As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2016
Reg. No. 333-209306
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
FORM N-14
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. [ ]
MIDAS SERIES TRUST
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
11 Hanover Square, 12th Floor
New York, New York 10005
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
212-785-0900
(Registrant's Telephone Number)
John F. Ramirez
General Counsel
Midas Series Trust
11 Hanover Square
New York, New York 10005
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering: As soon as practicable after the registration statement becomes effective under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Title of Securities Being Registered: Shares of beneficial interest of the Midas Fund, a series of the Registrant
No filing fee is due because the Registrant has previously registered an indefinite number of shares pursuant to Section 24(f) under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until this Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said section 8(a), may determine.
MIDAS SERIES TRUST
CONTENTS OF REGISTRATION STATEMENT
This Registration Statement contains the following papers and documents:
Cover Sheet
Contents of Registration Statement
Letter to Shareholders
Notice of Joint Special Meeting to Shareholders
Part A — Proxy Statement/Prospectus
Part B — Statement of Additional Information
Part C — Other Information
Signature Page
Exhibits
Part A - Proxy Statement/Prospectus
Your action is required. Please vote today.
[DATE]
Dear Fellow Shareholder:
At Midas, we continually review each Midas series to ensure we are delivering value to our shareholders. Part of this assessment is to seek to ensure each Midas series grows large enough to achieve economies of scale that can be passed on to shareholders in terms of lower fees. Due to the lack of scale in Midas Magic ("Magic") and Midas Perpetual Portfolio ("Perpetual"), each a series of Midas Series Trust, the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of Midas Series Trust recommended to Midas Management Corporation (the "Investment Manager"), and it agreed, that both series should be merged into Midas Fund (the "Reorganizations"). The Investment Manager will continue to manage Midas Fund after the Reorganizations.
The Board of Trustees recommends that Magic and Perpetual merge into Midas Fund because their small sizes make it difficult for them to be economically viable on their own. It is hoped that, consolidated with Magic and Perpetual, Midas Fund will achieve greater economies of scale and a lower expense ratio by spreading fixed costs over a larger asset base, thereby reducing duplicative fees.
In pursuit of its investment objectives, Midas Fund invests primarily in precious metals and natural resources companies and the Investment Manager believes that the precious metals sector now offers relatively attractive valuations. Magic and Midas Fund have similar investment objectives but different investment strategies and risks in that Magic typically invests in high quality companies with large market capitalizations. Perpetual and Midas Fund differ in their investment objectives but they share similar investment strategies and risks in their orientation towards precious metals (for Perpetual, through its gold and silver target allocation investment categories) and natural resources companies (for Perpetual, through its hard asset securities target allocation investment category). Both Magic and Perpetual share similar fundamental and non-fundamental investment restrictions with Midas Fund, except that Midas Fund has more flexibility to invest in precious metals and concentrate its investments in natural resources companies.
The Reorganizations cannot proceed without the approval of shareholders, so it is our pleasure to invite you to the Joint Special Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting") of Magic and Perpetual (each, an "Acquired Fund" and, together, the "Acquired Funds") to be held at the Investment Manager's principal executive offices at 11 Hanover Square, 12th Floor, New York, New York 10005, on April 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. ET. At the Meeting, each Acquired Fund's shareholders, voting separately from the other Acquired Fund's shareholders, will be asked to approve the proposed merger into Midas Fund. If the proposals are approved and implemented, each shareholder of Magic and Perpetual will automatically become a shareholder of Midas Fund.
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, INCLUDING ALL OF THE INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES, UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" THE REORGANIZATIONS.
Formal notice of the Meeting appears on the next page and is followed by a brief overview of the Reorganizations in "Question and Answer" format and the proxy statement/prospectus for the Meeting. Whether or not you are able to attend the Meeting, it is important that your shares be represented at the Meeting. Your vote is important no matter how many shares you own. Voting your shares early will help prevent costly follow-up mail and telephone solicitation. Accordingly, we ask that you please sign, date, and return the enclosed Proxy Card or vote via telephone [or the Internet] at your earliest convenience.
How to vote
You may vote your shares by proxy in one of [three] ways:
[Internet: | To vote via the Internet, go to www.proxyonline.us and enter the control number found on the enclosed proxy card.] |
By phone: | To cast your vote by phone with a proxy voting representative, please call toll-free [ ]. Representatives are available to take your voting instructions Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time. |
By mail: Complete the enclosed proxy card and return it in the enclosed postage-paid envelope.
I encourage you to read the enclosed proxy statement/prospectus for more information, and I thank you for acting on this matter today. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the Investment Manager, I extend our appreciation for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Thomas B. Winmill
President
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT We consider the vote of each shareholder important, whatever the number of shares held. Please sign, date, and return your proxies in the enclosed envelope or vote via telephone [or the Internet] at your earliest convenience. Delay may cause each Acquired Fund to incur additional expenses to solicit votes for the Meeting. |
MIDAS SERIES TRUST
11 Hanover Square
New York, NY 10005
www.MidasFunds.com
NOTICE OF JOINT SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
February 1, 2016
To the Shareholders of
Midas Magic and
Midas Perpetual Portfolio:
The Joint Special Meeting of Shareholders ("Meeting") of Midas Magic ("Magic") and Midas Perpetual Portfolio ("Perpetual") (each an "Acquired Fund" and, together, the "Acquired Funds"), each a series of Midas Series Trust, will be held at the principal executive offices of Midas Management Corporation (the "Investment Manager") at 11 Hanover Square, 12th Floor, New York, New York 10005, on April 20, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. ET. At the Meeting, each Acquired Fund's shareholders, voting separately from the other Acquired Fund's shareholders, will be asked:
1. | For Magic shareholders, to approve an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Magic and Midas Fund, each a series of Midas Series Trust, under which Magic would transfer all of its assets to Midas Fund in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of Midas Fund, the assumption by Midas Fund of the liabilities of Magic, and the issuance of Midas Fund shares of beneficial interest to the shareholders of Magic in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of Magic, all as described in the accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus. |
2. | For Perpetual shareholders, to approve an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Perpetual and Midas Fund, each a series of Midas Series Trust, under which Perpetual would transfer all of its assets to Midas Fund in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of Midas Fund, the assumption by Midas Fund of the liabilities of Perpetual, and the issuance of Midas Fund shares of beneficial interest to the shareholders of Perpetual in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of Perpetual, all as described in the accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus. |
3. | Any other business that may properly come before the Meeting. |
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, INCLUDING ALL OF THE INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES, UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" THESE PROPOSALS.
These proposals are discussed in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus attached to this Notice. Each shareholder is invited to attend the Meeting in person. Only holders of record at the close of business on February 19, 2016 are entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting.
JOHN F. RAMIREZ
Secretary
[Important Notice regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Joint Special Meeting of Shareholders to Be Held on April 20, 2016: This Notice of the Joint Special Meeting of Shareholders, Proxy Statement and form of proxy card are available [ ].]
IF YOU CANNOT BE PRESENT AT THE MEETING, WE URGE YOU TO COMPLETE, SIGN AND DATE THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD OR AUTHORIZE PROXIES VIA TELEPHONE [OR THE INTERNET]. THE PROXY CARD SHOULD BE RETURNED IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE, WHICH NEEDS NO POSTAGE IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES. WE ASK YOUR COOPERATION IN COMPLETING AND RETURNING YOUR PROXY PROMPTLY. THE ENCLOSED PROXY IS BEING SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGARDING THE PROPOSALS
While we strongly encourage you to read the full text of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, we also are providing the following brief overview of the proposals in "Question and Answer" format. If you have any questions about the proposals or how to vote your shares, please call [ ] toll free at [ ].
Question: What proposals will be acted upon at the Meeting?
A. | At the Meeting, each Acquired Fund's shareholders, voting separately from the other Acquired Fund's shareholders, will be asked to approve an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization under which each Acquired Fund would transfer all of its assets to Midas Fund (the "Acquiring Fund"), also a series of Midas Series Trust, in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of the Acquiring Fund (the "Acquiring Fund Shares"), the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of each Acquired Fund's liabilities, and the issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares to the shareholders of each Acquired Fund in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of beneficial interest of each Acquired Fund. |
Question: What are shareholders being asked to approve?
A. | Each Acquired Fund's shareholders, voting separately from the other Acquired Fund's shareholders, are being asked to approve a proposal to merge Magic and Perpetual into Midas Fund (each a "Reorganization" and, together, the "Reorganizations"). The Acquired Funds' investment manager, independent registered public accounting firm, and other service providers will continue to serve in the same roles for the Acquiring Fund following the Reorganizations. Bruce B. Huber, James E. Hunt, Peter K. Werner, and Thomas B. Winmill (the "Trustees"), each of whom currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Midas Series Trust (the "Board"), will continue to serve on the Board. |
Question: Why is the Board proposing the Reorganizations?
A. | The Board is proposing that Magic and Perpetual merge into Midas Fund because their small sizes make it difficult for them to be economically viable on their own. It is hoped that, consolidated with Magic and Perpetual, Midas Fund will achieve greater economies of scale and a lower expense ratio by spreading fixed costs over a larger asset base, thereby reducing duplicative fees. |
In pursuit of its investment objectives, Midas Fund invests primarily in precious metals and natural resources companies and it is hoped that its performance will improve, inasmuch as the Investment Manager believes that the precious metals sector has recently declined to now offer relatively attractive historically low valuations. Magic and Midas Fund have similar investment objectives but different investment strategies and risks in that Magic typically invests in high quality companies with large market capitalizations. Perpetual and Midas Fund differ in their investment objectives but they share similar investment strategies and risks in their orientation towards precious metals (for Perpetual, through its gold and silver target allocation investment categories) and natural resources companies (for Perpetual, through its hard asset securities target allocation investment category). Both Magic and Perpetual share similar fundamental and non-fundamental investment restrictions with Midas Fund, except that Midas Fund has more flexibility to invest in precious metals and concentrate its investments in natural resources companies.
Question: | How will the Reorganizations affect me as a shareholder? |
A. | It is anticipated that, following the Reorganizations, the total annual operating expenses of Midas Fund will be lower than each of Magic and Perpetual's current total annual operating expenses. Midas Fund may also be better positioned in the market to increase asset size and achieve potential additional economies of scale, which may lead to lower expenses in the future. Because Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund are each a series of Midas Series Trust, each of their shareholders has identical rights. Accordingly, the rights of shareholders of each Acquired Fund will not change as a result of the Reorganizations. |
Question: | Will there be any sales load, commission, or other transactional fee paid by shareholders in connection with the Reorganization? |
A. | No. The full value of your shares of each Fund will be exchanged for the proportional number of shares of the Acquiring Fund, having the same aggregate net asset value, without any sales load, commission or other transactional fee being imposed. The costs of the Meeting and the Reorganizations will be paid by the Acquired Funds and, as applicable, the Acquiring Fund. |
Question: What will be the federal income tax consequences of the Reorganization?
A. | There should be no federal income tax consequences as a result of the Reorganizations. Each Reorganization is designed to qualify for federal income tax purposes as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. |
Question: What happens if a Reorganization is not approved?
A. | If shareholders of an Acquired Fund do not approve a Reorganization, that Acquired Fund will continue to operate as a separate series of Midas Series Trust. If, however, the shareholders of both Acquired Funds approve the Reorganizations, the Trustees and the officers of the Acquired Funds will implement the Reorganizations on behalf of each Acquired Fund. |
Question: Who will bear the expenses related to the Meeting and Reorganizations?
A. | The Acquired Funds and, as applicable, the Acquiring Fund will bear the expenses associated with the Meeting and the Reorganizations, including the costs of printing, mailing, tabulating, soliciting proxies, and legal and accounting fees. The total direct expenses of the Reorganizations are estimated to be approximately $120,000-$170,000. Expenses incurred prior to the Reorganizations would be allocated by relative total net assets among the Acquired Funds or other method deemed equitable by the Acquired Funds' investment manager. Expenses incurred following the Reorganizations would be borne by Midas Fund |
The Board believes it is appropriate for the Acquired Funds to bear expenses incurred prior to the Reorganizations because of the anticipated positive effect of the Reorganizations on the expense ratio of the Acquiring Fund, as discussed herein.
Question: How does the Board recommend that I vote?
A. | After careful consideration of the proposals, the Board, including all those Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Acquired Funds unanimously approved the proposals and recommend that you vote in favor of the proposals. |
Question: What number should I call if I have questions?
A. | We will be pleased to answer your questions about this proxy solicitation. Please call the Acquired Funds' proxy solicitor, [ ], toll free at [ ] with any questions. |
Question: How do I vote?
A. | You may use the enclosed postage-paid envelope to mail your proxy card or you may attend the Meeting in person. You may also vote by phone by calling [ ] toll free at [ ] [or via the Internet]. |
If you are a record holder of one or more than one of the Acquired Funds' shares and plan to attend the Meeting in person, in order to gain admission you must show valid photographic identification, such as your driver's license or passport.
If you hold shares of one or more than one Acquired Fund through a bank, broker or other nominee, and plan to attend the Meeting in person, in order to gain admission you must show valid photographic identification, such as your driver's license or passport, and satisfactory proof of ownership of shares in an Acquired Fund, such as your voting instruction form or a letter from your bank, broker or other nominee's statement indicating ownership as of the record date for the Meeting.
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, INCLUDING ALL OF THE INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES,
UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" THE REORGANIZATIONS.
MIDAS SERIES TRUST
11 Hanover Square
New York, NY 10005
www.MidasFunds.com
(212) 785-0900
PROXY STATEMENT AND PROSPECTUS
Dated March 14, 2016
This proxy statement and prospectus ("Proxy Statement/Prospectus") sets forth concisely the information shareholders should know before voting on the proposed reorganization of their fund. Please read it carefully and retain it for future reference.
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is being furnished to shareholders of Midas Magic ("Magic") and Midas Perpetual Portfolio ("Perpetual") (each a "Fund" or an "Acquired Fund" and, together, the "Funds" or the "Acquired Funds"), each a series of Midas Series Trust (the "Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust registered as an open end management investment company, in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of the Trust for use at a joint special meeting of each Acquired Fund's shareholders to be held on April 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. ET at 11 Hanover Square, New York, New York 10005 (such meeting and any adjournment(s) or postponement(s) thereof are referred to collectively as the "Meeting").
The Board has fixed the close of business on February 19, 2016 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Meeting (the "Record Date"). It is estimated that proxy materials will be mailed to shareholders as of the Record Date on or about March 14, 2016.
| Acquired Fund | Acquiring Fund |
Proposal 1 | Midas Magic | Midas Fund |
Proposal 2 | Midas Perpetual Portfolio |
As of the Record Date, the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund are not aware of any person or "group" (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder and exemptions granted therefrom, both as amended from time to time (the "Exchange Act")), owning beneficially more than 5% of their outstanding shares, respectively, except as follows:
| Name and Address of Owner | Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership | Percentage of Outstanding Shares |
Magic (Acquired Fund) | | | |
| | | |
Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | | | |
| | | |
Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) | | | |
| | | |
| | | |
As of the Record Date, officers and trustees of the Trust directly and indirectly beneficially owned, in the aggregate, [ ]% of the outstanding shares of Magic, [ ]% of the outstanding shares of Perpetual, and [ ]% of the outstanding shares of Midas Fund.
How the Reorganizations will work
As more fully described in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the purpose of the Meeting is to vote on the proposed reorganizations (each a "Reorganization" and, together, the "Reorganizations") in which each Acquired Fund would transfer all of its assets to Midas Fund (the "Acquiring Fund"), also a series of the Trust, in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of Midas Fund (the "Acquiring Fund Shares"), the assumption by Midas Fund of each Acquired Fund's liabilities, and the issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares to the shareholders of each Acquired Fund in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of beneficial interest of each Acquired Fund. Each Reorganization will be effected pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization, the form of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A. Those Acquiring Fund Shares would then be distributed to the shareholders of each Acquired Fund on the effective date of the Reorganizations. As soon as practicable following the distribution of Acquiring Fund Shares, each Acquired Fund would be liquidated. No sales charges will be imposed on the Acquiring Fund Shares received by shareholders of the Acquired Funds. For federal income tax purposes, the Reorganizations are expected to be tax-free reorganizations and are not intended to result in income, gain, or loss being recognized by the Acquired Funds or the Acquiring Fund. Because Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund are each a series of the Trust, each of their shareholders has identical rights. Accordingly, the rights of shareholders of each Acquired Fund will not change as a result of the Reorganizations.
The Acquired Funds and, as applicable, the Acquiring Fund will bear the expenses associated with the Meeting and the Reorganizations, including the costs of printing, mailing, tabulating, soliciting proxies, and legal and accounting fees. The total direct expenses of the Reorganizations are estimated to be approximately $120,000-$170,000. Expenses incurred prior to the Reorganizations would be allocated by relative total net assets among the Acquired Funds or other method deemed equitable by the Acquired Funds' investment manager. Expenses incurred following the Reorganizations would be borne by Midas Fund.
The Board believes it is appropriate for the Acquired Funds to bear expenses incurred prior to the Reorganizations because of the anticipated positive effect of the Reorganizations on the expense ratio of Midas Fund, as discussed herein, including estimates of the quantification of the expected benefits associated with the Reorganizations.
Rationale for the Reorganizations
The Reorganizations are being proposed because the small sizes of Magic and Perpetual make it difficult for them to be economically viable on their own. Magic and Perpetual each incurs operating costs such as for insurance, accounting, legal, transfer agency, administrative, and custodial services. The merger of Magic and Perpetual with Midas Fund may enable Magic and Perpetual's shareholders to benefit from the ability to spread fixed expenses in a manner that may contribute to a lower expense ratio in the long term than each of Magic and Perpetual would achieve separately. It is anticipated that, following the Reorganizations, the total annual operating expenses of Midas Fund will be lower than each of Magic and Perpetual's current total annual operating expenses. Midas Fund may also be better positioned in the market to increase asset size and achieve potential additional economies of scale, which may lead to lower per share expenses in the future.
