-adviser of the Fund within two (2) Business Days after a resignation or a notice of removal has been sent by or to any such investment adviser or sub-adviser;
(j) notice of any proxy solicitation as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than five (5) Business Days after mailing thereof;
(k) notice one (1) Business Day after the occurrence thereof of (i) the failure of the Fund to pay the amount due on any “senior securities” (as defined under the 0000 Xxx) or other debt at the time outstanding, and any period of grace or cure with respect thereto shall have expired; (ii) the failure of the Fund to pay, or admitting in writing its inability to pay, its debts generally as they become due; or (iii) the failure of the Fund to pay accumulated dividends on any additional preferred stock ranking pari passu with the New VMTP Shares, and any period of grace or cure with respect thereto shall have expired;
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(l) notice of a material breach of any representation, warranty or covenant of the Fund contained in this Agreement, the Registration Rights Agreement or the Statement, in each case, only if any officer of the Fund has actual knowledge of such breach as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than five (5) days after knowledge of any officer of the Fund or the Investment Adviser thereof;
(m) notice of any litigation, administrative proceeding or business development which may reasonably be expected to materially adversely affect the Fund’s business, properties or affairs or the ability of the Fund to perform its obligations as set forth hereunder or under any of the Related Documents to which it is a party as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than ten (10) days after knowledge of any officer of the Fund or the Investment Adviser thereof;
(n) upon request of Xxxxx Fargo, copies of any material that the Fund has delivered to each Rating Agency which is then rating New VMTP Shares at such times and containing such information as set forth in the respective Rating Agency Guidelines as soon as reasonably practicable after such material has been sent;
(o) on the fifteenth (15th) and last day of each month (each a “Reporting Date”), a report of portfolio holdings of the Fund as of the end of the Business Day immediately preceding each such Reporting Date, prepared on a basis substantially consistent with the periodic reports of portfolio holdings of the Fund prepared for financial reporting purposes;
(p) on the fifteenth (15th) and last day of each month, the information set forth in Exhibit D to this Agreement and a calculation of the Effective Leverage Ratio and the Asset Coverage of the Fund as of the close of business of each Business Day since the date of the last report issued pursuant to this Section 6.1(p); and upon the failure of the Fund to maintain Asset Coverage as provided in Section 2.4(a) of the Statement or the Effective Leverage Ratio as required by Section 2.4(c) of the Statement, notice of such failure within one (1) Business Day of the occurrence thereof; and
(q) from time to time such additional information regarding the financial position, results of operations or prospects of the Fund as Xxxxx Fargo may reasonably request including, without limitation, copies of all offering memoranda or other offering material with respect to the sale of any securities of the Fund as soon as reasonably practicable, but in no event later than ten (10) days after a request.
All information, reports and other papers, documentation and data with respect to the Fund furnished to Xxxxx Fargo pursuant to this Section 6.1 shall be, at the time the same are so furnished, complete and correct in all material respects and, when considered with all other material delivered to Xxxxx Fargo under this Agreement, or made available pursuant to the Due Diligence Request, will not contain untrue statements of material facts or omit to state material facts necessary to make the statements contained therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. For purposes of Sections 6.1(o) and 6.1(p) , references to any day that is not a Business Day shall mean the next preceding Business Day.
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6.2 No Amendment or Certain Other Actions Without Consent of Xxxxx Fargo
To the extent that Xxxxx Fargo is the Holder or Designated Owner of 100% of the New VMTP Shares, without the prior written consent of Xxxxx Fargo, the Fund will not agree to, consent to or permit any amendment, supplement, modification or repeal of the Statement or any provision therein, nor waive any provision thereof.
6.3 Maintenance of Existence
The Fund shall continue to maintain its existence as a business trust under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with full right and power to issue the New VMTP Shares and to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and each Related Document.
6.4 Tax Status of the Fund
The Fund will qualify as a Regulated Investment Company within the meaning of Section 851(a) of the Code and the dividends made with respect to the New VMTP Shares will qualify as “exempt interest dividends” to the extent they are reported as such by the Fund and permitted by Section 852(b)(5)(A) of the Code.
6.5 Payment Obligations
The Fund shall promptly pay or cause to be paid all amounts payable by it hereunder and under the Related Documents, according to the terms hereof and thereof, shall take such actions as may be necessary to include all payments hereunder and thereunder which are subject to appropriation in its budget and make full appropriations related thereto, and shall duly perform each of its obligations under this Agreement and the Related Documents. All payments of any sums due hereunder shall be made in the amounts required hereunder without any reduction or setoff, notwithstanding the assertion of any right of recoupment or setoff or of any counterclaim by the Fund.
6.6 Compliance With Law
The Fund shall comply with all laws, ordinances, orders, rules and regulations that may be applicable to it if the failure to comply could have a material adverse effect on the Fund’s ability to pay when due its obligations under this Agreement, any of the New VMTP Shares, or any of the other Related Documents.
6.7 Maintenance of Approvals: Filings, Etc.
The Fund shall at all times maintain in effect, renew and comply with all the terms and conditions of all consents, filings, licenses, approvals and authorizations as may be necessary under any applicable law or regulation for its execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the other Related Documents to which it is a party.
6.8 Inspection Rights
The Fund shall, at any reasonable time and from time to time, upon reasonable notice, permit Xxxxx Fargo or any agents or representatives thereof, at the Fund’s expense, to examine and make copies of the records and books of account related to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, to visit its properties and to discuss its affairs, finances and accounts with any of its officers and independent accountants, to the extent permitted by law, provided, however, that the Fund shall not be required to pay for more than one inspection per fiscal year. The Fund will not unreasonably withhold its authorization for its independent accountants to discuss its affairs, finances and accounts with Xxxxx Fargo.
