e424b5
This prospectus supplement relates to
an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of
1933, but is not complete and may be changed. This prospectus
supplement is not an offer to sell these securities and it is
not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state
where the offer or sale is not permitted.
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Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(5)
Registration No. 333-117842
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED
AUGUST 10, 2006
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT TO
PROSPECTUS DATED AUGUST 30, 2004
2,000,000 Shares
First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.
Depositary Shares Each Representing 1/10,000 of a Share of
%
Series K Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock
Liquidation Preference Equivalent to $25.00 Per Depositary
Share
Each of the 2,000,000 depositary shares offered hereby
represents ownership of 1/10,000 of a share of
our %
Series K Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock (sometimes
referred to in this prospectus supplement as the Series K
Preferred Shares or the preferred shares) deposited with
Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as depositary, and entitles
the holder to all proportional rights, preferences and
privileges of the preferred shares represented thereby
(including dividend, voting, redemption and liquidation rights
and preferences). The proportionate liquidation preference of
each depositary share is $25.00.
Dividends on the preferred shares represented by the depositary
shares will be cumulative from (and including) the date of
original issuance and will be payable quarterly in arrears,
commencing on September 30, 2006, at the rate
of % of the
liquidation preference per year (equivalent to
$ per
depositary share per year).
Except in limited circumstances relating to our qualification as
a real estate investment trust, or REIT, the preferred shares
will not be redeemable prior to August 15, 2011. On and
after August 15, 2011, at any time and from time to time
the preferred shares (and, therefore, the depositary shares)
will be redeemable in whole or in part at our option, at a cash
redemption price of $250,000 per preferred share
(equivalent to $25.00 per depositary share), plus all
accrued and unpaid dividends (whether or not declared) to the
date of redemption.
In order to maintain our qualification as a REIT for federal
income tax purposes, ownership by any person of our depositary
shares, the preferred shares and other classes of our capital
stock is limited, with certain exceptions, to an aggregate of
9.9% in value of our outstanding capital stock.
Investing in the depositary shares involves risks that are
described in the Risk Factors sections beginning on
page S-5 of this
prospectus supplement and page 3 of the accompanying
prospectus.
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Underwriting | |
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Price to | |
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Discounts and | |
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Proceeds to | |
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Public(1) | |
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Commissions | |
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First Industrial | |
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Per Depositary Share
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$ |
25.0000 |
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0.7875 |
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$ |
24.2125 |
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Total
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50,000,000 |
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$ |
1,575,000 |
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$ |
48,425,000 |
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(1) |
Plus accrued dividends, if any, from the date of original
issuance. |
We expect that delivery of the depositary shares offered hereby
in book-entry form only will be made against payment therefor in
New York, New York on or about
August , 2006. We intend to list
the depositary shares on the NYSE. Trading of the depositary
shares on the NYSE is expected to commence within the
30-day period after the
initial delivery of the depositary shares. We have been advised
by some of the underwriters that they intend to make a market in
our depositary shares prior to the commencement of trading on
the NYSE. However, they are not obligated to do so and may
discontinue market-making at any time without notice. Therefore,
no assurance can be given that a market for the depositary
shares will exist prior to commencement of trading on the NYSE.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state
securities commission has approved or disapproved of these
securities or determined if this prospectus supplement or the
accompanying prospectus is truthful or complete. Any
representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
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Wachovia Securities |
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Merrill Lynch & Co. |
Joint Bookrunning Manager
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Joint Bookrunning Manager |
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Credit Suisse Securities (USA) |
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JPMorgan |
Senior Co-Manager
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Senior Co-Manager |
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BB&T Capital Markets
Co-Manager |
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Raymond James
Co-Manager |
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The date of this prospectus supplement is
August , 2006.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Prospectus Supplement
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ii |
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S-1 |
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S-5 |
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S-7 |
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S-8 |
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S-9 |
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S-14 |
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S-19 |
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S-21 |
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S-22 |
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Prospectus
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About This Prospectus
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1 |
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The Company and the
Operating Partnership
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1 |
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Risk Factors
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3 |
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Ratios of Earnings to
Fixed Charges
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4 |
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Use of Proceeds
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4 |
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Plan of Distribution
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4 |
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Description of Debt
Securities
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7 |
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Description of Preferred
Stock
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19 |
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Description of Depositary
Shares
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25 |
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Description of Common Stock
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28 |
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Certain Provisions of
Maryland Law and the Companys Articles of Incorporation
and Bylaws
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30 |
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Restrictions on Transfers
of Capital Stock
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32 |
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Certain U.S. Federal
Income Tax Considerations
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33 |
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Forward-Looking Statements
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35 |
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Where You Can Find More
Information
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36 |
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Documents Incorporated by
Reference
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36 |
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Experts
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37 |
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Legal Matters
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37 |
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You should rely only on the information contained or
incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the
accompanying prospectus. We and the underwriters have not
authorized anyone to provide you with information that is
different. This prospectus supplement and the accompanying
prospectus may only be used where it is legal to sell these
securities. The information in this prospectus supplement and
the accompanying prospectus may only be accurate as of the date
of this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus or
the information incorporated by reference herein and therein.
i
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus,
including the documents incorporated by reference herein and
therein, contain certain forward-looking statements within the
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and
Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We
intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe
harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in
the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are
including this statement for purposes of complying with those
safe harbor provisions. Forward-looking statements, which are
based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans,
strategies and expectations, are generally identifiable by use
of the words believe, expect,
intend, anticipate,
estimate, project or similar
expressions. Our ability to predict results or the actual effect
of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. Factors
which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and
future prospects on a consolidated basis include, but are not
limited to:
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economic conditions generally and the real estate market
specifically; |
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legislative/regulatory changes (including changes to laws
governing the taxation of REITs); |
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availability of financing; |
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interest rates; |
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competition; |
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supply and demand for industrial properties in our current and
proposed market areas; |
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potential environmental liabilities; |
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slippage in development or
lease-up schedules; |
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tenant credit risks; and |
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higher-than-expected
costs and changes in general accounting principles, policies and
guidelines applicable to REITs. |
These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating
forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be
placed on such statements. Further information concerning us and
our business, including additional factors that could materially
affect our financial results, is included or incorporated by
reference herein and in the accompanying prospectus.
ii
PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT SUMMARY
The Company
We are a real estate investment trust, subject to Sections
856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended. We and our consolidated partnerships, corporations
and limited liability companies are a self-administered and
fully integrated real estate company which owns, manages,
acquires, sells and develops industrial real estate. As of
June 30, 2006, our portfolio consisted of
946 properties (inclusive of developments in process)
containing approximately 77.5 million square feet of gross
leasable area located in 28 states in the United States and
one province in Canada. Our interests in our properties and land
parcels are held through partnerships, corporations and limited
liability companies controlled by us, including First
Industrial, L.P., our operating partnership, of which we are the
sole general partner.
We utilize an operating approach that combines the effectiveness
of decentralized, locally based property management,
acquisition, sales and development functions with the cost
efficiencies of centralized acquisition, sales and development
support, capital markets expertise, asset management and fiscal
control systems.
We have grown and will seek to continue to grow through the
acquisition and development of industrial properties.
We are a Maryland corporation organized on August 10, 1993
and completed our initial public offering in June 1994. Our
principal executive offices are located at 311 S. Wacker
Drive, Suite 4000, Chicago, Illinois 60606, telephone
number (312)344-4300.
Our web site is www.firstindustrial.com. The information on or
linked to from our web site is not a part of, and is not
incorporated by reference into, this prospectus supplement or
the accompanying prospectus.
S-1
The Offering
The offering terms are summarized below solely for your
convenience. This summary is not a complete description of the
preferred shares or the depositary shares. You should read the
full text and more specific details contained elsewhere in this
prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. For a
more detailed description of the preferred shares and the
depositary shares, see the discussion under the caption
Description of Series K Preferred Shares and
Depositary Shares beginning on page S-9 of this
prospectus supplement.
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Issuer |
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First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation. |
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Securities Offered |
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2,000,000 depositary shares, each representing 1/10,000 of a
share of
our %
Series K Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock. |
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Price per Depositary Share |
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$25.00. |
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Ranking |
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The preferred shares will rank with respect to dividends and
upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up: |
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senior to our common
shares and to any other class or series of our capital stock
that by its terms ranks junior to the preferred shares; |
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equally with all other
classes or series of our capital stock that by their terms rank
equally with the preferred shares; |
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junior to all other
classes or series of our capital stock that by their terms rank
senior to the preferred shares; and |
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junior to all of our
indebtedness. |
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Dividend Rate and Payment Dates |
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Dividends on the preferred shares will be cumulative from (and
including) the date of original issuance and will be payable
quarterly in arrears on March 31, June 30,
September 30 and December 31 of each year, commencing
on September 30, 2006, at the rate
of %
of the liquidation preference per year (equivalent to
$ per
depositary share per year). The preferred shares are not subject
to any step-up dividend provision. Any dividend payable on the
preferred shares for any partial dividend period will be
pro rated, computed on the basis of a 360 day year
consisting of twelve 30 day months. |
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Dividends on the preferred shares will accumulate even if: |
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any of our agreements
prohibit the current payment of dividends; |
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we do not have
earnings or funds legally available to pay such dividends; or |
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we do not declare such
dividends. |
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Liquidation Preference |
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If we liquidate, dissolve or wind up, holders of the depositary
shares will have the right to receive $25.00 per depositary
share, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends (whether or not
declared) through and including the date of payment, before any
payments are made to the holders of our shares of common stock
or other junior securities. |
S-2
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Optional Redemption |
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Except in limited circumstances relating to the maintenance of
our ability to qualify as a REIT, the preferred shares will not
be redeemable prior to August 15, 2011. On and after such
date, at any time and from time to time the preferred shares
(and, therefore, the depositary shares) will be redeemable in
whole or in part at our option, at a cash redemption price of
$250,000 per preferred share (equivalent to $25.00 per
depositary share), plus all accrued and unpaid dividends
(whether or not declared) to the date of redemption. |
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Voting Rights |
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Holders of the preferred shares generally have no voting rights,
except as required by law. However, if we do not pay dividends
on the preferred shares for six or more quarterly periods
(whether or not consecutive), the holders of the preferred
shares, voting as a class with any other class or series of our
capital stock ranking equal with the preferred shares as to
dividends or upon liquidation, will be entitled to vote for the
election of two additional directors to serve on our board of
directors until we pay or have authorized and set aside for
payment in full all dividends that we owe on the preferred
shares. In addition, the affirmative vote of the holders of at
least two-thirds of all of our outstanding preferred shares and
any series of capital stock with similar voting rights is
required for us to authorize another class of capital stock
ranking senior to the preferred shares as to dividends or upon
liquidation or to amend, alter or repeal our articles of
amendment and restatement if such action would materially and
adversely alter or change the rights, preferences or privileges
of the preferred shares. Among other things, we may, without any
vote of the holders of the preferred shares, issue additional
preferred shares. |
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Conversion |
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The preferred shares are not convertible into or exchangeable
for any other of our property or securities. |
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Restrictions on Ownership and Transfer |
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In order to assist us in maintaining our qualification as a REIT
for U.S. federal income tax purposes, subject to limited
exceptions our charter prohibits ownership, actually or
constructively, by any person of more than 9.9% of the aggregate
value of all shares of our capital stock of all classes or
series, including preferred shares. |
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No Maturity |
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The preferred shares have no stated maturity and are not subject
to mandatory redemption or any sinking fund. We are not required
to set aside funds to redeem the preferred shares. Accordingly,
the preferred shares will remain outstanding indefinitely unless
we decide to redeem the shares at our option. |
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Listing |
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We intend to file an application with the NYSE to list the
depositary shares under the symbol FRPrK subject to
official notice of issuance. We will use commercially reasonable
efforts to have our listing application for the preferred shares
approved. If approved, trading of the preferred shares on the
NYSE is expected to commence within 30 days after the
initial delivery of the preferred shares. |
S-3
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Use of Proceeds |
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We intend to use the net proceeds from the sale of the preferred
shares for repayment of borrowings under our credit facility. |
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Settlement Date |
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Delivery of the depositary shares will be made against payment
therefor on or about August ,
2006. |
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Form |
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The depositary shares will be issued and maintained in
book-entry form registered in the name of the nominee of The
Depository Trust Company. |
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Risk Factors |
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See Risk Factors beginning on page S-5 of this
prospectus supplement for other information you should consider
before buying the depositary shares. |
S-4
RISK FACTORS
An investment in the depositary shares involves various
material risks. Prior to making a decision about investing in
our securities, and in consultation with your own financial and
legal advisors, you should carefully consider, among other
matters, the following risk factors, as well as those
incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and
included in the accompanying prospectus or incorporated therein
from our most recent annual report on
Form 10-K under
the heading Risk Factors, as updated by our
quarterly reports on
Form 10-Q and
other filings we may make from time to time with the SEC.
The market value of the depositary shares could be
substantially affected by various factors.
The depositary shares are a new issue of securities with no
established trading market. We intend to apply to list the
depositary shares on the NYSE. However, an active trading market
on the NYSE for the depositary shares may not develop or last,
in which case the trading price of the depositary shares could
be adversely affected. If an active trading market does develop
on the NYSE, the depositary shares may trade at prices higher or
lower than their initial offering price. The trading price of
our depositary shares would depend on many factors, including:
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prevailing interest rates; |
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the market for similar securities; |
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general economic conditions; and |
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our financial condition, results of operations and prospects. |
We have been advised by some of the underwriters that they
intend to make a market in our depositary shares, but they are
not obligated to do so and may discontinue market-making at any
time without notice.
Our ability to pay dividends on the preferred shares may be
limited.
Because we conduct substantially all of our operations through
our operating partnership, our ability to pay dividends on the
preferred shares will depend almost entirely on payments and
dividends received on our interests in our operating
partnership. Additionally, the terms of some of the debt to
which our operating partnership is a party limit its ability to
make some types of payments and other dividends to us. This in
turn limits our ability to make some types of payments,
including payment of dividends on the preferred shares, unless
we meet certain financial tests or such payments or dividends
are required to maintain our qualification as a REIT. As a
result, if we are unable to meet the applicable financial tests,
we may not be able to pay dividends on the preferred shares in
one or more periods.
Our ability to pay dividends is further limited by the
requirements of Maryland law.
Our ability to pay dividends on the preferred shares is further
limited by the laws of Maryland. Under Maryland General
Corporation Law, a Maryland corporation may not make a
distribution if, after giving effect to the distribution, the
corporation would not be able to pay its debts as the debts
become due in the usual course of business, or the
corporations total assets would be less than the sum of
its total liabilities plus the amount that would be needed, if
the corporation were dissolved at the time of the distribution,
to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of
shareholders whose preferential rights are superior to those
receiving the distribution. Accordingly, we may not make a
distribution on the preferred shares if, after giving effect to
the distribution, we would not be able to pay our debts as they
become due in the usual course of business or our total assets
would be less than the sum of our total liabilities plus the
amount that would be needed to satisfy the preferential rights
upon dissolution of the holders of any shares of the preferred
shares then outstanding, if any, with preferences senior to
those of the preferred shares.
S-5
We may incur additional indebtedness, which may harm our
financial position and cash flow and potentially impact our
ability to pay dividends on the preferred shares.
Our governing documents do not limit us from incurring
additional indebtedness and other liabilities. As of
June 30, 2006, we had approximately $1,819 million of
consolidated indebtedness outstanding. We may incur additional
indebtedness and become more highly leveraged, which could harm
our financial position and potentially limit our cash available
to pay dividends. As a result, we may not have sufficient funds
remaining to satisfy our dividend obligations relating to our
preferred shares if we incur additional indebtedness.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to pay dividends
regularly.
Our ability to pay dividends in the future is dependent on our
ability to operate profitably and to generate cash from our
operations. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to pay
dividends on a regular quarterly basis in the future.
Furthermore, any new shares of common stock issued will
substantially increase the cash required to continue to pay cash
dividends at current levels. Any common stock or preferred
shares that may in the future be issued to finance acquisitions,
upon exercise of stock options or otherwise, would have a
similar effect.
Our ability to issue preferred stock in the future could
adversely affect the rights of holders of our preferred
shares.
Our articles of amendment and restatement authorize us to issue
up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more
series on terms determined by our board of directors. As of
June 30, 2006, we had 21,350 shares of preferred stock
outstanding. Our future issuance of any series of preferred
stock under our articles of amendment and restatement could
therefore effectively diminish our ability to pay dividends on,
and the liquidation preference of, our preferred shares.
Certain transactions may affect the liquidity of the
preferred shares and the right of holders of the preferred
shares to receive comprehensive data on our company on a
periodic basis.
If we engage in a sale, lease, conveyance of all, or
substantially all, of our assets or a merger or other business
combination that (i) results in the preferred shares not
being listed on a national securities exchange and/or
(ii) our company or any successor company to us not being
subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, then the preferred shares might no longer have an
established trading market and your liquidity would be adversely
affected. Additionally, you would not have access to, or any
entitlement to, the types of information filed by us on a
periodic basis with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
S-6
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO COMBINED FIXED CHARGES
AND PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS
Our ratios of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred
dividend requirements for the six months ended
June 30, 2006 and for the years ended December 31,
2005, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 were 0.41x, 0.73x, 1.03x, 0.90x,
0.90x and 1.26x, respectively. For the six months ended
June 30, 2006 and for the years ended December 31,
2005, 2003 and 2002, the sum of fixed charges and preferred
dividend requirements exceeded our earnings from continuing
operations by approximately $43.8 million,
$34.1 million, $12.1 million and $12.2 million,
respectively. For purposes of computing the ratios of earnings
to combined fixed charges and preferred dividend requirements,
earnings have been calculated by adding fixed charges (excluding
capitalized interest) to income from continuing operations
before minority interest allocable to continuing operations and
income taxes allocable to continuing operations as reported in
the consolidated statements of operations in our financial
statements included in the documents incorporated by reference
in this prospectus supplement. Fixed charges consist of interest
cost, whether expensed or capitalized, and amortization of
deferred financing costs.
The financial statements for the six months ended
June 30, 2006 contained in our quarterly report on
Form 10-Q for the
quarter then ended reflect discontinued operations relating to
property sales occurring between January 1, 2006 and
June 30, 2006 and properties classified as held for sale as
of June 30, 2006 in accordance with the Financial
Accounting Standards Boards Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 144, Accounting for the
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, as described
in Note 7 to the financial statements contained in such
quarterly report, and our ratio of earnings to combined fixed
charges and preferred dividend requirements for such period is
computed based on such financial statements. The financial
statements for each of the five years in the period ended
December 31, 2005 contained in our annual report on
Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2005 have not yet been adjusted to
reflect discontinued operations relating to property sales
occurring between January 1, 2006 and June 30, 2006
and properties classified as held for sale as of June 30,
2006, and our ratios of earnings to combined fixed charges and
preferred dividend requirements for the five years in such
period have been computed based on such unadjusted financial
statements. The financial statements for each of the
five years in the period ending December 31, 2006 to be
contained in our annual report on
Form 10-K for the
year then ended will be adjusted to reflect all discontinued
operations relating to property sales occurring during 2006 and
properties classified as held for sale as of December 31,
2006, and our ratios of earnings to combined fixed charges and
preferred dividend requirements for the five years in such
period will be computed based on such adjusted financial
statements.
S-7
USE OF PROCEEDS
The net proceeds to us from the sale of the depositary shares
offered hereby will be approximately $48.2 million. We
intend to contribute the net proceeds of the offering to our
operating partnership in exchange
for %
Series K Preferred Units, or units, in our operating
partnership, the economic terms of which will be substantially
identical to the Series K Preferred Shares. Our operating
partnership will be required to make all required distributions
on the units (which will mirror the payments of distributions,
including accrued and unpaid distributions upon redemption, and
of the liquidation preference amount on the Series K
Preferred Shares represented by the depositary shares) prior to
any distribution of cash or assets to the holders of units or to
the holders of any other equity interests in our operating
partnership, except for any other series of preferred units
ranking equally with or senior to the Series K Preferred
Units as to distributions and/or liquidation rights and except
for distributions required to enable us to maintain our
qualification as a REIT.
The net proceeds from the offering of the preferred shares are
expected to be used for the repayment of borrowings under our
credit facility (which primarily were incurred to finance
acquisition and development activities). As of June 30,
2006, our $500 million credit facility bore interest at a
rate of 5.867%. Outstanding borrowings under our
$500 million credit facility mature on September 28,
2008. Affiliates of two of the underwriters, Wachovia Capital
Markets, LLC and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., are lenders under
our credit facility.
S-8
DESCRIPTION OF SERIES K PREFERRED SHARES AND DEPOSITARY
SHARES
General
Under our articles of amendment and restatement, as amended, up
to 10,000,000 preferred shares, par value $.01 per share,
may be issued from time to time in one or more series, as
authorized by our board of directors. Prior to issuance of
shares of each series, our board of directors is required by the
Maryland General Corporation Law and our articles of amendment
and restatement to fix for each series such terms, preferences,
conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions,
limitations as to dividends or other distributions,
qualifications and terms or conditions of redemption as are
permitted by Maryland law. As of the date hereof,
20,000 shares of our 8.625% Series C Cumulative
Preferred Stock, 500 shares of our 6.236% Series F
Flexible Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, 250 shares
of our 7.236% Series G Flexible Cumulative Redeemable
Preferred Stock and 600 shares of our 7.25% Series J
Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock are outstanding.