Midas Fund's investment objectives are to seek primarily capital appreciation and protection against inflation and, secondarily, current income. Similarly, Magic's investment objective is to seek capital appreciation. Alternatively, Perpetual's investment objective is to seek to preserve and increase the purchasing power value of its shares over the long term.
Midas Fund's current strategy in pursuit of its investment objectives is to seek investments in higher quality senior and intermediate producers of precious metals and other natural resources with a growth component. Magic seeks its investment objective by focusing primarily on large companies, with a broad orientation towards conservatively priced value stocks and aggressively priced growth issues. Perpetual uses a core "asset allocation" strategy to seek its investment objective. Perpetual's asset allocations and target percentage ranges are gold (10-30%); silver (0-20%); Swiss franc assets (10-30%); hard asset securities (15-35%); and large capitalization growth stocks (15-35%).
Midas Management Corporation, the investment manager (the "Investment Manager") of Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund, will continue to manage Midas Fund after the Reorganizations. Thomas Winmill has managed Midas Fund since 2002 and, after the Reorganizations, will continue as portfolio manager. With the reduction in the number of funds it manages, the Investment Manager is expected to be in a better position to focus on its management of Midas Fund. Perpetual has been managed by the Investment Policy Committee (the "IPC") of the Investment Manager since December 29, 2008. Magic has been managed by the IPC of the Investment Manager since May 15, 2012.
Board Consideration of the Reorganizations
The Board, including the independent trustees, considered the Reorganizations over the course of multiple meetings, and reviewed information and materials regarding the Reorganizations presented or prepared by, among others, the Investment Manager. In its review of each Reorganization, the Board was assisted by legal counsel. In reaching its decision to recommend approval of each Reorganization, the Board with respect to each of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund, concluded that the participation of each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund in the Reorganizations is in the best interests of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund, as well as in the best interests of each Acquired Fund's and the Acquiring Fund's shareholders, and that the interests of the shareholders of each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund are not being diluted.
In determining whether to approve each Reorganization and recommend its approval to shareholders of the Acquired Funds, the Board inquired into a number of matters and considered, with respect to the Reorganizations, the following factors, among others: (1) the extent of compatibility of the investment objectives, principal investment strategies, risks, and restrictions of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund; (2) the comparative historical performance of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund; (3) the extent of any advantages to shareholders of the Acquired Funds of investing in a larger post-Reorganization asset pool; (4) the prospects for growth, and for achieving economies of scale, of the combined Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund; (5) the expense ratios and available information regarding the fees and expenses of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund; (6) the investment experience, expertise, and financial resources of, and the nature and quality of the services provided by, the Investment Manager; (7) the terms and conditions of the Reorganizations and whether the Reorganizations would result in dilution of shareholder interests; (8) any direct and indirect costs to be incurred by the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund as a result of the Reorganizations; (9) any direct or indirect benefits to the Investment Manager or its affiliates to be realized as a result of the Reorganizations; (10) the tax consequences of the Reorganizations; and (11) possible alternatives to the Reorganizations.
After careful consideration of the Reorganizations, the Board, including the independent trustees, unanimously approved the Reorganizations and recommend that shareholders vote in favor of the proposals.
* * *
Acquiring Fund Shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or other depository institution. Acquiring Fund Shares are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the U.S. Federal Reserve Board, or any other government agency.
Shares of the Acquiring Fund have not been approved or disapproved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The SEC has not passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
A Statement of Additional Information, dated March 14, 2016, relating to the Reorganizations (the "Reorganization SAI") has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by this reference (that is, the Reorganization SAI is legally a part of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus). In addition, a Prospectus for the Trust dated April 28, 2015, as amended (the "Prospectus"); a Statement of Additional Information for the Trust dated April 28, 2015 (the "SAI"); and an Annual Report to Shareholders of the Trust for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2015 (the "Annual Report"), have each been filed with the SEC and are incorporated herein by this reference.
To obtain a copy of the Reorganization SAI, or the Trust's Prospectus, SAI or Annual Report free of charge, to request other information about the Trust, or to make shareholder inquiries, please contact us using the following methods:
● By telephone, call:
1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) to speak to a Shareholder Services Representative, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, and for 24 hour, 7 day a week automated shareholder services.
● By mail, write to:
Midas Funds
P.O. Box 6110
Indianapolis, IN 46206-6110
● By e-mail, write to:
info@midasfunds.com
● On the Internet, the Trust's documents can be viewed online or downloaded from:
SEC at http://www.sec.gov, or
Midas website at http://www.midasfunds.com
The Trust is subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and files reports, proxy statements, and other information with the SEC. These reports, proxy statements, and other information filed by the Trust may be inspected and copied (for a duplication fee) at the public reference facilities of the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the Northeast Regional Office (3 World Financial Center, New York, New York 10281). Copies of these materials can also be obtained by mail from the Public Reference Section of the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. In addition, copies of these documents may be viewed online or downloaded from the SEC's website at sec.gov.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION | 1 |
PROPOSAL 1 – REORGANIZATION OF MAGIC | 1 |
PROPOSAL 2 – REORGANIZATION OF PERPETUAL | 10 |
COMPARISON OF FEES AND EXPENSES | 18 |
COMPARISON OF FUND PERFORMANCE | 21 |
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT | 23 |
PURCHASE, REDEMPTION, AND EXCHANGE PROCEDURES | 24 |
FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE REORGANIZATIONS | 29 |
CAPITALIZATION | 31 |
VOTING INFORMATION | 31 |
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST | 32 |
ORGANIZATION OF THE TRUST | 32 |
LEGAL MATTERS | 32 |
EXPERTS | 32 |
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | 33 |
EXHIBIT A | A-1 |
INTRODUCTION
This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is being used by the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of Midas Series Trust (the "Trust") to solicit proxies to be voted at a Joint Special Meeting (the "Meeting") of Shareholders of Midas Magic ("Magic") and Midas Perpetual Portfolio ("Perpetual") (each an "Acquired Fund" and together, the "Acquired Funds"). This Meeting will be held at 11 Hanover Square, 12th Floor, on April 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. ET. The purpose of the Meeting is to consider proposals to approve the Reorganizations. This Proxy Statement/Prospectus includes information that is specific to each proposal, including summary comparisons. You should read the entire Proxy Statement/Prospectus carefully.
Who is eligible to vote?
Shareholders of record of each Acquired Fund on February 19, 2016 are entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting or any adjourned meeting. Each whole share is entitled to one vote and each fractional share is entitled to a proportionate fractional vote. Shares represented by properly executed proxies, unless revoked before or at the Meeting, will be voted according to shareholders' instructions. If you sign a proxy but do not fill in a vote, your shares will be voted to approve the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization described below. If any other business comes before the Meeting, your shares will be voted at the discretion of the persons named as proxies.
PROPOSAL 1 – REORGANIZATION OF MAGIC
Approval of Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Magic and Midas Fund
Under the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Magic and Midas Fund, Magic would transfer all of its assets to Midas Fund in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of Midas Fund, the assumption by Midas Fund of the liabilities of Magic, and the issuance of Midas Fund shares of beneficial interest to the shareholders of Magic in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of Magic. The Board unanimously recommends that shareholders vote FOR this proposal.
SUMMARY COMPARISONS OF MAGIC (ACQUIRED FUND) TO MIDAS FUND (ACQUIRING FUND)
Comparison of Investment Objectives, Strategies, Risks, and Restrictions
Magic | Midas Fund |
(Acquired Fund) | (Acquiring Fund) |
|
Net Assets as of December 31, 2015 |
[$13,151,223] | [$10,067,884] |
| |
Investment Adviser |
Midas Management Corporation |
| |
Investment Objectives |
The Fund seeks capital appreciation. | Midas Fund seeks primarily capital appreciation and protection against inflation and, secondarily, current income. |
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Principal Investment Strategies |
In pursuit of its investment objective, the Fund may invest in any security type (e.g., common and preferred stocks, bonds, convertible securities, etc.) and in any industry sector, in domestic or foreign companies, and in companies of any size. Generally, the investment manager seeks what it believes to be quality companies with unique combinations of strength in operations, products, and finances with either growth or value characteristics. A security is typically sold when its potential to meet the Fund's investment objective is limited or exceeded by another potential investment, when an investment in an issuer no longer appears to meet the Fund's investment objective, or when the Fund must meet redemptions. In seeking to enhance returns, the Fund may use futures, options, and short sales and may use leverage to the extent permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). To achieve the Fund's objective, the investment manager may use a seasonal investing strategy to invest the Fund's assets to gain exposure to the securities markets during periods anticipated to be favorable based on patterns of investor behavior as driven by and related to accounting periods, taxable events, and other calendar related phenomena. The investment manager's analysis also takes into consideration those periods during the year in which it anticipates that investors are more likely to invest additional money into the securities markets. These periods can be related to accounting periods and may be further refined by considerations of tax cycles, holidays, and other factors. The Fund may invest in fixed income securities of any issuer, including U.S. Government Securities, of any credit quality or maturity, although it has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated less than investment grade. The Fund may trade securities actively in pursuit of its investment objective. The Fund also may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers, and other financial institutions. | In pursuit of its investment objectives, Midas Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in (i) securities (e.g., common and preferred stocks, bonds, convertible securities, etc.) of companies primarily involved, directly or indirectly, in the business of mining, processing, fabricating, distributing or otherwise dealing in gold, silver, platinum, other precious metals, or other natural resources ("Natural Resources Companies") and (ii) gold, silver, and platinum bullion and coins. Up to 35% of Midas Fund's total assets may be invested in securities of companies that derive a portion of their gross revenues, directly or indirectly, from the business of mining, processing, fabricating, distributing, or otherwise dealing in gold, silver, platinum, or other natural resources, in securities of selected growth companies, and fixed income securities of any issuer, including U.S. Government Securities, of any credit quality or maturity, although Midas Fund has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated less than investment grade. Midas Fund may invest in domestic and foreign companies of any size. The Investment Manager seeks companies that it believes have attractive fundamentals and often looks at company characteristics such as people, projects, and pricing. A security is typically sold when its potential to meet Midas Fund's investment objective is limited or exceeded by another potential investment opportunity, when an investment in an issuer no longer appears to meet Midas Fund's investment objectives, or when Midas Fund must meet redemptions. In seeking to enhance returns, Midas Fund may use futures, options, and short sales, and may use leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. Midas Fund concentrates its investments by investing at least 25% of its total assets in Natural Resources Companies. Midas Fund may trade securities actively in pursuit of its investment objectives. Midas Fund also may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers, and other financial institutions. |
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Principal Risks |
Market. The market risks associated with investing in the Fund are those related to fluctuations in the value of the investments in the Fund's portfolio. A risk of investing in stocks is that their value will go up and down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, reflecting overall economic conditions and other factors and you could lose money. The Fund may invest in emerging companies, such as startups and spin offs, and special situations, which include companies undergoing unusual or possibly one time developments such as reorganizations or liquidations. These investments may involve above average market price volatility and greater risk of loss. Certain unanticipated events, such as natural disasters, terrorism, war, and other geopolitical events, can have a dramatic adverse effect on the investments held by the Fund. | Market. The market risks associated with investing in Midas Fund are those related to fluctuations in the value of the investments in Midas Fund's portfolio. A risk of investing in stocks, precious metals, and other investments is that their value will go up and down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, reflecting overall economic conditions and other factors and you could lose money. Midas Fund may invest in emerging companies, such as startups and spin offs, and special situations, which include companies undergoing unusual or possibly one time developments such as reorganizations or liquidations. These investments may involve above average market price volatility and greater risk of loss. Certain unanticipated events, such as natural disasters, terrorism, war, and other geopolitical events, can have a dramatic adverse effect on the investments held by Midas Fund. |
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Non-Diversification. The Fund is non-diversified, which means that it is not limited by the 1940 Act in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the obligations of a single issuer. As a result, the Fund may hold a smaller number of issuers than if it were diversified. Investing in a non-diversified fund could involve more risk than investing in a fund that holds a broader range of securities because changes in the financial condition of a single issuer could cause greater fluctuation in the fund's total returns. As of December 31, 2015, the Fund held approximately [ ]% and [ ]% of its net assets in Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. and MasterCard, Inc., respectively, primarily as a result of market appreciation since the time of purchase. Thus, the volatility of the Fund's net asset value, and its performance in general, depends disproportionately more on the performance of a single issuer than that of a more diversified fund. | Non-Diversification. Midas Fund is non-diversified, which means that it is not limited by the 1940 Act in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the obligations of a single issuer. As a result, Midas Fund may hold a smaller number of issuers than if it were diversified. Investing in a non-diversified fund could involve more risk than investing in a fund that holds a broader range of securities because changes in the financial condition of a single issuer could cause greater fluctuation in the fund's total returns. |
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Leverage. The Fund may use leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. Leveraging (buying securities using borrowed money) exaggerates the effect on net asset value ("NAV") of any increase or decrease in the market value of a Fund's investments. Money the Fund borrows for leveraging is limited to 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets. These borrowings would be subject to interest costs that may or may not be offset by income or capital gain from the securities purchased. There can be no assurance that the Fund's use of leverage will be successful. | Leverage. Midas Fund may use leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. Leveraging (buying securities using borrowed money) exaggerates the effect on NAV of any increase or decrease in the market value of Midas Fund's investments. Money Midas Fund borrows for leveraging is limited to 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets. These borrowings would be subject to interest costs that may or may not be offset by income or capital gain from the securities purchased. There can be no assurance that Midas Fund's use of leverage will be successful. |
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Foreign Investments. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve certain considerations and risks not ordinarily associated with investments in securities of domestic issuers. Foreign companies are not generally subject to the same accounting, auditing, and financial standards and requirements as those applicable to U.S. companies. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than a U.S. company. Investments in foreign securities could expose the Fund to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social, or economic changes in the countries where those securities are issued or in which the issuers are located. With respect to certain countries, there are risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments that could affect assets of the Fund held in custody in those foreign countries. If the value of any foreign currency in which the Fund's investments are denominated declines relative to the U.S. dollar, the value of the Fund's investments is expected to decline proportionately. In addition, a portfolio that includes foreign securities can expect to have a higher expense ratio because of the increased transaction costs on non-U.S. securities markets and the increased costs of maintaining the custody of foreign securities. In addition, investing in emerging (less developed) markets may involve higher levels of each of these risks. | Foreign Investments. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve certain considerations and risks not ordinarily associated with investments in securities of domestic issuers. Foreign companies are not generally subject to the same accounting, auditing, and financial standards and requirements as those applicable to U.S. companies. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than a U.S. company. Investments in foreign securities could expose Midas Fund to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social, or economic changes in the countries where those securities are issued or in which the issuers are located. With respect to certain countries, there are risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments that could affect assets of Midas Fund held in custody in those foreign countries. If the value of any foreign currency in which Midas Fund's investments are denominated declines relative to the U.S. dollar, the value of Midas Fund's investments is expected to decline proportionately. In addition, a portfolio that includes foreign securities can expect to have a higher expense ratio because of the increased transaction costs on non-U.S. securities markets and the increased costs of maintaining the custody of foreign securities. In addition, investing in emerging (less developed) markets may involve higher levels of each of these risks. |