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All information, reports and other papers, documentation and data with respect to the Fund furnished to Xxxxx Fargo pursuant to this Section 6.8 shall be, at the time the same are so furnished, complete and correct in all material respects and, when considered with all other material delivered to Xxxxx Fargo under this Agreement, or made available pursuant to the Due Diligence Request, will not contain untrue statements of material facts or omit to state material facts necessary to make the statements contained therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
6.9 Litigation, Etc.
The Fund shall give prompt notice in writing to Xxxxx Fargo of any litigation, administrative proceeding or business development which is reasonably expected to materially adversely affect its business, properties or affairs or to impair the ability of the Fund to perform its obligations as set forth hereunder or under any of the Related Documents.
All information, reports and other papers, documentation and data with respect to the Fund furnished to Xxxxx Fargo pursuant to this Section 6.9 shall be, at the time the same are so furnished, complete and correct in all material respects and, when considered with all other material delivered to Xxxxx Fargo under this Agreement, or made available pursuant to the Due Diligence Request, will not contain untrue statements of material facts or omit to state material facts necessary to make the statements contained therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
6.10 1940 Act Registration
The Fund shall maintain its valid registration as a registered closed-end company under the 1940 Act in full force and effect.
6.11 Eligible Assets
The Fund shall only make investments in the Eligible Assets listed on Exhibit B, as amended from time to time with the prior written consent of Xxxxx Fargo, in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives and the investment policies set forth in the Offering Memorandum.
6.12 Credit Quality
Unless the Fund receives the prior written consent of Xxxxx Fargo (such consent to be determined in Xxxxx Fargo’s good faith discretion), the Fund (1) will invest at least 80% of its Managed Assets in investment grade securities that, at the time of investment, are rated within the four highest grades (Baa (or its equivalent) or BBB (or its equivalent) or better) by at least one NRSRO or are unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Sub-Adviser; (2) may invest up to 20% of its Managed Assets in municipal securities that, at the time of investment, are rated below investment grade or are unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Sub-Adviser, provided that the Fund may invest no more than 10% of the Fund’s Managed Assets in municipal securities that, at the time of investment, are rated below both B3 (or its equivalent) and B- (or its equivalent) or that are unrated but judged to be of comparable quality by the Sub-Adviser; and (3) will not invest in any non-municipal securities that, at the time of investment, are rated below Baa3 (or its equivalent) or BBB- (or its equivalent).
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6.13 Maintenance of Effective Leverage Ratio
For so long as the Fund fails to provide the information required under Sections 6.1(o) and 6.1(p), Xxxxx Fargo shall calculate, for purposes of Section 2.5(b)(ii)(A)(y) of the Statement, the Effective Leverage Ratio using the most recently received information required to be delivered pursuant to Sections 6.1(o) and 6.1(p) and the market values of securities determined by the third-party pricing service which provided the market values to the Fund on the most recent date that information was properly provided by the Fund pursuant to the requirements of Section 6.1(o) and 6.1(p). The Effective Leverage Ratio as calculated by Xxxxx Fargo in such instances shall be binding on the Fund. If required, the Fund shall restore the Effective Leverage Ratio as provided in the Statement. For purposes of calculating the Effective Leverage Ratio, any Overconcentration Amount shall be subtracted from the sum determined pursuant to sub-section (ii) of the definition of Effective Leverage Ratio, set out in Section 2.4(d) of the Statement.
In connection with calculating the Effective Leverage Ratio, the Fund’s total assets and accrued liabilities shall reflect the positive or negative net obligations of the Fund under each Derivative Contract determined in accordance with the Fund’s valuation policies.
6.14 Redemption and Paying Agent
The Fund shall use its commercially reasonable best efforts to engage at all times a Redemption and Paying Agent to perform the duties to be performed by the Redemption and Paying Agent specified herein and in the Statement.
6.15 Cooperation in the Sale of New VMTP Shares
The Fund will comply with reasonable due diligence requests from Xxxxx Fargo in connection with any proposed sale by Xxxxx Fargo of the New VMTP Shares in a transaction exempt from registration and otherwise permitted by this Agreement, provided that the Fund need not comply with any such request more than twice in any period of twelve consecutive months and any prospective purchaser of the New VMTP Shares from Xxxxx Fargo shall execute a confidentiality agreement substantially to the effect of Section 7.13 hereof prior to receiving any due diligence materials provided pursuant to such due diligence request.
All information, reports and other papers, documentation and data with respect to the Fund furnished to Xxxxx Fargo pursuant to this Section 6.15 shall be, at the time the same are so furnished, complete and correct in all material respects and, when considered with all other material delivered to Xxxxx Fargo under this Agreement, or made available pursuant to the Due Diligence Request, will not contain untrue statements of material facts or omit to state material facts necessary to make the statements contained therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
6.16 Rating Agencies
In the event that the New VMTP Shares are rated by a single Rating Agency and such Rating Agency withdraws the credit rating (the “Withdrawing Rating Agency”) required to be maintained with respect to the New VMTP Shares pursuant to Section 2.7 of the Statement due to the Withdrawing Rating Agency’s ceasing to rate tax-exempt closed-end management investment companies generally and such withdrawal is continuing:
(a) | the Fund shall use commercially reasonable efforts to secure a rating with respect to the New VMTP Shares from an Other Rating Agency; |
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(b) | the Applicable Spread will be calculated using the Applicable Percentage corresponding to the latest Withdrawing Rating Agency’s rating with respect to the New VMTP Shares; and |
(c) | in the event that the Fund is unable to secure another rating on the New VMTP Shares from an Other Rating Agency, the Applicable Spread will be calculated in accordance with Section 6.16(b) above. |
6.17 Securities Depository
The Fund agrees to maintain settlement of the New VMTP Shares in global book entry form through the Securities Depository or such other clearance system acceptable to Xxxxx Fargo.