When issued, the preferred shares will have a liquidation
preference of $250,000 per share, will be fully paid and
nonassessable, will not be subject to any sinking fund or other
obligation by us to redeem or retire the preferred shares, and
will have no preemptive rights. Each of our other outstanding
series of preferred stock will rank equally as to payment by us
of dividends and amounts upon liquidation with the Series K
Preferred Shares. See Description of Preferred Stock
in the accompanying prospectus and Description of
Registrants Securities to be Registered in our
Form 8-A filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 13,
2006.
Computershare Trust Company, N.A. will act as the transfer agent
and dividend disbursing agent for the preferred shares.
Each depositary share represents 1/10,000 of a preferred share.
The preferred shares will be deposited with Computershare Trust
Company, N.A., as depositary, under a deposit agreement among
us, the depositary and the holders from time to time of the
depositary receipts issued by the depositary thereunder. The
depositary receipts will evidence the depositary shares. Subject
to the terms of the deposit agreement, each holder of a
depositary receipt evidencing a depositary share will be
entitled, proportionately, to all the rights and preferences of,
and subject to all of the limitations of, the interest in the
preferred shares represented thereby (including dividend,
voting, redemption and liquidation rights and preferences). See
Description of Depositary Shares in the accompanying
prospectus.
Immediately following the issuance of the preferred shares, we
will deposit the preferred shares with the depositary, which
will then issue and deliver the depositary receipts to us. We
will, in turn, deliver the depositary receipts to the
underwriters. Depositary receipts will be issued evidencing only
whole depositary shares.
We intend to file an application to list the depositary shares
on the NYSE under the symbol FRPrK. If the
application is approved, trading of the depositary shares on the
NYSE is expected to begin within 30 days after the date of
initial delivery of our depositary shares.
The preferred shares initially will be issued and maintained in
book-entry form registered in the name of the nominee of The
Depository Trust Company, except under limited circumstances.
The following is a brief description of the terms of the
preferred shares, which does not purport to be complete and is
subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to the
articles supplementary to our articles of amendment and
restatement with respect to the preferred shares, the form of
which is available from us.
See Restrictions on Transfers of Capital Stock in
the accompanying prospectus for a discussion of certain powers
given to the board of directors to prohibit the transfer, or
effect redemptions, of our capital stock. Such restrictions are
designed to implement ownership limitations which apply to
beneficial ownership of such capital stock, including through
ownership of depositary shares, in order to aid us in
maintaining our qualification as a REIT.
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Dividends
Holders of preferred shares, in preference to the holders of our
common stock, and of any of our other capital stock ranking
junior to the preferred shares as to payment of dividends, will
be entitled to receive, when and as declared by the board of
directors, out of our assets legally available for payment, cash
dividends payable quarterly at the rate
of %
of the liquidation preference per year (equivalent to
$ per
depositary share per year). The preferred shares are not subject
to any step-up dividend provision. Dividends on the preferred
shares will be cumulative from (and including) the date of
original issuance and will be payable quarterly in arrears on
March 31, June 30, September 30 and
December 31 of each year, commencing on September 30,
2006, to holders of record as they appear on our stock register
on such record dates, not less than 15 nor more than
45 days preceding the payment dates thereof, as shall be
fixed by the board of directors. Dividends payable on the
preferred shares for any partial period will be pro-rated,
computed on the basis of a
360-day year consisting
of twelve 30-day
months. After full dividends on the preferred shares have been
paid or declared and funds set aside for payment for all past
dividend periods and for the then current quarter, the holders
of preferred shares will not be entitled to any further
dividends with respect to that quarter. Accrued and unpaid
dividends on our preferred shares will not bear interest, and
holders of our preferred shares are not entitled to any
dividends in excess of full cumulative dividends as described
above.
When dividends are not paid in full upon the preferred shares
and any other shares of our capital stock ranking equally as to
dividends with the preferred shares, dividends declared upon the
preferred shares and any other shares of our capital stock
ranking equally as to dividends with the preferred shares shall
be declared pro rata so that the amount of dividends declared
per share on such preferred shares and such other capital stock
shall in all cases bear to each other the same ratio that the
accrued dividends per share on the preferred shares and such
other shares of our capital stock bear to each other.
Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, unless full
dividends on the preferred shares have been paid for all past
dividend periods and except in certain circumstances relating to
the maintenance of our ability to qualify as a REIT as described
under Restrictions on Transfer of Capital Stock in
the accompanying prospectus, no dividends (other than in common
stock or other shares of our capital stock ranking junior to the
preferred shares as to dividends and upon liquidation) shall be
declared or paid or set aside for payment, nor shall any other
distribution be made on the common stock or on any other shares
of our capital stock ranking junior to or equally with the
preferred shares as to dividends or upon liquidation. Unless
full dividends on the preferred shares have been paid for all
past dividend periods, no common stock or any of our other
shares of capital stock ranking junior to or equally with the
preferred shares as to dividends or upon liquidation shall be
redeemed, purchased or otherwise acquired for any consideration
(or any moneys be paid or made available for a sinking fund for
the redemption of any such stock) by us or any of our
subsidiaries except by conversion into or exchange for shares of
our capital stock ranking junior to the preferred shares as to
dividends and upon liquidation.
Our credit facility restricts us from paying distributions on
account of any fiscal year, on an aggregate basis, in excess of
95% of our Funds From Operations (as defined in our credit
facility) for such fiscal year, except in the case where such
distributions are necessary to maintain our tax status as a REIT.
Conversion Rights
The preferred shares will not be convertible into shares of any
other class or series of our capital stock.
Liquidation Rights
In the event of our voluntary or involuntary liquidation,
dissolution or winding up, the holders of preferred shares will
be entitled to receive out of our assets legally available for
distribution to stockholders, before any distribution of assets
is made to holders of shares of our common stock or of any other
shares of our capital stock ranking as to such distribution
junior to the preferred shares, liquidating distributions in the
amount of $250,000 per share (equivalent to $25.00 per
depositary share), plus all accrued and unpaid dividends
(whether or not declared) for the then current dividend period
and all prior
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dividend periods. If, upon our voluntary or involuntary
liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the amounts payable with
respect to the preferred shares and any other shares of our
capital stock ranking as to any such distribution equally with
the preferred shares are not paid in full, the holders of
preferred shares and of such other capital stock will share
ratably in any such distribution of our assets in proportion to
the full respective preferential amounts to which they are
entitled, and the holders of the preferred shares will not be
entitled to any further participation in any distribution of
assets by us.
For purposes of liquidation rights, our consolidation or merger
with or into any other corporation or corporations or a sale of
all or substantially all of our assets is not a liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of us.
Redemption
Optional Redemption
Except in limited circumstances relating to the maintenance of
our ability to qualify as a REIT as described under
Restrictions on Transfers of Capital Stock in the
accompanying prospectus, the preferred shares will not be
redeemable prior to August 15, 2011. On and after
August 15, 2011, at any time and from time to time, the
preferred shares (and, therefore, the depositary shares) will be
redeemable in whole or in part at our option at a cash
redemption price of $250,000 per share (equivalent to
$25.00 per depositary share), plus all accrued and unpaid
dividends (whether or not declared) to the date of redemption.
General
The preferred shares are not redeemable at any time at the
option of the holders thereof. If fewer than all of the
outstanding preferred shares are to be redeemed, the number of
shares to be redeemed will be determined by our board of
directors, and such shares shall be redeemed pro rata from the
holders of record thereof in proportion to the number of such
shares held by such holders (with adjustments to avoid
redemption of fractional shares) or by lot in a manner
determined by our board of directors.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, except in certain circumstances
relating to the maintenance of our ability to qualify as a REIT
as described under Restrictions on Transfer of Capital
Stock in the accompanying prospectus, if any dividends on
the preferred shares for any dividend period have not been paid,
no preferred shares or other shares of our capital stock ranking
equal with or junior to the preferred shares shall be redeemed
unless all outstanding preferred shares are simultaneously
redeemed, and we shall not otherwise purchase or acquire,
directly or indirectly, any preferred shares or other shares of
our capital stock ranking equal with or junior to the preferred
shares; provided, however, that this shall not prevent
the purchase or acquisition of the preferred shares pursuant to
a purchase or exchange offer if such offer is made on the same
terms to all holders of the preferred shares.
Redemption Procedures
Notice of redemption will be given by publication in a newspaper
of general circulation in the City of New York, such publication
to be made once a week for two successive weeks commencing not
less than 30 or more than 60 days prior to the redemption
date. A similar notice will be mailed by us, postage prepaid,
not more than 60 days prior to the redemption date,
addressed to the respective holders of record of preferred
shares to be redeemed at their respective addresses as they
appear on our stock transfer records. Each notice shall state:
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the redemption date; |
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the number of preferred shares to be redeemed; |
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the redemption price; |
S-11
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the place or places where certificates for the preferred shares
are to be surrendered for payment of the redemption
price; and |
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that dividends on the shares to be redeemed will cease to accrue
on such redemption date. |
If fewer than all the preferred shares held by any holder are to
be redeemed, the notice mailed to such holder shall also specify
the number of preferred shares to be redeemed from such holder.
In order to facilitate the redemption of preferred shares, the
board of directors may fix a record date for the determination
of preferred shares to be redeemed, such record date to be not
less than 30 or more than 60 days prior to the date fixed
for such redemption.
Notice having been given as provided above, from and after the
date specified therein as the date of redemption, unless we
default in providing funds for the payment of the redemption
price on such date, all dividends on the preferred shares called
for redemption will cease to accrue. From and after the
redemption date, unless we so default, all rights of the holders
of the preferred shares as our stockholders, except the right to
receive the redemption price (but without interest), will cease.
Upon surrender in accordance with such notice of the
certificates representing any such shares (properly endorsed or
assigned for transfer, if our board of directors shall so
require and the notice shall so state), the redemption price set
forth above shall be paid out of the funds provided by us. If
fewer than all the shares represented by any such certificate
are redeemed, a new certificate shall be issued representing the
unredeemed shares without cost to the holder thereof.
Subject to applicable law and the limitation on purchases when
dividends on the preferred shares are in arrears, we may, at any
time and from time to time, purchase preferred shares in the
open market, by tender or by private agreement.
Voting Rights
Except as indicated below, and except as expressly required by
applicable law, the holders of preferred shares will not be
entitled to vote.
If the equivalent of six quarterly dividends (whether or not
consecutive) payable on the Series K Preferred Shares or
any other series of our preferred stock ranking equally with the
Series K Preferred Shares as to dividends or upon
liquidation (any such series referred to as parity preferred
shares) is in arrears, the holders of all outstanding preferred
shares and shares of any series of parity preferred shares,
voting as a single class without regard to series, will be
entitled to elect two additional directors until all dividends
in arrears have been paid or declared and funds therefor set
apart for payment.
At any time when such right to elect directors separately shall
have so vested, we may, and upon the written request of the
holders of record of not less than 20% of the total number of
preferred shares and shares of any series of parity preferred
shares then outstanding shall, call a special meeting of
stockholders for the election of such directors. Such special
meeting shall be held, in the case of such a written request,
within 90 days after the delivery of such request and, in
either case, at the place and upon the notice provided by law
and in our bylaws, provided that we shall not be required
to call such a special meeting if such request is received less
than 120 days before the date fixed for our next annual
meeting of stockholders and the holders of all classes of
outstanding preferred stock are offered the opportunity to elect
such directors (or fill any vacancy) at such annual meeting of
stockholders. Directors so elected shall serve until our next
annual meeting of stockholders or until their respective
successors are elected and qualify, or, if sooner, until all
dividends in arrears have been paid or declared and funds
therefor set apart for payment. If, prior to the end of the term
of any director so elected, a vacancy in the office of such
director shall occur, during the continuance of a default in
dividends on our preferred stock, by reason of death,
resignation or disability, such vacancy shall be filled for the
unexpired term of such former director by the appointment of a
new director by the remaining director or directors so elected.
The affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at least
662/3%
of the outstanding preferred shares and of any series of parity
preferred shares, voting as a single class, will be required to
authorize another class of capital stock senior to the preferred
shares with respect to the payment of dividends or the
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distribution of assets on liquidation. The affirmative vote or
consent of the holders of at least
662/3%
of the outstanding preferred shares will be required to amend or
repeal any provision of, or add any provision to, the articles
of amendment and restatement, including the articles
supplementary that will define the terms of the preferred
shares, if such action would materially and adversely alter or
change the rights, preferences or privileges of the outstanding
preferred shares.
No consent or approval of the holders of preferred shares will
be required for the issuance from our authorized but unissued
preferred stock of other shares of any series of preferred stock
ranking equally with or junior to the preferred shares as to
payment of dividends and distribution of assets.
S-13
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
Considerations Relating to REITs
A summary of the material U.S. federal income tax matters of
general application pertaining to REITs under the
U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, referred to
as the Code, is provided in the accompanying prospectus under
the heading Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax
Considerations. To reflect changes in the REIT tax rules
that were enacted in October 2004 and December 2005, the
following paragraph hereby replaces the final paragraph of the
discussion contained in that section:
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In the event that we fail to meet certain gross income
tests applicable to REITs, we may retain our qualification as a
REIT if we pay a penalty tax equal to the amount by which 95%
(or 90% for taxable years prior to 2005) or 75% of our gross
income exceeds our gross income qualifying under the 95% or 75%
gross income test, respectively (whichever amount is greater),
multiplied by a fraction intended to reflect our profitability,
so long as such failure was considered to be due to reasonable
cause and not willful neglect and certain other conditions are
satisfied. For taxable years after 2004, if we fail to meet the
5% or 10% asset tests applicable to REITs at the end of any
quarter and did not cure such failure within 30 days
thereafter, we may nonetheless retain our qualification as a
REIT provided that the failure was due to assets the value of
which did not exceed a specific statutory de minimis
amount and certain other conditions are satisfied. For
violations of any of the REIT asset tests not described in the
preceding sentences, we may nonetheless retain our qualification
as a REIT if we pay a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or 35%
of the net income generated by the non-qualifying assets, so
long as any such failure was considered to be due to reasonable
cause and not willful neglect and certain other conditions are
satisfied. In addition, if we fail to satisfy certain
requirements of the REIT provisions (other than the failures
described above in the preceding sentences), we may nonetheless
retain our qualification as a REIT if we pay a penalty of
$50,000 for each such failure, so long as each such failure was
considered to be due to reasonable cause and not willful
neglect. Any such taxes or penalty amounts would adversely
affect our ability to pay dividends and distributions to our
stockholders and interest and principal to the holders of our
debt securities. |
Considerations Relating to Our Depositary Shares
The following is a general discussion of certain material
U.S. federal income tax consequences of the ownership and
disposition of depositary shares by a beneficial owner that is a
U.S. stockholder (as defined below). This
discussion is based on the Code, Treasury Regulations and
administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all as in
effect as of the date of this prospectus supplement, and all of
which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect.
This discussion does not purport to deal with all aspects of
U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to investors
subject to special treatment under the U.S. federal income tax
laws, such as dealers in securities, insurance companies,
tax-exempt entities (except as described herein), expatriates,
financial institutions,
non-U.S. stockholders
(except as described herein) and partnerships or other
pass-through entities. This section applies only to purchasers
of depositary shares who purchase such shares pursuant to this
offering and hold such U.S shares as capital assets within the
meaning of Section 1221 of the Code.
Prospective holders should consult their tax advisors with
respect to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of
holding and disposing of the depositary shares in light of their
particular situations and any consequences to them arising under
other U.S. federal tax laws and the laws of any state,
local or
non-U.S. jurisdiction.
As used herein, the term U.S. stockholder means
a holder of depositary shares that for U.S. federal income
tax purposes is:
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an individual citizen or resident of the United States, |
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a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation for
U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized in
or under the laws of the United States or any political
subdivision thereof, |
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an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal
income taxation regardless of its source, or |
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a trust if |
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a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over
the administration of that trust and one or more
U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial
decisions of the trust, or |
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it has a valid election in place to be treated as a
U.S. person. |
As used herein, the term
non-U.S. stockholder
means a holder of our depositary shares that for
U.S. federal income tax purposes is either a nonresident
individual alien or a corporation, estate or trust that is not a
U.S. stockholder.
The U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in a
partnership holding depositary shares will depend on the
activities of the partnership and the status of the partner. A
partner in such partnership should consult its own tax advisor
regarding the U.S. federal income tax treatment to the partner
of such partnership holding the depositary shares.
Owners of depositary shares will be treated for
U.S. federal income tax purposes as if they were direct
owners of the preferred shares represented by those depositary
shares and, accordingly, the following discussion of tax
consequences pertaining to the depositary shares pertains
equally to the preferred shares. Exchanges of preferred shares
for depositary shares and depositary shares for preferred shares
generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.
Except as set forth above, this prospectus supplement does not
address our taxation or the impact on us of our election to be
taxed as a REIT. Prospective investors are urged to consult the
information above under the heading
Considerations Relating to REITs and our
accompanying prospectus under the heading Certain
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for
information relating to our taxation as a REIT. The discussion
set forth below assumes that we qualify and remain qualified as
a REIT under the Code.
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Taxable U.S. Stockholders |
Distributions. Except as discussed below, distributions
with respect to our depositary shares made out of current or
accumulated earnings and profits (and not designated as capital
gain dividends) will be includible by a U.S. stockholder as
ordinary income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. None of
these distributions will be eligible for the dividends received
deduction for a corporate stockholder. For purposes of
determining whether distributions on our depositary shares are
made out of current or accumulated earnings or profits, our
earnings and profits will be allocated first to distributions on
our preferred stock, including depositary shares, based on
distribution priority, and then to distributions on our common
stock. Distributions in excess of current and accumulated
earnings and profits will not be taxable to a
U.S. stockholder to the extent that they do not exceed the
adjusted tax basis of the holders depositary shares, but
rather will be treated as a return of capital and reduce the
adjusted basis of such depositary shares. To the extent that
such distributions exceed the adjusted basis of a
U.S. stockholders depositary shares, they will be
included in income as long-term capital gain if the stockholder
has held its shares for more than one year and otherwise as
short-term capital gain. Any dividend declared by us in October,
November or December of any year payable to a stockholder of
record on a specified date in any such month shall be treated as
both paid by us and received by the stockholder on
December 31 of such year, provided that the dividend
is actually paid by us during January of the following calendar
year.
Dividends paid to a noncorporate U.S. stockholder generally
will not qualify for the 15% tax rate applicable to
qualified dividend income. The Jobs and Growth Tax
Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 reduced the maximum tax rate
for qualified dividend income to 15% for tax years beginning on
or before December 31, 2008 and the Tax Increase Prevention
and Reconciliation Act of 2005 extended the 15% rate to tax
years beginning on or before December 31, 2010. Qualified
dividend income generally includes dividends paid by domestic C
corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations to most
noncorporate U.S. stockholders. Because we are not
generally subject to federal income tax on the portion of our
REIT taxable income that we distribute to our stockholders, our
dividends generally will not be eligible for the 15% tax rate on
qualified dividend income. As a result, our ordinary REIT
dividends will continue to be taxed at the higher tax rate
applicable to ordinary income. Currently, the highest marginal
individual
S-15
income tax rate on ordinary income is 35%. However, the 15% tax
rate for qualified dividend income will apply to our ordinary
REIT dividends, if any, that are (i) attributable to
dividends received by us from non-REIT corporations, such as our
taxable REIT subsidiaries, or (ii) attributable to income
upon which we have paid corporate income tax (e.g., to
the extent that we distribute less than 100% of our taxable
income). In general, to qualify for the reduced tax rate on
qualified dividend income, a U.S. stockholder must hold our
stock (with risk of loss) for more than 60 days during the
121-day period
beginning on the date that is 60 days before the date on
which our stock becomes ex-dividend and must satisfy certain
other conditions.
Distributions that are designated as capital gain dividends will
generally be taxed as long-term capital gains (to the extent
they do not exceed our actual net capital gain for the taxable
year) without regard to the period for which the holder has held
our preferred stock. However, corporate holders may be required
to treat up to 20% of certain capital gain dividends as ordinary
income.
We may elect to retain and pay income tax on our net capital
gain received during the taxable year. If we so elect for a
taxable year, our U.S. stockholders would include in income
as long-term capital gains their proportionate share of such
portion of our undistributed net capital gains for the taxable
year as we may designate. A U.S. stockholder would be
deemed to have paid its share of the tax paid by us on such
undistributed net capital gain, which would be credited or
refunded to the stockholder. The U.S. stockholders
basis in the depositary shares would be increased by the amount
of undistributed net capital gain included in such
U.S. stockholders income, less the capital gains tax
paid by us.