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Short Selling, Options, and Futures Transactions. The Fund may engage in short selling, options, and futures transactions to increase returns. There is a risk that these transactions may reduce returns or increase volatility. The Fund may incur a loss as a result of a short position if the price of the asset sold short increases in value between the date of the short position sale and the date on which an offsetting position is purchased, plus any premiums or interest paid to the third party. Because the Fund's potential loss on a short position arises from increases in the value of the asset sold short, the extent of such loss, like the price of the asset sold short, is theoretically unlimited. In addition, derivatives, such as options and futures, can be illiquid and highly sensitive to changes in their underlying security, interest rate or index, and as a result can be highly volatile. Derivatives also may be subject to certain other risks such as leverage risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, market risk, credit risk, the risk that a counterparty may be unable or unwilling to honor its obligations, management risk and the risk of mispricing or improper valuation. A small investment in certain derivatives could have a potentially large impact on the Fund's performance. | Short Selling, Options, and Futures Transactions. Midas Fund may engage in short selling, options, and futures transactions to increase returns. There is a risk that these transactions may reduce returns or increase volatility. Midas Fund may incur a loss as a result of a short position if the price of the asset sold short increases in value between the date of the short position sale and the date on which an offsetting position is purchased, plus any premiums or interest paid to the third party. Because Midas Fund's potential loss on a short position arises from increases in the value of the asset sold short, the extent of such loss, like the price of the asset sold short, is theoretically unlimited. In addition, derivatives, such as options and futures, can be illiquid and highly sensitive to changes in their underlying security, interest rate or index, and as a result can be highly volatile. Derivatives also may be subject to certain other risks such as leverage risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, market risk, credit risk, the risk that a counterparty may be unable or unwilling to honor its obligations, management risk and the risk of mispricing or improper valuation. A small investment in certain derivatives could have a potentially large impact on Midas Fund's performance. |
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Medium and Large Capitalization. Compared to smaller companies, medium and large-cap companies may be less responsive to changes and opportunities. At times, the stocks of larger companies may lag other types of stocks in performance. Compared to larger companies, medium companies may have a shorter history of operations, and may have limited product lines, markets or financial resources. | Medium and Large Capitalization. Compared to smaller companies, medium and large-cap companies may be less responsive to changes and opportunities. At times, the stocks of larger companies may lag other types of stocks in performance. Compared to larger companies, medium companies may have a shorter history of operations, and may have limited product lines, markets or financial resources. |
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| Small Capitalization. Midas Fund may invest in companies that are small or thinly capitalized and may have a limited operating history. Investments in small-cap companies may involve greater risks than investments in larger, more established issuers because they generally are more vulnerable than stocks of larger companies to adverse business or economic developments. The securities of small companies generally are less liquid and have narrower product lines, more limited financial resources, and more limited markets for their stock as compared with larger companies. As a result, the value of such securities may be more volatile than the securities of larger companies. During broad market downturns, Midas Fund's NAV may fall further than those of funds investing in larger companies. Full development of small capitalization companies takes time, and for this reason, among others, Midas Fund should be considered a long term investment and not a vehicle for seeking short term profit. |
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Fixed Income Securities. The Fund may invest in fixed income securities that are affected by changes in interest rates. When interest rates rise, the prices of fixed income securities typically fall in proportion to their maturities. Conversely, when interest rates fall, the value of fixed income securities generally rises. As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, interest rates in the United States are at or near historic lows, which may increase the Fund's exposure to risks associated with rising interest rates. Fixed income securities are also subject to credit risk, i.e., the risk that an issuer of securities will be unable or unwilling to pay principal and interest when due or that the value of the security will suffer because investors believe the issuer is less able to pay. Many fixed income securities, especially those issued at high interest rates, provide that the issuer may repay them early. If issuers exercise this right, holders of these types of callable securities may not benefit fully from the increase in value that other fixed income securities experience when rates decline. Although the Fund may invest in fixed income securities of any credit quality or maturity, it has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated below investment grade (i.e., "junk bonds"). | Fixed Income Securities. Midas Fund may invest in fixed income securities that are affected by changes in interest rates. When interest rates rise, the prices of fixed income securities typically fall in proportion to their maturities. Conversely, when interest rates fall, the value of fixed income securities generally rises. As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, interest rates in the United States are at or near historic lows, which may increase Midas Fund's exposure to risks associated with rising interest rates. Fixed income securities are also subject to credit risk, i.e., the risk that an issuer of securities will be unable or unwilling to pay principal and interest when due or that the value of the security will suffer because investors believe the issuer is less able to pay. Many fixed income securities, especially those issued at high interest rates, provide that the issuer may repay them early. If issuers exercise this right, holders of these types of callable securities may not benefit fully from the increase in value that other fixed income securities experience when rates decline. Although Midas Fund may invest in fixed income securities of any credit quality or maturity, it has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated below investment grade (i.e., "junk bonds"). |
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Pricing. Many factors may influence the price at which the Fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differ—higher or lower—from the Fund's last valuation, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. If market conditions make it difficult to value some investments, the Fund may value these investments using more subjective methods, such as fair value pricing. In such cases, the value determined for an investment could be different than the value realized upon such investment's sale. As a result, you could pay more than the market value when buying Fund shares or receive less than the market value when selling Fund shares. | Pricing. Many factors may influence the price at which Midas Fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differ—higher or lower—from Midas Fund's last valuation, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. If market conditions make it difficult to value some investments, Midas Fund may value these investments using more subjective methods, such as fair value pricing. In such cases, the value determined for an investment could be different than the value realized upon such investment's sale. As a result, you could pay more than the market value when buying Fund shares or receive less than the market value when selling Fund shares. |
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Security Selection. The securities selected for the Fund's portfolio may decline in value. The investment manager could be wrong in its analysis of industries, companies, economic trends, the relative attractiveness of different securities, or other matters. As a result, the Fund may underperform the markets, its benchmark index or other funds with the same objective or in the same asset class. | Security Selection. The securities selected for Midas Fund's portfolio may decline in value. The investment manager could be wrong in its analysis of industries, companies, economic trends, the relative attractiveness of different securities, or other matters. As a result, Midas Fund may underperform the markets, its benchmark index or other funds with the same objective or in the same asset class. |
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Securities Lending. Any decline in the value of a portfolio security that occurs while the security is out on loan is borne by the Fund, and may adversely affect performance. Also, there may be delays in recovery of securities loaned or even a loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially while holding the security. In addition, the Fund bears the risk of a decline in the value of the collateral held by the Fund in connection with a securities loan. | Securities Lending. Any decline in the value of a portfolio security that occurs while the security is out on loan is borne by Midas Fund, and may adversely affect performance. Also, there may be delays in recovery of securities loaned or even a loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially while holding the security. In addition, Midas Fund bears the risk of a decline in the value of the collateral held by Midas Fund in connection with a securities loan. |
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Active Trading. The Fund may trade securities actively. This strategy could increase transaction costs, reduce performance, and result in increased taxable distributions, which could lower the Fund's after tax performance. | Active Trading. Midas Fund may trade securities actively. This strategy could increase transaction costs, reduce performance, and result in increased taxable distributions, which could lower Midas Fund's after tax performance. |
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| Investments in Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Other Precious Metals. Investment in gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals are considered speculative. Midas Fund's investments can be significantly affected by developments in the precious metals industry and are linked to the prices of gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals. These prices can be influenced by a variety of global economic, financial, and political factors and may fluctuate substantially over short periods of time and be more volatile than other types of investments. Economic, political, or other conditions affecting one or more of the major sources of gold, silver, platinum, or other precious metals could have a substantial effect on supply and demand in countries throughout the world. Additionally, the majority of such producers are domiciled in a limited number of countries. Moreover, under the federal tax law, Midas Fund may not earn more than 10% of its annual gross income from gains resulting from selling precious metals and certain other non-securities related sources. Accordingly, Midas Fund may be required to hold precious metals or to sell them at a loss, or to sell securities at a gain, when for investment reasons it would not otherwise do so. |
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| Natural Resource Companies. The profitability of natural resource companies can be significantly affected by the supply of and demand for the produced commodities and related services, exploration and production spending and success, government regulations and taxes, international political developments, and economic conditions. The operations and financial performance of natural resources companies may be directly affected by the prices of the produced commodities, especially those natural resources companies whose reserves of the commodities are significant assets. The value of securities issued by natural resources companies may also be affected by changes in overall market movements, changes in interest rates, inflation rates, or investor expectations concerning such rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as weather, embargoes, tariffs, policies of commodity cartels, and international economic, political, and regulatory developments. In addition, companies in the natural resources sector may be subject to the risks generally associated with extraction of natural resources, such as the risks of mining and oil drilling, and the risks of the hazards associated with natural resources, such as natural or man-made disasters, fire, drought, liability for environmental damage claims, and increased regulatory and environmental costs. It is possible that the performance of securities of natural resources companies may lag the performance of other industries or the broader market as a whole. The prices of natural resources company stocks may exhibit greater price volatility than other types of stocks. |
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| Depletion and Exploration Risk. To maintain or increase their revenue level, natural resource companies or their customers need to maintain or expand their reserves and production through exploration, development, acquisitions, or other methods. The financial performance of natural resources companies may be adversely affected if they, or the companies to whom they provide products or services, are unable to cost-effectively expand reserves or production sufficiently to replace current depletion. |
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| Precious Metals Mining Company Risk. The profitability of companies involved in precious metals mining and related activities is significantly affected by changes in the market prices of precious metals. Precious metals mining companies also face risks related to their operations that may affect overall profitability. These risks include the uncertainty and cost of mineral exploration and acquisitions and the uncertainties and unexpected problems and delays in developing mines. In addition, the business of precious metals mining is subject to numerous risks that could adversely impact such companies. These risks include environmental hazards, industrial accidents, underground fires, labor disputes, unexpected geological formations, availability of appropriately skilled persons, unanticipated ground and water conditions, fall of ground accidents, legal and regulatory restrictions, and seismic activity. |
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| Concentration. Midas Fund is subject to industry concentration risk, which is the risk that Midas Fund's performance can be significantly affected by economic, market, political or regulatory occurrences affecting the precious metals and natural resources industries. |
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| In-Kind Redemptions. Midas Fund may require redeeming shareholders to accept readily tradable gold, silver, platinum, or other precious metals bullion, coins, ETF shares, or other Fund holdings in complete or partial payment of redemptions. |
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Fundamental Investment Restrictions1 |
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The Fund may not: 1. Issue senior securities as defined in the 1940 Act. The following will not be deemed to be senior securities for this purpose: (a) evidences of indebtedness that the Fund is permitted to incur, (b) the issuance of additional series or classes of securities that the Board of Trustees may establish, (c) the Fund's futures, options, and forward currency transactions, and (d) to the extent consistent with the 1940 Act and applicable rules and policies adopted by the SEC, (i) the establishment or use of a margin account with a broker for the purpose of effecting securities transactions on margin and (ii) short sales; 2. Lend its assets, provided however, that the following are not prohibited: (a) the making of time or demand deposits with banks, (b) the purchase of debt securities such as bonds, debentures, commercial paper, repurchase agreements and short term obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies and (c) engaging in securities and other asset loan transactions limited to one third of the Fund's total assets; 3. Underwrite the securities of other issuers, except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter under the federal securities laws in connection with the disposition of the Fund's authorized investments; 4. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act; 5. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity futures contracts, although it may enter into (i) financial and foreign currency futures contracts and options thereon, (ii) options on foreign currencies, and (iii) forward contracts on foreign currencies; 6. Purchase or sell real estate, provided that the Fund may invest in securities (excluding limited partnership interests) secured by real estate or interests therein or issued by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein; or 7. Purchase any securities, other than obligations of the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if, immediately after such purchase, more than 25% of the value of the Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of issuers in the same industry. | Midas Fund may not: 1. Issue senior securities as defined in the 1940 Act. The following will not be deemed to be senior securities prohibited by this provision: (a) evidences of indebtedness that Midas Fund is permitted to incur, (b) the issuance of additional series or classes of securities that the Board of Trustees may establish, (c) Midas Fund's futures, options, and forward transactions, and (d) to the extent consistent with the 1940 Act and applicable rules and policies adopted by the SEC, (i) the establishment or use of a margin account with a broker for the purpose of effecting securities transactions on margin and (ii) short sales; 2. Lend its assets, provided however, that the following are not prohibited: (a) the making of time or demand deposits with banks, (b) the purchase of debt securities such as bonds, debentures, commercial paper, repurchase agreements and short term obligations in accordance with Midas Fund's investment objectives and policies, and (c) engaging in securities, precious metals, and other asset loan transactions to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act; 3. Engage in the business of underwriting the securities of other issuers, except to the extent that Midas Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter under the federal securities laws in connection with the disposition of Midas Fund's authorized investments; 4. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act; 5. Purchase or sell physical commodities (other than precious metals), although it may enter into (a) commodity and other futures contracts and options thereon, (b) options on commodities, including foreign currencies and precious metals, (c) forward contracts on commodities, including foreign currencies and precious metals, and (d) other financial contracts or derivative instruments; 6. Purchase or sell real estate, provided that Midas Fund may invest in securities (excluding limited partnership interests) secured by real estate or interests therein or issued by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein; or 7. Purchase any securities, other than obligations of the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if, immediately after such purchase, more than 25% of the value of Midas Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of issuers in the same industry, except that Midas Fund will, under normal circumstances, invest more than 25% of the value of its total assets in securities of Natural Resources Companies. |
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Non-Fundamental Restrictions2 |
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Each Fund may: 1. Invest up to 15% of the value of its net assets in illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements providing for settlement in more than seven days after notice; 2. Purchase securities issued by other investment companies to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act; and 3. Pledge, mortgage, hypothecate or otherwise encumber its assets to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. |
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1 | "Fundamental" means that the investment restrictions can only be changed with shareholder approval. |
2 | "Non-Fundamental" means that the Board may change an investment restriction without shareholder approval. |
In deciding whether to approve this proposal, you should consider the similarities and differences between Magic and Midas Fund. As the previous table indicates, the investment objectives between Magic and Midas Fund are similar except that Midas Fund also seeks protection against inflation and, secondarily, current income. Additionally, Magic and Midas Fund share similar fundamental and non-fundamental investment restrictions except Midas Fund has more flexibility to invest in precious metals and concentrate its investments in natural resources companies.
In particular, you should consider that Midas Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in natural resources companies and Magic typically invests in high quality or "blue chip" companies with large market capitalizations (which generally have strong financial characteristics). Importantly, investments in precious metals and natural resources companies may be subject to greater volatility and risks than investments in high quality or "blue chip" companies with large market capitalizations or other types of investments. You should carefully consider the risks associated with Midas Fund's investment strategies as compared to Magic's, as more fully described in the previous table.
PROPOSAL 2 – REORGANIZATION OF PERPETUAL
Approval of Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Perpetual and Midas Fund
Under the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between Perpetual and Midas Fund, Perpetual would transfer all of its assets to Midas Fund in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of Midas Fund, the assumption by Midas Fund of the liabilities of Perpetual, and the issuance of Midas Fund shares of beneficial interest to the shareholders of Perpetual in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of Perpetual. The Board unanimously recommends that shareholders vote FOR this proposal.