6.18 Future Agreements
The Fund shall promptly, at the request of Xxxxx Fargo, enter into an agreement, on terms mutually satisfactory to the Fund and Xxxxx Fargo, of the type specified in Section 12(d)(1)(E)(iii) of the 1940 Act, so as to permit Xxxxx Fargo or any transferee satisfying the requirements set forth in Section 2.1 to rely on the provisions of Section 12(d)(1)(E)(iii) of the 1940 Act.
6.19 Use of Proceeds
The Fund shall use the net proceeds from the sale of New VMTP Shares to redeem all outstanding MTP Shares and Old VMTP Shares within 45 days of the Effective Date and pending such redemption the Fund shall invest such net proceeds in Deposit Securities. Within two (2) Business Days of the Effective Date, the Fund shall deposit with the Redemption and Paying Agent an amount of Deposit Securities sufficient to redeem the MTP Shares and Old VMTP Shares. Any remaining net proceeds will be invested in accordance with the Fund’s investment policies.
ARTICLE VII
MISCELLANEOUS
7.1 Notices
All notices, requests and other communications to any party hereunder shall be in writing (including telecopy, electronic mail or similar writing), except in the case of notices and other communications permitted to be given by telephone, and shall be given to such party at its address or telecopy number or email address set forth below or such other address or telecopy number or email address as such party may hereafter specify for the purpose by notice to the other parties. Each such notice, request or other communication shall be effective when delivered at the address specified in this Section; provided that notices to Xxxxx Fargo under Section 6.1 shall not be effective until received in writing; except as otherwise specified, notices under Section 6.1 may be given by telephone to Xxxxx Fargo at the telephone numbers listed below (or such other telephone numbers as may be designated by Xxxxx Fargo, by written notice to the Fund, to receive such notice), immediately confirmed in writing, including by fax or electronic mail. The notice address for each party is specified below:
(a) if to the Fund:
Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Income Fund
000 X. Xxxxxx Xxxxx; Xxxxx 0000
Xxxxxxx, XX 00000
Attention: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxxx, Chief Administrative Officer
Telephone: (000) 000-0000
Facsimile: (000) 000-0000
Email: xxxx.xxxxxxxxx@xxxxxx.xxx
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(b) | if to Xxxxx Fargo: |
Xxxxx Fargo Municipal Capital Strategies, LLC
c/o Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
000 Xxxx Xxxxxx
Xxx Xxxx, Xxx Xxxx 00000
Attention: Xxxx Xxxxxx
Telephone: (000) 000-0000
Facsimile: (000) 000-0000
Email: xxxx.xxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx
Wire Instructions:
Bank Routing Number: 000000000
Bank Name: Xxxxx Fargo Bank, N.A.
Account Number: 00029162812407
Attention: ATTN Xxx Xxxx—ARS Dividend
Reference: CUSIP 670657 881
7.2 No Waivers
(a) The obligations of the Fund hereunder shall not in any way be modified or limited by reference to any other document, instrument or agreement (including, without limitation, the New VMTP Shares or any other Related Document). The rights of Xxxxx Fargo hereunder are separate from and in addition to any rights that any Holder or Designated Owner of any New VMTP Share may have under the terms of such New VMTP Share or any Related Document or otherwise.
(b) No failure or delay by the Fund or Xxxxx Fargo in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder or under the New VMTP Shares shall operate as a waiver thereof nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or privilege. No failure or delay by the Fund or Xxxxx Fargo in exercising any right, power or privilege under or in respect of the New VMTP Shares or any other Related Document shall affect the rights, powers or privileges of the Fund or Xxxxx Fargo hereunder or shall operate as a limitation or waiver thereof. The rights and remedies herein provided shall be cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.
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7.3 Expenses and Indemnification
(a) The Fund shall upon demand either, as Xxxxx Fargo may require, pay in the first instance or reimburse Xxxxx Fargo (to the extent that payments for the following items are not made under the other provisions hereof) for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including reasonable fees and costs of outside counsel, and reasonable consulting, accounting, appraisal, investment banking, and similar professional fees and charges) incurred by Xxxxx Fargo in connection with the enforcement of or preservation of rights under this Agreement. The Fund shall not be responsible under this Section 7.3(a) for the fees and costs of more than one law firm in any one jurisdiction with respect to any one proceeding or set of related proceedings for Xxxxx Fargo, unless Xxxxx Fargo shall have reasonably concluded that there are legal defenses available to it that are different from or additional to those available to the Fund.
(b) The Fund agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Xxxxx Fargo and each other Indemnified Person of Xxxxx Fargo from and against any losses, claims, damages, liabilities and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them (including reasonable fees and disbursements of outside counsel) which are related to or arise out of (A) any material misstatements or any material statements omitted to be made in the Offering Memorandum (including any documents incorporated by reference therein) or (B) any claim by any third party relating to the offering or sale of the New VMTP Shares by Xxxxx Fargo (x) that Xxxxx Fargo aided and abetted a breach of a fiduciary duty by the Fund or any director or officer of the Fund or (y) arising from any act by the Fund or any director or officer of the Fund (excluding in any such case clauses (A) or (B), claims, losses, liabilities or expenses arising out of or resulting from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of any Indemnified Party as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction).