The maximum tax rate on long-term capital gain applicable to
noncorporate taxpayers is 15% for sales and exchanges of assets
held for more than one year occurring in taxable years beginning
on or before December 31, 2010. The maximum tax rate on
long-term capital gain from the sale or exchange of
section 1250 property, or depreciable real
property, is 25% to the extent that such gain would have been
treated as ordinary income if the property were
section 1245 property (i.e., to the
extent of depreciation recapture). With respect to distributions
that we designate as capital gain dividends and any retained
capital gain that we are deemed to distribute, we generally may
designate whether such a distribution is taxable to our
noncorporate U.S. stockholders at a 15% or 25% tax rate.
Thus, the tax rate differential between capital gain and
ordinary income for noncorporate taxpayers may be significant.
In addition, the characterization of income as capital gain or
ordinary income may affect the deductibility of capital losses.
A noncorporate taxpayer may deduct capital losses not offset by
capital gains against its ordinary income only up to a maximum
annual amount of $3,000. A noncorporate taxpayer may carry
forward unused capital losses indefinitely. A corporate taxpayer
must pay tax on its net capital gain at ordinary corporate
rates. A corporate taxpayer may deduct capital losses only to
the extent of capital gains, with unused losses being carried
back three years and forward five years.
Stockholders may not include in their individual income tax
returns any of our net operating losses or capital losses.
Instead, such losses would be carried over by us for potential
offset against our future income (subject to certain
limitations). Taxable distributions from us and gain from the
disposition of depositary shares will not be treated as passive
activity income and, therefore, stockholders generally will not
be able to apply any passive activity losses (such
as losses from certain types of limited partnerships in which
the stockholder is a limited partner) against such income.
Taxable distributions from us generally will be treated as
investment income for purposes of the investment interest
limitations. Capital gains from the disposition of depositary
shares (or distributions treated as such) will be treated as
investment income only if the stockholder so elects, in which
case such capital gains will be taxed at ordinary income rates.
We will notify stockholders after the close of our taxable year
as to the portions of the distributions attributable to that
year that constitute each of (i) distributions taxable at
ordinary income tax rates, (ii) capital gains dividends,
(iii) qualified dividend income, if any, and
(iv) returns of capital.
Sale or Exchange of Depositary Shares. Upon the sale or
exchange of depositary shares to a person other than us, a
U.S. stockholder generally will recognize gain or loss
equal to the difference between (i) the amount of cash and
the fair market value of any property received (less any portion
thereof attributable to accumulated and declared but unpaid
dividends, which will be taxable as dividends to the
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extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits) and
(ii) the U.S. stockholders adjusted tax basis in
such shares. Such gain or loss will be capital gain or loss and
will be long-term capital gain or loss if such shares have been
held for more than one year. In general, any loss upon a sale or
exchange of depositary shares by a holder who has held such
shares for six months or less (after applying certain holding
period rules) will be treated by such holder as long-term
capital loss to the extent of distributions from us required to
be treated by such U.S. stockholder as long-term capital
gain. All or a portion of any loss realized upon a taxable
disposition of depositary shares may be disallowed if
substantially identical stock or securities are purchased within
30 days before or after the disposition. In addition, the
ability to otherwise deduct capital losses may be limited under
the Code.
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Redemption of Depositary Shares |
A redemption of depositary shares will be treated under
Section 302 of the Code as a distribution taxable as a
dividend (to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings
and profits) at ordinary income rates unless the redemption
satisfies one of the applicable tests set forth in
Section 302(b) of the Code and is therefore treated as a
sale or exchange of redeemed shares, except that the portion of
the redemption proceeds attributable to accrued and declared but
unpaid dividends will be taxable in any event as a dividend to
the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits.
The redemption generally will be treated as a sale or exchange
if it (i) results in a complete termination of
the U.S. stockholders share interest in us,
(ii) is substantially disproportionate or
(iii) is not essentially equivalent to a
dividend with respect to the stockholder, all within the
meaning of Section 302(b) of the Code. In determining
whether any of these tests have been met, depositary shares
considered to be owned by a U.S. stockholder by reason of
certain constructive ownership rules set forth in the Code, as
well as depositary shares actually owned by such
U.S. stockholder, must generally be taken into account.
Because the determination as to whether any of the alternative
tests of Section 302(b) of the Code will be satisfied with
respect to any particular U.S. stockholder depends upon the
facts and circumstances at the time that the determination must
be made, prospective U.S. stockholders are advised to
consult their own tax advisors to determine such tax treatment.
If a redemption of depositary shares is not treated as a
distribution taxable as a dividend to a particular
U.S. stockholder, it will be treated as a taxable sale or
exchange. See Sale or Exchange of Depositary
Shares above.
If a redemption of depositary shares is treated as a
distribution taxable as a dividend, the amount of the
distribution will be measured by the amount of cash and the fair
market value of any property received by such
U.S. stockholder. The U.S. stockholders adjusted
basis in the redeemed depositary shares for tax purposes will be
transferred to such stockholders remaining depositary
shares or other shares of our stock. If the stockholder owns no
other shares of our stock, such basis may, under certain
circumstances, be transferred to a related person or it may be
lost entirely.
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Tax-Exempt U.S. Stockholders |
Distributions by us to a tax-exempt U.S. stockholder
generally should not constitute unrelated business taxable
income (UBTI), provided that (i) the
U.S. stockholder has not financed the acquisition of its
depositary shares with acquisition indebtedness
within the meaning of the Code and (ii) our depositary
shares are not otherwise used in an unrelated trade or business
of such tax-exempt U.S. stockholder.
Notwithstanding the preceding paragraph, under certain
circumstances, qualified trusts that hold more than 10% (by
value) of our shares of stock may be required to treat a certain
percentage of dividends as UBTI. This requirement will only
apply if we are treated as a pension-held REIT. The
restrictions on ownership of shares of stock in our articles of
amendment and restatement should prevent us from being treated
as a pension-held REIT, although there can be no assurance that
this will be the case.
S-17
We will report to our U.S. stockholders and the Internal
Revenue Service the amount of dividends paid during each
calendar year, and the amount of tax withheld, if any. Under the
backup withholding rules, a U.S. stockholder may be subject
to backup withholding tax at a current rate of 28% (subject to
increase to 31% after 2010) with respect to dividends paid and
with respect to any proceeds from the sale or redemption of
depositary shares unless such U.S. stockholder (a) is
a corporation or comes within certain other exempt categories
and, when required, demonstrates this fact or (b) provides
a taxpayer identification number and otherwise complies with
applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. A
U.S. stockholder that does not provide us with its correct
taxpayer identification number may also be subject to penalties
imposed by the Internal Revenue Service. Any amount paid as
backup withholding will be creditable against such
U.S. stockholders income tax liability, and may
entitle such stockholder to a refund, provided the
U.S. stockholder timely furnishes the required information
to the Internal Revenue Service.
The rules governing United States income taxation of
non-U.S. stockholders
are quite complex. Certain distributions paid by us to
non-U.S. stockholders
will be subject to U.S. withholding tax. Prospective
non-U.S. stockholders
should consult with their own tax advisors to determine the
impact of U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax laws on an
investment in us, and to determine their reporting requirements,
if any.
S-18
UNDERWRITING
Subject to the terms and conditions contained in an underwriting
agreement dated the date of this prospectus supplement, the
underwriters named below, for whom Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC
and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated
are acting as representatives, have agreed to purchase, and we
have agreed to sell to the underwriters, 2,000,000 depositary
shares. Additional underwriters and co-managers may be added
with respect to this offering after the date hereof.
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Number of | |
Underwriter |
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Shares | |
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Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC
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600,000 |
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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated
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600,000 |
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Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC
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300,000 |
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J.P. Morgan Securities Inc.
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300,000 |
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BB&T Capital Markets, a division of Scott &
Stringfellow Inc.
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100,000 |
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Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
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100,000 |
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Total
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2,000,000 |
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The underwriting agreement provides that the obligations of the
underwriters to purchase depositary shares in this offering are
subject to approval of legal matters by their counsel and to
other conditions. The underwriters are obligated to purchase all
of the depositary shares if they purchase any of the depositary
shares.
We intend to file an application to list the depositary shares
on the NYSE. If approved, trading of the depositary shares on
the NYSE is expected to commence within the
30-day period after
initial delivery of the depositary shares. Some of the
underwriters have advised us that they intend to make a market
in the depositary shares prior to the commencement of trading on
the NYSE. The underwriters will have no obligation to make a
market in the depositary shares, however, and may cease
market-making activities, if commenced, at any time.
Before this offering, there has been no public market for our
depositary shares. An active trading market for our depositary
shares may not develop. Even if an active market does develop,
the public price at which the depositary shares trade in the
future may be below the offering price.
The underwriters initially propose to offer some of the
depositary shares directly to the public at the public offering
price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus supplement
and some of the depositary shares to dealers at the public
offering price less a concession not to exceed $0.50 per
depositary share. The underwriters may allow, and dealers may
reallow, a concession not to exceed $0.45 per depositary
share on sales to other dealers. After the initial public
offering of the depositary shares, the public offering price and
other selling terms may from time to time be varied by the
underwriters.
The following table shows the underwriting discounts and
commissions that we are to pay the underwriters in connection
with this offering.
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Per Share | |
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Public offering price
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$ |
25.0000 |
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Underwriting discount and commissions
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$ |
0.7875 |
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Proceeds, before expenses, to us
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$ |
24.2125 |
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We estimate that the portion of the total expenses of this
offering payable by us, other than the underwriting discounts
and commissions referred to above, will be approximately
$200,000.
In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase
and sell depositary shares in the open market. These
transactions may include short sales, syndicate covering
transactions and stabilizing transactions. Short sales involve
syndicate sales of depositary shares in excess of the number of
depositary
S-19
shares to be purchased by the underwriters in this offering,
which creates a syndicate short position. The underwriters must
close out any short position by purchasing depositary shares in
the open market. A short position is more likely to be created
if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward
pressure on the price of the depositary shares in the open
market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who
purchase in the offering. Stabilizing transactions consist of
bids for, or purchases of, depositary shares in the open market
while the offering is in progress. The underwriters also may
impose a penalty bid. Penalty bids permit the underwriters to
reclaim a selling concession from a syndicate member when the
underwriters repurchase depositary shares originally sold by
that syndicate member in order to cover syndicate short
positions or make stabilizing purchases. Any of these activities
may have the effect of preventing or retarding a decline in the
market price of the depositary shares. They may also cause the
price of the depositary shares to be higher than the price that
would otherwise exist in the open market in the absence of these
transactions. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on
the NYSE or in the
over-the-counter market
or otherwise. If the underwriters commence any of these
transactions, they may discontinue them at any time.
We have agreed that, subject to some exceptions, we will not
offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge or otherwise dispose of,
directly or indirectly, or file with the SEC a registration
statement under the Securities Act of 1933 relating to, any
depositary shares or securities convertible into or exchangeable
or exercisable for any depositary shares, or publicly disclose
the intention to make any such offer, sale, pledge, disposition
or filing, without the prior written consent of the underwriters
for a period of 45 days after the date of this prospectus
supplement. However, in the event that either (1) during
the last 17 days of the lock-up period, we
release earnings results or material news or a material event
relating to us occurs or (2) prior to the expiration of the
lock-up period, we announce that we will release
earnings results during the
16-day period beginning
on the last day of the lock-up period, then in
either case the expiration of the lock-up will be
extended until the expiration of the
18-day period beginning
on the date of the release of the earnings results or material
news or the occurrence of the material event, as applicable,
unless the underwriters waive, in writing, such an extension.
The underwriters or their affiliates have performed certain
investment banking and advisory services for us from time to
time for which they have received customary fees and expenses.
Affiliates of Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and J.P. Morgan
Securities Inc., two of the underwriters in this offering, are
lenders under our credit facility, borrowings under which will
be repaid in part with the net proceeds of this offering. The
underwriters or their affiliates may, from time to time, engage
in transactions with and perform services for us in the ordinary
course of their businesses for which they would expect to
receive customary fees and expenses.
We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain
liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or
to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to
make because of any of those liabilities.
S-20
NOTICE TO CANADIAN RESIDENTS
Resale Restrictions
The distribution of the depositary shares in Canada is being
made on a private placement basis exempt from the requirement
that we prepare and file a prospectus with the securities
regulatory authorities in each province where trades of
depositary shares are made. Any resale of the depositary shares
in Canada must be made under applicable securities laws, which
will vary depending on the relevant jurisdiction and which may
require resales to be made under available statutory exemptions
or under a discretionary exemption granted by the applicable
Canadian securities regulatory authority. Purchasers are advised
to seek legal advice prior to any resale of the depositary
shares.
Representations of Purchasers
By purchasing depositary shares in Canada and accepting a
purchase confirmation, a purchaser is representing to us and the
dealer from whom the purchase confirmation is received that:
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the purchaser is entitled under applicable provincial securities
laws to purchase the depositary shares without the benefit of a
prospectus qualified under those securities laws, |
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where required by law, the purchaser is purchasing as principal
and not as agent, |
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the purchaser has reviewed the text above under Resale
Restrictions, and |
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the purchaser acknowledges and consents to the provision of
specified information concerning its purchase of the depositary
shares to the regulatory authority that by law is entitled to
collect the information. |
Further details concerning the legal authority for this
information are available on request.
Right of Action Ontario Purchasers Only
Under Ontario securities legislation, certain purchasers who
purchase depositary shares offered by this prospectus supplement
and the accompanying prospectus during the period of
distribution will have a statutory right of action for damages
or, while still the owner of the depositary shares, for
rescission against us in the event that this prospectus
supplement and the accompanying prospectus contain a
misrepresentation without regard to whether the purchaser relied
on the misrepresentation. The right of action for damages is
exercisable not later than the earlier of 180 days from the
date the purchaser first had knowledge of the facts giving rise
to the cause of action and three years from the date on which
payment is made for the depositary shares. The right of action
for rescission is exercisable not later than 180 days from
the date on which payment is made for the depositary shares. If
a purchaser elects to exercise the right of action for
rescission, the purchaser will have no right of action for
damages against us. In no case will the amount recoverable in
any action exceed the price at which the depositary shares were
offered to the purchaser and, if the purchaser is shown to have
purchased the securities with knowledge of the
misrepresentation, we will have no liability. In the case of an
action for damages, we will not be liable for all or any portion
of the damages that are proven to not represent the depreciation
in value of the depositary shares as a result of the
misrepresentation relied upon. These rights are in addition to,
and without derogation from, any other rights or remedies
available at law to an Ontario purchaser. The foregoing is a
summary of the rights available to an Ontario purchaser. Ontario
purchasers should refer to the complete text of the relevant
statutory provisions.
S-21
Enforcement of Legal Rights
All of our directors and officers as well as the experts named
in the accompanying prospectus may be located outside of Canada
and, as a result, it may not be possible for Canadian purchasers
to effect service of process within Canada upon us or those
persons. All or a substantial portion of our assets and the
assets of those persons may be located outside of Canada and, as
a result, it may not be possible to satisfy a judgment against
us or those persons in Canada or to enforce a judgment obtained
in Canadian courts against us or those persons outside of Canada.
Taxation and Eligibility for Investment
Canadian purchasers of the depositary shares should consult
their own legal and tax advisors with respect to the tax
consequences of an investment in the depositary shares in their
particular circumstances and about the eligibility of the
depositary shares for investment by the purchaser under relevant
Canadian legislation.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters relating to the offering will be passed
upon for us by Cahill Gordon &
Reindel llp,
New York, New York. Certain legal matters relating to the
offering will be passed upon for the underwriters by Clifford
Chance US LLP, New York, New York. Cahill Gordon &
Reindel llp and
Clifford Chance US LLP will each rely as to all
matters of Maryland law on the opinion of McGuireWoods LLP,
Baltimore, Maryland, and Cahill Gordon &
Reindel llp
will rely as to all matters of Illinois law on the opinion of
Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum Perlman & Nagelberg LLP,
Chicago, Illinois.
S-22
PROSPECTUS
$1,014,165,320
FIRST INDUSTRIAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
and
FIRST INDUSTRIAL, L.P.
First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. may offer the following
securities for sale through this prospectus from time to time:
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shares of common stock; |
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shares of preferred stock; and |
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shares of preferred stock represented by depositary shares. |
First Industrial, L.P., the operating partnership of First
Industrial Realty Trust, Inc., may offer up to $500,000,000 of
unsecured non-convertible investment grade debt securities for
sale through this prospectus from time to time.
We will provide the specific terms of the securities that we are
offering in one or more supplements to this prospectus. Any
supplement may also add, update or change information contained
in this prospectus. You should read both this prospectus and any
prospectus supplement together with the additional information
described under Where You Can Find More Information
before investing in our securities. The aggregate of the
offering prices of securities covered by this prospectus will
not exceed $1,014,165,320.
The common stock of First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. is
listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol
FR.
We may sell offered securities through agents, to or through
underwriters or through dealers, directly to purchasers or
through a combination of these methods of sale. See Plan
of Distribution for more information.
This prospectus may not be used to consummate sales of offered
securities unless accompanied by a prospectus supplement.
Investing in the securities of First Industrial Realty Trust,
Inc. or the Operating Partnership involves risks that are
described in the Risk Factors section beginning on
page 3 of this prospectus.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state
securities commission has approved or disapproved of these
securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this
prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal
offense.
The date of this prospectus is August 30, 2004.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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We have not authorized any dealer, salesperson or other person
to give you written information other than this prospectus or
any prospectus supplement or to make representations as to
matters not stated in this prospectus or any prospectus
supplement. You must not rely on unauthorized information. This
prospectus and any prospectus supplement are not an offer to
sell these securities or our solicitation of your offer to buy
the securities in any jurisdiction where that would not be
permitted or legal. The delivery of this prospectus or any
prospectus supplement at any time does not create an implication
that the information contained herein or therein is correct as
of any time subsequent to their respective dates.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus is part of a registration statement First
Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. (the Company) and
First Industrial, L.P. (the Operating Partnership)
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC,
utilizing the shelf registration process, relating
to the common stock, preferred stock, depositary shares and debt
securities described in this prospectus. Under this shelf
registration process, the Company and the Operating Partnership
may sell any combination of the securities described in this
prospectus in one or more offerings up to a total amount of
$1,014,165,320.
This prospectus provides you with a general description of the
securities the Company and the Operating Partnership may offer.
Each time the Company or the Operating Partnership sells
securities, it will provide a prospectus supplement that will
contain specific information about the terms of that offering.
The prospectus supplement may also add, update or change
information contained in this prospectus. You should read both
this prospectus and any prospectus supplement together with the
additional information described under the heading Where
You Can Find More Information.
As used in this prospectus, we, us and
our refer to the Company and its subsidiaries,
including the Operating Partnership, unless the context
otherwise requires.
THE COMPANY AND THE OPERATING PARTNERSHIP
The Company is a real estate investment trust, or REIT, subject
to Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986. The Company and its consolidated partnerships,
corporations and limited liability companies are a
self-administered and fully integrated real estate company which
owns, manages, acquires, sells and develops industrial real
estate.
As of March 31, 2004, our portfolio consisted of the
following types of properties:
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416 light industrial properties Light
industrial properties generally are of less than 100,000 square
feet, have a ceiling height of 16 to 21 feet, are comprised of
5% to 50% office space, contain less than 50% of manufacturing
space and have a land use ratio of 4:1. The land use ratio is
the ratio of the total property area to that not occupied by the
building. |
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130 bulk warehouse properties Bulk warehouse
buildings generally are of more than 100,000 square feet, have a
ceiling height of at least 22 feet, are comprised of 5% to 15%
office space, contain less than 25% of manufacturing space and
have a land use ratio of 2:1. |
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160 R&D/flex properties Research and
development/flex buildings generally are of less than 100,000
square feet, have a ceiling height of less than 16 feet, are
comprised of 50% or more of office space, contain less than 25%
of manufacturing space and have a land use ratio of 4:1. |
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87 regional warehouse properties Regional
warehouses generally are of less than 100,000 square feet, have
a ceiling height of at least 22 feet, are comprised of 5% to 15%
of office space, contain less than 25% of manufacturing space
and have a land use ratio of 2:1. |
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32 manufacturing properties Manufacturing
properties are a diverse category of buildings that generally
have a ceiling height of 10 to 18 feet, are comprised of 5% to
15% of office space, contain more than 50% of manufacturing
space and have a land use ratio of 4:1. |
These properties contain approximately 58.5 million square
feet of gross leaseable area located in 22 states.
Our interests in our properties and land parcels are held
through partnerships, corporations and limited liability
companies controlled by the Company, including the Operating
Partnership, of which the Company is the sole general partner.
As of March 31, 2004, the Company held approximately 86.1%
of the outstanding limited partnership units of the Operating
Partnership. At that date, approximately 13.9% of the
outstanding limited partnership units were held by outside
investors, including certain members of the management of the
Company. Each limited partnership unit, other than those held by
the Company, may be exchanged for one share of the Company
common stock, subject to adjustments. Upon each exchange, the
number of limited
1
partnership units held by the Company, and its ownership
percentage of the Operating Partnership, increases. As of
March 31, 2004, the Company also owned preferred general
partnership interests in the Operating Partnership with an
aggregate liquidation priority of $250.0 million.
We utilize an operating approach that combines the effectiveness
of decentralized, locally based property management,
acquisition, sales and development functions with the cost
efficiencies of centralized acquisition, sales and development
support, capital markets expertise, asset management and fiscal
control systems. At March 31, 2004, we had
331 employees.