SUMMARY COMPARISONS OF PERPETUAL (ACQUIRED FUND) TO MIDAS FUND (ACQUIRING FUND)
Comparison of Investment Objectives, Strategies, Risks, and Restrictions
Perpetual | Midas Fund |
(Acquired Fund) | (Acquiring Fund) |
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Net Assets as of December 31, 2015 |
[$4,386,339] | [$10,067,884] |
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Investment Adviser |
Midas Management Corporation |
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Investment Objectives |
The Fund seeks to preserve and increase the purchasing power value of its shares over the long term. | Midas Fund seeks primarily capital appreciation and protection against inflation and, secondarily, current income. |
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Principal Investment Strategies |
In pursuit of its investment objective, the Fund normally seeks to invest in the following investment categories in accordance with the following Target Percentage Ranges, subject to certain quarterly and other adjustments (Target Percentage Range in parentheses): gold (10-30%); silver (0-20%); Swiss franc assets (10-30%); hard asset securities (15-35%); and large capitalization growth stocks (15-35%). Pending investment or if the Investment Manager determines that market conditions warrant, the Fund may hold cash, money market funds, money market instruments, bank deposits, investment grade, short term corporate bonds and banker's acceptances, and similar investments without limit. The Fund may also make these investments for temporary defensive purposes. Accordingly, from to time, the Fund's actual percentage of its total assets invested in a given investment category may vary from its Target Percentage Range, sometimes substantially. The Fund is non-diversified, which means that it is not limited by the 1940 Act in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the obligations of a single issuer. Subsequent to each calendar quarter end, the Fund's investment manager normally compares the Fund's actual percentage of investments in a given category with the Target Percentage Range for that category, and may adjust the Fund's investments to more closely align the actual percentage to the Target Percentage Range in cases where the variance outside the Target Percentage Range is greater than one percentage point. Also, from time to time, the Fund may use leverage to increase its investment in large capitalization growth stocks to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. As the Fund's actual percentage of investments in a given category increase, the risks associated with such investments, as described below, will tend to increase accordingly and may significantly affect the Fund's performance. Gold and silver investments typically include bullion, bullion type coins, and shares of ETFs that invest therein. From time to time, mining company shares may be used to achieve target allocations in gold and silver if deemed attractive for tax planning or other purposes. Swiss franc assets normally consist of deposits of Swiss francs at Swiss or non-Swiss banks and the bonds and other securities of the federal government of Switzerland. Hard asset securities (e.g., common and preferred stocks, bonds, convertible securities, etc.) typically include those of U.S. and foreign companies dealing primarily in real estate (such as timberland, ranching and farm land, raw land, and land with improvements and structures) and natural resources (such as oil, gas, coal, precious and non-precious metals, and minerals). Large capitalization growth stocks normally include U.S. and foreign companies with market capitalizations over $50 billion which the investment manager believes may experience growth in revenues, earnings, or other similar measures and may include options, warrants, and similar derivatives on such stocks. The Fund may trade securities actively in pursuit of its investment objective. The Fund also may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers, and other financial institutions. | In pursuit of its investment objectives, Midas Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in (i) securities (e.g., common and preferred stocks, bonds, convertible securities, etc.) of companies primarily involved, directly or indirectly, in the business of mining, processing, fabricating, distributing or otherwise dealing in gold, silver, platinum, other precious metals, or other natural resources ("Natural Resources Companies") and (ii) gold, silver, and platinum bullion and coins. Up to 35% of Midas Fund's total assets may be invested in securities of companies that derive a portion of their gross revenues, directly or indirectly, from the business of mining, processing, fabricating, distributing, or otherwise dealing in gold, silver, platinum, or other natural resources, in securities of selected growth companies, and fixed income securities of any issuer, including U.S. Government Securities, of any credit quality or maturity, although Midas Fund has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated less than investment grade. Midas Fund may invest in domestic and foreign companies of any size. The Investment Manager seeks companies that it believes have attractive fundamentals and often looks at company characteristics such as people, projects, and pricing. A security is typically sold when its potential to meet Midas Fund's investment objective is limited or exceeded by another potential investment opportunity, when an investment in an issuer no longer appears to meet Midas Fund's investment objectives, or when Midas Fund must meet redemptions. In seeking to enhance returns, Midas Fund may use futures, options, and short sales, and may use leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. Midas Fund concentrates its investments by investing at least 25% of its total assets in Natural Resources Companies. Midas Fund may trade securities actively in pursuit of its investment objectives. Midas Fund also may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers, and other financial institutions. |
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Principal Risks |
Investments in Gold and Silver. Investments in gold and silver are considered speculative. The Fund's investments can be significantly affected by developments in the precious metals industries and are linked to the prices of gold and silver. These prices can be influenced by a variety of global economic, financial, and political factors and may fluctuate substantially over short periods of time and be more volatile than other types of investments. Economic, political, or other conditions affecting one or more of the major sources of gold and silver could have a substantial effect on supply and demand in countries throughout the world. Additionally, the majority of such producers are domiciled in a limited number of countries. Moreover, under the federal tax law, the Fund may not earn more than 10% of its annual gross income from gains resulting from selling gold and silver and certain other non-securities related sources. Accordingly, the Fund may be required to hold gold and silver or to sell them at a loss, or to sell securities at a gain, when for investment reasons it would not otherwise do so. | Investments in Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Other Precious Metals. Investment in gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals are considered speculative. Midas Fund's investments can be significantly affected by developments in the precious metals industry and are linked to the prices of gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals. These prices can be influenced by a variety of global economic, financial, and political factors and may fluctuate substantially over short periods of time and be more volatile than other types of investments. Economic, political, or other conditions affecting one or more of the major sources of gold, silver, platinum, or other precious metals could have a substantial effect on supply and demand in countries throughout the world. Additionally, the majority of such producers are domiciled in a limited number of countries. Moreover, under the federal tax law, Midas Fund may not earn more than 10% of its annual gross income from gains resulting from selling precious metals and certain other non-securities related sources. Accordingly, Midas Fund may be required to hold precious metals or to sell them at a loss, or to sell securities at a gain, when for investment reasons it would not otherwise do so. |
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Natural Resource Companies. The profitability of natural resource companies can be significantly affected by the supply of and demand for the produced commodities and related services, exploration and production spending and success, government regulations and taxes, international political developments, and economic conditions. The operations and financial performance of natural resources companies may be directly affected by the prices of the produced commodities, especially those natural resources companies whose reserves of the commodities are significant assets. The value of securities issued by natural resources companies may also be affected by changes in overall market movements, changes in interest rates, inflation rates, or investor expectations concerning such rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as weather, embargoes, tariffs, policies of commodity cartels, and international economic, political, and regulatory developments. In addition, companies in the natural resources sector may be subject to the risks generally associated with extraction of natural resources, such as the risks of mining and oil drilling, and the risks of the hazards associated with natural resources, such as natural or man-made disasters, fire, drought, liability for environmental damage claims, and increased regulatory and environmental costs. It is possible that the performance of securities of natural resources companies may lag the performance of other industries or the broader market as a whole. The prices of natural resources company stocks may exhibit greater price volatility than other types of stocks. | Natural Resource Companies. The profitability of natural resource companies can be significantly affected by the supply of and demand for the produced commodities and related services, exploration and production spending and success, government regulations and taxes, international political developments, and economic conditions. The operations and financial performance of natural resources companies may be directly affected by the prices of the produced commodities, especially those natural resources companies whose reserves of the commodities are significant assets. The value of securities issued by natural resources companies may also be affected by changes in overall market movements, changes in interest rates, inflation rates, or investor expectations concerning such rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as weather, embargoes, tariffs, policies of commodity cartels, and international economic, political, and regulatory developments. In addition, companies in the natural resources sector may be subject to the risks generally associated with extraction of natural resources, such as the risks of mining and oil drilling, and the risks of the hazards associated with natural resources, such as natural or man-made disasters, fire, drought, liability for environmental damage claims, and increased regulatory and environmental costs. It is possible that the performance of securities of natural resources companies may lag the performance of other industries or the broader market as a whole. The prices of natural resources company stocks may exhibit greater price volatility than other types of stocks. |
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Depletion and Exploration Risk. To maintain or increase their revenue level, natural resource companies or their customers need to maintain or expand their reserves and production through exploration, development, acquisitions, or other methods. The financial performance of natural resources companies may be adversely affected if they, or the companies to whom they provide products or services, are unable to cost-effectively expand reserves or production sufficiently to replace current depletion. | Depletion and Exploration Risk. To maintain or increase their revenue level, natural resource companies or their customers need to maintain or expand their reserves and production through exploration, development, acquisitions, or other methods. The financial performance of natural resources companies may be adversely affected if they, or the companies to whom they provide products or services, are unable to cost-effectively expand reserves or production sufficiently to replace current depletion. |
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Gold and Silver Mining Company Risk. The profitability of companies involved in gold and silver mining and related activities is significantly affected by changes in the market price of gold and silver. Gold and silver mining companies also face risks related to their operations that may affect overall profitability. These risks include the uncertainty and cost of mineral exploration and acquisitions and the uncertainties and unexpected problems and delays in developing mines. In addition, the business of gold and silver mining is subject to numerous risks that could adversely impact such companies. These risks include environmental hazards, industrial accidents, underground fires, labor disputes, unexpected geological formations, availability of appropriately skilled persons, unanticipated ground and water conditions, fall of ground accidents, legal and regulatory restrictions, and seismic activity. | Precious Metals Mining Company Risk. The profitability of companies involved in precious metals mining and related activities is significantly affected by changes in the market prices of precious metals. Precious metals mining companies also face risks related to their operations that may affect overall profitability. These risks include the uncertainty and cost of mineral exploration and acquisitions and the uncertainties and unexpected problems and delays in developing mines. In addition, the business of precious metals mining is subject to numerous risks that could adversely impact such companies. These risks include environmental hazards, industrial accidents, underground fires, labor disputes, unexpected geological formations, availability of appropriately skilled persons, unanticipated ground and water conditions, fall of ground accidents, legal and regulatory restrictions, and seismic activity. |
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Market. The market risks associated with investing in the Fund are those related to fluctuations in the value of the investments in the Fund's portfolio. A risk of investing in stocks, bonds, gold and silver, and other investments is that their value will go up and down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, reflecting overall economic conditions and other factors and you could lose money. Certain unanticipated events, such as natural disasters, terrorism, war, and other geopolitical events, can have a dramatic adverse effect on the investments held by the Fund. | Market. The market risks associated with investing in Midas Fund are those related to fluctuations in the value of the investments in Midas Fund's portfolio. A risk of investing in stocks, precious metals, and other investments is that their value will go up and down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, reflecting overall economic conditions and other factors and you could lose money. Midas Fund may invest in emerging companies, such as start ups and spin offs, and special situations, which include companies undergoing unusual or possibly one time developments such as reorganizations or liquidations. These investments may involve above average market price volatility and greater risk of loss. Certain unanticipated events, such as natural disasters, terrorism, war, and other geopolitical events, can have a dramatic adverse effect on the investments held by Midas Fund. |
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Foreign Investments. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve certain considerations and risks not ordinarily associated with investments in securities of domestic issuers. Foreign companies are not generally subject to the same accounting, auditing, and financial standards and requirements as those applicable to U.S. companies. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than a U.S. company. Investments in foreign securities could expose the Fund to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social, or economic changes in the countries where those securities are issued or in which the issuers are located. With respect to certain countries, there are risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments that could affect assets of the Fund held in custody in those foreign countries. If the value of any foreign currency in which the Fund's investments are denominated declines relative to the U.S. dollar, the value of the Fund's investments is expected to decline proportionately. In addition, a portfolio that includes foreign securities can expect to have a higher expense ratio because of the increased transaction costs on non-U.S. securities markets and the increased costs of maintaining the custody of foreign securities. In addition, investing in emerging (less developed) markets may involve higher levels of each of these risks. | Foreign Investments. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve certain considerations and risks not ordinarily associated with investments in securities of domestic issuers. Foreign companies are not generally subject to the same accounting, auditing, and financial standards and requirements as those applicable to U.S. companies. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than a U.S. company. Investments in foreign securities could expose Midas Fund to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social, or economic changes in the countries where those securities are issued or in which the issuers are located. With respect to certain countries, there are risks of expropriation, confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments that could affect assets of Midas Fund held in custody in those foreign countries. If the value of any foreign currency in which Midas Fund's investments are denominated declines relative to the U.S. dollar, the value of Midas Fund's investments is expected to decline proportionately. In addition, a portfolio that includes foreign securities can expect to have a higher expense ratio because of the increased transaction costs on non-U.S. securities markets and the increased costs of maintaining the custody of foreign securities. In addition, investing in emerging (less developed) markets may involve higher levels of each of these risks. |
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Non-Diversification. The Fund is non-diversified, which means that it is not limited by the 1940 Act in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the obligations of a single issuer. As a result, the Fund may hold a smaller number of issuers than if it were diversified. Investing in a non-diversified fund could involve more risk than investing in a fund that holds a broader range of securities because changes in the financial condition of a single issuer could cause greater fluctuation in a non-diversified fund's total returns. | Non-Diversification. Midas Fund is non-diversified, which means that it is not limited by the 1940 Act in the proportion of its assets that may be invested in the obligations of a single issuer. As a result, Midas Fund may hold a smaller number of issuers than if it were diversified. Investing in a non-diversified fund could involve more risk than investing in a fund that holds a broader range of securities because changes in the financial condition of a single issuer could cause greater fluctuation in the fund's total returns. |
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Pricing. Many factors may influence the price at which the Fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differ—higher or lower—from the Fund's last valuation, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. If market conditions make it difficult to value some investments, the Fund may value these investments using more subjective methods, such as fair value pricing. In such cases, the value determined for an investment could be different than the value realized upon such investment's sale. As a result, you could pay more than the market value when buying Fund shares or receive less than the market value when selling Fund shares. | Pricing. Many factors may influence the price at which Midas Fund could sell any particular portfolio investment. The sales price may well differ—higher or lower—from Midas Fund's last valuation, and such differences could be significant, particularly for illiquid securities and securities that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. If market conditions make it difficult to value some investments, Midas Fund may value these investments using more subjective methods, such as fair value pricing. In such cases, the value determined for an investment could be different than the value realized upon such investment's sale. As a result, you could pay more than the market value when buying Fund shares or receive less than the market value when selling Fund shares. |
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Leverage. The Fund may use leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. Leveraging (buying securities using borrowed money) exaggerates the effect on NAV of any increase or decrease in the market value of the Fund's investments. Money the Fund borrows for leveraging is limited to 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets. These borrowings would be subject to interest costs that may or may not be offset by income or capital gain from the securities purchased. There can be no assurance that the Fund's use of leverage will be successful. | Leverage. Midas Fund may use leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. Leveraging (buying securities using borrowed money) exaggerates the effect on NAV of any increase or decrease in the market value of Midas Fund's investments. Money Midas Fund borrows for leveraging is limited to 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets. These borrowings would be subject to interest costs that may or may not be offset by income or capital gain from the securities purchased. There can be no assurance that Midas Fund's use of leverage will be successful. |
Security Selection. The securities selected for the Fund's portfolio may decline in value. The investment manager could be wrong in its analysis of industries, companies, economic trends, the relative attractiveness of different securities, or other matters. As a result, the Fund may underperform the markets, its benchmark index or other funds with the same objective or in the same asset class. | Security Selection. The securities selected for Midas Fund's portfolio may decline in value. The investment manager could be wrong in its analysis of industries, companies, economic trends, the relative attractiveness of different securities, or other matters. As a result, Midas Fund may underperform the markets, its benchmark index or other funds with the same objective or in the same asset class. |
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Securities Lending. Any decline in the value of a portfolio security that occurs while the security is out on loan is borne by the Fund, and may adversely affect performance. Also, there may be delays in recovery of securities loaned or even a loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially while holding the security. In addition, the Fund bears the risk of a decline in the value of the collateral held by the Fund in connection with a securities loan. | Securities Lending. Any decline in the value of a portfolio security that occurs while the security is out on loan is borne by Midas Fund, and may adversely affect performance. Also, there may be delays in recovery of securities loaned or even a loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially while holding the security. In addition, Midas Fund bears the risk of a decline in the value of the collateral held by Midas Fund in connection with a securities loan. |
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Fixed Income Securities. The Fund may invest in Swiss franc assets and fixed income securities that are affected by changes in interest rates. When interest rates rise, the prices of fixed income securities typically fall in proportion to their maturities. Conversely, when interest rates fall, the value of fixed income securities generally rises. As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, interest rates in the United States are at or near historic lows, which may increase the Fund's exposure to risks associated with rising interest rates. Fixed income securities are also subject to credit risk, i.e., the risk that an issuer of securities will be unable or unwilling to pay principal and interest when due or that the value of the security will suffer because investors believe the issuer is less able to pay. Many fixed income securities, especially those issued at high interest rates, provide that the issuer may repay them early. If issuers exercise this right, holders of these types of callable securities may not benefit fully from the increase in value that other fixed income securities experience when rates decline. Although the Fund may invest in fixed income securities of any credit quality or maturity, it has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated below investment grade (i.e., "junk bonds"). | Fixed Income Securities. Midas Fund may invest in fixed income securities that are affected by changes in interest rates. When interest rates rise, the prices of fixed income securities typically fall in proportion to their maturities. Conversely, when interest rates fall, the value of fixed income securities generally rises. As of the date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, interest rates in the United States are at or near historic lows, which may increase Midas Fund's exposure to risks associated with rising interest rates. Fixed income securities are also subject to credit risk, i.e., the risk that an issuer of securities will be unable or unwilling to pay principal and interest when due or that the value of the security will suffer because investors believe the issuer is less able to pay. Many fixed income securities, especially those issued at high interest rates, provide that the issuer may repay them early. If issuers exercise this right, holders of these types of callable securities may not benefit fully from the increase in value that other fixed income securities experience when rates decline. Although Midas Fund may invest in fixed income securities of any credit quality or maturity, it has no current intention of investing more than 5% of its total assets in fixed income securities rated below investment grade (i.e., "junk bonds"). |
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In-Kind Redemptions. The Fund may require redeeming shareholders to accept readily tradable gold, silver, bullion or coins, ETF shares or other Fund holdings in complete or partial payment of redemptions. | In-Kind Redemptions. Midas Fund may require redeeming shareholders to accept readily tradable gold, silver, platinum, or other precious metals bullion, coins, ETF shares, or other Fund holdings in complete or partial payment of redemptions. |
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Active Trading. The Fund may trade securities actively. This strategy could increase transaction costs, reduce performance, and result in increased taxable distributions, which could lower the Fund's after tax performance. | Active Trading. Midas Fund may trade securities actively. This strategy could increase transaction costs, reduce performance, and result in increased taxable distributions, which could lower Midas Fund's after tax performance. |
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Investment Companies and ETFs. Subject to the limitations set forth in the 1940 Act, or as otherwise permitted by the SEC, the Fund may acquire shares in other investment companies and in ETFs. The ETFs in which the Fund may invest will generally have investment exposure to gold and silver which may subject them to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The market value of the shares of other investment companies and ETFs may differ from their NAV. As an investor in investment companies and ETFs, the Fund would bear its ratable share of that entity's expenses, including its investment management and administration fees, while continuing to pay its own investment management and administration fees and other expenses. As a result, shareholders will be absorbing duplicate levels of fees with respect to investments in other investment companies and ETFs. | |
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Swiss Franc Assets. The Swiss franc is subject to the risk that inflation will decrease in the United States or rise in Switzerland. Swiss government bonds are subject to some risk of default, and their credit quality is not rated by some U.S. rating agencies. The Fund may also be significantly affected by other economic, monetary or political developments in Switzerland. | |
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Real Estate Investment Trusts and Other Real Estate Companies. Real estate investment trusts ("REITs") and other real estate company securities are subject to, among other risks: declines in property values; defaults by mortgagors or other borrowers and tenants; increases in property taxes and other operating expenses; overbuilding; fluctuations in rental income; changes in interest rates; lack of availability of mortgage funds or financing; extended vacancies of properties; changes in tax and regulatory requirements; losses due to environmental liabilities; casualty or condemnation losses; or government actions, such as tax increases, zoning law changes, or regulatory limitations on rents or environmental regulations. REITs also are dependent upon management skills and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for "pass-through" of net income and gains under the federal tax law. | |
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| Small Capitalization. Midas Fund may invest in companies that are small or thinly capitalized and may have a limited operating history. Investments in small-cap companies may involve greater risks than investments in larger, more established issuers because they generally are more vulnerable than stocks of larger companies to adverse business or economic developments. The securities of small companies generally are less liquid and have narrower product lines, more limited financial resources, and more limited markets for their stock as compared with larger companies. As a result, the value of such securities may be more volatile than the securities of larger companies. During broad market downturns, Midas Fund's NAV may fall further than those of funds investing in larger companies. Full development of small capitalization companies takes time, and for this reason, among others, Midas Fund should be considered a long term investment and not a vehicle for seeking short term profit. |
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| Medium and Large Capitalization. Compared to smaller companies, medium and large-cap companies may be less responsive to changes and opportunities. At times, the stocks of larger companies may lag other types of stocks in performance. Compared to larger companies, medium companies may have a shorter history of operations, and may have limited product lines, markets or financial resources. |
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| Short Selling, Options, and Futures Transactions. Midas Fund may engage in short selling, options, and futures transactions to increase returns. There is a risk that these transactions may reduce returns or increase volatility. Midas Fund may incur a loss as a result of a short position if the price of the asset sold short increases in value between the date of the short position sale and the date on which an offsetting position is purchased, plus any premiums or interest paid to the third party. Because Midas Fund's potential loss on a short position arises from increases in the value of the asset sold short, the extent of such loss, like the price of the asset sold short, is theoretically unlimited. In addition, derivatives, such as options and futures, can be illiquid and highly sensitive to changes in their underlying security, interest rate or index, and as a result can be highly volatile. Derivatives also may be subject to certain other risks such as leverage risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, market risk, credit risk, the risk that a counterparty may be unable or unwilling to honor its obligations, management risk and the risk of mispricing or improper valuation. A small investment in certain derivatives could have a potentially large impact on Midas Fund's performance. |
| Concentration. Midas Fund is subject to industry concentration risk, which is the risk that Midas Fund's performance can be significantly affected by economic, market, political or regulatory occurrences affecting the precious metals and natural resources industries. |
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Fundamental Investment Restrictions1 |
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The Fund may not: 1. Issue senior securities as defined in the 1940 Act. The following will not be deemed to be senior securities for this purpose: (a) evidence of indebtedness that the Fund is permitted to incur, (b) the issuance of additional series or classes of securities that the Board of Trustees may establish, (c) the Fund's futures, options, and forward currency transactions, and (d) to the extent consistent with the 1940 Act and applicable rules and policies adopted by the SEC, (i) the establishment or use of a margin account with a broker for the purpose of effecting securities transactions on margin and (ii) short sales; 2. Lend its assets, provided however, that the following are not prohibited: (a) the making of time or demand deposits with banks, (b) the purchase of debt securities such as bonds, debentures, commercial paper, repurchase agreements and short term obligations in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies and (c) engaging in securities and other asset loan transactions limited to one third of the Fund's total assets; 3. Underwrite the securities of other issuers, except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter under the federal securities laws in connection with the disposition of the Fund's authorized investments; 4. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act; 5. Purchase or sell physical commodities (other than precious metals), although it may enter into (a) commodity and other futures contracts and options thereon, (b) options on commodities, including foreign currencies and precious metals, (c) forward contracts on commodities, including foreign currencies and precious metals, and (d) other financial contracts or derivative instruments; 6. Purchase or sell real estate, provided that the Fund may invest in securities (excluding limited partnership interests) secured by real estate or interests therein or issued by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein; or 7. Purchase any securities, other than obligations of the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if, immediately after such purchase, more than 25% of the value of the Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of issuers in the same industry. For the purposes of Item 7, the Fund, notwithstanding any other investment policy or restrictions (whether or not fundamental), may, as a matter of fundamental policy, invest all of its assets in the securities or beneficial interests of a single pooled investment fund having substantially the same investment objective, policies and restrictions as the Fund. | Midas Fund may not: 1. Issue senior securities as defined in the 1940 Act. The following will not be deemed to be senior securities prohibited by this provision: (a) evidences of indebtedness that Midas Fund is permitted to incur, (b) the issuance of additional series or classes of securities that the Board of Trustees may establish, (c) Midas Fund's futures, options, and forward transactions, and (d) to the extent consistent with the 1940 Act and applicable rules and policies adopted by the SEC, (i) the establishment or use of a margin account with a broker for the purpose of effecting securities transactions on margin and (ii) short sales; 2. Lend its assets, provided however, that the following are not prohibited: (a) the making of time or demand deposits with banks, (b) the purchase of debt securities such as bonds, debentures, commercial paper, repurchase agreements and short term obligations in accordance with Midas Fund's investment objectives and policies, and (c) engaging in securities, precious metals, and other asset loan transactions to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act; 3. Engage in the business of underwriting the securities of other issuers, except to the extent that Midas Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter under the federal securities laws in connection with the disposition of Midas Fund's authorized investments; 4. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act; 5. Purchase or sell physical commodities (other than precious metals), although it may enter into (a) commodity and other futures contracts and options thereon, (b) options on commodities, including foreign currencies and precious metals, (c) forward contracts on commodities, including foreign currencies and precious metals, and (d) other financial contracts or derivative instruments; 6. Purchase or sell real estate, provided that Midas Fund may invest in securities (excluding limited partnership interests) secured by real estate or interests therein or issued by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein; or 7. Purchase any securities, other than obligations of the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if, immediately after such purchase, more than 25% of the value of Midas Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of issuers in the same industry, except that Midas Fund will, under normal circumstances, invest more than 25% of the value of its total assets in securities of Natural Resources Companies. |
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Non-Fundamental Restrictions2 |
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Each Fund may: 1. Invest up to 15% of the value of its net assets in illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements providing for settlement in more than seven days after notice; 2. Purchase securities issued by other investment companies to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act; and 3. Pledge, mortgage, hypothecate or otherwise encumber its assets to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act. |
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1 | "Fundamental" means that the investment restrictions can only be changed with shareholder approval. |
2 | "Non-Fundamental" means that the Board may change an investment restriction without shareholder approval. |
In deciding whether to approve this proposal, you should consider the similarities and differences between Perpetual and Midas Fund. With respect to Perpetual and Midas Fund's investment objectives, Perpetual seeks to preserve and increase the purchasing power value of its shares over the long term while Midas Fund seeks primarily capital appreciation and protection against inflation and, secondarily, current income. However, as the previous table indicates, Perpetual and Midas Fund share similar investment strategies in their orientation towards precious metals (for Perpetual, through its gold and silver target allocation investment categories) and natural resources companies (for Perpetual, through its hard asset securities target allocation investment category). Additionally, Perpetual and Midas Fund share similar fundamental and non-fundamental investment restrictions, except that Midas Fund has more flexibility to invest in precious metals and concentrate its investments in natural resources companies and Perpetual may invest all of its assets in the securities or beneficial interests of a single pooled investment fund having substantially the same investment objective, policies and restrictions as Perpetual.