(c) The indemnifying party also agrees that if any indemnification sought by an Indemnified Person pursuant to this Agreement is unavailable or insufficient, for any reason, to hold harmless the Indemnified Persons of such other party in respect of any losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof), then the indemnifying party, in order to provide for just and equitable contribution, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such Indemnified Person as a result of such losses, claims, liabilities, damages and expenses (or actions in respect thereof) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect (i) the relative benefits received by the Fund on the one hand and Xxxxx Fargo on the other hand from the actual or proposed transactions giving rise to or contemplated by this Agreement or (ii) if the allocation provided by the foregoing clause (i) is not permitted by applicable law, not only such relative benefits but also the relative fault of the Fund on the one hand and Xxxxx Fargo on the other, in connection with the statements or omissions or alleged statements or omissions that resulted in such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (or actions in respect thereof), as well as any other relevant equitable considerations; provided that in any event the aggregate contribution of Xxxxx Fargo and its Indemnified Persons to all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses with respect to which contributions are available hereunder will not exceed the amount of dividends actually received by Xxxxx Fargo from the Fund pursuant to the proposed transactions giving rise to this Agreement. For purposes of determining the relative benefits to the Fund on the one hand, and Xxxxx Fargo on the other, under the proposed transactions giving rise to or contemplated by this Agreement, such benefits shall be deemed to be in the same proportion as (i) the total value received or proposed to be received by the Fund pursuant to the transactions, whether or not consummated bears to (ii) the dividends and Optional Redemption Premium paid by the Fund to Xxxxx Fargo in connection with the proposed transactions giving rise to or contemplated by this Agreement. The relative fault of the parties shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the actions taken or omitted to be taken in connection with the proposed transactions contemplated by this Agreement (including any misstatement of a material fact or the omission to state a material fact) relates to information supplied by the Fund on the one hand, or Xxxxx Fargo on the other, the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such action, misstatement or alleged omission, and any other equitable considerations appropriate in the circumstances. No person found liable for a fraudulent misrepresentation shall be entitled to contribution from any person who is not also found liable for such fraudulent misrepresentation. The indemnity, reimbursement and contribution obligations under this Agreement shall be in addition to any rights that any Indemnified Person may have at common law or otherwise.
24
(d) If any action, suit, proceeding or investigation is commenced, as to which an Indemnified Person proposes to demand indemnification, it shall notify the indemnifying party with reasonable promptness; provided, however, that any failure by such Indemnified Person to notify the indemnifying party shall not relieve the indemnifying party from its obligations hereunder (except to the extent that the indemnifying party is materially prejudiced by such failure to promptly notify). The indemnifying party shall be entitled to assume the defense of any such action, suit, proceeding or investigation, including the employment of counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Person. The Indemnified Person shall have the right to counsel of its own choice to represent it, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of such Indemnified Person unless (i) the indemnifying party has failed promptly to assume the defense and employ counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Person in accordance with the preceding sentence or (ii) the Indemnified Person shall have been advised by counsel that there exist actual or potential conflicting interests between the indemnifying party and such Indemnified Person, including situations in which one or more legal defenses may be available to such Indemnified Person that are different from or additional to those available to the indemnifying party; provided, however, that the indemnifying party shall not, in connection with any one such action or proceeding or separate but substantially similar actions or proceedings arising out of the same general allegations be liable for fees and expenses of more than one separate firm of attorneys at any time for all Indemnified Persons of such other party; and such counsel shall, to the extent consistent with its professional responsibilities, cooperate with the indemnifying party and any counsel designated by the indemnifying party.
Each party further agrees that it will not, without the prior written consent of the other parties (the consent of a party shall not be required to the extent such party is neither requesting indemnification nor being requested to provide indemnification), settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment in any pending or threatened claim, action, suit or proceeding in respect of which indemnification may be sought hereunder (whether or not any Indemnified Person is an actual or potential party to such claim, action, suit or proceeding) unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an unconditional release of each other Indemnified Person from all liability and obligations arising therefrom. The Fund further agrees that none of Xxxxx Fargo, nor any of its affiliates, nor any directors, officers, partners, employees, agents, representatives or control persons of Xxxxx Fargo or any of its affiliates shall have any liability to the Fund arising out of or in connection with the proposed transactions giving rise to or contemplated by this Agreement except for such liability for losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses to the extent they have resulted from Xxxxx Fargo’s or its affiliates’ gross negligence or willful misconduct. No Indemnified Person shall be responsible or liable to the indemnifying party or any other person for consequential, special or punitive damages which may be alleged as a result of this Agreement.
25
(e) Nothing in this Section 7.3 is intended to limit any party’s obligations contained in other parts of this Agreement or the New VMTP Shares.
7.4 Amendments and Waivers
Any provision of this Agreement may be amended or waived if, but only if, such amendment or waiver is in writing and is signed by the Fund and Xxxxx Fargo; provided, that the Fund shall not make or agree to any amendment or waiver that affects any preference, right or power of the New VMTP Shares or the Holders or Designated Owners thereof except as permitted under the Declaration or the Statement.
7.5 Successors and Assigns
The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns. Neither the Fund nor Xxxxx Fargo may assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the other party (other than by operation of law), except that any transferee satisfying the requirements set forth in Section 2.1 and which has executed and delivered to the Fund the transferee certificate attached as Exhibit C shall, prior to registration of any New VMTP Shares under the Securities Act, have the rights set forth in Section 7.15 and shall, so long as such transferee has provided a means for the Fund to transmit such information electronically to it, be entitled to receive the information delivered pursuant to Sections 6.1(o) and 6.1(p) and such transferees shall be deemed a party to this Agreement for purposes of Sections 6.1(o), 6.1(p) and the confidentiality provisions herein as specified in the transferee certificate. Any assignment without such prior written consent shall be void.
7.6 Term of this Agreement
This Agreement shall terminate on the earlier of (x) the registration of any Outstanding New VMTP Shares under the Securities Act and (y) payment in full of all amounts then due and owing to Xxxxx Fargo hereunder and under the New VMTP Shares; and notwithstanding any termination of this Agreement, Section 7.3, Section 7.7, Section 7.8, Section 7.10, Section 7.11, the second sentence of Section 7.12, and Section 7.13 (for a period of two years after the termination of this Agreement) shall remain in full force and effect.
7.7 Governing Law
This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the domestic law of the State of New York.
THE PARTIES HERETO HEREBY SUBMIT TO THE NON-EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF THE FEDERAL AND NEW YORK STATE COURTS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK IN CONNECTION WITH ANY DISPUTE RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY MATTERS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY.