We have grown and will seek to continue to grow through the
development of industrial properties and acquisition of
additional industrial properties.
The Company is a Maryland corporation organized on
August 10, 1993, and which completed its initial public
offering in June 1994. The Operating Partnership is a Delaware
limited partnership organized in November 1993. Our principal
executive offices are located at 311 S. Wacker Drive,
Suite 4000, Chicago, Illinois 60606, telephone number
(312) 344-4300. Our website is
http://www.firstindustrial.com. The information on our website
is not a part of, and is not incorporated by reference into,
this prospectus.
2
RISK FACTORS
Your investment in any of our securities involves certain
risks. Prior to making a decision about investing in our
securities, and in consultation with your own financial and
legal advisers, you should carefully consider, among other
matters, the following risk factor, as well as those
incorporated by reference in this prospectus, including our most
recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and those included in
the applicable prospectus supplement regarding risks particular
to each type or series of securities that we are offering under
that prospectus supplement.
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The Company might fail to qualify or remain qualified as a
REIT. |
We intend to operate so as to qualify as a REIT under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the Code) Although we
believe that we are organized and will operate in a manner so as
to qualify as a REIT, qualification as a REIT involves the
satisfaction of numerous requirements, some of which must be met
on a recurring basis. These requirements are established under
highly technical and complex Code provisions of which there are
only limited judicial or administrative interpretations, and
involve the determination of various factual matters and
circumstances not entirely within our control.
We (through one of our subsidiary partnerships) entered into
certain development agreements in 2000 through 2003, the
performance of which has been completed. Under these agreements,
we provided services to unrelated third parties and certain
payments were made by the unrelated third parties for services
provided by certain contractors hired by us. We believe that
these payments were properly characterized by us as
reimbursements for costs incurred by us on behalf of the third
parties and do not constitute gross income and did not prevent
us from satisfying the gross income requirements of the REIT
provisions (the gross income tests). We have brought
this matter to the attention of the Internal Revenue Service, or
IRS. The IRS has not challenged or expressed any interest in
challenging our view on this matter. If the IRS were to
challenge such position and were successful, we might be found
not to have satisfied the gross income tests in one or more of
our taxable years. If we were found not to have satisfied the
gross income tests, we could be subject to a penalty tax as
further discussed under Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax
Considerations below. However, such noncompliance should
not adversely affect our status as a REIT as long as such
noncompliance was due to reasonable cause and not to willful
neglect, and certain other requirements are met. Although this
cannot be assured, we believe that the risk of losing our REIT
status as a result of these development agreements is remote.
If we were to fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we
would be subject to federal income tax, including any applicable
alternative minimum tax, on our taxable income at corporate
rates. This could result in a discontinuation or substantial
reduction in dividends to stockholders and in cash to pay
interest and principal on debt securities that we issue. Unless
entitled to relief under certain statutory provisions, we also
would be disqualified from electing treatment as a REIT for the
four taxable years following the year during which we failed to
qualify as a REIT. See Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax
Considerations below.
3
RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
The Companys ratios of earnings to fixed charges and
preferred dividend requirements for the three months ended
March 31, 2004 and for the years ended December 31,
2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 and 1999 were 1.02x, 1.13x, 1.11x, 1.42x,
1.47x and 1.61x, respectively. For purposes of computing the
ratios of earnings to fixed charges and preferred stock
dividends, earnings have been calculated by adding fixed charges
(excluding capitalized interest) to income from continuing
operations before minority interest allocable to continuing
operations. Fixed charges consist of interest cost, whether
expensed or capitalized and amortization of deferred financing
costs.
The Operating Partnerships ratios of earnings to fixed
charges for the three months ended March 31, 2004 and for
the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 and
1999 were 1.35x, 1.42x, 1.69x, 2.06x, 2.08x and 2.30x,
respectively. For purposes of computing the ratios of earnings
to fixed charges, earnings have been calculated by adding fixed
charges (excluding capitalized interest) to income from
continuing operations. Fixed charges consist of interest cost,
whether expensed or capitalized and amortization of deferred
financing costs.
The ratios set forth above for the five years ended
December 31, 2003 are subject to adjustment as a result of
the adoption of the Financial Accounting Standards Boards
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144,
Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long Lived
Assets (FAS 144), as described in Note 3
to the consolidated financial statements in 2003 Annual Report
on Form 10-K of the Operating Partnership and of the
Company for the year ended December 31, 2003 and in
Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements in
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Operating Partnership
and of the Company for the quarter ended March 31, 2004. As
a result, the adjustment required by FAS 144 will reduce income
from continuing operations and the ratios of earnings to fixed
charges reported above will not agree to the ratios reported in
2003 Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Operating
Partnership and of the Company.
USE OF PROCEEDS
Unless otherwise described in the applicable prospectus
supplement, the Company and the Operating Partnership intend to
use the net proceeds from the sale of securities offered by this
prospectus and the applicable prospectus supplement for general
corporate purposes, which may include the acquisition and
development of additional properties, the repayment of
outstanding debt, the redemption of the Companys preferred
stock or the improvement of certain properties already in the
Companys portfolio. Any proceeds from the sale of common
stock, preferred stock or depositary shares by the Company will
be invested in the Operating Partnership, which will use the
proceeds for the same purposes.
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
The Company and/or the Operating Partnership may sell offered
securities in any one or more of the following ways from time to
time:
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through agents; |
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to or through underwriters; |
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through dealers; |
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directly to purchasers; or |
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through a combination of these methods of sale. |
4
The prospectus supplement relating to the offered securities
will set forth the terms of the offering and of the offered
securities, including:
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the name or names of any underwriters, dealers or agents; |
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the purchase price of the offered securities and the proceeds to
the Company and/ or the Operating Partnership from such sale; |
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any underwriting discounts and commission or agency fees and
other items constituting underwriters or agents
compensation; |
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any initial public offering price; and |
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any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to
dealers and any securities exchange on which such offered
securities may be listed. |
Any initial public offering price, discounts or concessions
allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers may be changed from time
to time.
The distribution of the offered securities may be effected from
time to time in one or more transactions:
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at a fixed price or prices, which may be changed; |
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at market prices prevailing at the time of sale; |
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at prices related to prevailing market prices; or |
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at negotiated prices. |
Offers to purchase offered securities may be solicited by agents
designated by the Company and/or the Operating Partnership from
time to time. Any agent involved in the offer or sale of the
offered securities in respect of which this prospectus is
delivered will be named, and any commissions payable by the
Company and/or the Operating Partnership to the agent will be
set forth, in the applicable prospectus supplement. Underwriters
and agents in any distribution contemplated hereby, including
but not limited to at-the-market equity offerings, may from time
to time include Banc One Capital Markets, Inc., Brinson Patrick
Securities Corporation and/or Cantor Fitzgerald & Co.
Underwriters or agents could make sales in sales deemed to be an
at-the-market offering as defined in Rule 415
promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
Securities Act), including sales made directly on
the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, the existing trading
market for our common stock, or sales made to or through a
market maker other than on an exchange. At-the-market offerings
made pursuant to this prospectus and any accompanying prospectus
supplement may not exceed 10% of the aggregate market value of
our outstanding voting securities held by non-affiliates on a
date within 60 days prior to the filing of the registration
statement of which this prospectus is a part. Unless otherwise
indicated in the prospectus supplement, any agent will be acting
on a reasonable best efforts basis for the period of its
appointment. Any agent may, and if acting as agent in an at-the
market equity offering will, be deemed to be an underwriter, as
that term is defined in the Securities Act, of the offered
securities.
If offered securities are sold by means of an underwritten
offering, the Company and/ or the Operating Partnership will
execute an underwriting agreement with an underwriter or
underwriters, and the names of the specific managing underwriter
or underwriters, as well as any other underwriters, and the
terms of the transaction, including commissions, discounts and
any other compensation of the underwriters and dealers, if any,
will be set forth in the prospectus supplement which will be
used by the underwriters to make resales of the offered
securities. If underwriters are utilized in the sale of the
offered securities, the offered securities may be acquired by
the underwriters for their own account and may be resold from
time to time in one or more transactions, including negotiated
transactions, at fixed public offering prices or at varying
prices determined by the underwriters at the time of sale.
Offered securities may be offered to the public either through
underwriting syndicates represented by managing underwriters or
directly by the managing underwriters. If any underwriter or
underwriters are utilized in the sale of the offered securities,
unless otherwise indicated in the prospectus supplement, the
underwriting agreement will provide that the obligations of the
underwriters are subject to certain
5
conditions precedent and that the underwriters with respect to a
sale of offered securities will be obligated to purchase all
such offered securities of a series if any are purchased.
The Company and/ or the Operating Partnership may grant to the
underwriters options to purchase additional offered securities
to cover over-allotments, if any, at the public offering price,
with additional underwriting discounts or commissions, as may be
set forth in the prospectus supplement relating thereto. If the
Company and/ or the Operating Partnership grant any
over-allotment option, the terms of the over-allotment option
will be set forth in the prospectus supplement relating to the
offered securities.
If a dealer is utilized in the sales of offered securities in
respect of which this prospectus is delivered, the Company
and/or the Operating Partnership will sell the offered
securities to the dealer as principal. The dealer may then
resell the offered securities to the public at varying prices to
be determined by the dealer at the time of resale. Any dealer
may be deemed to be an underwriter, as that term is defined in
the Securities Act, of the offered securities so offered and
sold. The name of the dealer and the terms of the transaction
will be set forth in the related prospectus supplement.
Offers to purchase offered securities may be solicited directly
by the Company and/or the Operating Partnership and the sale may
be made by the Company and/or the Operating Partnership directly
to institutional investors or others, who may be deemed to be
underwriters within the meaning of the Securities Act with
respect to any resale thereof. The terms of any such sales will
be described in the related prospectus supplement.
Offered securities may also be offered and sold, if so indicated
in the applicable prospectus supplement, in connection with a
remarketing upon their purchase, in accordance with a redemption
or repayment pursuant to their terms, or otherwise, by one or
more remarketing firms, acting as principals for their own
accounts or as agents for the Company and/ or the Operating
Partnership. Any remarketing firm will be identified and the
terms of its agreements, if any, with the Company and/ or the
Operating Partnership and its compensation will be described in
the applicable prospectus supplement. Remarketing firms may be
deemed to be underwriters, as that term is defined in the
Securities Act, in connection with the offered securities
remarketed thereby.
Agents, underwriters, dealers and remarketing firms may be
entitled under relevant agreements entered into with the Company
and/or the Operating Partnership to indemnification by the
Company and/or the Operating Partnership against certain civil
liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act,
that may arise from any untrue statement or alleged untrue
statement of a material fact or any omission or alleged omission
to state a material fact in this prospectus, any supplement or
amendment hereto, or in the registration statement of which this
prospectus forms a part, or to contribution with respect to
payments which the agents, underwriters, dealers or remarketing
firms may be required to make. The terms of any such
indemnification or contribution will be described in the related
prospectus supplement.
If so indicated in the prospectus supplement, the Company and/or
the Operating Partnership will authorize underwriters or other
persons acting as agents to solicit offers by certain
institutions to purchase offered securities from the Company
and/or the Operating Partnership, pursuant to contracts
providing for payments and delivery on a future date.
Institutions with which these contracts may be made include
commercial and savings banks, insurance companies, pension
funds, investment companies, educational and charitable
institutions and others, but in all cases these institutions
must be approved by the Company and/ or the Operating
Partnership. The obligations of any purchaser under any contract
will be subject to the condition that the purchase of the
offered securities shall not at the time of delivery be
prohibited under the laws of the jurisdiction to which the
purchaser is subject. The underwriters and other agents will not
have any responsibility in respect of the validity or
performance of these contracts.
Each series of offered securities will be a new issue and, other
than the common stock of the Company, which is listed on the
NYSE, will have no established trading market. The Company
and/or the Operating Partnership may elect to list any series of
offered securities on an exchange or automated quotation system,
and in the case of the common stock of the Company, on any
additional exchange, but, unless otherwise specified in the
applicable prospectus supplement, the Company and/or the
Operating Partnership will not be obligated to do so. No
assurance can be given as to the liquidity of the trading market
for any of the offered securities.
6
Underwriters, dealers, agents and remarketing firms may engage
in transactions with, or perform services for, the Company
and/or the Operating Partnership and their subsidiaries in the
ordinary course of business.
DESCRIPTION OF DEBT SECURITIES
The debt securities will be issued under an indenture, dated as
of May 13, 1997, between the Operating Partnership and
U.S. Bank National Association (formerly known as First
Trust National Association), as trustee, which has been
incorporated by reference as an exhibit to the registration
statement of which this prospectus is a part, subject to such
amendments or supplements as may be adopted from time to time.
The indenture is subject to and governed by the Trust Indenture
Act of 1939, as amended. The statements made under this heading
relating to the debt securities and the indenture are summaries
only, do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their
entirety by reference to the debt securities and the indenture.
All material terms of the debt securities and the indenture,
other than those disclosed in the applicable prospectus
supplement, are described in this prospectus.
The debt securities to be offered under this prospectus and in
any applicable prospectus supplement will be investment
grade securities, meaning that at the time of the offering
of the debt securities, at least one nationally recognized
statistical rating organization, as defined in the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act),
will have rated the debt securities in one of its generic rating
categories that signifies investment grade. Typically the four
highest rating categories, within which there may be
sub-categories or gradations indicating relative standing,
signify investment grades. An investment grade rating is not a
recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, is subject to
revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning entity and
should be evaluated independently of any other rating.
Terms
General. The debt securities will be direct unsecured
obligations of the Operating Partnership. The indebtedness
represented by the debt securities will rank equally with all
other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of the Operating
Partnership. No partner, whether limited or general, including
the Company, of the Operating Partnership has any obligation for
the payment of principal of, or premium, if any, or interest, if
any, on, or any other amount with respect to, the debt
securities. The particular terms of the debt securities offered
by a prospectus supplement, including any applicable federal
income tax considerations, will be described in the applicable
prospectus supplement, along with any applicable modifications
of or additions to the general terms of the debt securities as
described in this prospectus and in the indenture. For a
description of the terms of any series of debt securities, you
should read both the prospectus supplement relating to the debt
securities and the description of the debt securities in this
prospectus.
Except as set forth in any prospectus supplement, the debt
securities may be issued without limit as to aggregate principal
amount, in one or more series, in each case as established from
time to time by the Operating Partnership or as set forth in the
indenture or in one or more supplemental indentures to the
indenture. All debt securities of one series need not be issued
at the same time and, unless otherwise provided, a series may be
reopened, without the consent of the holders of the debt
securities of such series, for issuance of additional debt
securities of such series.
The indenture provides that the Operating Partnership may, but
need not, designate more than one trustee, each with respect to
one or more series of debt securities. Any trustee under the
indenture may resign or be removed with respect to one or more
series of debt securities, and a successor trustee may be
appointed to act with respect to the series. In the event that
two or more persons are acting as trustee with respect to
different series of debt securities, each trustee shall be a
trustee of a trust under the indenture separate and apart from
the trust administered by any other trustee. In that event and
except as otherwise indicated in this prospectus, any action
described in this prospectus to be taken by each trustee may be
taken by each such trustee with respect to, and only with
respect to, the one or more series of debt securities for which
it is trustee under the indenture.
7
The following summaries set forth general terms and provisions
of the indenture and the debt securities. The prospectus
supplement relating to the applicable series of debt securities
will contain further terms of the debt securities, including the
following specific terms:
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The title of the debt securities; |
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The aggregate principal amount of the debt securities and any
limit on the aggregate principal amount; |
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The price, expressed as a percentage of the principal amount
thereof, at which the debt securities will be issued and, if
other than the principal amount thereof, the portion of the
principal amount thereof payable upon declaration of
acceleration of maturity; |
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The date or dates, or the method for determining the date or
dates, on which the principal of the debt securities will be
payable; |
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The rate or rates, which may be fixed or variable, or the method
by which the rate or rates shall be determined, at which the
debt securities will bear interest, if any; |
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The date or dates, or the method for determining the date or
dates, from which any interest will accrue, the dates on which
any interest will be payable, the record dates for interest
payment dates, or the method by which the dates shall be
determined, the persons to whom the interest will be payable,
and the basis upon which interest shall be calculated if other
than that of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months; |
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The place or places where the principal of and premium or
make-whole amount, if any, and interest, if any, on the debt
securities will be payable, where the debt securities may be
surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange and where
notices or demands to or upon the Operating Partnership in
respect of the debt securities and the indenture may be served; |
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The period or periods, if any, within which, the price or prices
at which, and the other terms and conditions upon which, the
debt securities may, under any optional or mandatory redemption
provisions, be redeemed, as a whole or in part, at the option of
the Operating Partnership; |
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The obligation, if any, of the Operating Partnership to redeem,
repay or purchase the debt securities under any sinking fund or
analogous provision or at the option of a holder thereof, and
the period or periods within which, the price or prices at
which, and the other terms and conditions upon which, the debt
securities will be redeemed, repaid or purchased, as a whole or
in part, pursuant to such obligation; |
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If other than U.S. dollars, the currency or currencies in
which the debt securities are denominated and payable, which may
be a foreign currency or units of two or more foreign currencies
or a composite currency or currencies, and the terms and
conditions relating thereto; |
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Whether the amount of payments of principal of and premium or
make-whole amount, if any, including any amount due upon
redemption, if any, or interest, if any, on the debt securities
may be determined with reference to an index, formula or other
method, which index, formula or method may, but need not, be
based on the yield on or trading price of other securities,
including United States Treasury securities, or on a currency,
currencies, currency unit or units, or composite currency or
currencies, and the manner in which such amounts shall be
determined; |
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Whether the principal of and premium or make-whole amount, if
any, or interest on the debt securities of the series are to be
payable, at the election of the Operating Partnership or a
holder of debt securities, in a currency or currencies, currency
unit or units or composite currency or currencies other than
that in which the debt securities are denominated or stated to
be payable, the period or periods within which, and the terms
and conditions upon which, that election may be made, and the
time and manner of, and identity of the exchange rate agent with
responsibility for, determining the exchange rate between the
currency or currencies, currency unit or units or composite
currency or currencies in which the debt securities are
denominated or stated to be |
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payable and the currency or currencies, currency unit or units
or composite currency or currencies in which the debt securities
are to be so payable; |
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Provisions, if any, granting special rights to the holders of
debt securities of the series upon the occurrence of such events
as may be specified; |
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Any deletions from, modifications of or additions to the events
of default or covenants of the Operating Partnership with
respect to debt securities of the series, whether or not such
events of default or covenants are consistent with the events of
default or covenants described herein; |
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Whether and under what circumstances the Operating Partnership
will pay any additional amounts on the debt securities in
respect of any tax, assessment or governmental charge and, if
so, whether the Operating Partnership will have the option to
redeem the debt securities in lieu of making such payment; |
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Whether debt securities of the series are to be issuable as
registered securities, bearer securities (with or without
coupons) or both, any restrictions applicable to the offer, sale
or delivery of bearer securities and the terms upon which bearer
securities of the series may be exchanged for registered
securities of the series and vice versa, if permitted by
applicable laws and regulations, whether any debt securities of
the series are to be issuable initially in temporary global form
and whether any debt securities of the series are to be issuable
in permanent global form with or without coupons and, if so,
whether beneficial owners of interests in any such permanent
global security may exchange such interests for debt securities
of such series and of like tenor of any authorized form and
denomination and the circumstances under which any such
exchanges may occur, if other than in the manner provided in the
indenture, and, if registered securities of the series are to be
issuable as a global security, the identity of the depository
for such series; |
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The date as of which any bearer securities of the series and any
temporary global security representing outstanding debt
securities of the series shall be dated if other than the date
of original issuance of the first security of the series to be
issued; |
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The person to whom any interest on any registered security of
the series shall be payable, if other than the person in whose
name that security, or one or more predecessor securities, is
registered at the close of business on the regular record date
for such interest, the manner in which, or the person to whom,
any interest on any bearer security of the series shall be
payable, if otherwise than upon presentation and surrender of
the coupons appertaining thereto as they severally mature, and
the extent to which, or the manner in which, any interest
payable on a temporary global security on an interest payment
date will be paid if other than in the manner provided in the
indenture; |
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Whether the debt securities will be issued in certificated or
book-entry form; |
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The applicability, if any, of the defeasance and covenant
defeasance provisions of the indenture to the debt securities of
the series; |
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If the debt securities of the series are to be issuable in
definitive form, whether upon original issue or upon exchange of
a temporary security of the series, only upon receipt of certain
certificates or other documents or satisfaction of other
conditions, then the form and/or terms of the certificates,
documents or conditions; and |
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Any other terms of the series, not inconsistent with the Trust
Indenture Act of 1939, as amended. |
If so provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, the debt
securities may be issued at a discount below their principal
amount and provide for less than the entire principal amount
thereof to be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the
maturity thereof. In such cases, all material U.S. federal
income tax, accounting and other considerations applicable to
such original issue discount securities will be described in the
applicable prospectus supplement.