In contrast to Midas Fund, Perpetual's investment strategies include target allocations to its Swiss franc assets and large capitalization growth stocks investment categories. Additionally, because Perpetual's investment categories are subject to target percentage ranges, Perpetual's investments in precious metals and natural resources companies, as a percentage of net assets, can be significantly less than Midas Fund's. Importantly, investments in precious metals and natural resources companies may be subject to greater volatility and risks than other types of investments. You should carefully consider the risks associated with Midas Fund's investment strategies as compared to Perpetual's, as more fully described in the previous table.
COMPARISON OF FEES AND EXPENSES
Shareholders of all mutual funds pay various expenses, either directly or indirectly. Operating expenses are paid from a fund's assets and, therefore, are paid by shareholders indirectly.
The following expense table briefly describes the fees and the expenses that shareholders of each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund may pay and are based on expenses paid by each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. The table also shows the pro forma expenses of the Acquiring Fund assuming the Reorganizations with the Acquired Funds had occurred on January 1, 2016. As the table below indicates, the pro forma total annual operating expenses of the Acquiring Fund after each Reorganization are expected to be lower than the current total annual operating expenses of Magic and Perpetual, respectively. The Acquiring Fund's expenses after the Reorganizations may be greater or less than those shown.
As described herein, an unfavorable vote by either of the Acquired Funds will not affect the Reorganization of the other Acquired Fund if approved by that Acquired Fund's shareholders.
The following table illustrates the anticipated change in operating expenses expected as a result of the Reorganization into the Acquiring Fund of: (i) only Magic; (ii) only Perpetual; and (iii) both of the Acquired Funds. Because neither Acquired Fund's Reorganization is contingent on whether the other Acquired Fund's Reorganization is approved, these three combinations are possible.
| Magic (Acquired Fund) | Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with Magic only) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with Perpetual only) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with both Acquired Funds) |
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) | | | | | | |
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE |
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE |
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE | NONE |
Redemption Fee on Shares Redeemed within 30 days of purchase | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
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Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) | | | | | | |
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Management Fees | [ ]% | 0.50% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees | 1.00% | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% | 0.25% |
Other Expenses | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
Example
The example below is intended to help you compare what your expenses would be if you invested $10,000 over different time periods in each of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund, based on fees and expenses incurred during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. The example assumes that you reinvested all distributions and that the average annual return was 5%. Pro forma expenses are included assuming a Reorganization with each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund. Because neither Acquired Fund's Reorganization is contingent on whether the other Acquired Fund's Reorganization is approved, three combinations are possible, as shown below. The examples are for comparison purposes only and are not a representation of the Acquired Funds' or the Acquiring Fund's actual expenses or returns, either past or future. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be as follows:
| Magic (Acquired Fund) | Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with Magic only) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with Perpetual only) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with both Acquired Funds) |
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Year 1 | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Year 3 | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Year 5 | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Year 10 | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Comparison of advisory arrangements
The Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund are subject to the same investment management agreement between Midas Series Trust and the Investment Manager. However, the management fee rates for each of the Acquiring Funds and the Acquired Fund differ as set forth below. As noted in the following table, the Acquiring Fund currently pays the Investment Manager a higher management fee rate than Magic or Perpetual and, if either or both of the Reorganizations are approved, either or both of the Acquired Funds will be subject to the same management fee rate as the Acquiring Fund.
Annual Management Fee Rates (based on average daily net assets) |
Magic (Acquired Fund) | Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) |
·1.00% of net assets up to $10 million ·0.875% of net assets over $10 million up to $30 million ·0.75% of net assets over $30 million up to $150 million ·0.625% of net assets over $150 million up to $500 million ·0.50% of net assets over $500 million | ·0.50% of net assets up to $250 million ·0.45% of net assets from $250 million to $500 million. ·0.40% of net assets over $500 million | ·1.00% of net assets up to $200 million ·0.95% of net assets over $200 million up to $400 million ·0.90% of net assets over $400 million up to $600 million ·0.85% of net assets over $600 million up to $800 million ·0.80% of net assets over $800 million up to $1 billion ·0.75% of net assets over $1 billion |
Pursuant to the investment management agreement, each of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund reimburse the Investment Manager for providing at cost certain administrative services comprised of compliance and accounting services. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund reimbursed such costs as follows:
| Magic (Acquired Fund) | Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) |
| |
Compliance | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Accounting | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Comparison of distribution and other arrangements
The Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund are subject to the same plan of distribution (the "12b-1 Plan") under Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act between Midas Series Trust and Midas Securities Group, Inc. (the "Distributor"), an affiliate of the Investment Manager, which was approved by the Board and shareholders. Under the Plan and a related distribution agreement, each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund pays the Distributor a fee for distribution and shareholder services. The shareholder service fee is intended to cover personal services provided to the shareholders of a fund and the maintenance of shareholder accounts. The distribution fee is to cover all other activities and expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of fund shares. In addition, Midas Fund, Magic, and Perpetual each reimbursed the Distributor $[ ], $[ ], and $[ ], respectively, for payments made to certain brokers for record keeping services for the year ended December 31, 2015.
The 12b-1 Plan fee rates for each of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund differ as set forth below. As noted in the following table, the Acquiring Fund currently pays the Distributor a lower 12b-1 Plan fee rate than Magic and the same rate as Perpetual and, if either or both of the Reorganizations are approved, either or both of the Acquired Funds will be subject to the same 12b-1 Plan fee rate as the Acquiring Fund.
12b-1 Plan Fee Rates (based on average daily net assets) |
Magic (Acquired Fund) | Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) |
1.00% | 0.25% | 0.25% |
Certain officers and trustees of the Trust are officers and directors of the Investment Manager and the Distributor.
COMPARISON OF FUND PERFORMANCE
Set forth below is past performance information for the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund. The returns shown include the effect of reinvesting dividends and capital gain distributions. After tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. In certain cases, the figure representing "Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares" may be higher than the other return figures for the same period. A higher after tax return can occur when a capital loss occurs upon redemption and translates into an assumed tax deduction that benefits the shareholder. Because actual after tax returns depend on a shareholder's tax situation, returns may vary from those shown. After tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their shares through tax deferred arrangements such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts. Past performance (before and after taxes) is not predictive of future performance.
MAGIC
The following bar chart provides some indication of the risks of investing in Magic by showing changes in Magic's performance from year to year. The following table compares Magic's average annual returns for the 1, 5, and 10 year periods with an appropriate broad based securities market index. The S&P 500 Index is a market capitalization-weighted index of 500 common stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation to represent U.S. equity performance.
MAGIC – Year-by-year total return as of 12/31 each year (%) |
| Best Quarter: [ ] [ ]% |
Worst Quarter: [ ] [ ]% |
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 2015
| 1 Year | | 5 Years | | 10 Years |
Return Before Taxes | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes) | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
PERPETUAL
The following bar chart provides some indication of the risks of investing in Perpetual by showing changes in Perpetual's performance from year to year. The following table compares Perpetual's average annual returns for the 1, 5, and 10 year periods with appropriate broad based securities market indices. The Lipper Mixed Asset Target Allocation Moderate Index ("LMTAMI") is an equally weighted average of the managed mixed-asset target allocation moderate funds tracked by Lipper which reflects certain of the market sectors in which Perpetual may invest.
Prior to December 29, 2008, Perpetual (formerly known as Midas Dollar Reserves, Inc.) operated as a money market fund and invested exclusively in securities issued by the U.S. Government, its agencies and instrumentalities. On December 29, 2008, Perpetual changed its name from Midas Dollar Reserves, Inc. to Midas Perpetual Portfolio, Inc. and began operating as a fluctuating net asset value fund with the investment objective, strategies, and risks as described above.
Perpetual Portfolio – Year-by-year total return as of 12/31 each year (%) |
| Best Quarter: [ ] [ ]% |
Worst Quarter: [ ] [ ]% |
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 2015
| 1 Year | | 5 Years | | 10 Years |
Return Before Taxes | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes) | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
LMTAMI | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
MIDAS FUND
The following bar chart provides some indication of the risks of investing in Midas Fund by showing changes in Midas Fund's performance from year to year. The following table compares Midas Fund's average annual returns for the 1, 5, and 10 year periods with appropriate broad based securities market indices. The Morningstar Specialty Fund-Precious Metals Average ("PMA") is an equally weighted average of the managed precious metals funds tracked by Morningstar which reflects the market sectors in which Midas Fund may invest.
MIDAS FUND – Year-by-year total return as of 12/31 each year (%) |
| Best Quarter: [ ] [ ]% |
Worst Quarter: [ ] [ ]% |
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 2015
| 1 Year | | 5 Years | | 10 Years |
Return Before Taxes | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Return After Taxes on Distributions | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes) | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
PMA (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes) | [ ]% | | [ ]% | | [ ]% |
Portfolio Turnover
Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund each pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. During Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund's most recent fiscal year, each fund's portfolio turnover rate was [ ]%, [ ]%, and [ ]%, respectively, of the average value of its portfolio.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Midas Management Corporation is the investment manager for each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund and has served as a mutual fund investment manager for over 20 years. It provides day-to-day advice regarding portfolio transactions for each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund. The investment manager also furnishes or obtains on behalf of each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund all services necessary for the proper conduct of the fund's business and administration. Its address is 11 Hanover Square, New York, New York 10005.
Magic and Perpetual's portfolios have been managed by the IPC of the Investment Manager since 2012 and 2008, respectively. The current members of the IPC are: Thomas B. Winmill, Chairman (see biographical information below); John F. Ramírez, Director of Fixed Income; Heidi Keating, Vice President-Trading; and Mark C. Winmill, Chief Investment Strategist. Mr. Ramírez has served as Vice President and Secretary of the Investment Manager, Distributor, and the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund and their predecessors since 2005, Senior Associate General Counsel of the Investment Manager and Distributor since 2012, and General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund since 2012. Ms. Keating has served as Vice President of the Investment Manager, Distributor, and the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund and their predecessors since 1988. Mark C. Winmill has served as Executive Vice President of the Investment Manager since 2012, as a director and/or officer of Winmill & Co. Incorporated, the parent company of the Investment Manager and its affiliates, since 2000, and as Principal of the Distributor since 2002.
Midas Fund's portfolio manager since 2002 is Thomas B. Winmill. After the Reorganizations, he will continue as portfolio manager of Midas Fund. He has been president of the Investment Manager since 1995 and the Distributor since 1991. He also serves as President, Chief Executive Officer, and Trustee of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund. He has served as a member of the Investment Manager's IPC since 1990. As the current Chairman of the IPC, he helps establish general investment guidelines. He is a member of the New York Section member society of the American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers, Inc.
PURCHASE, REDEMPTION, AND EXCHANGE PROCEDURES
The Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund have identical purchase, redemption (except with respect to in-kind redemptions), and exchange procedures which are expected to remain as follows after the Reorganizations. Perpetual and Midas Fund have substantially similar in-kind redemption procedures but Magic does not have in-kind redemption procedures.
Purchasing Shares
Minimum Investments. The minimum initial and subsequent investment requirements for Midas Fund are as follows:
Account Type | Initial | Subsequent | Individual Retirement Accounts ("IRAs") and Health Savings Accounts ("HSAs") | Initial | Subsequent |
Regular | $1,000 | $100 | Traditional, Roth IRA, HSA | $1,000 | $100 |
UGMA/UTMA | $1,000 | $100 | Spousal, Rollover IRA | $1,000 | $100 |
Education Savings Account | $1,000 | $100 | SEP, SIMPLE IRA | $1,000 | $100 |
Automatic Investment Program | $100 | $100 | HSA | $1,000 | $100 |
Purchase Price. Your price for Midas Fund shares is Midas Fund's next calculation, after the order is received by Midas Fund's transfer agent or its authorized agent, of NAV per share, which is determined as of the close of regular trading in equity securities on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") (currently, 4 p.m. Eastern Time unless weather, equipment failure, or other factors contribute to an earlier closing) each day the NYSE is open for trading ("Business Day"). The NYSE is generally closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Washington's Birthday (Presidents' Day), Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Midas Fund's NAV per share may be significantly affected on days when shareholders have no access to Midas Fund or its transfer agent. Midas Fund's shares are priced only on Business Days. If you purchase shares through a broker, that broker may charge separate transaction fees on the purchase and/or sale of such shares. Certificates will not be issued and all shares will be kept by book entry in the stock transfer books of Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC, Midas Fund's transfer agent.
By Check. Complete a Midas Fund FastDeposit form which is detachable from your account statement and mail it, along with your check, drawn to the order of Midas Fund, to Midas Fund, P.O. Box 6110, Indianapolis, IN 46206-6110. If you do not use that form, include a letter indicating the account number to which the subsequent investment is to be credited and the name of the registered owner.
By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). The bank you designate on your Authorization Form will be contacted to arrange for the EFT, which is done through the Automated Clearing House ("ACH") system, to your Midas Fund account. Requests received by 4 p.m. ET on Business Days will ordinarily be credited to your Midas Fund account on the same Business Day. Your designated bank must be an ACH member and any subsequent changes in bank account information must be submitted in writing with a voided check and a New Technology Medallion Guaranteed Stamp. Your account will be charged a $10 per item fee for each ACH transaction that is returned for any reason in addition to any loss incurred by Midas Fund as a result of reversing the transaction. To initiate an EFT transaction, call 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) or visit www.midasfunds.com. For purchases on-line, shareholders must verify, by some method other than an electronic transmission effected by computer-to-computer over the internet or utilizing modem or similar connections, that each such purchase has been authorized and, if such purchase is to be effected by wire to or from a particular bank account, a duly authorized employee of the bank must verify the account number to or from which funds are being transferred and that the name on the account is the same as the name of the intended recipient of the proceeds.