7.8 Waiver of Jury Trial
The Fund and Xxxxx Fargo hereby waive trial by jury in any action, proceeding or counterclaim brought by either of the parties hereto against any other on any matters whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Agreement.
26
7.9 Counterparts
This Agreement may be signed in counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument. Any counterpart or other signature delivered by facsimile or by electronic mail shall be deemed for all purposes as being a good and valid execution and delivery of this Agreement by that party.
7.10 Beneficiaries
This Agreement is not intended and shall not be construed to confer upon any Person other than the parties hereto and their successors and permitted assigns any rights or remedies hereunder.
7.11 Entire Agreement
Except as set forth in Section 7.5, this Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the matters set forth herein and shall supersede any and all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof.
7.12 Relationship to the Statement
The Fund and Xxxxx Fargo agree that the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in this Agreement are in addition to the terms and provisions set forth in the Statement. As between the Fund and Xxxxx Fargo, the Fund and Xxxxx Fargo agree that Section 2.10(d) of the Statement shall have no effect for so long as none of the New VMTP Shares have been registered under the Securities Act.
7.13 Confidentiality
Any information delivered by a party to this Agreement to any other party pursuant to this Agreement, including, without limitation, pursuant to Section 6.1 in the case of the Fund (collectively, the “Information”), shall not be disclosed by such other party (or its employees, representatives or agents) to any person or entity (except as required by law or to such of its agents and advisors as need to know and agree to be bound by the provisions of this paragraph) without the prior written consent of the party delivering the Information.
The obligations of confidentiality set out in the preceding paragraph do not extend to Information that is or becomes available to the public or is or becomes available to the party receiving the Information on a non-confidential basis or is disclosed to Holders or Designated Owners or potential Holders or Designated Owners, in each case in their capacity as such, in the offering documents of the Fund, in notices to Holders or Designated Owners pursuant to one or more of the Related Documents or pursuant to the Fund’s or Xxxxx Fargo’s informational obligations under Rule 144A(d)(4) or other reporting obligation of the Securities and Exchange Commission; or is required or requested to be disclosed (i) by a regulatory agency or in connection with an examination of either party or its representatives by regulatory authorities, (ii) pursuant to subpoena or other court process, (iii) at the express direction of any other authorized government agency, (iv) to its independent attorneys or auditors, (v) as required by any NRSRO, (vi) as otherwise required by law or regulation, (vii) otherwise in connection with the enforcement of this Agreement, (viii) in connection with the exercise of any remedies hereunder or in any suit, action or proceeding relating to this Agreement and the enforcement of rights hereunder, (ix) subject to an agreement containing provisions substantially similar to those of this Section 7.13, and (x) subject to an agreement containing provisions substantially similar to those of this Section 7.13 and with the prior written consent of the other party to this Agreement, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, to any actual or prospective counterparty in any swap or derivative transactions.
27
7.14 Severability
In case any provision of this Agreement shall be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby so long as the intent of the Parties to this Agreement shall be preserved.
7.15 Consent Rights of the Majority Participants to Certain Actions
For so long as none of the New VMTP Shares have been registered under the Securities Act, without the affirmative vote or consent of the Majority Participants, neither the Fund nor the Board of Trustees will take or authorize the taking of any of actions set forth under clauses (a) through (e) of this Section 7.15:
(a) The termination by the Fund of any Rating Agency or the selection of any Other Rating Agency, either in replacement for a Rating Agency or as an additional Rating Agency with respect to the New VMTP Shares.
(b) The Fund issuing or suffering to exist any “senior security” (as defined in the 1940 Act as of the date hereof or, in the event such definition shall be amended, with such changes to the definition thereof as consented to by the Majority Participants) other than the New VMTP Shares issued and sold pursuant to this Agreement or indebtedness for borrowed money of the Fund, except (i) borrowings for temporary purposes in an amount not to exceed 5% of the assets of the Fund, which borrowings are repaid within sixty (60) days, (ii) the issuance of senior securities or the incurrence of indebtedness for borrowed money, the proceeds of which will be used for the redemption or repurchase of the New VMTP Shares and costs incurred in connection therewith, and (iii) as may be otherwise approved or consented to by the Majority Participants, provided that if any such “senior security” is created or incurred by the Fund it shall not require the approval of the Majority Participants if the Fund redeems, retires or terminates such “senior security” or otherwise cures such non-compliance within five (5) Business Days of receiving notice of the existence thereof.
(c) The Fund (i) creating or incurring or suffering to be incurred or to exist any lien on any other funds, accounts or other property held under the Declaration, except as permitted by the Declaration or (ii) except for any lien for the benefit of the Custodian of the Fund on the assets of the Fund held by such Custodian, pledging any portfolio security to secure any senior securities or other liabilities to be incurred by the Fund (including under any tender option bond trust of which the residual floating rate trust certificates will be owned by the Fund) unless the aggregate securities pledged pursuant to all such pledges or security arrangements are valued for purposes of such security arrangements in an aggregate amount not less than 70% of their aggregate market value (determined by an independent third party pricing service) for purposes of determining the value of the collateral required to be posted or otherwise provided under all such security arrangements; provided, that the required collateral value under such security arrangements shall not exceed the market value of the exposure of each secured party to the credit of the Fund; and provided further, that it shall not require the approval of the Majority Participants if any pledge or security interest in violation of the preceding sentence is created or incurred by the Fund and the Fund cures such violation within five Business Days of receiving notice of the existence thereof.
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(d) Approval of any amendment, alteration or repeal of any provision of the Declaration or the Statement, whether by merger, consolidation, reorganization or otherwise, that would affect any preference, right or power of the New VMTP Shares differentially from the rights of the holders of the Common Shares; or
(e) Approval of any action to be taken pursuant to Sections 2.5(g) and 2.15 of the Statement (other than the issuance of additional series of Variable Rate MuniFund Term Preferred Shares or other Preferred Shares, the proceeds of which will be used for the redemption or repurchase of the New VMTP Shares and costs incurred in connection therewith).