Except as may be set forth in any prospectus supplement, the
indenture does not contain any provisions that would limit the
ability of the Operating Partnership to incur indebtedness or
that would afford holders of
9
debt securities protection in the event of a highly leveraged or
similar transaction involving the Operating Partnership or in
the event of a change of control. Restrictions on ownership and
transfers of the common stock and preferred stock of the Company
under its Articles of Incorporation are designed to preserve the
Companys status as a REIT and, therefore, may act to
prevent or hinder a change of control. See Restrictions on
Transfers of Capital Stock. Reference is made to the
applicable prospectus supplement for information with respect to
any deletions from, modifications of, or additions to, the
events of default or covenants of the Operating Partnership that
are described below, including any addition of a covenant or
other provision providing event risk or similar protection.
Denomination, Interest, Registration and Transfer
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, the debt securities of any series will be issuable
in denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples thereof. Where
debt securities of any series are issued in bearer form, the
special restrictions and considerations, including special
offering restrictions and special federal income tax
considerations, applicable to those debt securities and to
payment on and transfer and exchange of those debt securities
will be described in the applicable prospectus supplement.
Bearer debt securities will be transferable by delivery.
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, any interest not punctually paid or duly provided
for on any interest payment date with respect to a debt security
in registered form, or defaulted interest, will
immediately cease to be payable to the holder on the applicable
regular record date and may either be paid to the person in
whose name the debt security is registered at the close of
business on a special record date for the payment of the
defaulted interest to be fixed by the trustee, in which case
notice thereof shall be given to the holder of the debt security
not less than 10 days prior to the special record date, or
may be paid at any time in any other lawful manner not
inconsistent with the requirements of any securities exchange on
which such debt securities are listed, all as more completely
described in the indenture.
Subject to certain limitations imposed upon debt securities
issued in book-entry form, the debt securities of any series
will be exchangeable for any authorized denomination of other
debt securities of the same series and of a like aggregate
principal amount and tenor upon surrender of the debt securities
at the corporate trust office of the applicable trustee or at
the office of any transfer agent designated by the Operating
Partnership for such purpose. In addition, subject to certain
limitations imposed upon debt securities issued in book-entry
form, the debt securities of any series may be surrendered for
registration of transfer or exchange thereof at the corporate
trust office of the applicable trustee or at the office of any
transfer agent designated by the Operating Partnership for that
purpose. Every debt security in registered form surrendered for
registration of transfer or exchange must be duly endorsed or
accompanied by a written instrument of transfer, and the person
requesting that action must provide evidence of title and
identity satisfactory to the applicable trustee or transfer
agent. No service charge will be made for any registration of
transfer or exchange of any debt securities, but the Operating
Partnership may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any
tax or other governmental charge payable in connection
therewith. If the applicable prospectus supplement refers to any
transfer agent, in addition to the applicable trustee, initially
designated by the Operating Partnership with respect to any
series of debt securities, the Operating Partnership may at any
time rescind the designation of any such transfer agent or
approve a change in the location through which any such transfer
agent acts, except that the Operating Partnership will be
required to maintain a transfer agent in each place of payment
for that series. The Operating Partnership may at any time
designate additional transfer agents with respect to any series
of debt securities.
Neither the Operating Partnership nor any trustee shall be
required to
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issue, register the transfer of or exchange debt securities of
any series during a period beginning at the opening of business
15 days before the selection of any debt securities for
redemption and ending at the close of business on |
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if the debt securities are issuable only as registered
securities, the day of the mailing of the relevant notice of
redemption, and |
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if the debt securities are issuable as bearer securities, the
day of the first publication of the relevant notice of
redemption or, if the debt securities are also issuable as
registered securities and there is no publication, the mailing
of the relevant notice of redemption; |
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register the transfer of or exchange any debt security, or
portion thereof, so selected for redemption, in whole or in
part, except the unredeemed portion of any debt security being
redeemed in part; |
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exchange any bearer security selected for redemption except
that, to the extent provided with respect to the bearer
security, the bearer security may be exchanged for a registered
security of that series and of like tenor, provided that
the registered security shall be simultaneously surrendered for
redemption; or |
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issue, register the transfer of or exchange any debt security
that has been surrendered for repayment at the option of the
holder, except the portion, if any, of the debt security not to
be so repaid. |
Payment in respect of debt securities in bearer form will be
made in the currency and in the manner designated in the
applicable prospectus supplement, subject to any applicable laws
and regulations, at such paying agencies outside the United
States as the Operating Partnership may appoint from time to
time. The paying agents outside the United States, if any,
initially appointed by the Operating Partnership for a series of
debt securities will be named in the applicable prospectus
supplement. Unless otherwise provided in the applicable
prospectus supplement, the Operating Partnership may at any time
designate additional paying agents or rescind the designation of
any paying agents, except that
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if debt securities of a series are issuable in registered form,
the Operating Partnership will be required to maintain at least
one paying agent in each place of payment for such
series, and |
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if debt securities of a series are issuable in bearer form, the
Operating Partnership will be required to maintain at least one
paying agent in a place of payment outside the United States
where debt securities of such series and any coupons
appertaining thereto may be presented and surrendered for
payment. |
Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets
The indenture provides that the Operating Partnership may,
without the consent of the holders of any outstanding debt
securities, consolidate with, or sell, lease or convey all or
substantially all of its assets to, or merge with or into, any
other entity, provided that
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either the Operating Partnership shall be the continuing entity,
or the successor entity, if other than the Operating
Partnership, formed by or resulting from any such consolidation
or merger or which shall have received the transfer of such
assets shall be organized under the laws of any domestic
jurisdiction and expressly assume the Operating
Partnerships obligations to pay principal of and premium
or make-whole amount, if any, and interest on all of the debt
securities and the due and punctual performance and observance
of all of the covenants and conditions contained in the
indenture; |
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immediately after giving effect to such transaction and treating
any indebtedness that becomes an obligation of the Operating
Partnership or any subsidiary as a result thereof as having been
incurred by the Operating Partnership or such subsidiary at the
time of such transaction, no event of default under the
indenture, and no event which, after notice or the lapse of
time, or both, would become an event of default, shall have
occurred and be continuing; and |
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an officers certificate and legal opinion covering those
conditions shall be delivered to each trustee. |
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Certain Covenants
The applicable prospectus supplement will describe any material
covenants in respect of a series of debt securities that are not
described in this prospectus. Unless otherwise indicated in the
applicable prospectus supplement, the debt securities will
include the following covenants of the Operating Partnership:
Existence. Except as permitted under
Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets,
the indenture requires the Operating Partnership to do or cause
to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in full
force and effect its existence, rights and franchises;
provided, however, that the Operating Partnership shall
not be required to preserve any right or franchise if it
determines that its preservation is no longer desirable in the
conduct of its business.
Maintenance of properties. The indenture requires the
Operating Partnership to cause all of its material properties
used or useful in the conduct of its business or the business of
any subsidiary to be maintained and kept in good condition,
repair and working order and supplied with all necessary
equipment and to cause to be made all necessary repairs,
renewals, replacements, betterments and improvements thereof,
all as in the judgment of the Operating Partnership may be
necessary so that the business carried on may be properly and
advantageously conducted at all times; provided, however,
that the Operating Partnership and its subsidiaries shall not be
prevented from selling or otherwise disposing of their
properties for value in the ordinary course of business.
Insurance. The indenture requires the Operating
Partnership to cause each of its and its subsidiaries
insurable properties to be insured against loss or damage in an
amount at least equal to their then full insurable value with
insurers of recognized responsibility. If described in the
applicable prospectus supplement, such insurer will be required
to have a specified rating from a recognized insurance rating
service.
Payment of taxes and other claims. The indenture requires
the Operating Partnership to pay or discharge or cause to be
paid or discharged, before the same shall become delinquent,
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all taxes, assessments and governmental charges levied or
imposed upon it or any subsidiary or upon the income, profits or
property of the Operating Partnership or any subsidiary; and |
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all lawful claims for labor, materials and supplies which, if
unpaid, might by law become a lien upon the property of the
Operating Partnership or any subsidiary; |
provided, however, that the Operating Partnership shall
not be required to pay or discharge or cause to be paid or
discharged any such tax, assessment, charge or claim whose
amount, applicability or validity is being contested in good
faith.
Events of Default, Notice and Waiver
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, the indenture provides that the following events are
events of default with respect to any series of debt
securities issued thereunder:
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default in the payment of any interest on any debt security of
such series, when such interest becomes due and payable that
continues for a period of 30 days; |
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default in the payment of the principal of, or premium or
make-whole amount, if any, on, any debt security of such series
when due and payable; |
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(3) |
default in making any sinking fund payment as required for any
debt security of such series; |
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(4) |
default in the performance, or breach, of any other covenant or
warranty of the Operating Partnership in the indenture with
respect to the debt securities of such series and continuance of
such default or breach for a period of 60 days after
written notice as provided in the indenture; |
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default under any bond, debenture, note, mortgage, indenture or
instrument under which there may be issued or by which there may
be secured or evidenced any indebtedness for money borrowed by
the Operating Partnership, or by any subsidiary the repayment of
which the Operating Partnership has guaranteed or for which the
Operating Partnership is directly responsible or liable as
obligor or |
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guarantor, having an aggregate principal amount outstanding of
at least $10,000,000, whether such indebtedness now exists or
shall hereafter be created, which default shall have resulted in
such indebtedness becoming or being declared due and payable
prior to the date on which it would otherwise have become due
and payable, without such indebtedness having been discharged,
or such acceleration having been rescinded or annulled, within a
period of 10 days after written notice to the Operating
Partnership as provided in the indenture; |
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(6) |
certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization, or
court appointment of a receiver, liquidator or trustee of the
Operating Partnership or any significant subsidiary; and |
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(7) |
any other event of default provided with respect to a particular
series of debt securities. |
The term significant subsidiary has the meaning
ascribed to that term in Regulation S-X promulgated under
the Securities Act.
If an event of default under the indenture with respect to debt
securities of any series at the time outstanding occurs and is
continuing, then in every such case the applicable trustee or
the holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the debt
securities of that series will have the right to declare the
principal amount of, or, if the debt securities of that series
are original issue discount securities or indexed securities,
such portion of the principal amount as may be specified in the
terms thereof, and premium or make-whole amount, if any, on, all
the debt securities of that series to be due and payable
immediately by written notice thereof to the Operating
Partnership, and to the applicable trustee if given by the
holders; provided that in the case of an event of default
described under the sixth clause of the preceding paragraph,
acceleration is automatic. However, at any time after such a
declaration of acceleration with respect to debt securities of
the series has been made, but before a judgment or decree for
payment of the money due has been obtained by the applicable
trustee, the holders of not less than a majority in principal
amount of outstanding debt securities of the series may rescind
and annul such declaration and its consequences if
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the Operating Partnership shall have deposited with the
applicable trustee all required payments of the principal of,
and premium or make-whole amount, if any, and interest on the
debt securities of the series, plus certain fees, expenses,
disbursements and advances of the applicable trustee, and |
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all events of default, other than the non-payment of accelerated
principal, or a specified portion thereof of, and the premium or
make-whole amount, if any, on debt securities of the series have
been cured or waived as provided in the indenture. |
The indenture also provides that the holders of not less than a
majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt securities
of any series may waive any past default with respect to such
series and its consequences, except a default
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in the payment of the principal of or premium or make-whole
amount, if any, or interest on any debt security of the
series, or |
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in respect of a covenant or provision contained in the indenture
that cannot be modified or amended without the consent of the
holder of each outstanding debt security affected thereby. |
The indenture requires each trustee to give notice to the
holders of debt securities within 90 days of a default
under the indenture unless such default shall have been cured or
waived; provided, however, that the trustee may withhold
notice to the holders of any series of debt securities of any
default with respect to the series, except a default in the
payment of the principal of, or premium or make-whole amount, if
any, or interest on any debt security of the series or in the
payment of any sinking fund installment in respect of any debt
security of the series if specified responsible officers of the
trustee determine in good faith that such withholding is in the
interest of such holders.
The indenture provides that no holders of debt securities of any
series may institute any proceedings, judicial or otherwise,
with respect to the indenture or for any remedy thereunder,
except in the case of failure of the applicable trustee, for
60 days, to act after it has received a written request to
institute proceedings in respect of an event of default from the
holders of not less than 25% in principal amount of the
outstanding debt securities
13
of the series, as well as an offer of indemnity reasonably
satisfactory to it. This provision will not prevent, however,
any holder of debt securities from instituting suit for the
enforcement of payment of the principal of and premium or
make-whole amount, if any, and interest on the debt securities
at their respective due dates or redemption dates.
The indenture provides that, subject to provisions in the
indenture relating to its duties in case of default, a trustee
will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or
powers under the indenture at the request or direction of any
holders of any series of debt securities then outstanding under
the indenture, unless such holders shall have offered to the
trustee thereunder reasonable security or indemnity. The holders
of not less than a majority in principal amount of the
outstanding debt securities of any series, or of all debt
securities then outstanding under the indenture, as the case may
be, shall have the right to direct the time, method and place of
conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the
applicable trustee, or of exercising any trust or power
conferred upon such trustee. However, a trustee may refuse to
follow any direction which is in conflict with any law or the
indenture, which may involve the trustee in personal liability
or which may be unduly prejudicial to the holders of debt
securities of such series not joining therein.
Within 120 days after the close of each fiscal year, the
Operating Partnership will be required to deliver to each
trustee a certificate, signed by one of several specified
officers of the Company, stating whether or not such officer has
knowledge of any default under the indenture and, if so,
specifying each default and the nature and status thereof.
Modification of the Indenture
Modifications and amendments of the indenture are permitted to
be made only with the consent of the holders of not less than a
majority in principal amount of all outstanding debt securities
issued under the indenture affected by such modification or
amendment. However, no modification or amendment may,
without the consent of the holder of each such debt security
affected thereby,
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change the stated maturity of the principal of, or any
installment of interest, or premium or make-whole amount, if
any, on, any debt security; |
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reduce the principal amount of, or the rate or amount of
interest on, or any premium or make-whole amount payable on
redemption of, any such debt security, or reduce the amount of
principal of an original issue discount security that would be
due and payable upon declaration of acceleration of the maturity
thereof or would be provable in bankruptcy, or adversely affect
any right of repayment of the holder of any debt security; |
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change the place of payment, or the coin or currency, for
payment of principal of or premium or make-whole amount, if any,
or interest on any debt security; |
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impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any
payment on or with respect to any debt security; |
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reduce the above-stated percentage of outstanding debt
securities of any series necessary to modify or amend the
indenture, to waive compliance with certain provisions thereof
or certain defaults and consequences thereunder or to reduce the
quorum or voting requirements set forth in the indenture; or |
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modify any of the foregoing provisions or any of the provisions
relating to the waiver of certain past defaults or certain
covenants, except to increase the required percentage to effect
such action or to provide that certain other provisions may not
be modified or waived without the consent of the holder of the
debt security. |
The holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the
outstanding debt securities of each series may, on behalf of all
holders of debt securities of that series, waive, insofar as
that series is concerned, compliance by the Operating
Partnership with certain restrictive covenants of the indenture.
14
Modifications and amendments of the indenture are permitted to
be made by the Operating Partnership and the respective trustee
thereunder without the consent of any holder of debt securities
for any of the following purposes:
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to evidence the succession of another person to the Operating
Partnership as obligor under the indenture; |
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to add to the covenants of the Operating Partnership for the
benefit of the holders of all or any series of debt securities
or to surrender any right or power conferred upon the Operating
Partnership in the indenture; |
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to add events of default for the benefit of the holders of all
or any series of debt securities; |
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to add or change any provisions of the indenture to facilitate
the issuance of, or to liberalize certain terms of, debt
securities in bearer form, or to permit or facilitate the
issuance of debt securities in uncertificated form, provided
that such action shall not adversely affect the interests of
the holders of the debt securities of any series in any material
respect; |
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to change or eliminate any provisions of the indenture,
provided that any such change or elimination shall become
effective only when there are no debt securities outstanding of
any series created prior thereto that are entitled to the
benefit of such provision; |
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to secure the debt securities; |
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to establish the form or terms of debt securities of any series; |
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to provide for the acceptance of appointment by a successor
trustee or facilitate the administration of the trusts under the
indenture by more than one trustee; |
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to cure any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency in the indenture,
provided that such action shall not adversely affect the
interests of holders of debt securities of any series issued
under the indenture in any material respect; or |
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to supplement any of the provisions of the indenture to the
extent necessary to permit or facilitate defeasance and
discharge of any series of the debt securities, provided
that such action shall not adversely affect the interests of
the holders of the outstanding debt securities of any series in
any material respect. |
The indenture provides that in determining whether the holders
of the requisite principal amount of outstanding debt securities
of a series have given any request, demand, authorization,
direction, notice, consent or waiver thereunder or whether a
quorum is present at a meeting of holders of debt securities,
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the principal amount of an original issue discount security that
shall be deemed to be outstanding shall be the amount of the
principal thereof that would be due and payable as of the date
of such determination upon declaration of acceleration of the
maturity thereof, |
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the principal amount of any debt security denominated in a
foreign currency that shall be deemed outstanding shall be the
U.S. dollar equivalent, determined on the issue date for the
debt security, of the principal amount of the debt security, or,
in the case of an original issue discount security, the U.S.
dollar equivalent on the issue date of the debt security of the
amount determined as provided in the subparagraph immediately
above, |
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the principal amount of an indexed security that shall be deemed
outstanding shall be the principal face amount of such indexed
security at original issuance, unless otherwise provided with
respect to such indexed security pursuant to the indenture, and |
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debt securities owned by the Operating Partnership or any other
obligor upon the debt securities or any affiliate of the
Operating Partnership or of such other obligor shall be
disregarded. |
The indenture contains provisions for convening meetings of the
holders of debt securities of a series. A meeting will be
permitted to be called at any time by the applicable trustee,
and also, upon request, by the
15
Operating Partnership or the holders of at least 25% in
principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of the
series, in any case upon notice given as provided in the
indenture. Except for any consent that must be given by the
holder of each debt security affected by certain modifications
and amendments of the indenture, any resolution presented at a
meeting or adjourned meeting duly reconvened at which a quorum
is present may be adopted by the affirmative vote of the holders
of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding debt
securities of that series. However, except as referred to above,
any resolution with respect to any request, demand,
authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other
action that may be made, given or taken by the holders of a
specified percentage, which is less than a majority, in
principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of a series
may be adopted at a meeting or adjourned meeting or adjourned
meeting duly reconvened at which a quorum is present by the
affirmative vote of the holders of such specified percentage in
principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of that
series. Any resolution passed or decision taken at any meeting
of holders of debt securities of any series duly held in
accordance with the indenture will be binding on all holders of
debt securities of that series. The quorum at any meeting called
to adopt a resolution, and at any reconvened meeting, will be
persons holding or representing a majority in principal amount
of the outstanding debt securities of a series. However, if any
action is to be taken at the meeting with respect to a consent
or waiver that may be given by the holders of not less than a
specified percentage in principal amount of the outstanding debt
securities of a series, the persons holding or representing such
specified percentage in principal amount of the outstanding debt
securities of the series will constitute a quorum.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the indenture provides
that if any action is to be taken at a meeting of holders of
debt securities of any series with respect to any request,
demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver and
other action that the indenture expressly provides may be made,
given or taken by the holders of a specified percentage in
principal amount of all outstanding debt securities affected
thereby, or of the holders of such series and one or more
additional series:
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there shall be no minimum quorum requirement for such meeting and |
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the principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of the
series that vote in favor of such request, demand,
authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other
action shall be taken into account in determining whether such
request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent,
waiver or other action has been made, given or taken under the
indenture. |
Discharge, Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, the Operating Partnership will be permitted, at its
option, to discharge certain obligations to holders of any
series of debt securities issued under the indenture that have
not already been delivered to the applicable trustee for
cancellation and that either have become due and payable or will
become due and payable within one year, or scheduled for
redemption within one year, by irrevocably depositing with the
applicable trustee, in trust, funds in such currency or
currencies, currency unit or units or composite currency or
currencies in which the debt securities are payable in an amount
sufficient to pay the entire indebtedness on the debt securities
in respect of principal, and premium or make-whole amount, if
any, and interest to the date of such deposit, if the debt
securities have become due and payable, or to the stated
maturity or redemption date, as the case may be.
The indenture provides that, unless otherwise provided in the
applicable prospectus supplement, the Operating Partnership may
elect either
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to defease and be discharged from any and all obligations with
respect to the debt securities, except for the obligation to pay
additional amounts, if any, upon the occurrence of certain
events of tax, assessment or governmental charge with respect to
payments on the debt securities and the obligations to register
the transfer or exchange of the debt securities, to replace
temporary or mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen debt
securities, to maintain an office or agency in respect of the
debt securities, and to hold moneys for payment in trust, or
defeasance, or |
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to be released from certain obligations with respect to the debt
securities under the indenture, including the restrictions
described under Certain Covenants or, if
provided in the applicable |
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prospectus supplement, its obligations with respect to any other
covenant, and any omission to comply with such obligations shall
not constitute an event of default with respect to the debt
securities, or covenant defeasance, |
in either case upon the irrevocable deposit by the Operating
Partnership with the applicable trustee, in trust, of an amount,
in such currency or currencies, currency unit or units or
composite currency or currencies in which the debt securities
are payable at stated maturity, or government obligations as
defined below, or both, applicable to the debt securities, which
through the scheduled payment of principal and interest in
accordance with their terms will provide money in an amount
sufficient to pay the principal of and premium or make-whole
amount, if any, and interest on the debt securities, and any
mandatory sinking fund or analogous payments thereon, on the
scheduled due dates therefor.