By Wire. Call 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET on Business Days to speak with a Shareholder Service Representative. The name of the bank sending the wire and the amount to be wired are required before the wired funds can be accepted. Your account number and name(s) must be specified in the wire as they are to appear on the account registration. This service is not available on days when the Federal Reserve wire system is closed. For wiring instructions and automated 24 hour service, call toll-free 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) or visit www.midasfunds.com.
Valuation. Midas Fund's investments are valued based on market value determined as of the close of regular trading in equity securities on the NYSE. This is normally 4 p.m. ET. Where market quotations are not readily available or where there is no ready market for a security (such as certain types of illiquid or thinly traded securities), securities may be valued based on fair value as determined in good faith under the direction of the Board of Trustees. Occasionally, events affecting the value of gold, platinum, and silver bullion, foreign securities, foreign currencies and currency exchange rates occur after the close of trading on the NYSE or on days when the NYSE is closed, which events may not be reflected in a computation of Midas Fund's NAV on that day. Such events may be company specific, such as earnings reports, country or region specific, such as a natural disaster or terrorist activity, or global in nature. If events materially affecting the value of such securities occur during such time period, the securities may be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith under the direction of the Board of Trustees. Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that fair value may differ materially from the value realized on a sale.
Midas Automatic Investment Program. Midas Fund offers an excellent service - the Midas Bank Transfer Plan - which makes regular investing convenient. It can help you seek today your financial goals for the future. With the free Midas Bank Transfer Plan, you decide today to invest a certain amount each month in the future for as long as you like and Midas will transfer the money from your bank account for investment in your designated Midas account. Periodically, you should review your overall portfolio. For retirement investing goals, consider the tax advantaged Midas Traditional, Roth, SEP, or SIMPLE IRAs. At Midas, we also offer HSAs as well as Education Savings Accounts. Forms for all of these Midas plans may be found at www.midasfunds.com.
Investing the same amount regularly, known as "dollar cost averaging," can reduce any anxiety of investing in a rising or falling market or buying all of your shares at market highs. Although this strategy cannot assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market, it can result in a lower average cost for your purchases. Of course, you should consider your financial ability to continue your purchases through periods of low price levels when undertaking such a strategy.
Midas Bank Transfer Plan | For making automatic investments from a designated bank account. |
Midas Salary Investing Plan | For making automatic investments through a payroll deduction. |
Midas Government Direct Deposit Plan | For making automatic investments from your federal employment, Social Security, or other regular federal government check. |
For more information, or to request the necessary authorization form, call 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET on Business Days to speak with a Shareholder Services Representative. You may modify or terminate the Midas Bank Transfer Plan at any time by written notice received 10 days prior to the scheduled investment date. To modify or terminate the Midas Salary Investing Plan or Midas Government Direct Deposit Plan, you should contact your employer or the appropriate U.S. government agency.
Shareholder Identification Program. You may be asked to provide additional information in order for Midas Fund to verify your identity in accordance with requirements under anti-money laundering regulations. Midas Fund will close an account within 60 Business Days of account opening at the NAV of Midas Fund on the day the account is closed if it cannot be reasonably certain of the customer's identity. Midas Fund's transfer agent will correspond with the shareholder to advise them, if appropriate, why their account is being closed and the efforts conducted to attempt to verify their identity.
Redeeming Shares
Generally, you may redeem shares of Midas Fund by any of the methods explained below. Requests for redemption should include the following information: name(s) of the registered owner(s) of the account, account number, Fund name, amount you want to sell (number of shares or dollar amount), and address or wire information. Your price for Midas Fund shares redeemed is Midas Fund's next calculation, after the order is received by Midas Fund's transfer agent or its authorized agent, of NAV per share which is determined as of the close of regular trading in equity securities on the NYSE (currently, 4 p.m. ET unless weather, equipment failure, or other factors contribute to an earlier closing) each Business Day. Shares of Midas Fund redeemed within 30 days of purchase will be subject to a 1% redemption fee. IRAs will be subject to a pre-age 59½ distribution/transfer fee of $10 and a plan termination fee of $20 per IRA. HSAs will be subject to a distribution/transfer fee of $10 and a plan termination fee of $20 per HSA.
In some instances, a New Technology Medallion Guaranteed Stamp may be required. New Technology Medallion Guaranteed Stamps protect against unauthorized account transfers by assuring that a signature is genuine. You can obtain one from most banks or securities dealers, but not from a notary public. For joint accounts, one signature must be guaranteed. Please call us to ensure that your New Technology Medallion Guaranteed Stamp will be processed correctly. Midas Fund may waive this requirement in their discretion.
By Mail. Write to Midas Funds, P.O. Box 6110, Indianapolis, IN 46206-6110, and request the specific amount to be redeemed. The request must be signed by the registered owner(s) and additional documentation may be required.
By Telephone or Internet. To expedite the redemption of Midas Fund shares call 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) to speak with a Shareholder Services Representative between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET on Business Days. For automated 24 hour service, call toll-free 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) or visit www.midasfunds.com. For redemptions on-line, shareholders must verify, by some method other than an electronic transmission effected by computer-to-computer over the internet or similar connections, that each such redemption has been authorized and, if such redemption is to be effected by wire to or from a particular bank account, a duly authorized employee of the bank must verify the account number to or from which funds are being transferred and that the name on the account is the same as the name of the intended recipient of the proceeds.
For Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). You may redeem as little as $250 worth of shares by requesting EFT service. EFT proceeds are ordinarily available in your bank account within two Business Days.
For Federal Funds Wire. If you are redeeming $1,000 or more worth of shares, you may request that the proceeds be wired to your authorized bank. A $10 fee per wire transfer applies. Proceeds of redemption requests submitted in proper form ordinarily will be available to shareholders by Federal Funds wire the next Business Day.
Redemption Payment. Payment for shares redeemed will ordinarily be made within three Business Days after receipt of the redemption request in proper form. Redemption proceeds from shares purchased by check or EFT transfer may be delayed 15 calendar days or until Midas Fund is reasonably assured of payment of the check representing the purchase. Redemptions to third parties are prohibited.
Redemptions Through Financial Intermediaries. You are an investor subject to the redemption fee whether you are a direct shareholder of Midas Fund or you are investing indirectly in Midas Fund through a financial intermediary such as a broker-dealer, a bank, an insurance company separate account, an investment advisor, an administrator or trustee of a tax deferred savings plan such as a 401(k) retirement plan or a 529 college savings plan that maintains an omnibus account with Midas Fund for trading on behalf of its customers. Currently, only certain intermediaries have the ability to collect Midas Fund's redemption fee from their customers' accounts. Even in the case of these intermediaries who are collecting the redemption fee, due to policy, operational and/or systems' requirements and limitations, these intermediaries may use criteria and methods for tracking, applying and/or calculating the fee that may differ in some respects from that of Midas Fund. Midas Fund will seek to continue to encourage all financial intermediaries to develop the capability to begin imposing the redemption fee from their customers who invest in Midas Fund. If you are investing in Midas Fund shares through a financial intermediary, you should contact your financial intermediary (or, in the case of a 401(k) retirement plan, your plan sponsor) for more information on any differences in how the redemption fee is applied to your investments in Midas Fund.
Waiver/Exceptions/Changes. Midas Fund reserves the right to waive the redemption fee at its discretion to the extent permitted or required by applicable law. The redemption fee does not apply to certain comprehensive fee programs where investment instructions are given at the firm level of Midas Fund approved broker-dealers on behalf of their clients invested in Midas Fund. In addition, Midas Fund reserves the right to modify or eliminate the redemption fee or waivers at any time. You will receive 60 days' notice of any material changes, unless otherwise provided by law.
Limitations on Collection. Currently, Midas Fund is limited in its ability to ensure that the redemption fee is imposed by financial intermediaries on behalf of their customers. For example, where a financial intermediary is not able to determine if the redemption fee applies and/or is not able to impose or collect the fee, or omits to collect the fee at the time of a redemption, Midas Fund will not receive the redemption fees. Further, if Midas Fund shares are redeemed by a financial intermediary at the direction of its customer(s), Midas Fund may not know: (1) whether a redemption fee is applicable; and/or (2) the identity of the customer who should pay the redemption fee.
In-Kind Redemptions. Subject to the restrictions set forth below, Midas Fund may require redeeming shareholders to accept readily tradable gold, silver, or other precious metals bullion, coins, ETF shares, or other holdings in complete or partial payment of redemptions. For a shareholder, the tax consequences of an in-kind redemption generally would be the same as those of a cash redemption. For such in-kind redemptions, the assets would be selected by Midas Fund. In-kind redemptions are taxed in the same manner as cash redemptions for federal income tax purposes.
Systematic Withdrawal Plan. If your shares have a value of at least $20,000 you may elect automatic withdrawals from your Midas Fund account, subject to a minimum withdrawal of $100. All dividends and other distributions are reinvested in Midas Fund.
Exchange Privileges (if applicable)
In the event one of the Acquired Funds does not approve the Reorganizations, the following exchange privileges will apply. You may exchange at least $500 worth of shares of a fund for shares of the other fund (provided the registration is exactly the same, the shares of the fund you do not currently own may be sold by the fund in your state of residence, and the exchange may otherwise legally be made). To exchange shares, please access www.midasfunds.com or call Midas Funds toll-free at 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET on any Business Day of the fund and provide the following information: account registration including address and number; taxpayer identification number; percentage, number, or dollar value of shares to be redeemed; name and, if different, your account number, if any, in the fund to be purchased; and your identity and telephone number. Your price for fund shares exchanged is the fund's next calculation, after the order is received by the fund's transfer agent or its authorized agent, of NAV per share which is determined as of the close of regular trading in equity securities on the NYSE (currently, 4 p.m. ET unless weather, equipment failure, or other factors contribute to an earlier closing) each Business Day. Shares of all funds exchanged within 30 days of purchase will be subject to a 1% redemption fee. An exchange of shares of one fund for shares of another fund is considered a fully taxable transaction upon which you may realize a taxable gain or loss.
Account and Transaction Policies
Telephone Privileges. Midas Fund may accept telephone orders from shareholders and guards against fraud by following reasonable precautions, such as requiring personal identification before carrying out shareholder requests. You are responsible for any loss caused by an order which later proves to be fraudulent if Midas Fund followed reasonable procedures.
Assignment. You may transfer your Midas Fund shares to another owner. For instructions, call 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET on Business Days to speak with a Shareholder Services Representative.
Frequent Trading. Frequent trading into and out of Midas Fund can disrupt portfolio investment strategies, harm performance, and increase expenses for all shareholders, including long term shareholders who do not generate these costs. Funds that invest a substantial portion of their assets in foreign securities may be subject to the risks associated with market timing and short term trading strategies to a greater extent than funds that do not. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio securities values occur after the close of the overseas market but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Midas Fund may be subject to these greater risks as they invest in foreign securities. Midas Fund is designed for long term investors, and is not intended for excessive trading activities. Midas Fund takes reasonable steps to discourage excessive short term trading and the Board of Trustees has adopted policies and procedures with respect to excessive trading. Midas Fund normally monitor trades in an effort to detect excessive short term trading. Midas Fund may refuse, cancel, or redeem purchase orders at the purchase price NAV for any reason, without prior notice. In addition, to discourage short term trading, if shares of Midas Fund held for 30 days or less are redeemed or exchanged, Midas Fund will deduct a redemption fee equal to 1% of the NAV of shares redeemed or exchanged. Such redemption fees are retained by Midas Fund.
Although Midas Fund monitors for excessive short term activities, the ability of Midas Fund to monitor trades that are placed by the underlying shareholders of omnibus accounts maintained by brokers, retirement plan accounts, and other approved intermediaries may be limited in those instances in which the investment intermediary maintains the underlying shareholder accounts. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that Midas Fund will be able to eliminate all excessive short term activities. Midas Fund typically seeks the cooperation of broker-dealers and other third party intermediaries by requesting information from them regarding the identity of investors who are trading in Midas Fund, and restricting access to Midas Fund by a particular investor. Any associated person of the investment manager or the distributor who becomes aware of any actions taken to undertake, effect, or facilitate short term activities contrary to a representation made in Midas Fund's prospectus or SAI is to report the actions to Midas Fund's Chief Compliance Officer.
Accounts with Below Minimum Balances. Your account will be charged a $20 small account fee if its value on the next to last Business Day of the calendar year is less than $500, unless it is an IRA, HSA, or you participate in the Midas Automatic Investment Program. Midas Fund may redeem at any time at current NAV all shares in any account, subject to the requirements of applicable law. Midas Fund reserves the right to close your account if you terminate your participation in the Midas Automatic Investment Program and your investment is less than $1,000.
Delivery of Shareholder Documents. Shareholders residing at the same address will receive one copy of Midas Fund's summary prospectus and each Midas Fund shareholder report to share with all residents who invest in Midas Fund. If at any time you would like to receive separate copies of Midas Fund's summary prospectus or each Midas Fund shareholder report, please call 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432) and a Shareholder Services Representative will be happy to change your delivery status. The material normally will be sent within 30 days of your request.
Escheatment. Your shares may be transferred to the appropriate state authority if you do not provide your current contact information to Midas Fund within the time period specified by applicable state law.
Distributions and Taxes. Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund each normally pays its shareholders dividends from any net investment income and distributes net capital gains that it has realized, if any, after offset by net capital loss carryovers. Income dividends and capital gain distributions (collectively, "distributions" and each a "distribution") if any, are normally declared and paid annually. Your distributions will be reinvested in shares of the distributing fund unless you instruct the fund otherwise.
Generally, you will be taxed when you sell or exchange shares of a fund and when you receive distributions (whether reinvested in additional shares or taken in cash). Typically, your tax treatment will be as follows:
Income dividend | Ordinary income or "qualified dividend income" |
Net short term capital gain distribution | Ordinary income |
Net capital gain (see below) distribution | Long term capital gain |
Sale or exchange of shares held for more than one year | Long term capital gain or loss |
Sale or exchange of shares held for one year or less | Short term capital loss |
Because everyone's tax situation is unique, please consult your tax professional about your investment.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries. If you purchase shares of Midas Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Distributor may pay the intermediary for the sale of Midas Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend Midas Fund over another investment. Your broker-dealer or financial intermediary may also charge you fees for purchasing or selling Midas Fund shares. Ask your broker-dealer or financial intermediary or visit their website for more information.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE REORGANIZATIONS
Neither of the Reorganizations is intended to result in income, gain, or loss for federal income tax purposes to the Acquiring Fund, any Acquired Fund, or the shareholders of any Acquired Fund. In addition, neither of the Reorganizations will take place unless the relevant Acquired Fund receives a satisfactory opinion from Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. substantially to the effect that the Reorganizations will each be a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").
As a result, it is anticipated that, with respect to each Reorganization, for federal income tax purposes:
▪ No gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquired Fund upon: (1) the transfer of all of its assets to the Acquiring Fund solely in exchange for Acquiring Fund Shares, and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of all of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund; or (2) the distribution by the Acquired Fund of the Acquiring Fund's Shares to the Acquired Fund's shareholders;
▪ No gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquiring Fund upon the receipt of the Acquired Fund's assets in exchange solely for the Acquiring Fund's Shares, the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund, and the issuance of the Acquiring Fund's Shares to the shareholders of the Acquired Fund in an amount equal to the aggregate NAV of the Shares of the Acquired Fund;
▪ The tax basis of the assets of the Acquired Fund acquired by the Acquiring Fund will be the same as the tax basis of those assets in the hands of the Acquired Fund immediately before the transfer;
▪ The tax holding period of the assets of the Acquired Fund in the hands of the Acquiring Fund will include the Acquired Fund's tax holding period for those assets;
▪ You will not recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of your Shares of the Acquired Fund solely for the Acquiring Fund Shares as part of the Reorganization;
▪ The aggregate tax basis of the Acquiring Fund's Shares received by you in the Reorganization will be the same as the aggregate tax basis of your Shares of the Acquired Fund surrendered in exchange; and
▪ The tax holding period of the Acquiring Fund's Shares you receive will include the tax holding period of the Shares of the Acquired Fund that you surrender in the exchange, provided that the Shares of the Acquired Fund were held by you as capital assets on the date of the exchange.
In rendering such opinion, counsel shall rely upon, among other things, reasonable assumptions, as well as representations of the relevant Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund.
No tax ruling has been or will be received from the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") in connection with either Reorganization. An opinion of counsel is not binding on the IRS or a court, and no assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or a court would not sustain, a contrary position.
Prior to the closing of each Reorganization, each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund may declare a distribution to shareholders that, together with all previous distributions, will have the effect of distributing to shareholders all of its investment company taxable and tax-exempt income (computed without regard to the deduction for dividends paid) and net capital gains, including those realized on disposition of portfolio securities in connection with the Reorganization (after reduction by any available capital loss carryforwards), if any, through the closing of the Reorganization.
Between the shareholder meeting date of April 20, 2016 and the Reorganizations date of April 22, 2016, the Investment Manager may transition the Acquired Funds' portfolios, including the sale of certain portfolio securities. Accordingly, during the transition period these transactions may cause the Acquired Funds to not comply with their investment objectives and policies. In addition, the sale of portfolio securities will cause the Acquired Funds to incur related brokerage commissions or other transaction costs and could result in taxable gains to an Acquired Fund's shareholders.