In addition, if the Board of Trustees shall designate a replacement to the S&P Municipal Bond 7 Day High Grade Rate Index pursuant to the definition of SIFMA Municipal Swap Index contained in the Statement, the Fund shall notify the Holders of the New VMTP Shares within five (5) Business Days of such designation, and if within thirty (30) days of such notice the Majority Participants shall have objected in writing to the designated replacement, the Board of Trustees shall designate a replacement to such index as agreed to between the Fund and the Majority Participants. In such event, the replacement index initially approved by the Board of Trustees shall be the index in effect for purposes of the Statement until a new index has been approved by the Fund and the Majority Participants.
7.16 Disclaimer of Liability of Officers, Trustees and Beneficiaries
A copy of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust of the Fund is on file with the Secretary of the Commonwealth of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and notice hereby is given that this Agreement is executed on behalf of the Fund by an officer of the Fund in his or her capacity as an officer of the Fund and not individually and that the obligations under or arising out of this Agreement are not binding upon any of the Trustees, officers or shareholders individually but are binding only upon the assets and properties of the Fund. All persons extending credit to, contracting with or having a claim against the Fund must look solely to the Fund’s assets and property for the enforcement of any claims against the Fund as none of the Fund’s officers, agents or shareholders, whether past, present or future, assume any personal liability for obligations entered on behalf of the Fund.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed by their respective authorized officers as of the day and year first above written.
NUVEEN AMT-FREE MUNICIPAL INCOME FUND | ||
By: | /s/ Xxxxx X. XxXxxxxx | |
Name: Xxxxx X. XxXxxxxx | ||
Title: Vice President & Secretary |
XXXXX FARGO MUNICIPAL CAPITAL STRATEGIES, LLC | ||
By: | /s/ Xxxx Xxxxxx | |
Name: Xxxx Xxxxxx | ||
Title: President |
[Signature Page to VMTP Purchase Agreement]
SCHEDULE 1
Description of Shares: | 1,510 Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Income Fund Variable Rate MuniFund Term Preferred Shares, Series 2016, with a Liquidation Preference of $100,000 per share. |
Schedule-1
EXHIBIT A
FORMS OF OPINIONS OF COUNSEL FOR THE FUND
[ON FILE]
A-1
EXHIBIT A-1
FORM OF CORPORATE AND 1940 ACT OPINION
[ON FILE]
X-0-0
XXXXXXX X-0
FORM OF TAX OPINION
[ON FILE]
X-0-0
XXXXXXX X-0
FORM OF LOCAL COUNSEL OPINION
[ON FILE]
A-3-1
EXHIBIT B
ELIGIBLE ASSETS
On the Effective Date and at all times thereafter:
1. All assets in the Fund consist of “Eligible Assets”, defined to consist only of the following as of the time of investment:
A. | Debt obligations |
i. “Municipal securities,” defined as obligations of a State, the District of Columbia, a U.S. territory, or a political subdivision thereof and including general obligations, limited obligation bonds, revenue bonds, and obligations that satisfy the requirements of section 142(b)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 issued by or on behalf of any State, the District of Columbia, any U.S. territory or any political subdivision thereof, including any municipal corporate instrumentality of 1 or more States, or any public agency or authority of any State, the District of Columbia, any U.S. territory or any political subdivision thereof, including obligations of any of the foregoing types related to financing a 501(c)(3) organization. The purchase of any municipal security will be based upon the Investment Adviser’s assessment of an asset’s relative value in terms of current yield, price, credit quality, and future prospects; and the Investment Adviser will monitor the creditworthiness of the Fund’s portfolio investments and analyze economic, political and demographic trends affecting the markets for such assets. Eligible Assets shall include any municipal securities that at the time of purchase are paying scheduled principal and interest or if at the time of purchase are in payment default, then in the sole judgment of the Investment Adviser are expected to produce payments of principal and interest whose present value exceeds the purchase price.
ii. Debt obligations of the United States.
iii. Debt obligations issued, insured, or guaranteed by a department or an agency of the U.S. Government, if the obligation, insurance, or guarantee commits the full faith and credit of the United States for the repayment of the obligation.
iv. Debt obligations of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority guaranteed by the Secretary of Transportation under Section 9 of the National Capital Transportation Act of 1969.
v. Debt obligations of the Federal Home Loan Banks.
vi. Debt obligations, participations or other instruments of or issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association or the Government National Mortgage Association.
vii. Debt obligations which are or ever have been sold by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation pursuant to sections 305 or 306 of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act.
viii. Debt obligations of any agency named in 12 U.S.C. § 24(Seventh) as eligible to issue obligations that a national bank may underwrite, deal in, purchase and sell for the bank’s own account, including qualified Canadian government obligations.
B-1
ix. Debt obligations of issuers other than those specified in (i) through (viii) above that are “investment grade” and that are “marketable.” For these purposes, an obligation is:
(aa) | “marketable” if: |
• | it is registered under the Securities Act; |
• | it is offered and sold pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 144A; 17 CFR 230.144A; or |
• | it can be sold with reasonable promptness at a price that corresponds reasonably to its fair value; and |
(bb) | “investment grade” if: |
• | the obligor had adequate capacity to meet financial commitments under the security for the projected life of the asset or exposure, which capacity is presumed if the risk of default by the obligor is low and the full and timely repayment of principal and interest is expected. |
x. Certificates or other securities evidencing ownership interests in a municipal bond trust structure (generally referred to as a tender option bond structure) that invests in (a) debt obligations of the types described in (i) above or (b) depository receipts reflecting ownership interests in accounts holding debt obligations of the types described in (i) above.
xi. The bonds, notes and other debt securities referenced in (A) above shall be defined as Eligible Assets. An asset shall not lose its status as an Eligible Asset solely by virtue of the fact that:
• | it provides for repayment of principal and interest in any form including fixed and floating rate, zero interest, capital appreciation, discount, leases, and payment in kind; or |
• | it is for long-term or short-term financing purposes. |
B. | Derivatives |
i. Interest rate derivatives;
ii. Swaps, futures, forwards, structured notes, options and swaptions related to Eligible Assets or on an index related to Eligible Assets; or
iii. Credit default swaps.