Such a trust will only be permitted to be established if, among
other things, the Operating Partnership has delivered to the
applicable trustee an opinion of counsel, as specified in the
indenture, to the effect that the holders of the debt securities
will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income
tax purposes as a result of such defeasance or covenant
defeasance and will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the
same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would
have been the case if such defeasance or covenant defeasance had
not occurred, and the opinion of counsel, in the case of
defeasance, will be required to refer to and be based upon a
ruling received from the IRS or a change in applicable U.S.
federal income tax law occurring after the date of the
indenture. In the event of such defeasance, the holders of the
debt securities would thereafter be able to look only to such
trust fund for payment of principal, and premium or make-whole
amount, if any, and interest.
Government obligations means securities that are
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direct obligations of the United States or the government which
issued the foreign currency in which the debt securities of a
particular series are payable, for the payment of which its full
faith and credit is pledged or |
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obligations of a person controlled or supervised by and acting
as an agency or instrumentality of the United States or such
government which issued the foreign currency in which the debt
securities of the series are payable, the payment of which is
unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation
by the United States or such other government, |
which, in either case, are not callable or redeemable at the
option of the issuer thereof, and shall also include a
depository receipt issued by a bank or trust company as
custodian with respect to any such government obligation or a
specific payment of interest on or principal of any such
government obligation held by such custodian for the account of
the holder of a depository receipt, provided that, except
as required by law, the custodian is not authorized to make any
deduction from the amount payable to the holder of such
depository receipt from any amount received by the custodian in
respect of the government obligation or the specific payment of
interest on or principal of the government obligation evidenced
by such depository receipt.
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, if after the Operating Partnership has deposited
funds and/or government obligations to effect defeasance or
covenant defeasance with respect to debt securities of any
series,
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the holder of a debt security of the series is entitled to, and
does, elect pursuant to the indenture or the terms of the debt
security to receive payment in a currency, currency unit or
composite currency other than that in which such deposit has
been made in respect of the debt security, or |
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a conversion event, as defined below, occurs in respect of the
currency, currency unit or composite currency in which such
deposit has been made, |
the indebtedness represented by the debt security will be deemed
to have been, and will be, fully discharged and satisfied
through the payment of the principal of and premium or
make-whole amount, if any, and interest on the debt security as
they become due out of the proceeds yielded by converting the
amount so deposited in respect of the debt security into the
currency, currency unit or composite currency in which the debt
security becomes payable as a result of such election or such
cessation of usage based on the applicable market exchange rate.
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Conversion event means the cessation of use of
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a currency, currency unit or composite currency both by the
government of the country which issued such currency and for the
settlement of transactions by a central bank or other public
institutions of or within the international banking community, |
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the European Currency Unit both within the European Monetary
System and for the settlement of transactions by public
institutions of or within the European Communities or |
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any currency unit or composite currency other than the European
Currency Unit for the purposes for which it was established. |
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, all payments of principal of and premium or
make-whole amount, if any, and interest on any debt security
that is payable in a foreign currency that ceases to be used by
its government of issuance shall be made in U.S. dollars.
In the event the Operating Partnership effects covenant
defeasance with respect to any debt securities and the debt
securities are declared due and payable because of the
occurrence of any event of default, other than the event of
default described in clause (4) under
Events of Default, Notice and Waiver
with respect to specified sections of the indenture, which
sections would no longer be applicable to the debt securities,
or described in clause (7) under Events
of Default, Notice and Waiver with respect to any other
covenant as to which there has been covenant defeasance, the
amount in such currency, currency unit or composite currency in
which the debt securities are payable, and government
obligations on deposit with the applicable trustee, will be
sufficient to pay amounts due on the debt securities at the time
of their stated maturity but may not be sufficient to pay
amounts due on the debt securities at the time of the
acceleration resulting from such event of default. However, the
Operating Partnership would remain liable to make payment of
those amounts due at the time of acceleration.
The applicable prospectus supplement may further describe the
provisions, if any, permitting defeasance or covenant
defeasance, including any modifications to the provisions
described above, with respect to the debt securities of or
within a particular series.
No Conversion Rights
The debt securities will not be convertible into or exchangeable
for any capital stock of the Company or equity interest in the
Operating Partnership.
Global Securities
The debt securities of a series may be issued in whole or in
part in book-entry form consisting of one or more global
securities that will be deposited with, or on behalf of, a
depositary identified in the applicable prospectus supplement
relating to the series. Global securities may be issued in
either registered or bearer form and in either temporary or
permanent form. The specific terms of the depositary arrangement
with respect to a series of debt securities will be described in
the applicable prospectus supplement relating to the series.
The Trustee
U.S. Bank National Trust is the trustee under the indenture.
From time to time, we have and may in the future enter into
other transactions with the trustee.
Payment and Paying Agents
Unless otherwise provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement, the principal of and applicable premium or
make-whole amount, if any, and interest on any series of debt
securities will be payable at the corporate trust office of the
trustee, the address of which will be stated in the applicable
prospectus supplement. However, at the option of the Operating
Partnership, payment of interest may be made by check mailed to
the address of the person entitled thereto as it appears in the
applicable register for the debt securities or by wire transfer
of funds to such person at an account maintained within the
United States.
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All moneys paid by the Operating Partnership to a paying agent
or a trustee for the payment of the principal of or any premium,
make-whole amount or interest on any debt security which remain
unclaimed at the end of two years after such principal, premium,
make-whole amount or interest has become due and payable will be
repaid to the Operating Partnership, and the holder of the debt
security thereafter may look only to the Operating Partnership
for payment thereof.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK
The following is a summary of the material terms of our
preferred stock. You should also read our articles of
incorporation and bylaws, which are incorporated by reference to
the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.
All material terms of the preferred stock, except those
disclosed in the applicable prospectus supplement, are described
in this prospectus.
General
Under our articles of incorporation, the Company has authority
to issue 10 million shares of its preferred stock, par
value $.01 per share. The preferred stock may be issued from
time to time, in one or more series, as authorized by the
Companys board of directors. Prior to issuance of shares
of each series, the Companys board of directors is
required by the MGCL and our articles of incorporation to fix
for each series, subject to the provisions of the articles of
incorporation regarding excess stock, par value $.01 per share,
the terms, preferences, conversion or other rights, voting
powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other
distributions, qualifications and terms or conditions of
redemption of those shares as may be permitted by Maryland law.
These rights, powers, restrictions and limitations could include
the right to receive specified dividend payments and payments on
liquidation prior to any payments to holders of common stock or
other capital stock of the Company ranking junior to the
preferred stock. The outstanding shares of preferred stock are,
and additional shares of preferred stock will be, when issued,
fully paid and nonassessable and will have no preemptive rights.
The Companys board of directors could authorize the
issuance of shares of preferred stock with terms and conditions
that could have the effect of discouraging a takeover or other
transaction that holders of common stock might believe to be in
their best interests or in which holders of some, or a majority,
of the shares of common stock might receive a premium for their
shares over the then market price of those shares of common
stock.
Outstanding Preferred Stock
At July 15, 2004, the Company had outstanding
20,000 shares of Series C preferred stock, 500 shares
of Series F preferred stock and 250 shares of
Series G preferred stock, constituting all of the
Companys outstanding preferred stock. The terms of the
Series C, Series F and Series G preferred stock
provide for a preference as to the payment of dividends over
shares of common stock and any other capital stock ranking
junior to the Series C, Series F and Series G
preferred stock. The terms of the Series C preferred stock
provide for cumulative quarterly dividends at the rate of
$215.625 per share per year. Through March 31, 2009
and March 31, 2014, respectively, the terms of the
Series F and Series G preferred stock provide for
cumulative semi-annual dividends at the rate of $6,236.00 and
$7,236.00, respectively, per share per year. After
March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2014, respectively, the
terms of the Series F and Series G preferred stock
provide for the reset of dividend rates, at the Companys
option, on a fixed or floating rate basis for fixed or floating
rate periods. Any such fixed rates and periods will be
determined through a remarketing procedure, with cumulative
dividends payable semi-annually. Any such floating rates during
floating rate periods will equal 2.375% (the initial credit
spread), plus the greater of (i) the 3-month LIBOR Rate,
(ii) the 10-year Treasury CMT Rate and (iii) the
30-year Treasury CMT Rate (the adjustable rate), reset
quarterly, with cumulative dividends payable quarterly. On and
after May 14, 2002, March 31, 2009 and March 31,
2014, respectively, the Series C, Series F and
Series G preferred stock are subject to redemption, in each
case in whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at a
cash redemption price of $2,500.00 per share,
$100,000.00 per share and $100,000.00 per share,
respectively, plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The
Series C, Series F and Series G preferred stock
rank on a parity as to payment of dividends and amounts upon
liquidation.
19
In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Company, the holders of the
Series C, Series F and Series G preferred stock
will be entitled to receive out of the Companys assets
available for distribution to stockholders, before any
distribution of assets is made to holders of common stock or any
other shares of capital stock ranking, as to distributions,
junior to the Series C, Series F and Series G
preferred stock, liquidating distributions in the amount of
$2,500.00 per share, $100,000.00 per share and $100,000.00 per
share, respectively, plus all accrued and unpaid dividends.
Except as expressly required by law and in some other limited
circumstances, the holders of the preferred stock are not
entitled to vote. The consent of holders of at least 66% of the
outstanding preferred stock and any other series of preferred
stock ranking on a parity with the outstanding preferred stock,
voting as a single class, is required to authorize another class
of shares senior to the outstanding preferred stock. The
affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at least 66% of
the outstanding shares of each series of preferred stock is
required to amend or repeal any provision of, or add any
provision to, our articles of incorporation, including the
articles supplementary relating to that series of preferred
stock, if that action would materially and adversely alter or
change the rights, preferences or privileges of that series of
preferred stock.
Future Series of Preferred Stock
The following is a description of the general terms and
provisions of the preferred stock to which any prospectus
supplement may relate. The statements below describing the
preferred stock are in all respects subject to and qualified in
their entirety by reference to the applicable provisions of our
articles of incorporation and bylaws and any applicable
amendment to our articles of incorporation designating terms of
a series of preferred stock.
Any prospectus supplement relating to a future series of the
preferred stock will contain specific terms, including:
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(1) |
The title and stated value of the preferred stock; |
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(2) |
The number of shares of the preferred stock offered, the
liquidation preference per share and the offering price of the
preferred stock; |
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(3) |
The dividend rate(s), period(s) and/or payment date(s) or
method(s) of calculation applicable to the preferred stock; |
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(4) |
The date from which dividends on the preferred stock shall
accumulate, if applicable; |
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(5) |
The procedures for any auction and remarketing, if any, for the
preferred stock; |
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(6) |
The provision for a sinking fund, if any, for the preferred
stock; |
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(7) |
The provision for redemption, if applicable, of the preferred
stock; |
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(8) |
Any listing of the preferred stock on any securities exchange; |
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(9) |
The terms and conditions, if applicable, upon which the
preferred stock will be convertible into common stock, including
the conversion price or manner of calculation of the conversion
price; |
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(10) |
Any other specific terms, preferences, rights, limitations or
restrictions of the preferred stock; |
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(11) |
A discussion of federal income tax considerations applicable to
the preferred stock; |
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(12) |
The relative ranking and preference of the preferred stock as to
dividend rights and rights upon liquidation, dissolution or
winding up of the affairs of the Company; |
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(13) |
Any limitations on issuance of any series of preferred stock
ranking senior to or on a parity with the series of preferred
stock as to dividend rights and rights upon liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the affairs of the Company; and |
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(14) |
Any limitations on direct or beneficial ownership and
restrictions on transfer, in each case as may be appropriate to
preserve the status of the Company as a REIT. |
20
Unless otherwise specified in the prospectus supplement, the
preferred stock will, with respect to dividend rights and rights
upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, rank:
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senior to all classes or series of common stock, and to all
equity securities ranking junior to the preferred stock with
respect to dividend rights or rights upon liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Company; |
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on a parity with all equity securities issued by the Company the
terms of which specifically provide that those equity securities
rank on a parity with the preferred stock with respect to
dividend rights or rights upon liquidation, dissolution or
winding up of the Company; and |
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junior to all equity securities issued by the Company the terms
of which specifically provide that those equity securities rank
senior to the preferred stock with respect to dividend rights or
rights upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company |
The term equity securities does not include
convertible debt securities.
Dividends
Holders of the preferred stock of each series will be entitled
to receive, when, as and if declared by the Companys board
of directors, out of the Companys assets legally available
for payment, cash dividends at rates and on dates as will be set
forth in the applicable prospectus supplement. Each dividend
shall be payable to holders of record as they appear on the
share transfer books of the Company on the record dates as shall
be fixed by the Companys board of directors.
Dividends on any series of the preferred stock may be cumulative
or non-cumulative, as provided in the applicable prospectus
supplement. Dividends, if cumulative, will be cumulative from
and after the date set forth in the applicable prospectus
supplement. If the Companys board of directors fails to
declare a dividend payable on a dividend payment date on any
series of the preferred stock for which dividends are
non-cumulative, then the holders of that series of the preferred
stock will have no right to receive a dividend in respect of the
dividend period ending on that dividend payment date, and the
Company will have no obligation to pay the dividend accrued for
that period, whether or not dividends on that series are
declared payable on any future dividend payment date.
If preferred stock of any series is outstanding, no dividends
will be declared or paid or set apart for payment on any capital
stock of the Company of any other series ranking, as to
dividends, on a parity with or junior to the preferred stock of
that series for any period unless:
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if that series of preferred stock has a cumulative dividend,
full cumulative dividends have been or contemporaneously are
declared and paid or declared and a sum sufficient for the
payment is set apart for that payment on the preferred stock of
that series for all past dividend periods and the then current
dividend period; or |
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if that series of preferred stock does not have a cumulative
dividend, full dividends for the then current dividend period
have been or contemporaneously are declared and paid or declared
and a sum sufficient for the payment thereof is set apart for
that payment on the preferred stock of that series. |
When dividends are not paid in full, or a sum sufficient for
full payment is not set apart, upon preferred stock of any
series and the shares of any other series of preferred stock
ranking on a parity as to dividends with the preferred stock of
that series, all dividends declared upon preferred stock of that
series and any other series of preferred stock ranking on a
parity as to dividends with that preferred stock will be
declared pro rata so that the amount of dividends
declared per share of preferred stock of that series and other
series of preferred stock shall in all cases bear to each other
the same ratio that accrued dividends per share on the preferred
stock of that series, which shall not include any accumulation
in respect of unpaid dividends for prior dividend periods if
that preferred stock does not have a cumulative dividend, and
the other series of preferred stock bear to each other. No
interest, or sum of money in lieu of interest, shall be payable
in respect of any dividend payment or payments on preferred
stock of that series that may be in arrears.
21
Except as provided in the immediately preceding paragraph,
unless:
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if a series of preferred stock has a cumulative dividend, full
cumulative dividends on the preferred stock of that series have
been or contemporaneously are declared and paid or declared and
a sum sufficient for that payment is set apart for payment for
all past dividend periods and the then current dividend period,
and |
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if a series of preferred stock does not have a cumulative
dividend, full dividends on the preferred stock of that series
have been or contemporaneously are declared and paid or declared
and a sum sufficient for that payment is set apart for payment
for the then current dividend period, |
no dividends, other than in shares of common stock or other
shares of capital stock ranking junior to the preferred stock of
that series as to dividends and upon liquidation, shall be
declared or paid or set aside for payment nor shall any other
distribution be declared or made upon the common stock, or any
other capital stock of the Company ranking junior to or on a
parity with the preferred stock of that series as to dividends
or upon liquidation, nor shall any shares of common stock, or
any other shares of capital stock of the Company ranking junior
to or on a parity with the preferred stock of that series as to
dividends or upon liquidation be redeemed, purchased or
otherwise acquired for any consideration, or any moneys be paid
to or made available for a sinking fund for the redemption of
any shares, by the Company, except by conversion into or
exchange for other capital stock of the Company ranking junior
to the preferred stock of that series as to dividends and upon
liquidation.
Any dividend payment made on shares of a series of preferred
stock shall first be credited against the earliest accrued but
unpaid dividend due with respect to shares of that series which
remain payable.
Redemption
If provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, the
preferred stock will be subject to mandatory redemption or
redemption at the option of the Company, as a whole or in part,
in each case upon the terms, at the times and at the redemption
prices set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement.
The prospectus supplement relating to a series of preferred
stock that is subject to mandatory redemption will specify the
number of shares of the preferred stock that will be redeemed by
the Company in each year commencing after a date to be
specified, at a redemption price per share to be specified,
together with an amount equal to all accrued and unpaid
dividends, which will not, if that preferred stock does not have
a cumulative dividend, include any accumulation in respect of
unpaid dividends for prior dividend periods, to the date of
redemption. The redemption price may be payable in cash or other
property, as specified in the applicable prospectus supplement.
If the redemption price for preferred stock of any series is
payable only from the net proceeds of the issuance of shares of
capital stock of the Company, the terms of that preferred stock
may provide that, if no shares of capital stock shall have been
issued or to the extent the net proceeds from any issuance are
insufficient to pay in full the aggregate redemption price then
due, the preferred stock will automatically and mandatorily be
converted into the applicable shares of capital stock of the
Company pursuant to conversion provisions specified in the
applicable prospectus supplement.
However, unless
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if a series of preferred stock has a cumulative dividend, full
cumulative dividends on all shares of that series of preferred
stock will have been or contemporaneously are declared and paid
or declared and a sum sufficient for that payment set apart for
payment for all past dividend periods and the then current
dividend period and |
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if a series of preferred stock does not have a cumulative
dividend, full dividends on all shares of the preferred stock of
that series have been or contemporaneously are declared and paid
or declared and a sum sufficient for that payment set apart for
payment for the then current dividend period, |
no shares of the series of preferred stock will be redeemed
unless all outstanding shares of preferred stock of that series
are simultaneously redeemed. However, the preceding shall not
prevent the purchase or acquisition of preferred stock of that
series to preserve the REIT status of the Company or pursuant to
a purchase or exchange offer made on the same terms to holders
of all outstanding shares of preferred stock of that series.
22
In addition, unless
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if the series of preferred stock has a cumulative dividend, full
cumulative dividends on all outstanding shares of that series of
preferred stock have been or contemporaneously are declared and
paid or declared and a sum sufficient for that payment set apart
for payment for all past dividend periods and the then current
dividend period and |
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if the series of preferred stock does not have a cumulative
dividend, full dividends on the preferred stock of that series
have been or contemporaneously are declared and paid or declared
and a sum sufficient for that payment set apart for payment for
the then current dividend period, |
The Company will not purchase or otherwise acquire directly or
indirectly any shares of preferred stock of that series, except
by conversion into or exchange for capital shares of the Company
ranking junior to the preferred stock of that series as to
dividends and upon liquidation. However, the preceding shall not
prevent the purchase or acquisition of shares of preferred stock
of that series to preserve the REIT status of the Company or
pursuant to a purchase or exchange offer made on the same terms
to holders of all outstanding shares of preferred stock of that
series.
If fewer than all of the outstanding shares of preferred stock
of any series are to be redeemed, the number of shares to be
redeemed will be determined by the Company. Those shares may be
redeemed ratably from the holders of record of those shares in
proportion to the number of those shares held or for which
redemption is requested by that holder, with adjustments to
avoid redemption of fractional shares, or by any other equitable
manner determined by the Company.
Notice of redemption will be mailed at least 30 days but
not more than 60 days before the redemption date to each
holder of record of preferred stock of any series to be redeemed
at the address shown on the stock transfer books of the Company.
Each notice shall state:
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the redemption date; |
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the number of shares and series of the preferred stock to be
redeemed; |
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the redemption price; |
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the place or places where certificates for the preferred stock
are to be surrendered for payment of the redemption price; |
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that dividends on the shares to be redeemed will cease to accrue
on the redemption date; and |
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the date upon which the holders conversion rights, if any,
as to those shares shall terminate. |
If fewer than all the shares of preferred stock of any series
are to be redeemed, the notice mailed to each holder of
preferred stock shall also specify the number of shares of
preferred stock to be redeemed from each holder. If notice of
redemption of any preferred stock has been given and if the
funds necessary for the redemption have been set aside by the
Company in trust for the benefit of the holders of any preferred
stock called for redemption, then from and after the redemption
date dividends will cease to accrue on the preferred stock
called for redemption, and all rights of the holders of those
shares will terminate, except the right to receive the
redemption price.