As of December 31, 2015, Magic had a capital loss carryforward of $[ ] and Perpetual had a capital loss carryforward of $[ ]. Capital loss carryforwards are considered valuable tax attributes because they can reduce a fund's future taxable income and thus reduce the taxable amount distributed to fund shareholders. The proposed Reorganizations would affect the use of such tax attributes in two respects. The first concerns the "sharing" of such tax attributes with the shareholders of the Acquiring Fund. If there were no Reorganizations, such tax attributes would inure solely to the benefit of the Acquired Fund's respective shareholders. If the Reorganizations occur, such tax attributes would carry over (subject to the limitations described below) to the Acquiring Fund. That means that any resulting tax benefits would inure to all shareholders of the post-Reorganization Midas Fund (i.e., both pre-Reorganization shareholders of the Acquired Funds and pre-Reorganization shareholders of the Acquiring Fund).
The second manner in which the Reorganizations would affect the use of any such capital loss carryforward and built-in losses concerns certain limitations imposed under the Code with respect to the use of such losses. Generally, when ownership of a "loss corporation" changes for tax purposes in connection with a reorganization (as will be the case here), the Code imposes various limitations on the use of loss carryforwards following the change in ownership. The amount of such loss carryforwards that can be used each year to offset post-acquisition income is generally limited to an amount equal to the "federal long-term tax-exempt rate" (the applicable rate as of February 2016 was 2.65%) multiplied by the value of the "loss corporation's" equity. Furthermore, capital losses may generally be carried forward for only eight years in the case of losses incurred by regulated investment companies in taxable years beginning prior to December 22, 2010. The carryforward of losses in taxable years beginning after that date is not limited in duration. Additionally, if either Acquired Fund has net unrecognized gains as of the date of its Reorganization, the Acquiring Fund cannot use pre-Reorganization losses of such Acquired Fund to offset such gains when they are later recognized. Also, if an Acquired Fund has net unrecognized gains as of the date of the relevant Reorganization ("built-in gains"), the Acquiring Fund cannot use its own pre-Reorganization losses to offset such built-in gains if they are recognized during the five-year period beginning on the date of the Reorganization. The Acquiring Fund can, however, use its pre-Reorganization losses to offset gains recognized on the disposition of assets received from an Acquired Fund in the relevant Reorganization if such gains are not built-in gains. The foregoing consequences may not apply to certain classes of taxpayers who are subject to special circumstances, such as shareholders who are not citizens of or residents of the United States, insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations, financial institutions, dealers in securities or foreign currencies, or persons who hold their shares as part of a straddle or conversion transaction.
This description of the federal income tax consequences of each Reorganization is made without regard to the particular circumstances of any shareholder. Shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors as to the specific consequences to them of their respective Reorganization, including the applicability and effect of state, local, non-U.S. and other tax laws.
CAPITALIZATION
The following table sets forth the capitalization of each Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund as of December 31, 2015, and the pro forma combined capitalization of the Acquiring Fund as if both Reorganizations had occurred on that date, as well as the pro forma combined capitalization of the Acquiring Fund as if only the Reorganization of Magic or Perpetual had occurred on that date absent the other Reorganization. As stated above, neither Acquired Fund's Reorganization is contingent on the Reorganization of the other Acquired Fund.
It is impossible to predict how many shares of the Acquiring Fund will actually be received and distributed by each Acquired Fund on the closing date of the Reorganization. The following table should not be relied upon to determine the amount of Acquiring Fund Shares that will actually be received and distributed.
| Magic (Acquired Fund) | Perpetual (Acquired Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with Magic only) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with Perpetual only) | Midas Fund (Acquiring Fund) (Pro forma) (assuming reorganization with both Acquired Funds) |
Net Assets | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
Shares Outstanding | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
NAV per Share | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] | $[ ] |
VOTING INFORMATION
On the Record Date, [ ] and [ ] shares of Magic and Perpetual were outstanding, respectively. Each outstanding whole share is entitled to one vote on each of the matters to be voted on at the Meeting (and each fractional share is entitled to a proportionate fractional vote). All properly executed and timely received proxies will be voted at the Meeting in accordance with the directions marked thereon or otherwise provided therein. If you properly execute and return your proxies but do not indicate any voting instructions, your shares will be voted "FOR" each of the proposals. Any shareholder may revoke a proxy at any time prior to the exercise thereof by giving written notice to the Secretary of the Funds at 11 Hanover Square, New York, New York 10005, by signing another proxy of a later date, or by personally voting at the Meeting.
One-third of the outstanding shares of each of the Acquired Funds entitled to vote in person or by proxy shall be a quorum for the transaction of business at the Meeting, respectively. The Meeting may be adjourned by the chairman of the Meeting one or more times for any reason, including the failure of a quorum to be present at the Meeting or the failure of any proposal to receive sufficient votes for approval. The Meeting may be adjourned by the chairman of the Meeting as to one or more proposals regardless of whether action has been taken on other matters. No notice of adjournment of the Meeting to another time or place need be given to shareholders if such time and place are announced at the Meeting at which the adjournment is taken or reasonable notice is given to persons present at the Meeting, and if the adjourned Meeting is held within a reasonable time after the date set for the original Meeting. Any business that might have been transacted at the original Meeting may be transacted at any adjourned Meeting. Abstentions and broker non-votes will not have an impact on the chairman's determination to adjourn the Meeting.
Properly executed proxies may contain instructions to abstain from voting or to withhold authority to vote (an "abstention") or may represent a broker "non-vote" (which is a proxy from a broker or nominee indicating that the broker or nominee has not received instructions from the beneficial owner or other persons entitled to vote shares on a particular matter with respect to which the broker or nominee does not have discretionary power to vote). The shares represented by abstentions or broker non-votes will be considered present at the Meeting for purposes of determining the existence of a quorum for the transaction of business, but will not be treated as votes cast. Abstentions and broker non-votes, therefore, will have the same effect as a vote "against" their respective proposal.
No other business may be acted upon at the Meeting other than as described in this Proxy Statement/ Prospectus. If any procedural matters related to the proposals described herein properly come before the Meeting, shares represented by proxies will be voted in the discretion of the person or persons holding the proxies.
All costs of soliciting proxies for the Meeting will be borne by the Acquired Funds. The Acquired Funds have retained [ ] to assist in the solicitation of proxies for a fee of $[ ] for Magic and $[ ] for Perpetual, plus reimbursement for each Acquired Fund's out-of-pocket expenses. Banks, brokerage houses, and other custodians will be requested on behalf of the Acquired Funds to forward solicitation material to the beneficial owners of Acquired Fund shares to obtain authorizations for the execution of proxies, and the applicable Acquired Fund will reimburse them for any reasonable expenses they incur. In addition, some of the officers of the Acquired Funds and persons affiliated with the Investment Manager, may, without remuneration, solicit proxies personally or by telephone or electronic communications. Photographic identification will be required for admission to the Meeting.
Required Vote
Approval of each Reorganization will be determined separately for each Acquired Fund. The consummation of one Reorganization is not contingent on the consummation of the other Reorganization. In order for the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization to be approved for an Acquired Fund, the holders of a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" of the Acquired Fund must approve proposal 1 or 2 as applicable, for the Fund. A "majority of the outstanding voting securities" for this purpose and under the 1940 Act means the vote of the lesser of (1) 67% or more of the voting securities present at the Meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the relevant Acquired Fund are present and represented by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the relevant Acquired Fund.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The Reorganizations are expected to benefit the Investment Manager as a result of the higher advisory fee rate payable by the Acquiring Fund and the higher asset level.
ORGANIZATION OF THE TRUST
Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund are each a series of shares of Midas Series Trust, a Delaware statutory trust which is registered under the 1940 Act as an open end management investment company.
LEGAL MATTERS
Certain legal matters in connection with the issuance of Acquiring Fund Shares and the tax consequences of the Reorganizations will be passed upon by counsel, Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.
EXPERTS
The audited financial statements of each of Magic, Perpetual, and Midas Fund, incorporated by reference in the SAI, have been audited by Tait, Weller & Baker LLP, the Trust's independent registered public accounting firm, as experts in accounting and auditing, to the extent indicated in its reports thereon which are included in the Trust's Annual Report for the Fiscal Year ended December 31, 2015.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Set forth below are the financial highlights for the Funds. The financial highlights are intended to help you understand the Funds' financial performance for the past five years. Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share outstanding for the period presented. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Funds, assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The financial highlights for each of the periods presented below have been audited by Tait, Weller & Baker LLP, whose report, along with the Funds' financial statements, is included in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, which is incorporated by reference in the Reorganization SAI and available upon request by calling us at [ ].
MIDAS PERPETUAL PORTFOLIO |
| For the Year Ended December 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Per Share Data (for a share outstanding throughout each period) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of period | $[ ] | | $1.07 | | $1.28 | | $1.22 | | $1.30 | |
Income (loss) from investment operations: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment loss (1) | [ ] | | (0.01) | | - | | (0.02) | | (0.01) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | [ ] | | (0.05) | | (0.10) | | 0.08 | | 0.02 | |
Total from investment operations | [ ] | | (0.06) | | (0.10) | | 0.06 | | 0.01 | |
Less distributions: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | [ ] | | - | | - | | - | | (0.01) | |
Realized gains | [ ] | | (0.02) | | (0.11) | | - | | (0.08) | |
Total distributions | [ ] | | (0.02) | | (0.11) | | - | | (0.09) | |
Net asset value, end of period* | $[ ] | | $0.99 | | $1.07 | | $1.28 | | $1.22 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total Return (2) | [ ] | % | (5.93) | % | (8.17) | % | 4.92 | % | 0.96 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Ratios/Supplemental Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets at end of period (000s omitted) | $[ ] | | $5,969 | | $7,718 | | $14,515 | | $15,459 | |
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets (3) | [ ] | % | 2.54 | % | 2.22 | % | 2.98 | % | 1.85 | % |
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets (2) (4) | [ ] | % | 2.54 | % | 1.81 | % | 2.48 | % | 1.35 | % |
Ratio of net expenses excluding loan interest and fees to average net assets | [ ] | % | 2.47 | % | 1.69 | % | 2.48 | % | 1.35 | % |
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets (2) | [ ] | % | (1.17) | % | (0.38) | % | (1.42) | % | (0.45) | % |
Portfolio turnover rate | [ ] | % | 22 | % | 0 | % | 0 | % | 44 | % |
(1) | Average shares outstanding during the period are used to calculate per share data. |
(2) | Fees contractually waived by the Investment Manager reduced the ratio of expenses to average net assets by 0.41% for the year ended December 31, 2013 and by 0.50% and 0.50% for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and by the Investment Manager and Distributor by 0.58% and 0.75%, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2010. The impact of the fee waivers and reimbursements is reflected in both the total return, the ratio of net expenses to average net assets, and the ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets. |
(3) | "Total expenses" are the expenses of the Fund before fee waivers, if any. |
(4) | "Net expenses" are the expenses of the Fund after fee waivers, if any. |
* | Redemption fees from capital share transactions were less than $0.005 per share. |
MIDAS FUND |
| For the Year Ended December 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
Per Share Data (for a share outstanding throughout each period) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of period | $[ ] | | $1.38 | | $2.59 | | $3.57 | | $5.65 | |
Income (loss) from investment operations: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment loss (1) | [ ] | | (0.02) | | (0.02) | | (0.04) | | (0.06) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments | [ ] | | (0.37) | | (1.19) | | (0.94) | | (1.96) | |
Total from investment operations | [ ] | | (0.39) | | (1.21) | | (0.98) | | (2.02) | |
Less distributions: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment income | [ ] | | - | | - | | - | | (0.06) | |
Net asset value, end of period* | $[ ] | | $0.99 | | $1.38 | | $2.59 | | $3.57 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total Return | [ ] | % | (28.26) | % | (46.72) | % | (27.45) | % | (35.97) | % |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Ratios/Supplemental Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets at end of period (000s omitted) | $[ ] | | $14,260 | | $20,815 | | $44,884 | | $72,973 | |
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets | [ ] | % | 3.04 | % | 3.02 | % | 2.94 | % | 2.31 | % |
Ratio of net expenses excluding loan interest and fees to average net assets | [ ] | % | 2.97 | % | 2.96 | % | 2.85 | % | 2.16 | % |
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets | [ ] | % | (1.69) | % | (1.30) | % | (1.49) | % | (1.30) | % |
Portfolio turnover rate | [ ] | % | 31 | % | 17 | % | 12 | % | 44 | % |
(1) | Average shares outstanding during the period are used to calculate per share data. |
* | Redemption fees from capital share transactions were less than $0.005 per share. |
MIDAS MAGIC |
| For the Year Ended December 31, |
| 2015 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | |
Per Share Data (for a share outstanding throughout each period) | | | | | | | | | | |
Net asset value, beginning of period | $[ ] | | $24.33 | | $18.73 | | $16.00 | | $14.73 | |
Income (loss) from investment operations: | | | | | | | | | | |
Net investment loss (1) | [ ] | | (0.50) | | (0.46) | | (0.57) | | (0.48) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments | [ ] | | 0.96 | | 7.53 | | 3.30 | | 1.75 | |
Total from investment operations | [ ] | | 0.46 | | 7.07 | | 2.73 | | 1.27 | |
Less distributions: | | | | | | | | | | |
Realized gains | [ ] | | (1.74) | | (1.47) | | - | | - | |
Net asset value, end of period* | $[ ] | | $23.05 | | $24.33 | | $18.73 | | $16.00 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Total Return | [ ] | % | 1.82 | % | 37.79 | % | 17.06 | % | 8.62 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Ratios/Supplemental Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Net assets at end of period (000s omitted) | $[ ] | | $15,186 | | $16,738 | | 13,245 | | $11,768 | |
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets | [ ] | % | 3.59 | % | 3.37 | % | 4.93 | % | 4.16 | % |
Ratio of net expenses excluding loan interest and fees to average net assets | [ ] | % | 3.49 | % | 3.31 | % | 4.76 | % | 3.83 | % |
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets | [ ] | % | (2.00) | % | (2.10) | % | (3.18) | % | (3.17) | % |
Portfolio turnover rate | [ ] | % | 30 | % | 13 | % | 20 | % | 4 | % |
(1) | Average shares outstanding during the period are used to calculate per share data. |
* | Redemption fees from capital share transactions were less than $0.005 per share. |
EXHIBIT A
FORM OF
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION
This Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the "Agreement") is made as of _______________, 2016, and has been adopted by the Board of Trustees of Midas Series Trust (the "Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, to provide for the reorganization of _______________________ (the "Acquired Fund") into Midas Fund (the "Acquiring Fund"), a series of the Trust.
This Agreement is intended to be and is adopted as a plan of reorganization and liquidation within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The reorganization and liquidation will consist of the transfer of all of the assets of the Acquired Fund to the Acquiring Fund in exchange solely for shares of beneficial interest of the Acquiring Fund, the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund, and the issuance of Acquiring Fund shares of beneficial interest to the shareholders of the Acquired Fund in an amount equal to the aggregate net asset value of the shares of the Acquired Fund, as provided herein, all upon the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth in this Agreement (the "Reorganization").
I. PLAN OF REORGANIZATION
1. The Acquired Fund agrees to sell, assign, convey, transfer and deliver to the Acquiring Fund on the Exchange Date (as defined in Section II.4) all of its properties and assets existing at the Valuation Time (as defined in Section II.2(f)). In consideration therefor, the Acquiring Fund agrees, on the Exchange Date, to assume all of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund existing at the Valuation Time and deliver to the Acquired Fund a number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest of the Acquiring Fund (the "Merger Shares") having an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Acquired Fund attributable to shares of the Acquired Fund transferred to the Acquiring Fund on such date less the value of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund attributable to shares of the Acquired Fund assumed by Acquiring Fund on such date. Before the Exchange Date, the Acquired Fund will declare and pay to its shareholders a dividend and/or other distribution in an amount such that it will have distributed all of its net investment income and capital gains as described in Section II.5(c) hereof.
2. Upon consummation of the transactions described in Section I.1 of this Agreement, the Acquired Fund will distribute, in complete liquidation to its shareholders of record as of the Exchange Date, the Merger Shares, each shareholder being entitled to receive that proportion of Merger Shares that the number of shares of beneficial interest of the Acquired Fund held by such shareholder bears to the number of shares of the Acquired Fund outstanding on such date.