C. | Other Assets |
i. Shares of other investment companies (open- or closed-end funds and ETFs) the assets of which consist entirely of Eligible Assets based on the Investment Adviser’s assessment of the assets of each such investment company taking into account the investment company’s most recent publicly available schedule of investments and publicly disclosed investment policies.
B-2
ii. Cash.
iii. Repurchase agreements on assets described in A above.
iv. Taxable fixed-income securities, for the purpose of acquiring control of an issuer whose municipal bonds (a) the Fund already owns and (b) have deteriorated or are expected shortly to deteriorate that such investment should enable the Fund to better maximize its existing investment in such issuer, provided that the Fund may invest no more than 0.5% of its total assets in such securities.
D. | Other assets, upon written agreement of Xxxxx Fargo that such assets are eligible for purchase by Xxxxx Fargo. |
2. The Investment Adviser has instituted policies and procedures that it believes are sufficient to ensure that the Fund and it comply with the representations, warranties and covenants contained in this Exhibit B to the Agreement.
3. The Fund will, upon request, provide Xxxxx Fargo and its internal and external auditors and inspectors as Xxxxx Fargo may from time to time designate, with all reasonable assistance and access to information and records of the Fund relevant to the Fund’s compliance with and performance of the representations, warranties and covenants contained in this Exhibit B to the Agreement, but only for the purposes of internal and external audit.
B-3
EXHIBIT C
TRANSFEREE CERTIFICATE
Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Income Fund
000 X. Xxxxxx Xxxxx, Xxxxx 0000
Xxxxxxx, XX 00000
Attention: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxxx,
Chief Administrative Officer
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Reference is hereby made to the VMTP Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), dated as of December 10, 2013, between Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Income Fund, a closed-end fund organized as a Massachusetts business trust under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (the “Fund”) and Xxxxx Fargo Municipal Capital Strategies, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xxxxx Fargo Bank, National Association, a national banking association organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America, including its successors by merger or operation (the “Transferor”). Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given them in the Purchase Agreement.
In connection with the proposed sale by the Transferor of New VMTP Shares (the “Transferred Shares”) to the undersigned transferee (the “Transferee”), the undersigned agrees and acknowledges, on its own behalf, and makes the representations and warranties, on its own behalf, as set forth in this certificate (this “Transferee Certificate”) to the Fund and the Transferor:
1. The Transferee certifies to one of the following (check a box):
¨ is a “qualified institutional buyer” (a “QIB”) (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act or any successor provision) (“Rule 144A”) that is a registered closed-end management investment company the shares of which are traded on a national securities exchange (a “Closed End Fund”), a bank (or affiliates of banks), insurance company or registered open-end management investment company, in each case, to which any offer and sale is being made pursuant to Rule 144A or another available exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), in a manner not involving any public offering within the meaning of Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act;
¨ it is a tender option bond trust in which all investors are QIBs that are Closed-End Funds, banks (or affiliates of banks), insurance companies, or registered open-end management investment companies; or
¨ is a person which the Fund has consented in writing to permit to be the holder of the Transferred Shares.
2. The Transferee certifies that it (check a box):
¨ is not a Nuveen Person that after such sale and transfer, would own more than 20% of the Outstanding New VMTP Shares; or
¨ has received the prior written consent of the Fund and the holder(s) of more than 50% of the outstanding New VMTP Shares.
C-1
3. The Transferee understands and acknowledges that the Transferred Shares are “restricted securities” and have not been registered under the Securities Act or any other applicable securities law, are being offered for sale pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act or another available exemption from registration under the Securities Act, in a manner not involving any public offering with the meaning of Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act, and may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred except in compliance with the registration requirements of the Securities Act or any other applicable securities law, pursuant to an exemption therefrom or in a transaction not subject thereto and in each case in compliance with the conditions for transfer set forth in this Transferee Certificate.
4. The Transferee is purchasing the Transferred Shares for its own account for investment, and not with a view to, or for offer or sale in connection with, any distribution thereof in violation of the Securities Act, subject to any requirements of law that the disposition of its property be at all times within its or their control and subject to its or their ability to resell such securities pursuant to Rule 144A or any exemption from registration available under the Securities Act.
5. The Transferee agrees on its own behalf and on behalf of each subsequent holder or owner of the Transferred Shares by its acceptance thereof will agree to offer, sell or otherwise transfer the Transferred Shares only to (A)(i) Persons such Transferee reasonably believes are QIBs that are registered closed-end management investment companies, the shares of which are traded on a national securities exchange, banks (or affiliates of banks), insurance companies or registered open-end management investment companies, in each case, pursuant to Rule 144A or another available exemption from registration under the Securities Act, in a manner not involving any public offering within the meaning of Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act, (ii) tender option bond trusts in which it reasonably believes all investors are Persons such Transferee reasonably believes are QIBS that are registered closed-end management investment companies, the shares of which are traded on a national securities exchange, banks (or affiliates of banks), insurance companies, or registered open-end management investment companies, or (iii) other investors which the Fund has consented in writing to permit to be a holder of the Transferred Shares and (B) unless the prior written consent of the Fund and the holder(s) of more than 50% of the outstanding New VMTP Shares has been obtained, is not a Nuveen Person, if such Nuveen Person would, after such sale and transfer, own more than 20% of the Outstanding New VMTP Shares.