Liquidation Preference
Upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or
winding up of the affairs of the Company, then, before any
distribution or payment shall be made to the holders of any
common stock or any other class or series of capital stock of
the Company ranking junior to the preferred stock in the
distribution of assets upon any liquidation, dissolution or
winding up of the Company, the holders of each series of
preferred stock shall be entitled to receive out of assets of
the Company legally available for distribution to stockholders
liquidating distributions in the amount of the liquidation
preference per share, if any, set forth in the applicable
prospectus supplement, plus an amount equal to all dividends
accrued and unpaid thereon, which shall not include any
accumulation in respect of unpaid noncumulative dividends for
prior dividend periods. After payment of the full
23
amount of the liquidating distributions to which they are
entitled, the holders of preferred stock will have no right or
claim to any of the Companys remaining assets. In the
event that, upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation,
dissolution or winding up, the Companys available assets
are insufficient to pay the amount of the liquidating
distributions on all outstanding shares of preferred stock and
the corresponding amounts payable on all shares of other classes
or series of capital stock of the Company ranking on a parity
with the preferred stock in the distribution of assets, then the
holders of the preferred stock and those other classes or series
of capital stock will share ratably in the distribution of
assets in proportion to the full liquidating distributions to
which they would otherwise be respectively entitled.
If liquidating distributions will have been made in full to all
holders of preferred stock, the Companys remaining assets
will be distributed among the holders of any other classes or
series of capital stock ranking junior to the preferred stock
upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up, according to their
respective rights and preferences and in each case according to
their respective number of shares. For these purposes, the
consolidation or merger of the Company with or into any other
corporation, trust or entity, or the sale, lease or conveyance
of all or substantially all of the property or business of the
Company, will not be deemed to constitute a liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Company
Voting Rights
Holders of the preferred stock will not have any voting rights,
except as set forth below or as otherwise from time to time
required by law or as indicated in the applicable prospectus
supplement.
Unless provided otherwise for any series of preferred stock, so
long as any shares of preferred stock of a series remain
outstanding, the Company will not, without the affirmative vote
or consent of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares
of that series of preferred stock outstanding at the time, given
in person or by proxy, either in writing or at a meeting, each
series voting separately as a class:
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authorize or create, or increase the authorized or issued amount
of, any class or series of capital stock ranking prior to that
series of preferred stock with respect to payment of dividends
or the distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or
winding up or reclassify any authorized capital stock of the
Company into those shares, or create, authorize or issue any
obligation or security convertible into or evidencing the right
to purchase any of those shares; or |
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amend, alter or repeal the provisions of our articles of
incorporation or the designating amendment for that series of
preferred stock, whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise,
so as to materially and adversely affect any right, preference,
privilege or voting power of that series of preferred stock or
the holders of that series of preferred stock. |
However, with respect to the occurrence of any of the events set
forth in the second subparagraph above, so long as the preferred
stock remains outstanding with its terms materially unchanged,
taking into account that upon the occurrence of an event, the
Company may not be the surviving entity, the occurrence of any
such event shall not be deemed to materially and adversely
affect the rights, preferences, privileges or voting power of
holders of preferred stock. Further,
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any increase in the amount of the authorized preferred stock or
the creation or issuance of any other series of preferred stock,
or |
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any increase in the amount of authorized shares of that series
or any other series of preferred stock, in each case ranking on
a parity with or junior to the preferred stock of that series
with respect to payment of dividends or the distribution of
assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up, |
will not be deemed to materially and adversely affect the
rights, preferences, privileges or voting powers.
These voting provisions will not apply if, at or prior to the
time when the act with respect to which that vote would
otherwise be required shall be effected, all outstanding shares
of that series of preferred stock shall have been redeemed or
called for redemption and sufficient funds will have been
deposited in trust to effect the redemption.
24
Conversion Rights
The terms and conditions, if any, upon which any series of
preferred stock is convertible into common stock will be set
forth in the applicable prospectus supplement. The terms will
include:
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the number of shares of common stock into which the shares of
preferred stock are convertible, |
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the conversion price (or manner of calculating the conversion
price), |
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the conversion period, |
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provisions as to whether conversion will be at the option of the
holders of the preferred stock or the Company, |
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the events requiring an adjustment of the conversion price and |
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provisions affecting conversion in the event of the redemption
of that series of preferred stock. |
Restrictions on Ownership
For us to qualify as a REIT under the Code, not more than 50% in
value of our outstanding capital stock may be owned, directly or
indirectly, by five or fewer individuals, as defined in the Code
to include certain entities, during the last half of a taxable
year. To assist the Company in meeting this requirement, the
Company may take certain actions to limit the beneficial
ownership, directly or indirectly, by individuals of the
Companys outstanding equity securities, including any
preferred stock. Therefore, the designating amendment for each
series of preferred stock may contain provisions restricting the
ownership and transfer of the preferred stock. The applicable
prospectus supplement will specify any additional ownership
limitation relating to a series of preferred stock. See
Restrictions on Transfers of Capital Stock.
Transfer Agent
The transfer agent and registrar for the preferred stock will be
set forth in the applicable prospectus supplement.
DESCRIPTION OF DEPOSITARY SHARES
The Company may, at its option, elect to offer depositary shares
rather than full shares of preferred stock. In the event that
option is exercised, each of the depositary shares will
represent ownership of and entitlement to all rights and
preferences of a fraction of a share of preferred stock of a
specified series, including dividend, voting, redemption and
liquidation rights. The applicable fraction will be specified in
the prospectus supplement. The shares of preferred stock
represented by the depositary shares will be deposited with a
depositary named in the applicable prospectus supplement, under
a deposit agreement, among the Company, the depositary and the
holders of the depositary receipts. Certificates evidencing
depositary shares will be delivered to those persons purchasing
depositary shares in the offering. The depositary will be the
transfer agent, registrar and dividend disbursing agent for the
depositary shares. Holders of depositary receipts agree to be
bound by the deposit agreement, which requires holders to take
actions such as filing proof of residence and paying charges.
The summary of terms of the depositary shares contained in this
prospectus does not purport to be complete and is subject to,
and qualified in its entirety by, the provisions of the deposit
agreement, our articles of incorporation and the form of
designating amendment for the applicable series of preferred
stock. All material terms of the depositary shares, except those
disclosed in the applicable prospectus supplement, are described
in this prospectus.
Dividends
The depositary will distribute all cash dividends or other cash
distributions received in respect of the series of preferred
stock represented by the depositary shares to the record holders
of depositary receipts in proportion to the number of depositary
shares owned by those holders on the relevant record date, which
will be
25
the same date as the record date fixed by the Company for the
applicable series of preferred stock. The depositary, however,
will distribute only an amount as can be distributed without
attributing to any depositary share a fraction of one cent, and
any balance not so distributed will be added to and treated as
part of the next sum received by the depositary for distribution
to record holders of depositary receipts then outstanding.
In the event of a distribution other than in cash, the
depositary will distribute property received by it to the record
holders of depositary receipts so entitled, in proportion, as
nearly as may be practicable, to the number of depositary shares
owned by those holders on the relevant record date, unless the
depositary determines, after consultation with the Company, that
it is not feasible to make the distribution, in which case the
depositary may, with the Companys approval, adopt any
other method for that distribution as it deems equitable and
appropriate, including the sale of the property, at a place or
places and upon terms that it may deem equitable and
appropriate, and distribution of the net proceeds from that sale
to the holders.
No distribution will be made in respect of any depositary share
to the extent that it represents any preferred stock converted
into excess stock.
Liquidation Preference
In the event of the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
the affairs of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary,
the holders of each depositary share will be entitled to the
fraction of the liquidation preference accorded each share of
the applicable series of preferred stock, as set forth in the
prospectus supplement.
Redemption
If the series of preferred stock represented by the applicable
series of depositary shares is redeemable, those depositary
shares will be redeemed from the proceeds received by the
depositary resulting from the redemption, in whole or in part,
of preferred stock held by the depositary. Whenever the Company
redeems any preferred stock held by the depositary, the
depositary will redeem as of the same redemption date the number
of depositary shares representing the redeemed preferred stock.
The depositary will mail the notice of redemption promptly upon
receipt of notice from the Company and not less than 30 nor more
than 60 days prior to the date fixed for redemption of the
preferred stock and the depositary shares to the record holders
of the depositary receipts.
Voting
Promptly upon receipt of notice of any meeting at which the
holders of the series of preferred stock represented by the
applicable series of depositary shares are entitled to vote, the
depositary will mail the information contained in the notice of
meeting to the record holders of the depositary receipts as of
the record date for the meeting. Each record holder of
depositary receipts will be entitled to instruct the depositary
as to the exercise of the voting rights pertaining to the number
of shares of preferred stock represented by the record
holders depositary shares. The depositary will endeavor,
insofar as practicable, to vote the preferred stock represented
by depositary shares in accordance with those instructions, and
the Company will agree to take all action which may be deemed
necessary by the depositary in order to enable the depositary to
do so. The depositary will abstain from voting any of the
preferred stock to the extent that it does not receive specific
instructions from the holders of depositary receipts.
Withdrawal of Preferred Stock
Upon surrender of depositary receipts at the principal office of
the depositary, upon payment of any unpaid amount due the
depositary, and subject to the terms of the deposit agreement,
the owner of the depositary shares evidenced thereby is entitled
to delivery of the number of whole shares of preferred stock and
all money and other property, if any, represented by the
depositary shares. Partial shares of preferred stock will not be
issued. If the depositary receipts delivered by the holder
evidence a number of depositary shares in excess of the number
of depositary shares representing the number of whole shares of
preferred stock to be withdrawn, the depositary will deliver to
that holder at the same time a new depositary receipt evidencing
the excess number of
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depositary shares. Holders of preferred stock that is withdrawn
will not thereafter be entitled to deposit their shares under
the deposit agreement or to receive depositary receipts
evidencing their depositary shares.
Amendment and Termination of Deposit Agreement
The form of depositary receipt evidencing the depositary shares
and any provision of the deposit agreement may at any time and
from time to time be amended by agreement between the Company
and the depositary. However, any amendment which materially and
adversely alters the rights of the holders of depositary shares,
other than any change in fees, will not be effective unless that
amendment has been approved by at least a majority of the
depositary shares then outstanding. No amendment to the deposit
agreement may impair the right, subject to the terms of the
deposit agreement, of any owner of any depositary shares to
surrender the depositary receipt evidencing its depositary
shares with instructions to the depositary to deliver to the
holder the preferred stock and all money and other property, if
any, represented thereby, except in order to comply with
mandatory provisions of applicable law.
The deposit agreement will be permitted to be terminated by the
Company upon not less than 30 days prior written
notice to the applicable depositary if:
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termination is necessary to preserve the Companys status
as a REIT, or |
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a majority of each series of preferred stock affected by
termination consents to termination, |
whereupon the depositary will be required to deliver or make
available to each holder of depositary receipts, upon surrender
of the depositary receipts held by that holder, the number of
whole or fractional shares of preferred stock as is represented
by the depositary shares evidenced by those depositary receipts
together with any other property held by the depositary with
respect to those depositary receipts.
The Company will agree that if the deposit agreement is
terminated to preserve its status as a REIT, then the Company
will use its best efforts to list the preferred stock issued
upon surrender of the related depositary shares on a national
securities exchange.
In addition, the deposit agreement will automatically terminate
if:
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all outstanding depositary shares thereunder shall have been
redeemed, |
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there shall have been a final distribution in respect of the
related preferred stock in connection with any liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the Company and that distribution
shall have been distributed to the holders of depositary
receipts evidencing the depositary shares representing that
preferred stock or |
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each share of the related preferred stock shall have been
converted into stock of the Company not represented by
depositary shares. |
Charges of Depositary
The Company will pay all transfer and other taxes and
governmental charges arising solely from the existence of the
depositary arrangements. The Company will pay charges of the
depositary in connection with the initial deposit of the
preferred stock and initial issuance of the depositary shares,
and redemption of the preferred stock and all withdrawals of
preferred stock by owners of depositary shares. Holders of
depositary receipts will pay transfer, income and other taxes
and governmental charges and other charges as are provided in
the deposit agreement to be for their accounts. In certain
circumstances, the depositary may refuse to transfer depositary
shares, may withhold dividends and distributions and sell the
depositary shares evidenced by those depositary receipts if
those charges are not paid.
Miscellaneous
The depositary will forward to the holders of depositary
receipts all reports and communications from the Company that
are delivered to the depositary and that the Company is required
to furnish to the holders of the preferred stock. In addition,
the depositary will make available for inspection by holders of
depositary receipts
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at the principal office of the depositary, and at other places
as it may from time to time deem advisable, any reports and
communications received from the Company that are received by
the depositary as the holder of preferred stock.
Neither the depositary nor the Company assumes any obligation or
will be subject to any liability under the deposit agreement to
holders of depositary receipts other than for its negligence or
willful misconduct. Neither the depositary nor the Company will
be liable if it is prevented or delayed by law or any
circumstance beyond its control in performing its obligations
under the deposit agreement. The obligations of the Company and
the depositary under the deposit agreement will be limited to
performance in good faith of their duties under the deposit
agreement, and they will not be obligated to prosecute or defend
any legal proceeding in respect of any depositary shares or
preferred stock unless satisfactory indemnity is furnished. The
Company and the depositary may rely on written advice of counsel
or accountants, on information provided by holders of the
depositary receipts or other persons believed in good faith to
be competent to give that information and on documents believed
to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper
party or parties.
In the event the depositary receives conflicting claims,
requests or instructions from any holders of depositary
receipts, on the one hand, and the Company, on the other hand,
the depositary shall be entitled to act on those claims,
requests or instructions received from the Company.
Resignation and Removal of Depositary
The depositary may resign at any time by delivering to the
Company notice of its election to do so, and the Company may at
any time remove the depositary. Any resignation or removal will
take effect upon the appointment of a successor depositary and
its acceptance of that appointment. The successor depositary
must be appointed within 60 days after delivery of the
notice for resignation or removal and must be a bank or trust
company having its principal office in the United States and
having a combined capital and surplus of at least $150,000,000.
Federal Income Tax Consequences
Owners of depositary shares will be treated for Federal income
tax purposes as if they were owners of the preferred stock
represented by depositary shares. Accordingly, those owners will
be entitled to take into account, for Federal income tax
purposes, income and deductions to which they would be entitled
if they were holders of the preferred stock. In addition,
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no gain or loss will be recognized for Federal income tax
purposes upon the withdrawal of preferred stock in exchange for
depositary shares, |
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the tax basis of each share of preferred stock to an exchanging
owner of depositary shares will, upon exchange, be the same as
the aggregate tax basis of the depositary shares exchanged
therefor and |
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the holding period for preferred stock in the hands of an
exchanging owner of depositary shares will include the period
during which that person owned those depositary shares. |
DESCRIPTION OF COMMON STOCK
The following is a summary of the material terms of our common
stock. You should read our articles of incorporation and bylaws,
which are incorporated by reference to the registration
statement of which this prospectus is a part. All material terms
of the common stock, except those disclosed in the applicable
prospectus supplement, are described in this prospectus.
General
Under our articles of incorporation, the Company has authority
to issue 100 million shares of its common stock, par value
$.01 per share. Under Maryland law, stockholders generally
are not responsible for the corporations debts or
obligations. At July 26, 2004 we had outstanding
41,255,440 shares of common stock.
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Terms
Subject to the preferential rights of any other shares or series
of stock, including preferred stock outstanding from time to
time, and to the provisions of our articles of incorporation
regarding excess stock, common stock holders will be entitled to
receive dividends on shares of common stock if, as and when
authorized and declared by our board of directors out of assets
legally available for that purpose. Subject to the preferential
rights of any other shares or series of stock, including
preferred stock outstanding from time to time, and to the
provisions of our articles of incorporation regarding excess
stock, common stockholders will share ratably in the assets of
the Company legally available for distribution to its
stockholders in the event of its liquidation, dissolution or
winding up after payment of, or adequate provision for, all
known debts and liabilities of the Company. For a discussion of
excess stock, please see Restrictions on Transfers of
Capital Stock.
Subject to the provisions of our articles of incorporation
regarding excess stock, each outstanding share of common stock
entitles the holder to one vote on all matters submitted to a
vote of stockholders, including the election of directors, and,
except as otherwise required by law or except as provided with
respect to any other class or series of stock, common stock
holders will possess the exclusive voting power. There is no
cumulative voting in the election of directors, which means that
the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common
stock can elect all of the directors then standing for election,
and the holders of the remaining shares of common stock will not
be able to elect any directors.
Common stock holders have no conversion, sinking fund or
redemption rights, or preemptive rights to subscribe for any
securities of the Company.
Subject to the provisions of our articles of incorporation
regarding excess stock, all shares of common stock will have
equal dividend, distribution, liquidation and other rights, and
will have no preference, appraisal or exchange rights.
Under the MGCL, a corporation generally cannot, subject to
certain exceptions, dissolve, amend its articles of
incorporation, merge, sell all or substantially all of its
assets, engage in a share exchange or engage in similar
transactions outside the ordinary course of business unless
approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders holding at
least two-thirds of the shares entitled to vote on the matter
unless the corporations articles of incorporation set
forth a lesser percentage, which percentage shall not be less
than a majority of all of the votes to be cast on the matter.
Our articles of incorporation do not provide for a lesser
percentage in such situations.
Restrictions on Ownership
For the Company to qualify as a REIT under the Code, not more
than 50% in value of its outstanding capital stock may be owned,
actually or by attribution, by five or fewer individuals, as
defined in the Code to include certain entities, during the last
half of a taxable year. To assist us in meeting this
requirement, we may take certain actions to limit the beneficial
ownership, directly or indirectly, by individuals of our
outstanding equity securities. See Restrictions on
Transfers of Capital Stock.
Transfer Agent
The transfer agent and registrar for the common stock is
EquiServe Inc. and its fully owned subsidiary, EquiServe Trust
Company, Inc.
Shareholder Rights Plan
On September 4, 1997, the board of directors of the Company
adopted a shareholder rights plan. Under the shareholder rights
plan, one right was attached to each outstanding share of common
stock at the close of business on October 19, 1997, and one
right will be attached to each share of common stock thereafter
issued. Each right entitles the holder to purchase, under
certain conditions, one one-hundredth of a share of our junior
participating preferred stock for $125.00. The rights may also,
under certain conditions, entitle the holders to receive common
stock, or common stock of an entity acquiring the Company, or
other consideration, each having a value equal to twice the
exercise price of each right ($250.00). We have designated
1,000,000 shares as
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junior participating preferred stock and have reserved such
shares for issuance under the shareholder rights plan. In the
event of any merger, consolidation, combination or other
transaction in which shares of common stock are exchanged for or
changed into other stock or securities, cash and/or other
property, each share of junior participating preferred stock
will be entitled to receive 100 times the aggregate amount of
stock, securities, cash and/or other property into which or for
which each share of common stock is changed or exchanged,
subject to certain adjustments. The rights will expire on
October 19, 2007, unless redeemed earlier by the holders at
$.001 per right or exchanged by the holder at an exchange
ratio of one share of common stock per right. The description
and terms of the rights are set forth in a shareholder rights
agreement between us and EquiServe Trust Company, N.A. (formerly
First Chicago Trust Company of New York).
CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF MARYLAND LAW AND THE
COMPANYS ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS
The following summary of certain provisions of Maryland law is
not complete and is qualified by reference to Maryland law and
our articles of incorporation and bylaws, which are incorporated
by reference to the registration statement of which this
prospectus is a part.
Business Combinations
Under the MGCL, certain business combinations (as
defined in the MGCL) between a Maryland corporation and an
Interested Stockholder (as defined in the MGCL) or,
in certain circumstances, an associate or an affiliate thereof,
are prohibited for five years after the most recent date on
which the Interested Stockholder became an Interested
Stockholder. Business combinations for the purposes of the
preceding sentence are defined by the MGCL to include certain
mergers, consolidations, share exchanges and asset transfers,
some issuances and reclassifications of equity securities, the
adoption of a plan of liquidation or dissolution or the receipt
by an interested stockholder or its affiliate of any loan
advance, guarantee, pledge or other financial assistance or tax
advantage provided by the Company. After the five-year period,
any such business combination must be recommended by the board
of directors of the corporation and approved by the affirmative
vote of at least
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80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of outstanding
shares of voting stock the corporation and |
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two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of voting
stock of the corporation other than voting stock held by the
Interested Stockholder with whom the business combination is to
be effected. |
The super-majority vote requirements will not apply if, among
other things, the corporations stockholders receive a
minimum price (as defined in the MGCL) for their shares and the
consideration is received in cash or in the same form as
previously paid by the Interested Stockholder for its shares.
These provisions of Maryland law do not apply, however, to
business combinations that are approved or exempted by the board
of directors of the corporation prior to the most recent time
that the Interested Stockholder becomes an Interested
Stockholder. Our articles of incorporation exempt from these
provisions of the MGCL any business combination in which there
is no Interested Stockholder other than Jay H. Shidler, the
Chairman of our board of directors, or any entity controlled by
Mr. Shidler unless Mr. Shidler is an Interested
Stockholder without taking into account his ownership of shares
of our common stock and the right to acquire shares of our
common stock in an aggregate amount that does not exceed the
number of shares of our common stock that he owned and had the
right to acquire, including through the exchange of limited
partnership units of the Operating Partnership, at the time of
the consummation of our initial public offering.