II. AGREEMENT
The Acquiring Fund and the Acquired Fund agree as follows:
1. Reorganization.
| (a) | Subject to the other terms and conditions contained herein (including the Acquired Fund's obligation to distribute to its shareholders all of its net investment income and capital gains as described in Section II.5(c) hereof), the Acquired Fund agrees to sell, assign, convey, transfer and deliver to the Acquiring Fund, and the Acquiring Fund agrees to acquire from the Acquired Fund, on the Exchange Date all of the investments and all of the cash and other properties and assets of the Acquired Fund, whether accrued or contingent, in exchange for that number of Merger Shares provided for in Section II.2 and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of all of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund, whether accrued or contingent, existing at the Valuation Time. Pursuant to this Agreement, the Acquired Fund will, as soon as practicable after the Exchange Date, distribute all of the Merger Shares received by it to its shareholders in complete liquidation of the Acquired Fund. |
| (b) | The Acquired Fund agrees to pay or cause to be paid to the Acquiring Fund any interest, cash or such dividends, rights and other payments received by it on or after the Exchange Date with respect to the investments and other properties and assets of the Acquired Fund, whether accrued or contingent. Any such distribution will be deemed included in the assets transferred to the Acquiring Fund at the Exchange Date and will not be separately valued unless the securities in respect of which such distribution is made have gone "ex" before the Valuation Time, in which case any such distribution which remains unpaid at the Exchange Date will be included in the determination of the value of the assets of the Acquired Fund acquired by Acquiring Fund. |
2. Exchange of Shares; Valuation Time. On the Exchange Date, the Acquiring Fund will deliver to the Acquired Fund a number of full and fractional Merger Shares having an aggregate net asset value equal to the value of the assets of the Acquired Fund attributable to the shares of the Acquired Fund transferred to the Acquiring Fund on that date less the value of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund attributable to the shares of the Acquired Fund assumed by the Acquiring Fund on that date, as determined as hereafter provided in this Section II.2.
| (a) | The net asset value of the Merger Shares to be delivered to the Acquired Fund, the value of the assets attributable to the shares of the Acquired Fund and the value of the liabilities attributable to the shares of the Acquired Fund to be assumed by the Acquiring Fund will in each case be determined as of the Valuation Time. |
| (b) | The net asset value of the Merger Shares and the value of the assets and liabilities of the shares of the Acquired Fund will be determined by the Acquiring Fund, in cooperation with the Acquired Fund, pursuant to procedures customarily used by the Acquiring Fund in determining the value of the Acquiring Fund's assets and liabilities. |
| (c) | No adjustment will be made in the net asset value of the Acquired Fund or the Acquiring Fund to take into account differences in realized and unrealized gains and losses. |
| (d) | The Acquiring Fund will issue the Merger Shares in the names of the shareholders of the Acquired Fund, in accordance with instructions furnished by the Acquired Fund. |
| (e) | The Acquiring Fund will assume all liabilities of the Acquired Fund, whether accrued or contingent, in connection with the acquisition of assets of the Acquired Fund or otherwise. |
| (f) | The Valuation Time is the time at which the Acquired Fund calculates its net asset value, which is normally 3 p.m. Central Time, on April 22, 2016 or other time and date mutually agreed to by the parties (the "Valuation Time"). |
3. Fees and Expenses. All fees and expenses, including legal and accounting expenses, portfolio transfer taxes (if any) or other similar expenses incurred in connection with the consummation by the Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (together with the costs specified below, "Expenses") will be borne by the Acquired Fund and, as applicable, the Acquiring Fund, including the costs of liquidating such of the Acquired Fund's portfolio securities as the Acquiring Fund shall indicate it does not wish to acquire before the Exchange Date. Expenses incurred prior to the Exchange Date will be borne by the Acquired Fund, and expenses incurred on and after the Exchange Date will be borne by the Acquiring Fund. Notwithstanding the foregoing, such Expenses will in any event be paid by the party directly incurring such Expenses if and to the extent that the payment by the other party of such Expenses would result in the disqualification of the Acquiring Fund or the Acquired Fund, as the case may be, as a "regulated investment company" within the meaning of Section 851 of the Code. Shareholders of the Acquired Fund or Acquiring Fund will pay their respective expenses, if any, incurred in connection with the reorganization contemplated under this Agreement.
4. Exchange Date. Delivery of the assets of the Acquired Fund to be transferred, assumption of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund to be assumed and the delivery of the Merger Shares to be issued will be made prior to 7:00 a.m. Central Time on the next full business day following the Valuation Time or other time and date mutually agreed to by the parties (referred to herein as the "Exchange Date"). Accordingly, the Exchange Date will be April 25, 2016 or other date mutually agreed to by the parties.
5. Conditions to the Acquiring Fund's Obligations. The obligations of the Acquiring Fund hereunder are subject to the following conditions:
| (a) | That this Agreement is adopted and the transactions contemplated hereby are approved by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the members of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (including a majority of those Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Acquired Fund or the Acquiring Fund, as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act")). |
| (b) | That the Acquiring Fund will have received an opinion of Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. dated the Exchange Date to the effect that, on the basis of the existing provisions of the Code, current administrative rules and court decisions, for federal income tax purposes: (i) the transfer of all of the assets and liabilities of the Acquired Fund to the Acquiring Fund in exchange for shares of the Acquiring Fund and the distribution to shareholders of the Acquired Fund of shares of the Acquiring Fund, as described herein, will constitute a tax-free "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1)(C) of the Code, and the Acquired Fund and the Acquiring Fund each will be considered "a party to a reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code; (ii) no gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquired Fund upon (X) the transfer of its assets and liabilities to the Acquiring Fund in exchange solely for the issuance of shares of the Acquiring Fund to the Acquired Fund and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of the Acquired Fund's liabilities, if any, and (Y) the distribution by the Acquired Fund to its shareholders of shares of the Acquiring Fund received as a result of the Reorganization; (iii) no gain or loss will be recognized by the Acquiring Fund upon its receipt of the assets and liabilities of the Acquired Fund in exchange solely for the issuance of shares of the Acquiring Fund to the Acquired Fund and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of the Acquired Fund's liabilities, if any; (iv) the tax basis of the Acquiring Fund shares received by a shareholder of the Acquired Fund in the aggregate will be the same as the aggregate tax basis of the shareholder's Acquired Fund shares immediately prior to the Valuation Time; (v) the tax basis of the Acquiring Fund in the assets and liabilities of the Acquired Fund received pursuant to the Reorganization will be the same as the tax basis of the assets and liabilities in the hands of the Acquired Fund immediately before the Valuation Time; (vi) the tax holding period for the shares of the Acquiring Fund received by each Acquired Fund shareholder issued in connection with the Reorganization will be determined by including the period for which the shareholder held shares of the Acquired Fund exchanged therefor, provided that the shareholder held such shares of the Acquired Fund as capital assets; (vii) the tax holding period for the Acquiring Fund with respect to the assets and liabilities of the Acquired Fund received in the Reorganization will include the period for which such assets and liabilities were held by the Acquired Fund; (viii) the Acquired Fund's shareholders will not recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of their shares of the Acquired Fund for shares of the Acquiring Fund as part of the Reorganization; (ix) the Acquiring Fund will succeed to and take into account the items of the Acquired Fund described in Section 381(c) of the Code, subject to the provisions and limitations specified in Sections 381, 382, 383 and 384 of the Code and the regulations thereunder; and (x) the tax year of the Acquired Fund will end on the Exchange Date. |
| (c) | That, before the Exchange Date, the Acquired Fund declares a dividend or dividends which, together with all previous such dividends, has the effect of distributing to the shareholders of the Acquired Fund (i) all of the excess of the Acquired Fund's investment income excludable from gross income under Section 103 of the Code over the Acquired Fund's deductions disallowed under Sections 265 and 171 of the Code, and all of the Acquired Fund's investment company taxable income (as defined in Section 852 of the Code and computed without regard to any deduction for dividends paid), in each case for the Acquired Fund's taxable year ending on or after January 1, 2016 and on or before the Exchange Date, and (ii) all of the Acquired Fund's net capital gain realized in the taxable year ending on or after January 1, 2016 exceeding any capital loss carryover's utilized from prior fiscal years and on or before the Exchange Date. |
| (d) | That the Acquired Fund's custodian has delivered to the Acquiring Fund a certificate identifying all of the assets of the Acquired Fund held by such custodian as of the Valuation Time. |
| (e) | That the Acquired Fund's transfer agent has provided to the Acquiring Fund (i) a certificate setting forth the number of shares of the Acquired Fund outstanding as of the Valuation Time, and (ii) the name and address of each holder of record of any such shares and the number of shares held of record by each such shareholder. |
| (f) | That the Acquired Fund will have executed and delivered to the Acquiring Fund an instrument of transfer dated as of the Exchange Date pursuant to which the Acquired Fund will assign, transfer and convey all of the assets and other property to the Acquiring Fund at the Valuation Time in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. |
| (g) | That a combination proxy/prospectus on Form N-14 (the "Registration Statement") will have become effective under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), and no stop orders suspending the effectiveness thereof shall have been issued, and to the best knowledge of the parties hereto, no investigation or proceeding for that purpose will have been instituted or pending, threatened or contemplated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the 1933 Act. |
| (h) | That all necessary orders of exemption under the 1940 Act with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall have been granted by the SEC, and all approvals, registrations, and exemptions under federal and state securities laws considered to be necessary shall have been obtained. |
6. Conditions to the Acquired Fund's Obligations. The obligations of the Acquired Fund hereunder are subject to the following conditions:
| (a) | That this Agreement is adopted and the transactions contemplated hereby are approved by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the members of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (including a majority of those Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Acquired Fund or the Acquiring Fund, as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act). |
| (b) | That the Acquired Fund will have received the same opinion referenced in Section II.5(b) hereof. |
| (c) | That the Acquiring Fund will have executed and delivered to the Acquired Fund an Assumption of Liabilities certificate dated as of the Exchange Date pursuant to which the Acquiring Fund will assume all of the liabilities of the Acquired Fund existing at the Valuation Time in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. |
| (d) | That the Registration Statement shall have been declared effective by the SEC and no stop orders under the 1933 Act pertaining thereto shall have been issued; all necessary orders of exemption under the 1940 Act with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall have been granted by the SEC; and all approvals, registrations, and exemptions under federal and state securities laws considered to be necessary shall have been obtained. |
7. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated and the Reorganization abandoned by resolution of the Board of Trustees of the Trust at any time prior to the Exchange Date if circumstances should develop that, in the opinion of the Board, make proceeding with the Reorganization inadvisable. In the event of any such termination, there shall be no liability for damages on the part of Acquiring Fund, Acquired Fund, the Trust or the Trust's Board of Trustees.
8. Sole Agreement; Amendments. This Agreement supersedes all previous correspondence and oral communications regarding the subject matter hereof, constitutes the only understanding with respect to such subject matter, may not be changed except upon authorization of the Board of Trustees of the Trust and will be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of Delaware.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement and Plan of Reorganization has been signed by duly authorized officers of the Trust on behalf of the Acquiring Fund and the Acquired Fund as of the date first above written.
MIDAS SERIES TRUST, | MIDAS SERIES TRUST, | |
on behalf of _____________________ | on behalf of Midas Fund | |
| | |
By: | By: | |
Name: | Name: | |
Title: President | Title: President | |
Part B - Statement of Additional Information
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
MIDAS SERIES TRUST
Dated [ ]
MIDAS MAGIC
MIDAS PERPETUAL PORTFOLIO
(each an "Acquired Fund," and each a series of Midas Series Trust)
AND
MIDAS FUND
(the "Acquiring Fund," a series of Midas Series Trust)
11 Hanover Square, 12th Floor
New York, NY 10005
1-800-400-MIDAS (6432)
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") provides additional information about the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund, each a separate series of Midas Series Trust, an open end management investment company. This SAI is not a prospectus and should be read in conjunction with the Acquired Funds' combined proxy statement and prospectus, dated [ ] (the "Proxy Statement/Prospectus").
This SAI is intended to supplement the information provided in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus relating to the proposed reorganization of each Acquired Fund into the Acquiring Fund (each a "Reorganization" and, together, the "Reorganizations") and in connection with the solicitation by the Acquired Funds of proxies to be voted at the Joint Special Meeting of Shareholders of the Acquired Funds to be held on April 20, 2016. A copy of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus can be obtained without charge upon request by calling 1-800-400-MIDAS (6432).
In addition to the unaudited pro forma financial information contained herein, this SAI consists of the following documents, each of which is incorporated by reference herein:
1. | The Midas Series Trust Statement of Additional Information dated April 28, 2015. |
2. | The Midas Series Trust Annual Report to Shareholders, including the audited financial statements, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. |
PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Set forth below is unaudited pro forma financial information demonstrating the effect of the Reorganizations.
The unaudited pro forma financial information set forth below is for informational purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of the financial condition that actually would have resulted if the Reorganizations had been consummated. The unaudited pro forma information set forth below for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2015 is intended to present ratios and supplemental data as if the Reorganization of each Acquired Fund into the Acquiring Fund had been consummated on January 1, 2015. These unaudited pro forma numbers have been estimated in good faith based on information regarding the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund for the 12 month period ended December 31, 2015. The unaudited pro forma financial information should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements of the Acquired Funds and the Acquiring Fund, which are available in Midas Series Trust's Annual and Semi-Annual Reports to Shareholders.
[Pro forma information to be provided.]
PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 15. Indemnification
Reference is made to the provisions of Article IX of Midas Series Trust's (the "Registrant") Trust Instrument filed by EDGAR on October 11, 2012 as Exhibit 28(a)(i) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 52 to the registration statement on Form N-1A ("Registration Statement") of the Registrant, incorporated herein by reference, which provides information about indemnification.
The Registrant's Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant and Midas Management Corporation (the "Investment Manager") provides that the Investment Manager shall not be liable to the Registrant's series or any shareholder of its series for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Registrant's series or the series' shareholders in connection with the matters to which the Investment Management Agreement relates. However, the Investment Manager is not protected against any liability to the Registrant's series or any shareholder of its series by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Investment Management Agreement.
Section 10 of the Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and Midas Securities Group, Inc. (the "Distributor") provides that the Registrant will indemnify the Distributor and its officers, directors and controlling persons against all liabilities arising from any alleged untrue statement of material fact in the Registration Statement or from any alleged omission to state in the Registration Statement a material fact required to be stated in it or necessary to make the statements in it, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except insofar as liability arises from untrue statements or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with information furnished by the Distributor to the Registrant for use in the Registration Statement; and provided that this indemnity agreement shall not protect any such persons against liabilities arising by reason of their bad faith, gross negligence or willful misfeasance; and shall not inure to the benefit of any such persons unless a court of competent jurisdiction or controlling precedent determines that such result is not against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Section 10 of the Distribution Agreement also provides that the Distributor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold the Registrant, its officers and directors free and harmless of any claims arising out of any alleged untrue statement or any alleged omission of material fact contained in information furnished by the Distributor for use in the Registration Statement or arising out of any agreement between the Distributor and any retail dealer, or arising out of supplementary literature or advertising used by the Distributor in connection with the Distribution Agreement.
The Registrant undertakes to carry out all indemnification provisions of its Trust Instrument, the above-described Investment Management Agreement and Distribution Agreement in accordance with Investment Company Act Release No. 11330 (September 4, 1980) and successor releases.
Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the 1933 Act may be provided to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"), and is, therefore unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer, or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 16. Exhibits
1 | | Trust Instrument. (3) |
| | |
2 | | Amended and Restated Bylaws. (4) |
| | |
3 | | Not applicable. |
| | |
4 | | Form of Agreement and Plan of Reorganization. (5) |
| | |
5(a) | | See Article VI, "Shareholders' Voting Powers and Meetings" of Registrant's Trust Instrument. |
| | |
5(b) | | See Article II, "Shareholders" of Registrant's Amended and Restated Bylaws. |
| | |
6 | | Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant and the Investment Manager. (3) |
| | |
7 | | Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and the Distributor. (3) |
| | |
8 | | Not applicable. |
| | |
9(a) | | Form of Custodian Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company. (2) |
| | |
9(b) | | Supplement to Custodian Agreement. (1) |
| | |
9(c) | | Amendment to Custodian Agreement. (3) |
| | |
10 | | Plan of Distribution. (3) |
| | |
11 | | Opinion and Consent of Counsel as to Legality of Securities Being Registered – To be filed. |
| | |
12 | | Opinion of Counsel on Tax Matters – To be filed. |
| | |
13 | | Not applicable. |
| | |
14 | | Accountant's Consent. – To be filed. |
| | |
15 | | Not applicable. |
| | |
16 | | Powers of Attorney. (5) |
| | |
17 | | Forms of Proxy Card. (5) |
| | |
| (1) | Incorporated herein by reference to the corresponding exhibits to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the registration statement of the Registrant on Form N-1A, SEC file number 2-98229, filed on May 1, 2001. |
| (2) | Incorporated herein by reference to the corresponding exhibit to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the registration statement of the Registrant on Form N-1A, SEC file number 2-98229, filed on April 22, 2002. |
| (3) | Incorporated herein by reference to the corresponding exhibit to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 52 to the registration statement of the Registrant on Form N-1A, SEC file number 2-98229, filed on October 11, 2012. |
| (4) | Incorporated herein by reference to the corresponding exhibit to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 59 to the registration statement of the Registrant on Form N-1A, SEC file number 2-98229, filed on April 28, 2015. |
| (5) | Incorporated herein by reference to the corresponding exhibit to the N-14 registration statement, SEC file number 333-209306, filed on February 1, 2016. |
Item 17. Undertakings
(1) | The undersigned Registrant agrees that prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered through the use of a prospectus which is a part of this registration statement by any person or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning of Rule 145(c) of the 1933 Act [17 CFR 230.145c], the reoffering prospectus will contain the information called for by the applicable registration form for the reofferings by persons who may be deemed underwriters, in addition to the information called for by the other items of the applicable form. |
(2) | The undersigned Registrant agrees that every prospectus that is filed under paragraph (1) above will be filed as a part of an amendment to the registration statement and will not be used until the amendment is effective, and that, in determining any liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement for the securities offered therein, and the offering of the securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering of them. |
SIGNATURES
As required by the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed on behalf of the Registrant, in the City of New York and State of New York, on the 2nd day of March, 2016.
MIDAS SERIES TRUST
/s/ Thomas B. Winmill
By: Thomas B. Winmill
President
As required by the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
/s/ Thomas B. Winmill | | Chairman, Trustee, President, and Chief Executive Officer | March 2, 2016 |
Thomas B. Winmill | | | |
| | | |
/s/ Thomas O'Malley | | Treasurer, Chief Accounting Officer, Chief Financial Officer | March 2, 2016 |
Thomas O'Malley | | | |
| | | |
/s/ Bruce B. Huber* | | Trustee | March 2, 2016 |
Bruce B. Huber | | | |
| | | |
/s/ James E. Hunt* | | Trustee | March 2, 2016 |
James E. Hunt | | | |
| | | |
/s/ Peter K. Werner* | | Trustee | March 2, 2016 |
Peter K. Werner | | | |
| | | |
*/s/ John F. Ramirez | | | March 2, 2016 |
John F. Ramirez, Attorney-in-Fact | | | |
pursuant to Powers of Attorney filed herewith
[Signature Page]