6. The Transferee acknowledges that the New VMTP Shares were issued in book-entry form and are represented by one global certificate and that the global certificate representing the New VMTP Shares (unless sold to the public in an underwritten offering of the New VMTP Shares pursuant to a registration statement filed under the Securities Act) contains a legend substantially to the following effect:
THE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAW. NEITHER THIS SECURITY NOR ANY INTEREST OR PARTICIPATION HEREIN MAY BE REOFFERED, SOLD, ASSIGNED, TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED, ENCUMBERED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR UNLESS SUCH TRANSACTION IS EXEMPT FROM, OR NOT SUBJECT TO, REGISTRATION.
C-2
THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY BY ITS ACCEPTANCE HEREOF AGREES TO OFFER, SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER SUCH SECURITY ONLY TO (l)(A) A PERSON THAT THE HOLDER REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” THAT IS A REGISTERED CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY, THE SHARES OF WHICH ARE TRADED ON A NATIONAL SECURITIES EXCHANGE, BANKS (OR AFFILIATES OF BANKS), INSURANCE COMPANIES OR REGISTERED OPEN-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES, IN EACH CASE, IN AN OFFER AND SALE MADE PURSUANT TO RULE 144A OR ANOTHER AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, IN A MANNER NOT INVOLVING ANY PUBLIC OFFERING WITHIN THE MEANING OF SECTION 4(A)(2) OF THE SECURITIES ACT; (B) A TENDER OPTION BOND TRUST IN WHICH ALL INVESTORS ARE PERSONS THE HOLDER REASONABLY BELIEVES ARE QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYERS THAT ARE REGISTERED CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES, THE SHARES OF WHICH ARE TRADED ON A NATIONAL SECURITIES EXCHANGE, BANKS (OR AFFILIATES OF BANKS), INSURANCE COMPANIES, OR REGISTERED OPEN-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES; OR (C) A PERSON THAT THE ISSUER OF THE SECURITY HAS APPROVED IN WRITING TO BE THE HOLDER OF THE SECURITY AND (2) UNLESS THE PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE ISSUER OF THE SECURITY AND HOLDERS OF MORE THAN 50% OF THE OUTSTANDING NEW VMTP SHARES IS OBTAINED, NOT A NUVEEN PERSON (AS DEFINED IN THE PURCHASE AGREEMENT, DATED DECEMBER 10, 2013, BETWEEN THE ISSUER OF THE SECURITY AND XXXXX FARGO MUNICIPAL CAPITAL STRATEGIES, LLC), IF SUCH NUVEEN PERSON WOULD, AFTER SUCH SALE AND TRANSFER, OWN MORE THAN 20% OF THE OUTSTANDING NEW VMTP SHARES.
7. The Transferee has such knowledge, sophistication and experience in business and financial matters so as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks of the prospective investment in the Transferred Shares, and has so evaluated the merits and risks of such investment. The Transferee is able to bear the economic risk of an investment in the Transferred Shares and, at the present time, is able to afford a complete loss of such investment.
8. Other than consummating the purchase of the Transferred Shares, the Transferee has not directly or indirectly, nor has any person acting on behalf of or pursuant to any understanding with the Transferee, executed any other purchases of securities of the Fund which may be integrated with the proposed purchase of the Transferred Shares by the Transferee.
9. The Transferee acknowledges that it has received a copy of the Purchase Agreement and Appendices thereto and agrees to abide by any obligations therein binding on a transferee of the New VMTP Shares and the confidentiality obligations therein with respect to information relating to the Fund as if it were the Transferor.
10. The Transferee acknowledges that it has received a copy of the Registration Rights Agreement and agrees to abide by any obligations therein binding on a transferee of the New VMTP Shares.
11. The Transferee acknowledges that it has been given the opportunity to obtain from the Fund the information referred to in Rule 144A(d)(4) under the Securities Act, and has either declined such opportunity or has received such information and has had access to and has reviewed all information, documents and records that it has deemed necessary in order to make an informed investment decision with respect to an investment in the Transferred Shares and that the Transferee understands the risk and other considerations relating to such investment.
12. The Transferee acknowledges that it has sole responsibility for its own due diligence investigation and its own investment decision relating to the Transferred Shares. The Transferee understands that any materials presented to the Transferee in connection with the purchase and sale of the Transferred Shares does not constitute legal, tax or investment advice from the Fund. The Transferee has consulted such legal, tax and investment advisors as it, in its sole discretion, has deemed necessary or appropriate in connection with the purchase of the Transferred Shares.
C-3
13. The Transferee acknowledges that each of Transferor and the Fund and their respective affiliates and others will rely on the acknowledgments, representations and warranties contained in this Transferee’s Certificate as a basis for exemption of the sale of the Transferred Shares under the Securities Act, under the securities laws of all applicable states, and for other purposes. The Transferee agrees to promptly notify the Fund and the Transferor if any of the acknowledgments, representations or warranties set forth herein are no longer accurate.
14. This Transferee’s Certificate shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.
15. The Transferee agrees to provide, together with this completed and signed Transferee’s Certificate, a completed and signed IRS Form W-9, Form W-8 or successor form, as applicable.
[Signature Page Follows.]
The undersigned has provided a completed and signed IRS Form W-9, Form W-8 or successor form, as applicable, and has caused this Transferee’s Certificate to be executed by its duly authorized representative as of the date set forth below.
Date: | Name of Transferee (use exact name in which Transferred Shares are to be registered): | |||
Authorized Signature | ||||
Print Name and Title | ||||
Address of Transferee for Registration of Transferred Shares: | ||||
Transferee’s taxpayer identification number: | ||||
EXHIBIT D
INFORMATION TO BE PROVIDED BY THE FUND
Reporting as of:
TOB Floaters: $
CUSIP | Portfolio Name | Description | Market Value | Par Value | Rating | State | ||||||||||||||
[•] |
[•] | [•] | [•] | [•] | [•] | [•] |
D-1