Control Share Acquisitions
The MGCL provides that control shares (as defined in
the MGCL) of a Maryland corporation acquired in a control
share acquisition (as defined in the MGCL) have no voting
rights except to the extent approved by a vote of two-thirds of
the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding shares of
stock owned
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by the acquiror or by officers or by directors who are also
employees of the corporation. Control shares are
voting shares of stock that, if aggregated with all other shares
of stock previously acquired by that person, would entitle the
acquiror to exercise voting power in electing directors within
one of the following ranges of voting power:
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one-tenth or more but less than one-third, |
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one-third or more but less than a majority or |
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a majority of all voting power. |
Control shares do not include shares the acquiring person is
then entitled to vote as a result of having previously obtained
stockholder approval. A control share acquisition
means the acquisition of ownership of or power to direct the
voting power of control shares, subject to certain exceptions.
A person who has made or proposes to make a control share
acquisition may compel the board of directors, upon satisfaction
of certain conditions, including an undertaking to pay certain
expenses, to call a special meeting of stockholders to be held
within 50 days after receiving a demand to consider the
voting rights of the shares. If no request for a meeting is
made, the corporation may itself present the question at any
meeting of stockholders.
If voting rights are not approved at the meeting or if the
acquiring person does not deliver an acquiring person statement
as required by the MGCL, then, subject to certain conditions and
limitations, the corporation may redeem any or all of the
control shares, except those for which voting rights have
previously been approved. The corporations redemption of
the control shares will be for fair value determined, without
regard to the absence of voting rights, as of the date of the
last control share acquisition or of any meeting of stockholders
at which the voting rights of the control shares are considered
and not approved. If voting rights for control shares are
approved at a stockholders meeting and the acquiror becomes
entitled to vote a majority of the shares entitled to vote, all
other stockholders may exercise appraisal rights. The fair value
of the shares as determined for purposes of the appraisal rights
may not be less than the highest price per share paid in the
control share acquisition. Certain limitations and restrictions
otherwise applicable to the exercise of dissenters rights
do not apply in the context of a control share acquisition.
The control share acquisition statute does not apply to
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shares acquired in a merger, consolidation or share exchange if
the corporation is a party to the transaction or |
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acquisitions approved or exempted by our articles of
incorporation or bylaws. |
Our bylaws contain a provision exempting any and all
acquisitions of our shares of capital stock from the control
share provisions of the MGCL. There can be no assurance that
this bylaw provision will not be amended or eliminated in the
future.
Amendment of Articles of Incorporation
Our articles of incorporation, including the provisions on
classification of the board of directors discussed below, may be
amended only by the affirmative vote of the holders of not less
than two-thirds of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the
matter.
Meetings of Stockholders
Our bylaws provide for annual meetings of stockholders to be
held on the third Wednesday in April or on any other day as may
be established from time to time by our board of directors.
Special meetings of stockholders may be called by
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our Chairman of the board or our President, |
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a majority of the board of directors or |
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stockholders holding at least a majority of our outstanding
capital stock entitled to vote at the meeting. |
Our bylaws provide that any stockholder of record wishing to
nominate a director or have a stockholder proposal considered at
an annual meeting must provide written notice and certain
supporting documentation to us relating to the nomination or
proposal not less than 75 days nor more than 180 days
prior to the anniversary date of the prior years annual
meeting or special meeting in lieu thereof (the
Anniversary Date). In the event that the annual
meeting is called for a date more than seven calendar days
before the Anniversary Date, stockholders generally must provide
written notice within 20 calendar days after the date on which
notice of the meeting is mailed to stockholders or the date of
the meeting is publicly disclosed.
The purpose of requiring stockholders to give us advance notice
of nominations and other business is to afford our board of
directors a meaningful opportunity to consider the
qualifications of the proposed nominees or the advisability of
the other proposed business and, to the extent deemed necessary
or desirable by our board of directors, to inform stockholders
and make recommendations about the qualifications or business,
as well as to provide a more orderly procedure for conducting
meetings of stockholders. Although our bylaws do not give our
board of directors any power to disapprove stockholder
nominations for the election of directors or proposals for
action, they may have the effect of precluding a contest for the
election of directors or the consideration of stockholder
proposals if the proper procedures are not followed and of
discouraging or deterring a third party from conducting a
solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of directors or
to approve its own proposal. Our bylaws may have those effects
without regard to whether consideration of the nominees or
proposal might be harmful or beneficial to us and our
stockholders.
Classification of the Board of Directors
Our bylaws provide that the number of our directors may be
established by the board of directors but may not be fewer than
the minimum number required by Maryland law nor more than
twelve. Any vacancy will be filled, at any regular meeting or at
any special meeting called for that purpose, by a majority of
the remaining directors, except that a vacancy resulting from an
increase in the number of directors will be filled by a majority
of the entire board of directors. Under the terms of our
articles of incorporation, our directors are divided into three
classes. One class holds office for a term expiring at the
annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2002, and the other
two classes hold office for terms expiring at the annual
meetings of stockholders to be held in 2003 and 2004,
respectively. As the term of each class expires, directors in
that class will be elected for a term of three years and until
their successors are duly elected and qualified. We believe that
classification of our board of directors will help to assure the
continuity and stability of our business strategies and policies
as determined by our board of directors.
The classified board provision could have the effect of making
the removal of incumbent directors more time consuming and
difficult, which could discourage a third party from making a
tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of us,
even though such an attempt might be beneficial to us and our
stockholders. At least two annual meetings of stockholders,
instead of one, will generally be required to effect a change in
a majority of our board of directors. Thus, the classified board
provision could increase the likelihood that incumbent directors
will retain their positions. Holders of shares of common stock
will have no right to cumulative voting for the election of
directors. Consequently, at each annual meeting of stockholders,
the holders of a majority of the shares of common stock will be
able to elect all of the successors of the class of directors
whose term expires at that meeting.
RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFERS OF CAPITAL STOCK
For the Company to qualify as a REIT under the Code, among other
things, not more than 50% in value of its outstanding capital
stock may be owned, actually or by attribution, by five or fewer
individuals (as defined in the Code to include certain entities)
during the last half of a taxable year. Our capital stock must
also be beneficially owned by 100 or more persons during at
least 335 days of a taxable year of 12 months or
during a proportionate part of a shorter tax year. See
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations. To
ensure that we remain a qualified REIT, our articles of
incorporation, subject to certain exceptions, provide that no
holder
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may own, or be deemed to own by virtue of the attribution
provisions of the Code, more than an aggregate of 9.9% in value
of our capital stock. Any transfer of capital stock or any
security convertible into capital stock that would create a
direct or indirect ownership of capital stock in excess of the
ownership limit or that would result in our disqualification as
a REIT, including any transfer that results in the capital stock
being owned by fewer than 100 persons or results in us being
closely held within the meaning of
Section 856(h) of the Code, shall be null and void, and the
intended transferee will acquire no rights to the capital stock.
Capital stock owned, or deemed to be owned, or transferred to a
stockholder in excess of the ownership limit will automatically
be exchanged for shares of excess stock, as defined
in our articles of incorporation, that will be transferred, by
operation of law, to us as trustee of a trust for the exclusive
benefit of the transferees to whom such capital stock may be
ultimately transferred without violating the ownership limit.
While the excess stock is held in trust, it will not be entitled
to vote, it will not be considered for purposes of any
stockholder vote or the determination of a quorum for such vote,
and it will not be entitled to participate in the accumulation
or payment of dividends or other distributions. A transferee of
excess stock may, at any time such excess stock is held by us in
trust, designate as beneficiary of the transferee
stockholders interest in the trust representing the excess
stock any individual whose ownership of the capital stock
exchanged into such excess stock would be permitted under the
ownership limit, and may transfer that interest to the
beneficiary at a price not in excess of the price paid by the
original transferee-stockholder for the capital stock that was
exchanged into excess stock. Immediately upon the transfer to
the permitted beneficiary, the excess stock will automatically
be exchanged for capital stock of the class from which it was
converted.
In addition, we will have the right, for a period of
90 days during the time any excess stock is held by us in
trust, and, with respect to excess stock resulting from the
attempted transfer of our preferred stock, at any time when any
outstanding shares of preferred stock of the series are being
redeemed, to purchase all or any portion of the excess stock
from the original transferee-stockholder at the lesser of the
price paid for the capital stock by the original
transferee-stockholder and the market price, as determined in
the manner set forth in our articles of incorporation, of the
capital stock on the date we exercise our option to purchase or,
in the case of a purchase of excess stock attributed to
preferred stock which has been called for redemption, at its
stated value, plus all accumulated and unpaid dividends to the
date of redemption. The 90-day period begins on the date of the
violative transfer if the original transferee-stockholder gives
notice to us of the transfer or, if no such notice is given, the
date the board of directors determines that a violative transfer
has been made.
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
This section is a summary of the material federal income tax
matters of general application pertaining to REITs under the
Code. This discussion is based upon current law (which is
subject to change, possibly on retroactive basis) and does not
purport to deal with federal income tax consequences to
investors who purchase our debt securities, common stock,
preferred stock or preferred stock represented by depositary
shares (which consequences will be described in applicable
supplements to this prospectus). The provisions of the Code
pertaining to REITs are highly technical and complex and
sometimes involve mixed questions of fact and law. This section
does not discuss U.S. federal estate or gift taxation or state,
local or foreign taxation.
You are advised to consult with your own tax advisor
regarding the specific U.S. federal, state, local and foreign
tax consequences to you of the purchase, ownership and sale of
our stock.
In the opinion of Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP:
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commencing with our taxable year ended December 31, 1994,
we have been organized and operated in conformity with the
requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the
Code and |
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our current and proposed method of operation (as represented by
us to Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP in a written
certificate) will enable us to continue to meet the requirements
for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the Code. |
Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLPs opinion is based on
various assumptions and is conditioned upon certain
representations made by us as to factual matters with respect to
us and certain partnerships, limited
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liability companies and corporations through which we hold
substantially all of our assets, including an assumption that,
if we ultimately were found not to have satisfied the gross
income requirements of the REIT provisions as a result of
certain development agreements entered into by us (as discussed
in Risk Factors above), such failure was due to
reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, and we have
otherwise satisfied all the requirements for relief under the
Code (as discussed in Risk Factors above). Moreover,
our qualification and taxation as a REIT depends upon our
ability to meet, as a matter of fact, through actual annual
operating results, distribution levels, diversity of stock
ownership and various other qualification tests imposed under
the Code discussed below, the results of which will not be
reviewed by Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP. No assurance
can be given that the actual results of our operations for any
particular taxable year will satisfy those requirements.
To qualify as a REIT under the Code for a taxable year, we must
meet certain organizational and operational requirements, which
generally require us to be a passive investor in real estate and
to avoid excessive concentration of ownership of our capital
stock. Generally, at least 75% of the value of our total assets
at the end of each calendar quarter must consist of real estate
assets, cash or governmental securities. We generally may not
own securities possessing more than 10% of the total voting
power, or representing more than 10% of the total value, of the
outstanding securities of any issuer, and the value of any one
issuers securities may not exceed 5% of the value of our
assets. Shares of qualified REITs, qualified temporary
investments and shares of certain wholly owned subsidiary
corporations known as qualified REIT subsidiaries
and taxable REIT subsidiaries are exempt from these
prohibitions. We hold assets through certain qualified REIT
subsidiaries and taxable REIT subsidiaries. In the opinion of
Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP, based on certain factual
representations, these holdings do not violate the prohibitions
in the REIT provisions on ownership of securities.
The 10% and 5% limitations described above will not apply to the
ownership of securities of a taxable REIT subsidiary. A REIT may
own up to 100% of the securities of a taxable REIT subsidiary
subject only to the limitations that the aggregate value of the
securities of all taxable REIT subsidiaries owned by the REIT
does not exceed 20% of the value of the assets of the REIT, and
the aggregate value of all securities owned by the REIT
(including the securities of all taxable REIT subsidiaries, but
excluding governmental securities) does not exceed 25% of the
value of the assets of the REIT. A taxable REIT subsidiary
generally is any corporation (other than another REIT and
corporations involved in certain lodging, healthcare,
franchising and licensing activities) owned by a REIT with
respect to which the REIT and such corporation jointly elect
that such corporation shall be treated as a taxable REIT
subsidiary.
For each taxable year, at least 75% of a REITs gross
income must be derived from specified real estate sources and
95% must be derived from such real estate sources plus certain
other permitted sources. Real estate income for purposes of
these requirements includes
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gain from the sale of real property not held primarily for sale
to customers in the ordinary course of business, |
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dividends on REIT shares, |
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interest on loans secured by mortgages on real property, |
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certain rents from real property and |
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certain income from foreclosure property. |
For rents to qualify, they may not be based on the income or
profits of any person, except that they may be based on a
percentage or percentages of gross or receipts. Also, subject to
certain limited exceptions, the REIT may not man-age the
property or furnish services to tenants except through an
independent contractor which is paid an arms-length fee
and from which the REIT derives no income. However, a REIT may
render a de minimis amount of otherwise impermissible services
to tenants, or in connection with the management of property,
without causing any income from the property (other than the
portion of the income attributable to the impermissible
services) to fail to qualify as rents from real property. In
addition, a taxable REIT subsidiary may provide certain services
to tenants of the REIT, which services could not otherwise be
provided by the REIT or the REITs other subsidiaries.
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Substantially all of our assets are held through certain
partnerships. In general, in the case of a REIT that is a
partner in a partnership, applicable regulations treat the REIT
as holding directly its proportionate share of the assets of the
partnership and as being entitled to the income of the
partnership attributable to such share based on the REITs
proportionate share of such partnership capital.
We must satisfy certain ownership restrictions that limit the
concentration of ownership of our capital stock and the
ownership by us of our tenants. Our outstanding capital stock
must be held by at least 100 stockholders during at least
335 days of a taxable year or during a proportionate part
of a taxable year of less than 12 months. No more than 50%
in value of our outstanding capital stock, including in some
circumstances capital stock into which outstanding securities
might be converted, may be owned actually or constructively by
five or fewer individuals or certain entities at any time during
the last half of any taxable year. Accordingly, our articles of
incorporation contain certain restrictions regarding the
transfer of our common stock, preferred stock and any other
outstanding securities convertible into stock when necessary to
maintain our qualification as a REIT under the Code. However,
because the Code imposes broad attribution rules in determining
constructive ownership, no assurance can be given that the
restrictions contained in our articles of incorporation will be
effective in maintaining our REIT status. See Restrictions
on Transfers of Capital Stock above.
So long as we qualify for taxation as a REIT, distribute at
least 90% of our REIT taxable income, computed without regard to
net capital gain or the dividends paid deduction, for each
taxable year to our stockholders annually and satisfy certain
other distribution requirements, we will not be subject to
federal income tax on that portion of such income distributed to
stockholders. We will be taxed at regular corporate rates on all
income not distributed to stockholders. Our policy is to
distribute at least 90% of our taxable income annually. We may
elect to pass through to our shareholders on a pro rata basis
any taxes paid by us on our undistributed net capital gain
income for the relevant tax year. REITs also may incur taxes for
certain other activities or to the extent distributions do not
satisfy certain other requirements.
Our failure to qualify during any taxable year as a REIT could
have a material adverse effect upon our stockholders and might
materially affect our ability to pay interest and principal to
the holders of our debt securities. If disqualified for taxation
as a REIT for a taxable year, we also would be unable to elect
to be taxed as a REIT for the next four taxable years, unless
certain relief provisions were available. We would be subject to
federal income tax at corporate rates on all of our taxable
income and would not be able to deduct any dividends paid, which
could have a material adverse affect on our business and could
result in a discontinuation of or substantial reduction in
dividends to stockholders and might materially affect our
ability to pay interest and principal to the holders of our debt
securities. Should the failure to qualify as a REIT be
determined to have occurred retroactively in one of our earlier
tax years, the imposition of a substantial federal income tax
liability on us attributable to any nonqualifying tax years may
adversely affect our business and our ability to pay dividends
to our stockholders and interest and principal to the holders of
our debt securities.
In the event that we fail to meet certain gross income tests
applicable to REITs, we may nonetheless retain our qualification
as a REIT if we pay a penalty tax equal to the amount by which
90% or 75% of our gross income exceeds our gross income
qualifying under the 95% or 75% gross income test respectively
(whichever amount is greater) multiplied by a fraction intended
to reflect our profitability, so long as such failure was
considered to be due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect
and certain other conditions are satisfied. Any such taxes would
adversely affect our ability to pay dividends and distributions
to our stockholders and interest and principal to the holders of
our debt securities.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This prospectus contains certain forward-looking statements
within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act,
and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. We intend such
forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor
provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are
including this statement for the purposes of complying with
those safe harbor provisions. Forward-looking statements, which
are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans,
strategies and expectations, are generally identifiable by use
of the words believe, expect,
intend, anticipate,
estimate, project or similar
expressions. Our ability to predict results or the actual effect
of
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future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. Factors
which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and
future prospects on a consolidated basis include, but are not
limited to, changes in:
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economic conditions generally and the real estate market
specifically, |
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legislative/regulatory changes (including changes to laws
governing the taxation of real estate investment trusts), |
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availability of financing, |
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interest rate levels, |
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competition, |
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supply and demand for industrial properties in our current and
proposed market areas, |
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potential environmental liabilities, |
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slippage in development or lease-up schedules, |
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tenant credit risks, |
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higher-than-expected costs and |
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changes in general accounting principles, policies and
guidelines applicable to real estate investment trusts. |
These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating
forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be
placed on such statements. Further information concerning us and
our business, including additional factors that could materially
affect our financial results, is included elsewhere in this
prospectus and in the documents we incorporate by reference,
including the 2003 Annual Report on Form 10-K of the
Operating Partnership and the 2003 Annual Report on
Form 10-K of the Company.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
The Company and the Operating Partnership are subject to the
informational requirements of the Exchange Act and files reports
and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any of
the Companys and the Operating Partnerships reports
and other materials filed with the SEC at the Public Reference
Room of the SEC at 450 Fifth Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the Public Reference
Room. In addition, the SEC maintains a website that contains
reports and other information regarding registrants that file
electronically with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. The
Companys common stock is listed on the NYSE and its
filings with the SEC can also be inspected and copied at the
offices of the NYSE at 20 Broad Street, New York, New York
10005.
Whenever a reference is in made in this prospectus to any of our
agreements or other documents, please be aware that the
reference herein is only a summary and that you should refer to
the exhibits that are part of the registration statement filed
with the SEC on Form S-3 for a copy of such agreement or
other document.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
We incorporate by reference information we file with the SEC,
which means that we can disclose important information to you by
referring you to those documents. The information incorporated
by reference is an important part of this prospectus and more
recent information automatically updates and supersedes more
dated information contained or incorporated by reference in this
prospectus.
The Company (file no. 1-13102) filed the following documents
with the SEC and incorporates them by reference into this
prospectus:
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(1) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2003, filed March 15, 2004; |
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(2) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended March 31, 2004, filed May 10, 2004; |
36
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(3) Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 18, 2004; |
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(4) Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 27, 2004; |
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(5) Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 30,
2004; and |
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(6) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended June 30, 2004, filed August 6, 2004. |
The Operating Partnership (file no. 333-21873) filed the
following documents with the SEC and incorporates them by
reference into this prospectus:
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(1) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2003, filed March 15, 2004; |
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(2) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended March 31, 2004, filed May 10, 2004; |
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(3) Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 27, 2004; |
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(4) Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 8, 2004; |
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(5) Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 17,
2004; |
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(6) Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 30,
2004; and |
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(7) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended June 30, 2004, filed August 6, 2004. |
All documents filed by the Company and the Operating Partnership
under Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act
subsequent to the date of this prospectus and prior to the
termination of this offering shall be deemed to be incorporated
by reference in this prospectus and made a part hereof from the
date of the filing of such documents.
We will provide, without charge, to each person to whom this
prospectus is delivered a copy of these filings upon written or
oral request to First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.,
311 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 4000, Chicago,
Illinois 60606, Attention: Investor Relations, telephone number
(312) 344-4300.
EXPERTS
The financial statements incorporated in this prospectus by
reference to the Companys Current Report on Form 8-K
dated July 30, 2004 and the Operating Partnerships
Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 30, 2004 and the
financial statement schedules incorporated in this prospectus by
reference to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company
for the year ended December 31, 2003 and the Annual Report
on Form 10-K of the Operating Partnership for the year
ended December 31, 2003 have been so incorporated in
reliance on the reports of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters will be passed upon for us by Cahill
Gordon & Reindel LLP, New York, New York.
Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP will rely as to all matters
of Maryland law on the opinion of McGuireWoods LLP, Baltimore,
Maryland. If counsel for any underwriter, dealer or agent passes
on legal matters in connection with an offering made by this
prospectus, we will name that counsel in the prospectus
supplement relating to the offering.
37
2,000,000 Shares
First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.
Depositary Shares Each Representing 1/10,000 of a Share of
%
Series K Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock
Liquidation Preference Equivalent to $25.00 Per Depositary
Share
P R O S P E C T U S S U P P L E M E N T
dated August , 2006
to
P R O S P E C T U S
dated August 30, 2004
Wachovia Securities
Merrill Lynch & Co.
Credit Suisse Securities (USA)
JPMorgan
BB&T Capital Markets
Raymond James